How to Minimize Packaging Material
Packaging a product for shipment has up to three stages: a primary container, such as a wine bottle; a secondary container to group several primary containers, such as a box used to hold several bottles of wine; and a third level of packaging such as pallets or containers to hold and transport several secondary boxes at a time. Packaging materials cost organizations a lot of money, and minimizing packaging materials means companies spend less on equipment and have more space to store inventory.
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Instructions
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Examine the boxes and containers used for primary packaging. Engineer solutions that utilize fewer materials. Eliminate any superfluous labeling. For example, Poland Springs introduced an Eco-Shape bottle that not only reduced its environmental impact but also used 30 percent less plastic and a much smaller label.
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Purchase second-level boxes close to the size of the primary packaging, as most products only require 2 inches of dead space between the item and the box to be shipped safely. Alternatively, place several items inside of one larger box to avoid multiple boxes. Separate the products using a protective layer of inner packaging material.
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Reduce the grade of secondary boxing to lessen the thickness of the box walls. Use a grade of cardboard rated close to the weight of the final package. Switch to a heavier grade cardboard box to place several items inside of a single container.
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Print information directly on boxes to minimize labeling costs. Eliminate any superfluous labels or layers of bags or boxes.
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Work with your customers and supply chain to improve third-level packaging waste. Secure secondary packaging to a pallet only if necessary, and use stretch or shrink wrap rather than bulky cardboard boxes. Utilize reusable ropes or wires to secure the load if possible.
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Tips & Warnings
Balance customer needs and safety concerns with cost and space considerations when minimizing packaging materials.
References
- Photo Credit Alistair Berg/Digital Vision/Getty Images
