Packaging is more than getting something from point A to point B successfully, it's also about doing it in a sustainable fashion.
As companies look to become more sustainable, many are looking inward to various aspects of their business processes. This includes how they produce their products, the ways in which their buildings operate, and even their methods of transportation. However, something that some businesses could overlook is the way in which they package their shipments.
A systems view of sustainability
Packing Strategies explains that securing a product plays an important role in the supply chain of many businesses. Ultimately, a company's sustainability does not come in fixing any one aspect of its processes but a view that addresses the entire supply chain, which is why packaging cannot be overlooked.
Sustainability is all about making sure business processes are strong and resilient, two aspects that can be applied quite literally to packaging. Companies want to make sure that their product is contained safely and will be able to get to the place it is desired time and time again. This helps on a broader level of a sustainable supply chain because it means that being able to guarantee safe shipment will create replicable results for the company and verify a safely transported package every time.
Strong palette shipping solutions
One of the more common ways in which products are shipped is by the palette. Stretch wrapping is one of the most widely used ways in which to safely secure the goods on a palette, however, if one examines this method from a sustainability standpoint, other solutions also present themselves as viable alternatives.
According to Packaging World, there are a number of cost effective solutions to securing palettes that would not compromise the safety of the product. In this way, these alternative solutions remain replicable and reliable, while reducing costs along the supply chain.
One such method is through cohesive and adhesive spray which is organically made and can reduce materials costs. The spray is surprisingly effective in keeping products from shifting side to side, but allows for easy separation when pulled straight up. Even when not used alone, the product can be used in tandem with packing wrap - reinforcing the wrap in minimizing the amount that needs to be used. According to the news source, such a solution can reduce film use by 60 percent for retail customers.
Another packaging solution is known as stretch hooding. In these solutions, a machine measures the height of a palette load and cuts it a length based on the height of the load, meaning only the necessary amount of packaging film is being used.
The role of any company is being able to provide reliable service on a consistent basis. While everyone would like to be able to send their product in a cast iron box with an air tight foam interior, this is not likely going to happen because of the sheer cost and inconvenience. This means it is important that a company balance cost with effectiveness as well as the amount of waste that is produced. By using a sustainable approach to packaging, companies should be able to find reliable and sustainable ways to transport their products.
