are packaging materials for supply chain the weak link in your business operations?

Are Your Packages the Weak Link in Your Supply Chain?

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Supply chains are extremely interconnected these days thanks to fast and reliable mobile internet at global level. However, this level of interconnection means that each link must be strong and work properly. Frequently, the weak link in a supply chain is the type of packages a company uses. As packaging producers, we know the importance of using the adequate packaging materials for supply chain and logistics.

So, are your packaging materials the problem causing delays and downtime in your supply chain? Answer these questions and you will find out:

1. Did You Upgrade Warehousing Equipment, but Use the Same Packages?

Modern automated logistics machines and equipment work properly with returnable plastic packaging. They can get seriously damaged if a wooden crate or pallet breaks and small pieces get into the delicate gears of the system.

Essentially, using robotized production and material handling equipment with old wooden or cardboard packages is like buying a Ferrari body and putting an old and tired Ford engine in it.

2. Do You Have to Repackage Goods in a Client’s Approved Packaging?

One of your long-standing client requests specific packaging for the products you deliver to them. They have provided you with a batch of containers and pallets from their pooling facility as a courtesy, because they are happy with your products.

But the global economy is sailing on troubled seas, and one day that client could find another supplier, who is already using modern packages in their standard deliveries. You may understand the importance of packaging materials for supply chain when it is too late and you’ve lost a valuable partner.

3. Do You Have the Certainty of the Number of Packages You Can Rely On?

With the holiday sales seasons fast approaching, you may see a surge in orders, even if you work in the B2B sector. In this situation, you will need every packaging unit you have to ship these orders.

But are they all in good condition and safe to use? If you use returnable plastic packaging solutions, you can say yes with confidence. Plastic containers, shipping totes and plastic pallets are guaranteed to remain in good condition during their entire lifespan, which lasts several years.

By contrast, a wooden crate can become splintered and cracked after just a few use cycles.

4. Do You Get Complaints from Clients about the Cleanliness of Your Packages?

Hygiene is non-negotiable in many business sectors. Even if each product has its individual packaging, your clients expect to see them delivered in clean containers or pallets.

The problem with older packages is that they are notoriously difficult to wash and sanitize. Only reusable plastic containers and pallets can be made 100% hygienic after a standard wash cycle.

5. Do You Have to Halt Production to Remove Damaged Packaging from the Conveyor Belt?

Conveyor belts run rather smoothly, but they still cause vibrations transmitted to the items placed on them. This is why older packages often crack or break completely while running on conveyor belts.

Meanwhile, reusable packaging materials for supply chain systems powered by automated machines have a design adapted for conveyor belts and other logistic equipment. They run smoothly and quietly along the belt, thanks to the smooth bottom that reduces the noise.

6. Do You Find It Hard to Integrate New Technologies in Your Processes?

Old packaging materials are a huge drawback in many ways. You cannot offer your workers smart label readers, because you cannot affix labels on the packages, or they constantly peel off.

You cannot upgrade forklifts and other logistic machinery, because they are not suitable for the crates and containers you use. Essentially, your company falls behind all its competitors in terms of innovation and supply chain optimization. It won’t be long until your clients will notice this and start looking for a new supplier.

7. Are You Spending a Lot of Money on Waste Disposal?

Imagine the investments you could make to improve your supply chain if you didn’t have to pay for the disposal of packaging waste. This is one of the biggest reasons to consider investing in modern packaging solutions.The budget for the new packages is easily covered by the fees you spend on waste disposal during several months. Once you have reusable packaging materials, you don’t have to worry about waste or replacing the packages. They have a long lifespan and are 100% recyclable.

Don’t let old packages slow down your operations. Contact the Logistic Packaging experts to find the best packaging materials for supply chain optimization. Send us an email to start discussing your packaging needs with one of our consultants!