International - English
United Kingdom - 
The aftermarket car parts sector is experiencing a constant growth. Car owners are now focused on extending the lifespan of their vehicles instead of doing a trade-off (which still involves a significant cost). In this economic context, our client, a new and fast-growing player in the market, needed a modern and reliable packaging solution for their internal logistics. This case study explains why VDA-KLT boxes proved to be the ideal solution for this client.
The Client’s Issue – the Need to Create a Sufficient Stock of Reusable Packages
Through careful marketing and sales tactics, the aftermarkets car part business managed to attract a constantly growing flow of clients. Working with the best tier I and II auto parts producers, the company can supply any part – from the smallest cable to a windshield. In terms of packaging, this is a complicated matter. The aftermarket car parts company needed packaging:
- adequate for storing and transporting car parts safely
- standard sized to maximize the use of space in warehouse, trailer and store backroom
- clearly labeled to help employees identify the necessary part quickly during order picking
- adequate for handling by the automated systems used by their suppliers (who follow automotive producers’ standards).
Logistic Packaging Experts Evaluate the Client’s Needs
After the initial discussion with the client, the Logistic Packaging team sent a consultant to observe their operations directly. They usually received the products from suppliers in their packages (a combination of Galia and VDA-KLT boxes) which had to be unloaded immediately and sent back. The products would be placed in various metallic and plastic containers of different sizes.
Due to the large variation in footprints, the client has a hard time organising these containers in compact stacks. Thus, a lot of storage space is wasted. Moreover, many boxes have peeling or faded labels. So, employees have to visually check the contents of each box to find the products they need.
The client agreed that the available packages were a temporary solution, being purchased without much beforehand analysis in order to be able to keep up with the growing number of orders.
Our Consultants Recommend VDA-KLT Boxes
In light of the observed aspects, our packaging specialists recommended the client to choose a mix of VDA-KLT containers, suitable both for lightweight products and for heavy-duty applications. After all, they were handling such packages from their suppliers, so they were familiar with their quality and benefits.
The client initially contended that it is a significant investment for the company at its stage of growth. They had been purchasing all their packages from various online marketplaces, always at discount prices.
Highlighting the Benefits of Professional Automotive Packaging Materials
At this point, we showcased the economic benefits of choosing standard packaging solutions used in the automotive industry:
- a long lifespan with many use cycles, allowing the company to recover the full ROI
- low total cost of ownership, because the packages have a very robust build and do not need repairs
- being able to do business with reputable auto parts makers, that condition business partners on the use of VDA-KLT boxes
- a reduced number of damaged parts, caused by inadequate packaging during handling and transportation.
The Client Makes Their Decision
The customer accepted to start with a test batch of VDA-R-KLT containers, VDA-C-KLT boxes and the foldable VDA-F-KLT version. They chose their busiest distribution point as the pilot location and instructed their employees to constantly evaluate the improvements in their work and daily operations.
Within 3 months, the client decided to adopt VDA-KLT boxes as the only type of packaging. Beside the positive feedback from employees, they also noted an improvement in the business relations with other B2B partners. The standardization of packaging solutions made the deliveries faster and easier to fulfill.
Moreover, store managers reported a steady decline in the orders containing damaged parts, which had to be sent back and written off.
Last but not least, a part of warehouse space freed by removing the old packages was remodeled as cafeteria for the employees, a decision that boosted team morale and productivity. Another extra area was used to add a supplementary rack for tire storage.
Logistic Packaging is your trusted one-stop-shop for all your returnable packaging needs. From standard solutions, like VDA-KLT boxes, to completely customized packaging materials, we can fulfill any requirements. Send us an email to start discussing your packaging application with our specialists!
United Kingdom -