In the fast-moving and competitive environment of transport and logistics, efficiency in packaging is a critical consideration. A lack of attention to packaging design in logistics strategy has a negative impact on operational costs, environmental performance, and customer satisfaction. Many companies use standardised, uniform packaging solutions which reduce efficiency in every key metric. By switching to bespoke packaging solutions, they can realise enormous long-term benefits. This article explains the many advantages of bespoke packaging solutions in improving profitability and sustainability.
Eliminating wasted space
Space is costly and transporting fresh air is expensive. Space-efficient packaging minimises voids and maximises shipping density, resulting in fewer journeys, lower fuel and labour costs, and less wear and tear on fleets. Using bespoke packaging for goods makes the most out of every cubic centimetre, reducing the need for larger shipping containers and warehouse/storage space, which again translates into cost savings. More product per carton equates to more product per pallet and per truck.
Improved supply chain efficiency
Space-efficient packaging not only reduces warehouse footprint through greater storage density; it also facilitates faster processing, better inventory management and a more responsive supply chain, streamlining and enhancing the agility of the logistics network. Efficiently packed products enable smoother and faster, handling, loading, and unloading. That results in quicker order fulfilment, fewer errors and reduced labour costs.
Enhanced product protection
One of the primary aims of good quality packaging is to protect products throughout the supply chain. Goods damaged in transit and the associated cost represent a huge and often unnecessary dent in profits for many organisations. Minimising or eliminating damage allows logistics to operate more efficiently without the need to return goods and store them in warehouses. Bespoke packaging can be designed to reduce movement within the package and ensure that specific items are less likely to shift, break, or get damaged. This is particularly important for uniquely shaped, fragile or high-value items. Bubble wraps, air cushions, or paper fillers are often used to protect products against shocks and vibrations during transit, but they should be used efficiently. Bespoke packing can support this with dimensions that allow sufficient use of cushioning without increasing package size and waste. Better still, in many cases it can be shaped and assembled to hold items in position tightly and securely enough to make cushioning redundant. Achieving a delicate balance between space efficiency and product safety is one of the most valuable attributes of well-designed bespoke packaging.
Environmental benefits
Space-efficient packaging is not only conducive to reducing material waste and promoting sustainability. It also reduces the number of trips needed to transport the same quantity of goods, thereby lowering the carbon footprint of logistical activities. Logistics strategies are increasingly conscious of the transition to a circular economy and net zero. The use of suitable packaging materials is essential for those objectives. Bespoke solutions can make a big difference in reducing carbon emissions. For example, polypropylene (also known in the industry as correx) has a far lower carbon footprint compared to cardboard. Polypropylene is not only recyclable but also reusable, reducing the amount of processing required to feed into the circular economy. As a manufacturer, Twinplast can incorporate prescribed percentages of recycled material in our raw materials to meet specific standards and work towards a sustainable solution.
Compliance and standards
Many industries have specific regulations and standards regarding packaging and transportation. UK businesses which have a turnover of more than £2 million and produce, use, or sell packaging products must register for the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste Regulations). These laws push obligations up the chain to producers of packaging, driving changes in design and giving due consideration to its end-of-life treatment. Bespoke design and manufacturing can ensure compliance with standards and regulations by ensuring that packages are of the appropriate size, weight and composition.
Reputation and customer relationships
Timely and intact delivery of goods is paramount for customer satisfaction. Space-efficient packaging contributes to this by reducing the risk of damage and optimising cargo transportation to enable faster delivery times. Using bespoke design for more space-efficient packaging can also avoid reputational damage. Consumers, businesses and organisations are increasingly forthright in name and shaming companies that over-package or supply small products in oversized packs. The use of sustainable packaging materials is also valued by environmentally conscious consumers, fostering a positive brand image and customer loyalty.
The value of collaboration
Companies that use packaging will always benefit from a review of the way that their products are shipped through the supply chain, or to end users. A comprehensive audit often leads to a change of approach delivering cost and space savings that add value to the entire packaging and warehousing process. Efficient packing is an area of expertise that requires a keen eye for detail and strategic thinking. Companies can benefit from collaborating with bespoke packaging manufacturers: their technical knowledge and experience are an invaluable resource in developing optimised solutions that closely align the packaging with the product and enhance supply chain efficiency. Introducing bespoke packaging usually involves an initial investment in time and capital, but the long-term payback is compelling: eliminating poorly designed packaging is a potential game changer that dramatically reduces a company’s lead times and operational costs. As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the importance of space-efficient packaging will only grow, making it an essential focus for businesses looking to thrive in a competitive market. By embracing bespoke packaging solutions and technologies, companies can enhance their operational efficiency and contribute to a more sustainable future.
For more advice on bespoke packaging solutions, please contact Twinplast’s Technical Sales Team on 01582 361720 or sales@twinplast.co.uk