Products that become loose and fall off your pallets during transit and storage can break, leading to increased costs and customer disappointment.

Palletised goods face not only physical damage from knocks and drops but also often need protection against moisture, dirt, dust or even rust, depending on the nature of your products. This blog article will offer 5 tips for palletising bulk deliveries to guarantee that your goods arrive in optimal condition.

We’ll explore the importance of effective palletisation, discuss common challenges and provide guidance on choosing the right pallet. We will also look at the significance of correct load distribution and selecting appropriate packing materials.

Understanding the importance of palletisation

Your goods may encounter various dangers during the shipping process. Ensuring they are properly secured to pallets is crucial for their protection on the way to the end user. The right palletisation can help in several ways:

• Preventing damage – Goods that are not securely palletised may become loose during shipping and storage, potentially leading to damage or causing injuries
• Protecting against moisture and dust – if you are transporting liquid products or your goods are exposed to wet conditions, proper palletisation is essential to protect them when encountering elements, such as moisture and water as well as spills and contamination
• Reducing additional costs – when goods arrive damaged, this often means they will have to be replaced and shipped again, which incurs additional shipping costs and the expenses associated with issuing new items. There are also hidden costs to consider, including labour, administrative tasks, damaged reputation and extra carbon dioxide emissions
• Preventing scratches – Choosing the right materials for palletising your goods ensures they are protected against scratches and chips
• Ensuring happy customers – products that arrive well-presented, damage-free will make a good impression on you customers, Even more so when they don’t have to deal with excess packaging. Good experience may lead to repeat orders and building a strong reputation, resulting in new customers

Common challenges in bulk deliveries

When it comes to bulk deliveries, understanding the nature of your products, including their size and weight, is crucial. This knowledge helps in selecting the appropriate pallet and wrapping materials to ensure the safe delivery of your goods.

Some common challenges in bulk deliveries include:

• Choosing the right type of pallet – This involves selecting a pallet that suits the type, dimensions, and weight of your goods
• Deciding on the most appropriate wrapping material – It’s important to choose a wrapping material that provides adequate protection throughout the supply chain
• Understanding the best methods to secure bulky or oddly shaped goods – Securing bulky or oddly shaped goods can be challenging, but it’s essential to ensure they are held securely
• Preventing accidents and ensuring adequate staff training – Providing a safe and consistent approach to pallet wrapping is crucial, especially when dealing with seasonal staff or when there is a high turnover of staff
• Protecting goods against adverse weather conditions – It’s important to safeguard your goods from adverse weather conditions to prevent damage and contamination.

Our tips for palletising bulk deliveries

Tip 1: Assess your product type

Review the size, weight and fragility of your products and consider the conditions they will be transported in. This will help ensure you select the appropriate pallet type and size and choose the right packing materials for the job.

Tip 2: Choose the right pallet

The ideal pallet type depends on their nature of your goods and your specific shipping needs. There are various pallet types available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, including:

• Wooden pallets – Popular for their availability, affordability and durability, this type of pallet is suitable for a broad range of products and industries
• Plastic pallets – Offering superior hygiene, they are perfect for applications requiring a clean and contamination-free environment. Ideal for shipping pharmaceuticals, medicines, food and beverages
• Presswood pallets – A type of wooden pallet designed for easy stacking, offering space savings while still being able to hold significant weight
• Corrugated cardboard pallets – A lighter pallet alternative capable of holding up to 750kg without the need for heat treatments. This makes them ideal for those wanting to reduce the overall weight of their shipments 
• Metal pallets – Renowned for their strength and durability, they are best suited for heavy-duty applications

For more information about different pallets type and how to choose the right size, read The Ultimate Guide to Pallets and Pallet Sizes.

Tip 3: Optimise load distribution

Ensure your load is stable and its weight is equally distributed across your pallet to optimise product safety. This will help prevent your load from tipping over and collapsing during shipping and storage. Place heavy items at the bottom and lighter on top.

Be cautious not to overload your pallets, as this can strain the packing materials and affect load stability. Always check the weight and load capacity of your pallets and wrapping materials, ensuring you do not exceed recommended limits.

Tip 4: Use appropriate packaging materials

Selecting the appropriate packaging materials is crucial for ensuring the safe delivery of pallets during bulk shipping.

Pallet wraps, such as stretch wrap and shrink wrap are the perfect packing materials to secure your palletised goods. They keep your products in place, offering a safe and tight hold while providing protection against scratches, spills, water and dust exposure. There are different types available, suitable for different product types and applications.

Stretch wrap can be applied manually or with the help of a specialised machine. For instance, the Wrapplicator, an innovative handheld stretch wrap dispenser, simplifies the pallet wrapping process, making it easier and more efficient.

For larger volumes, turntable stretch wrap machines can accelerate your packing operation while ensuring you use only the necessary amount of packing material to protect your goods.

To find out more about different stretch wrap types and uses, read our essential guide to stretch film. Alternatively, if you are interested in shrink films, you fill find more information here: a guide to polythene and shrink film.

You may also want to consider using corner protectors and dunnage to provide additional cushioning and protection for your palletised loads.

Tip 5: Label your pallets for easy identification

Once your pallets are suitably protected, make sure you label your shipments correctly to ensure easy warehouse management and identification of your pallets. It’s a good idea to use clear, quality labels and include information such as product type, quantity and any special handling instructions.

Help with pallet shipping

At Macfarlane Packaging, we offer an extensive selection of protective packaging materials, including various types of pallets, stretch wrap, shrink wrap, corner protectors and more.

We can also provide manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic packaging machines to streamline and optimise your packing process. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs. Our team is here to help you select the most suitable packaging solutions for your unique packaging requirements.

The post 5 tips for palletising bulk deliveries appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

The online butchers market are set to rise too, with a predicted market share of 11.2% by 2027, which will account for £1 in every £9 spent on grocery.

We’re not just feeding ourselves well. The UK dog food market was valued at an impressive £1.84 billion in 2023. Home deliveries for dog food are becoming increasingly common.

The growth in these sectors relies on one key factor – temperature controlled packaging, which helps to ensure these products are delivered fresh and safe to eat.

Proper packaging is essential for transporting products that require a controlled temperature environment. Whether you are delivering pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, or other temperature-sensitive items, following the right procedures ensures your products reach their destination in optimal condition.

In this blog we’ll explore the different types of cold chain packaging solutions available as well as provide some tips on how to pack your products.

What is temperature controlled packaging?

Temperature controlled packaging (TCP), also known as thermal or chilled packaging, is designed to maintain a specific temperature range for perishable goods throughout the supply chain. Whether shipping fresh, chilled, or frozen foods temperature controlled packaging helps ensure that items remain in peak condition during transit.

A typical temperature controlled packaging solution consists of an outer cardboard box, an insulating liner, and a coolant such as ice packs or gel packs. These elements work together to maintain the required temperature, protecting the contents from spoilage or degradation.

Which services need chilled packaging?

Chilled packaging is most obviously used for food. Meal kits, fresh meat, and dairy products all require controlled temperatures to stay fresh during delivery. Beyond food, chilled packaging is also crucial for the safe delivery of pharmaceuticals.

Key sectors that benefit from temperature controlled packaging include:

Cold chain airfreight: For transporting perishable goods globally, ensuring they stay at the correct temperature throughout their journey.

Perishable goods delivery: For foods, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies, where precise temperature control is critical from the warehouse to the customer.

Bulk cold chain stock movement: For moving large quantities of perishable products, such as produce or seafood, through the supply chain.

What are the best packaging products to ship temperature-sensitive goods?

There are three main types of packaging in thermal solutions:

Boxes and liners: These shipping packs include an outer cardboard box and thermal liners. Used with the appropriate coolant, they are ideal for shipping frozen, chilled, or ambient goods. Some examples include:

• RecycoolMe: A sustainable solution made from recyclable paper-based liners.
• CooliMate®: Consists of a double-wall carton and metallised bubble liners, maintaining temperatures of 2-8°C for up to 48 hours.
• Coolants: To maintain temperature during shipping, you need coolants that suit the type of product you’re sending. Options include:
• Ice sheets: Available in multiple sizes, these provide clean and safe cooling.
• Gel packs: Contain highly purified water and maintain a stable shape when frozen, ideal for chilled products.
• Sorbatek: Designed for longer temperature control, particularly suited for shipping seafood.
• Bulk solutions: If you’re shipping large quantities of temperature-sensitive goods, bulk options like insulated pallet boxes, thermal pallet covers, and roll cage covers are available. For example:
• CooliMate® pallet boxes: Easy to assemble and perfect for bulk shipments.
• Breathable air cargo covers: Protect perishable goods in air cargo from temperature fluctuations, moisture, and contaminants.

How to pack chilled foods for transport

Perishable goods will often pass through multiple warehouses and vehicles, so maintaining temperature throughout the journey is crucial. Follow these steps for best results:

Prepare your packaging materials: Pre-assemble the outer boxes and liners before bringing products out of cold storage. Have your coolant, tape, and other materials ready to minimise the time your products spend outside refrigeration.

Limit exposure to warm air: Products should be outside of cold storage for no more than 20–30 minutes before being packed. Extended exposure to room temperature can cause your products to warm the coolant, reducing its effectiveness and cutting transit time.

Use proper coolant placement: Place coolants (ice sheets or gel packs) at the top of the package, as cool air naturally moves downward. This ensures your products remain at the desired temperature throughout transit.

Fill voids for insulation: Any gaps between items should be filled with a suitable void filler to prevent movement and provide additional insulation.

Choose the right coolant for your product:

• For goods to arrive ambient, use ice sheets conditioned to around 20°C.
• For goods to arrive chilled, gel packs or ice sheets are suitable.
• For goods to arrive soft frozen, use duration ice sheets or gel packs.
• For goods to remain frozen, dry ice is necessary.

Keep parcels in cold storage until dispatch: To maximise the effectiveness of your temperature controlled packaging, store your packed parcels in a refrigerated or freezer environment until the delivery vehicle is ready for loading.

Choosing the right chilled packaging solution

In today’s competitive market, effective temperature controlled packaging is essential for businesses shipping perishable goods like meal kits, fresh meat, and raw pet foods. With a variety of packaging options available, from eco-friendly boxes to advanced coolants, companies can find tailored solutions to meet their specific needs. By carefully selecting and packing your products, you can ensure that your temperature-sensitive goods stay fresh and safe throughout their journey to the customer.

For more information on choosing the right solution for your business, contact us today or download our full temperature controlled packaging guide.

The post How to pack food for cold chain delivery appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

If you’re an online retailer, the packaging you use can be a make-or-break factor in the success of your Black Friday operation.

In this article, we’ll look at exploring Black Friday, the critical role played by packaging and 10 tips to help get your packaging Black Friday ready.

Understanding Black Friday

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States. Traditionally, huge sales are held that mark the start of the Christmas shopping season. The term “Black Friday” has been associated with retailers since the 1950s, with the practice of Black Friday sales cementing themselves in the 1980s. The retail sale moniker is inspired by the fact that many retailers saw it as a pivotal day in the year when their operations became profitable – going from being “in the red” to being “in the black”.  

Since the 1990s, these discounted sales have taken place both offline and online.

The tradition has migrated across the pond to the UK and Ireland, and Black Friday now represents the peak season for retailers. Sales often start days or weeks in advance and extend to Cyber Monday, traditionally the Monday after Thanksgiving.  Some retailers now call this “Black Friday Week”.

The importance of Black Friday in UK retail

So, how significant is Black Friday in UK retail?

According to Mintel, in 2023, total sales during Black Friday were an estimated £13.3billion. To put this in context, in a single day, it accounted for just over 3% of all UK retail sales during 2023!

The IMRG highlights that this is one of the key selling points of the year for online retailers, with 81% of retailers reporting they make more revenue when they hold longer sale periods.

In essence, all these facts highlight the importance of Black Friday in UK retail. Therefore, it’s critical for retailers to streamline Black Friday or peak operations to achieve peak success.

How packaging plays a role in Black Friday

If you’re an online retailer, the packaging you use plays a critical role in successfully shipping your products to consumers. On the surface, packaging’s primary purpose is to get goods from A to B – a no-brainer, right?

In fact, packaging can impact so many touchpoints in your supply chain, it can influence everything from product damages and returns through to efficient dispatch, storage and even your courier fees and labour costs.

Packaging that’s difficult to assemble will slow down throughput (particularly if you’ve got temporary staff). If you’re keeping too much packaging stock in your warehouse, you could be wasting valuable space to store your product. Packing materials that are too big or too small for your products? You could be facing increased returns, reverse logistics costs and costly replacements.

Simply put, the packaging materials you use and the packing process you employ can drastically impact the success of your Black Friday operations.

With this in mind, how can you get your packaging Black Friday ready?

10 tips to prepare your Black Friday packaging

1. Review packaging forecasts

Preparing what packaging you need, as early as possible, is a high priority.

Assess your current packaging supplies and identify what you’ll need to meet the expected demand. Preparing forecasts now will help you ensure continuity of supply throughout the busy season.

2. Pre-order your Black Friday packaging  

Running out of packaging materials on Black Friday can lead to delays and disappointed customers. Once you’ve got your stock forecast, you can pre-order your packaging essentials like postal boxes, packing tapes and void fill.

Ordering in bulk can offer cost savings, and early ordering can help you avoid longer supply lead times that will come into play as demand increases closer to peak. However, you might not want to have all your packaging materials in one go. Taking advantage of a stock and drip service or  Just-In-Time (JIT) production can help you minimise stockholding, save space and protect cash flow.

3. Optimise your packaging processes

Reviewing your current packaging process can help identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks.

This can include an end-to-end view from picking through to pack bench organisation and how packaging is assembled and then sent on to dispatch. Even small adjustments can significantly speed up your packing process. For example, you can use a “water-spider” method to re-stock packing benches. This is where one member of your team replenishes workstations, so packing operatives do not need downtime to fetch additional packing materials.

If dispensing packaging speedily is an issue, you could also consider installing some quick packaging automation solutions for further productivity gains.

4. Check the quality of your packaging materials

Is your packaging optimised?

Quality packaging that is fit for purpose is vital to protect your products and provide operational efficiency. Ask yourself:

• Is the packaging quick and easy to assemble?
• Is the packaging too big or too small for any products?
• Does your packaging meet with any regulations, size or cubage requirements for your couriers?
• Does your packaging reflect your brand?
• Does the packaging provide sufficient protection?
• Do customers ever complain packaging is wasteful?
• Can the packaging be recycled?

Choosing robust, high-quality packaging materials that fulfil these criteria can help your overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness. A packaging review or using a tool like our Packaging Optimiser can help you assess your packaging quality.

5. Consider custom packaging for maximum impact

Not all packaging is made the same.

Opting for custom packaging for Black Friday can tailor a packaging solution to your exact requirements. This can be ensuring it’s the right size for your products or branding it so you stand out from the competition.

For example, branded boxes, tape, or even printed tissue paper can enhance the unboxing experience for your customers. This not only adds a personal touch but also helps increase brand recognition.

6. Preparing for returns

In an ideal world, your Black Friday deliveries will all get there in one piece and not be returned. However, there is a big trend among consumers for returning items, even when they’re not damaged. On top of this, the peak season means more packages in the courier networks, increased pressure and often, increased damages.

Make sure your return process is as smooth as your delivery process. Using packaging that is easy to return is helpful and more sustainable. A mailing bag or shipping box with an extra peel and stick strip, is an easy way to facilitate a hassle-free returns.

7. Assess if your Black Friday packaging is eco-friendly

How easy your packaging is to recycle can impact your end-customer experience.

Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, with 20% reporting that they will not buy from a retailer who uses non-sustainable packaging. Therefore, assessing if your Black Friday packaging is eco-friendly is a good way to prepare. Providing clear recycling instructions can also reduce waste and lower your environmental impact.

8. Train your team for packaging success

Your packing team plays a crucial role in ensuring orders are packed efficiently and accurately.

Providing refresher training to permanent colleagues and packing guidelines to temporary staff can lead to packaging success. Using the right materials and processes will reduce waste, lower pack times and help you get more shipments out the door.

9. Test your Black Friday packaging

Before the big day, test your packaging solutions to ensure they perform well under pressure.

Pack and ship a few trial orders to check that your postal boxes, mailing bags and void fill are up to the task. This can help you identify any potential issues before they impact your customers.

Another great way to do this is to perform some “mystery shopping” orders to see how your packaging fares during courier networks.

10. Plan for the unexpected

Even with the best preparation, unexpected challenges can arise.

Putting a contingency plan in place to deal with potential issues, such as running out of packaging materials, can help mitigate risks. For example, if you use custom packaging, it might work to assess if a packaging supplier’s stock range has similar sizes so you can order them in an emergency.

Support getting your packaging Black Friday ready

Black Friday is an exciting but demanding time. Getting your packaging Black Friday ready can help you enjoy a successful peak period.

At Macfarlane Packaging, our team of experts are here to help you prepare your packaging for peak. From our Innovation Labs which can provide e-pass testing and packaging design through to our account managers, who can work with you on stock forecasts and offer packaging reviews, Macfarlane Packaging has got you covered. Get in touch today.

The post 10 tips to prepare your Black Friday packaging appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

This has left many companies struggling to recruit and retain warehouse operatives against a backdrop of rising wage costs.

An efficient supply chain is reliant on warehouse staff to keep goods moving. Currently, many logistics operations are challenged to recruit a team of people to make that magic happen.

Businesses must find ways to address the labour shortage in a competitive job market. This is necessary to keep their logistics running smoothly. Packaging automation could be one such solution to help ease the tension of these labour shortages.

Why does the UK logistics industry have a labour shortage?

The UK has been going through changes in recent years, especially after Brexit. This has affected the logistics industry, which traditionally depended heavily on workers from the EU. During the Covid years, older workers, across many industries, made life-changing decisions to retire early. These factors have narrowed the pool of skilled labour available to employers.

The impact of labour shortages on warehouse operations

Businesses are offering higher wages to attract and retain warehouse staff. This is because there is a shortage of workers in the competitive labour market, driving up business costs and impacting margin.

If there are no staff available, it will affect how quickly products can be picked, packed and shipped out. This can lead to supply chain disruptions, delayed shipments and strained customer relationships. This may cause current team members to work extra hours, leading to mistakes, health and safety problems and damage to products.

What is packaging automation?

Packaging automation is a system which applies packaging consistently, with minimal operator intervention. There are machines that can tape, wrap, box, and bag items automatically, making the process easier and more efficient.

Automated packaging systems are ideal for high demand packing environments where speed and efficiency are key. If you’re shipping a range of differently shaped products in significant volume, the right packaging machinery and processes can help you to optimise your operation, cut costs and future-proof your production line for growth.

How packaging automation can help

Packaging automation offers an opportunity to reduce the challenges of labour shortages, supporting packing efficiency and enabling businesses to remain competitive. Packaging automation will:

Increase Efficiency and Productivity – as systems speed up the application of packaging. They can pack, seal, label and wrap products at high speed, quickly and accurately offering a consistent packing time.

Reduce Costs – through consistent packaging application, minimising material use as well as freeing up packers to do more useful tasks. For example, a stretch wrap machine will apply less stretch wrap with consistent tension, reduce packing time and free up the warehouse operator to go and fetch the next pallet to wrap.

As automated packaging systems use so much less material, return on investment can be a matter of weeks or months, depending on the initial outlay.

Reduce Damages and Returns – as packaging material is applied consistently and to a high standard, it reduces incidents of over and under packing and the potential of damages in transit.

Reduce Health and Safety Incidents – as warehouse operative tasks are often repetitive, packaging automation reduces pulls, strains and overstretching incidents as the machine completes the packing process.

Manage Spikes in Demand – as automated packaging solutions can be scaled up or down as appropriate. This reduces the challenges of hiring and training temporary staff during Peak season.

Types of packaging automation available

Packaging automation can take on a variety of forms, depending on your requirements.

A semi-automatic process is part manual and part automated. For example, an operator may start the process, but an automated packing system will finish it. This is typically a cheaper option if you are looking to introduce some automation but are working with a budget constraint.

A fully automatic packing process is programmed from the beginning to completion. This can include everything from picking, packaging application and palletisation for dispatch.

There are packaging automation solutions available for box building, tape application, holding product in place, void filling, bagging, strapping and applying stretch wrap.

Key considerations for implementing packaging automation

There is a range of solutions available for packaging automation from semi-automatic to fully automatic and integrated systems. The best choice for your business will be dependant on your business goals, the types of products you are packing and the size of your operation.

Before purchasing machinery, talk to a packaging automation expert who can help you determine how automation can benefit your operation and increase efficiency.

They can evaluate your warehouse layout and suggest ways to improve space, increase capacity, and efficiency. They can also help you to calculate a return on investment based on operating hours and packaging use. Often large investments in machinery can be daunting, however, there are rental schemes available for some systems.

By using packaging automation, your team can focus on more important tasks instead of repetitive ones.

Regular maintenance of automated systems is important to ensure they can operate at peak efficiency.

The UK logistics industry are facing a challenging labour shortage. However, using packaging automation can help improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimise the use of packaging materials. This can help businesses succeed in the competitive job market and prepare for growth and seasonal increases in demand.

Learn more about packaging automation and available solutions by downloading our guide. It will help you find the best solution for your operation and reduce total cost. 

At Macfarlane Packaging, we help customers reduce costs and increase the efficiency of their packing operations through the successful integration of packaging automation. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business.

The post Managing labour shortages in logistic operations appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

On face value, this is a naturally occurring reaction, but it’s a costly one. In the UK alone, a University of Edinburgh study estimated that corrosion costs the economy up to £80 billion per year. Globally, this figure is thought to be over $2.5 trillion.

Many industries can be impacted by corrosion, including construction, automotive, aerospace and marine sectors. If you’re producing, storing, handling or shipping metal-based products in these industries, you’ll want to ensure it’s protected.

So, what’s the solution? Enter VCI packaging. In this article, we’ll help you understand what VCI packaging is, the different types of VCI packaging available and the advantages it offers.

What is VCI packaging?

VCI stands for volatile corrosion inhibitor. VCIs are substances that slowly release an anti-corrosion compound into a sealed air space, protecting exposed metal surfaces.

VCI packaging, or anti-corrosion packaging, are packaging materials that can protect metal products during storage, handling and shipping and help prevent them from corroding.

Anti-corrosion packaging is made by applying a thin, invisible layer of a VCI compound to packaging materials. This layer stops water, oxygen and other contaminants from breaking down the metal products.

Types of VCI packaging

So, now you know what VCI packaging is, what types of VCI packaging are available? There are lots of options to choose from! Below, we’ve outlined the key types of anti-corrosion packaging available:

VCI Bags

Perhaps the most popular VCI packaging product, VCI bags are made from polythene coated in chemical compounds that prevent corrosion.

For smaller applications, like packing tools, screws or small machine parts, volatile corrosion inhibitor grip seal bags are a good choice. If you need a volatile corrosion inhibitor bag for larger applications, you can opt for large lining bags for boxes, crates and pallet boxes. Sometimes these are called Dolav liners or gusseted VCI bags. Just like the grip seal bags, they provide rust prevention.

VCI Paper

Another popular anti-corrosive packaging product is VCI kraft paper. This rust inhibiting paper is supplied on a roll and one side of the paper is coated in VCI chemical. It’s suitable for protecting ferrous metal products during storage and shipping.

The other side of the paper can be coated in moisture barriers to further protect products.

VCI Cardboard

A cost-effective alternative to using a regular box with a VCI lining bag is VCI cardboard. It works in a similar way to anti-corrosion paper. The corrugated board is coated in a thin layer of VCI molecules, which are clear and invisible to the eye.

VCI Stretch Wrap

If you’re palletising goods that need rust prevention, you can make use of VCI stretch wrap. It’s ideal for palletising large metal goods, like engines or items that have odd profiles.

Like other anti-corrosion packaging, VCI stretch wrap is made using VCI molecules that are mixed into the polymer when the film is manufactured.

VCI Bubble Wrap

If you need your products to be protected from corrosion as well as knocks and shocks during shipping, VCI bubble wrap could be the answer.

Like VCI stretch wrap, rust-preventing bubble wrap has volatile corrosion inhibiting chemicals mixed into the material during manufacturing.

VCI Fabric

VCI fabric or metal wrap is made from woven high density polythene that is coated one side with corrosion inhibiting chemicals. It can be used with ferrous metals to prevent rust and non-ferrous metals to prevent tarnishing and oxidisation. It can also provide general surface protection.

The advantages of using VCI packaging

It might seem like a no brainer if you’re shipping metal products, but there are lots of advantages when using VCI packaging. This type of packaging can…

• Protect your products from corrosion and oxidisation, helping them stay in the best condition possible during shipping, handling and transit.
• Minimise product replacements, as it prevents harmful corrosion that could spoil your products.
• Reduce your costs, as they’re more effectively protected, you’re cutting the expense of replacements and reverse logistics.
• Give you flexibility and versatility, if you’re packing more than one metal product, many types of VCI packaging can allow you to project a range of different SKUs.

Protecting your products from corrosion

If you’d like support protecting your products from corrosion, rust and oxidisation, the Macfarlane Packaging team are here to help!

Our experts can design and recommend VCI packaging material that will protect your products and reduce your costs. Get in touch today.  

The post Understanding VCI Packaging: A Guide appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

In 2023 the SMMT reported that the Automotive-related manufacturing sector in the UK was on track to reclaim it’s £100bn trading hub status by the end of the year.  In fact, the year ended with total manufacturing numbers up 17% on the previous year, with the UK producing  905,117 cars, 120.357 commerical vehicals and an estimated 1.6 million engines.  It was the industry’s best year since 2019.

Automotive-related manufacturing in the UK generates approximately £67 billion of turnover annually. The UK produced almost 860,000 cars and 1.6 million engines in 2021, as well as approximately 73,000 commercial vehicles.

And as estimates indicate that a single vehicle can have as many as 30,000 parts, ensuring you are using the correct packaging can be a significant challenge.

If you work within the automotive industry, this guide to car parts packaging provides you with a detailed overview of considerations and options. Whether you are responsible for packaging at an OEM, tier 1, tier 2 or tier 3 supplier, this article details a range of tried and trusted options that allow you to pack and ship car parts successfully.

Car parts packaging can take various forms. It can include everything from returnable containers within the supply chain to corrugated boxes used for aftermarket parts. Your packaging can be designed to improve handling, protect components in transit, and enhance the efficiency of production lines.

Considerations when packing and shipping automotive parts

Before looking at the varying types of car parts packaging, it is essential to consider several factors. The six primary considerations for car parts packaging are:

1. The weight of the product/part you are shipping
2. The fragility of the parts
3. How valuable are the items you are shipping
4. The packing and unpacking processes
5. How your parts (and packaging) are handled in the supply chain
6. Any impact on the environment

Weight of products

The weight of your parts or components is important when specifying your automotive packaging. Heavier items need more durable packaging to ensure it does not fail during transit. Lighter items should have their packaging optimised to minimise weight and reduce costs and CO2 emissions through the supply chain.

Fragility of parts

How delicate your car parts are also influences the best packaging for your business. You may require cushioning and inserts to minimise damage caused by handling in the supply chain, although even the more robust items still need protection. You should also consider protection for surface finishes on painted, polished or decorative surfaces.

How valuable are the items you are shipping

The packaging you use for shipping high-value infotainment units or gearboxes, for example, needs to be a different specification than that used for relatively cheap plastic trims or ancillaries.

Packing and unpacking processes

It is crucial to consider how quick and easy it is to pack and unpack your products. Does your car part packaging use much secondary packaging such as bags, inserts or films? Is it easy to pack multiple smaller parts in the same outer container? Are there any additional processes that packing teams need to carry out which may impact production times and efficiency?

How do transport providers handle parts during transit?

It is wise to consider how your items are handled within the supply chains. For example, are there many touchpoints that could result in mishandling? Does packaging need to look presentable at its final destination (e.g. for aftermarket parts or retail items)?

As well as how items are likely to be handled, it is also essential to consider the methods of transport and the possible environments your car parts packaging may encounter – will it be left outside or have the potential to get wet, for example?

Impact on the environment

The final consideration is the impact that your packaging has on the environment. Does it allow you to maximise transport efficiency, or are you shipping lots of empty space? Can any single-trip packaging be easily recycled by the end user? Would returnable or extendable packaging be most suitable?

Expendable vs returnable

This final point leads nicely to arguably the most important consideration for shipping car parts – whether to use expendable or returnable packaging.

But how do you decide which is best for your business?

Generally, the longer the distances involved in the logistics leg, the less practical it becomes to use returnable packaging. The vast majority of returnable automotive packaging is used within short loops and those with fixed arrival and distribution points.

Of course, you may not have reliable return transport, your parts are for use by the end consumer (hence the packaging cannot be returned), or it is not economical to return empty containers to your warehouse or manufacturing site.

Another point to consider at the outset is what different manufacturing plants or customers accept. Many do not have facilities to dispose of large volumes of single-trip packaging and only accept products in returnable packaging. Others may specify expendable packaging. It is vital to check what your customers want!

Returnable supply chain packaging

However, it is likely that, as part of an automotive supply chain, you will use returnable packaging of some description.

Due to the vast numbers of parts and overall throughput of vehicle manufacture, using returnable containers eliminates the generation of huge amounts of packaging waste compared with single-trip.

Returnable containers are typically more robust, providing better protection for parts, and are frequently industry standard sizes that allow for improved space efficiency in transport and production lines. They can also allow for safer stacking and handling.

And arguably the most crucial point, returnable packaging provides a lower cost per trip or lifetime cost than expendable packaging.

Euro containers

Euro containers are the most commonly used returnable packaging for car parts and components. Often referred to as KLT containers or ALC (attached lid containers – when including a lid), these moulded plastic boxes are available in standard sizes to be compatible with most pallets, racking, conveyors and so on.

They are both cost-effective and robust, hence their popularity and widespread use.

Correx tote boxes

The main limitation of Euro containers, however, is their standard sizing. Fixed dimensions can sometimes mean wasted space within containers when shipping unusually shaped or sized items. This issue reduces transit efficiency (you are paying to ship fresh air) and can also mean adding a large volume of void fillers or other inserts. It also reduces assembly line part density.

As a result, a returnable packaging option that is growing fast in popularity is Correx tote boxes. The key benefit is that you can opt to manufacture them in custom sizes. This size flexibility means they can accommodate unusually shaped items or a defined number of parts for a specific assembly.

Correx totes are also lighter than moulded containers, which can help reduce transit costs and emissions. And, due to a range of material options, you can select to have them manufactured with strength comparable to euro containers or tailored to the requirements of specific items.

Expendable packaging

Despite the benefits of returnable car part packaging, there are scenarios where single trip or expendable packaging would be most suitable. As well as parts that ship directly to end users, there are uses within supply chains for these options. Particularly where parts travel long distances and/or return is difficult.

Heavy duty corrugated

Many businesses use corrugated packaging within automotive supply chains. It has the same advantage as Correx in that it allows for the production of custom-sized boxes. Bespoke sizing enables the benefits of space efficiency, lower transit costs, emissions etc.

Several heavy-duty material grades can provide surprising durability, including various double and even triple-wall materials.

Other benefits include easy printing of handling and other instructions directly onto the packs and, of course, cardboards’ ease of recycling.

Timber crates and cases

Timber crates are another option in certain parts of automotive supply chains. Like corrugated, they can be easily produced in bespoke sizes to accommodate specific parts. They are particularly suited to shipping larger panels, assemblies or even engine blocks.

Whilst they can offer some reusability, they are also more challenging to dispose of and more costly than cardboard equivalents.

Dunnage and inserts

Whether you use returnable or single-trip packaging to ship your car parts, you can enhance the performance and efficiency using dunnage – effectively different forms of inserts.

Inserts can allow for much-improved part density within an outer container and make packing and unpacking quicker and easier. Inserts also help minimise damage as they limit movement and prevent parts from colliding with each other. Inserts can also provide precise positioning of components to allow for robotic assembly.

Divisions

Simple divider sets manufactured using Correx or even cardboard can provide all of the benefits mentioned earlier. Usually created to suit a specific product or assembly process, you can choose the cell size and configuration (e.g. 4 x 4 cells within the container). Dividers can be removable and folded flat or integral to the construction of Correx totes or trays.

Textile dividers

Some parts – for example, interior fittings or painted parts – have decorative surfaces that customers can reject due to surface scuffs or marring. If this is a concern, using a material such as Bubble-board can eliminate this. The plastic material is laminated with spun-bond fabric to protect from scratches or foam to provide additional cushioning during shipment.

Custom inserts

For unusually shaped parts, custom fittings can provide a perfect fit for the item in question.

Vacuum-formed trays

Vacuum-formed trays are another option widely used to handle car parts and components. They have recesses moulded to the exact shape of the items they carry to provide protection and ease of packing/unpacking.

Foam

Finally, you can use various foam inserts for particularly delicate or high-value items. As per vacuum-formed trays, foam inserts can precisely match the contours of any part or component. They go a step further, however, in that they also provide excellent cushioning protection.

Specialist software even allows for the optimum level of protection to be engineered into the foam packaging – crucial for high-end parts that cost thousands of pounds.

Airsac cushioning protection

An inflatable packaging solution which moulds itself to your products, Airsac can be used on small automotive components or larger body panels for vehicles, such as doors and bonnets.  

Airsac utilises pockets of air to provide high levels of protection, making it extremely light and easy to handle. Available in a range of formats, such as a full bag or end cap, it can be used to replace traditional cushioning products like foam or stratocell.

As it’s inflated on demand, Airsac is an excellent way to remove bulky packaging from the packing process and free up storage space on site.

Protecting car electronics

As technology advances, more and more aspects of new vehicles rely on electronics and microchips. Everything from telematics, navigation, driver assistance systems and even infotainment units rely on increasingly sophisticated technologies.

But these parts and components can be susceptible to a different form of damage – electrostatic discharge (ESD).

What is ESD?

ESD is the transfer of an electrical charge between two objects. Whilst this occurs naturally, the heat generated during this process can cause significant damage to microchips and electronics. And whilst the effects may not be immediately apparent, latent damage can result in performance degradation and decreased lifespan of items that rely on electronics to function.

Conductive packaging options

Due to this, several anti-static and conductive packaging products are commonplace in automotive industries.

Corstat – a corrugated cardboard with a carbon coating – creates a “faraday cage” effect. This essentially channels any static around the outside of the packaging, protecting any items within.

Plastic options, including Corriplast conductive Correx and moulded plastics, operate similarly, whilst various ESD-safe foams are also available.

Other specialist car parts packaging

Several other specialist packaging applications are common within the automotive manufacturing industry.

VCI protection

A volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI) is a material that protects metals from corrosion (i.e. rust). Vehicles use a considerable amount of metal components, so shipping these over long distances has the potential for this type of damage to occur.

Numerous VCI papers and bags are available to pack components in, whilst others may be coated in grease or similar substances to protect them during shipping. However, all these add another process to packing and unpacking operations.

An alternative is to coat your packaging with a VCI material, which can provide an equivalent level of protection.

Scuff protection

As mentioned earlier, inserts and dividers can be manufactured using material that prevents surface scuffing and marring. These properties are essential for painted, polished or coated parts or those which form part of the interior of a vehicle.

What is less well known is that cardboard can be surprisingly abrasive, although again, there are coatings for corrugated boxes that can help to minimise this.

Lithium batteries

A new challenge facing automotive manufacturers and parts suppliers is lithium batteries. Prevalent in electric vehicles, the UN classifies li-on batteries as hazardous goods. This classification requires specialist packaging that meets defined regulations (UN3480) to ship.

Options for this include returnable aluminium cases with specialist inserts that contain fires should batteries fail or malfunction during transportation.

Spares, eCommerce and retail

Of course, not all businesses in the automotive sector supply parts used directly in the manufacture of new vehicles. Many provide spares and aftermarket parts that go straight to service centres, garages and even consumers.

In fact, the aftermarket industry in the UK accounts for £21.1 billion in turnover each year.

The packaging required for shipping these car parts faces different challenges. Firstly, it tends to be a single trip as there is no easy option for returning it. Being expendable means considerations surrounding recyclability must be balanced against ensuring it performs well within courier and postal networks and the multiple touchpoints these comprise.

In some instances, there may even be a requirement to add branding, instructions and other information, as some parts may be displayed within retail stores or be required to provide some form of limited “unboxing” experience.

As such, businesses typically use corrugated packaging for applications of this type.

Summary

Whether you work for an OEM, or a tier 1, 2 or 3 supplier, a team of packaging experts at GWP and Macfarlane Packaging is on hand to ensure you select the most suitable car parts packaging for your specific application.

Get in touch today for advice and guidance on sourcing the optimum packaging for your business.

The post How to pack automotive parts – updated appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Wooden crates are typically built to order and meet international shipping standards for export.  They’re a popular packaging product across a range of industries. For example, large wooden crates are often used for shipping everything from aerospace parts through to medical instruments.

There are both benefits and drawbacks to using timber crates, which we will unpick in this blog. 

The benefits of using timber crates for shipment

Wooden crates have been used for the packaging and transportation of goods for many years. Their strength and durability make them a reliable option for safeguarding goods during transit, particularly for heavier or fragile items.

Strength and durability

Timber crates provide robust protection for goods during transit. Their sturdy construction withstands handling, stacking, and transportation, reducing the risk of damage to fragile or valuable items.

Customising timber crates

Timber crates can be tailored to fit the specific dimensions and requirements of the goods being shipped.

As well as being built to accommodate the precise size and shape of the cargo, they can also be fitted with:

• internal padding to protect your product
• timber struts to screw machinery in place
• handling features like bars, handholes or hooks to enable lifting or winching

Sustainable and reusable  

Timber crates come from forests managed responsibly and certified by organisations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These crates offer a sustainable packaging option. Wood is a renewable resource, and proper forestry practices promote forest conservation and biodiversity.

Wooden crates are reusable and can withstand multiple shipping cycles with minimal wear and tear. Once they are no longer needed, they can be recycled or reused. This helps to reduce waste and lessen the environmental impact. This is in comparison to single-use packaging materials.

The challenges of shipping in timber crates

Whilst timber crates offer many benefits, it’s worth noting that there are drawbacks too:

Labour intensive process

Timber crates can be labour intensive to build, load and close. Typically, a skilled operator with tools and hand protection is required to hammer in nails to assemble the crate. Packing takes up valuable time. It can also pose health and safety risks. These risks include manual handling and the risk of injury from wood splinters and sharp nails.

When the goods are delivered to their destination and the crate requires unpacking, they have the same impact.

Regulatory compliance for exporting goods

When exporting timber crates outside of the UK, they need to meet international shipping regulations and ISPM standards. This includes using heat treated wood or fumigated wood that is certified to the receiving country’s requirements.

The IPPC has established a regulation known as ISPM15. This rule mandates that wood used for international shipping must undergo treatment. Specifically, wood with a thickness of 6mm or more must be subjected to heat treatment to guarantee it is devoid of pests.

The impact on shipment weight

Timber crates tend to be heavier and bulkier compared to alternative packaging materials such as cardboard or plastic. This can raise your shipping costs significantly, especially for air freight.

It may also restrict the amount of cargo in one shipment.

Site storage of timber crates

Crates are a great option for heavy or fragile products, but they may not be the most versatile choice.  Storing them on site before shipping can use up a lot of warehouse space. It can also be a problem for customers if they are not part of a closed loop supply chain.

The advantages of replacing timber crates

Lighter materials can match or even surpass the resilience and protection of timber crates.  They can also improve how you store and assemble your pack. You can achieve this while still providing the same level of protection and reduce shipment weight and cost too!

Designers can create alternative packaging materials to withstand the challenges of transportation and provide excellent protection against impacts, moisture, and other potential hazards.

Switching from wood crating to a more user-friendly option can lead to cost savings in labour and shipping.

5 timber crate alternatives

When replacing timber crates, you need to consider a variety of factors. Choosing the right packaging material is crucial for enhancing sustainability and providing the right level of protection.

If you are shipping delicate items, you’ll need to incorporate material that provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption. Conversely, if you’re shipping heavy or bulky goods, you’ll need robust structural support.

Several alternatives to timber crates exist. These include:

Heavy duty corrugated cardboard

Corrugated cardboard is lightweight, inexpensive, and recyclable, making it a popular choice for shipping a wide variety of products. Heavy-duty corrugated material provides excellent protection and can include lockable fittings to secure products in place. These fittings not only make assembly quick and easy but also enhance the unpacking process upon arrival.

Corrugated cardboard provides the option to use recycled materials and is easily recyclable. It can be used as a foam replacement for corner protection and holding products in place too.

For storage, corrugated cardboard has the potential to fold flat, reducing the amount of warehouse space required.

Tri-Mite system

Tri-Mite containers are made with strong triple wall corrugated cardboard. They are built with precise joints for extra strength and easy stacking and make substantial use of recyclable materials. Containing multi-trip locking fasteners, they are suitable for reusable applications.

Tri-Mite cases can be fitted with internal supports and partitions made from corrugated board, foam or rigid plastics. Additional fitments, like handles, can be added to improve manual handling.

Airsac^® lined polyethylene fibre packs

For businesses circulating equipment for temporary loan, a lightweight alternative is a high-density polyethylene pack with removeable Airsac liners.

The packs can be made with castor wheels, pull straps, Velcro and clips for easy closure.  When not in use, the Airsac is removed and the pack can be laid flat in storage.  The pack is highly reusable, lightweight, easy to manoeuvre and significantly reduces manual handling risks.

Plastic crates

Plastic crates are lightweight, durable, and resistant to moisture, making them suitable for a wide range of products. Highly reusable, they can are water resistant and washable for reuse.  It’s a great option for closed loop operations.

Metal crates

Metal crates, typically made from aluminium or steel, offer excellent strength and durability. They are resistant to moisture, pests, and damage, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications or transporting delicate goods. However, depending on the metal crates selected, they can be heavier and may require additional surface treatments to prevent corrosion.

How Macfarlane Packaging can help with timber crate replacement

At Macfarlane, we help customers minimise the impact of packaging on their logistics operation with lightweight replacements that offer high levels of protection, reduce weight, labour and storage costs associated with bulky timber crates.

Contact us today to find out more.

The post 5 alternatives to heavy timber crates appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

If you’re involved in supply chain management, its likely you’ll have come across a pallet during your career. They may seem like a simple commodity product in the industry, but the right pallet can be an important factor in successful shipping.

In this article, we’ll cover the ultimate guide to pallets and pallet sizes. We’ll explain what a pallet is, the different types of pallets available, various pallet sizes and even how to choose the right pallet!

Understanding pallets and their uses

Pallets are flat platforms, usually made of wood or metal, that are used for supporting goods during storage, shipping and transportation. They are often light, strong and durable.

Traditionally, pallets are made in a double deck configuration – with a top deck of wood or plastic, supported bythree or four stringers. Stringers are supporting structures that help hold the weight of the load and allow a pallet to be picked up by a forklift or trolleys.

Pallets are an integral part of logistics, warehousing and export, allowing easy movement and storage of goods.

Type of pallets

There are lot of different pallets available. Often, pallets are either classified by the material they’re made from or their size. Here are some of the common types of pallets available:

Wooden pallets

Wooden pallets are the most common type of pallet you’ll come across. Classic “stringer” pallets (those manufactured from strips of wood) are usually made from a combination of soft wood like pine and hard woods like oak or from plywood.

Many wooden pallets you come across will be heat treated. Heat treating is when the wood is heated to at least 56°C, removing a significant portion of the moisture inside the wood.

Heat treated pallets minimise the risk of the wood rotting and cut the chance of insect infestations. In addition, they comply with International Phytosanitary Standard for Wood Packaging or IPSM15 requirements. If you’re shipping to countries in the EU, IPSM15 compliant pallets are a must!

Plastic pallets

Plastic pallets are made from moulded plastic.

They’re a reusable and washable alternative to wooden pallets. Plastic pallets can be made as stringer pallets or nestable pallets. Another advantage is that they do not need to comply with IPSM15 regulations.

As they’re washable, they’re popular in clean environments or closed loop systems, like pharmaceutical or medical production sites.

Presswood pallets

Presswood pallets are a type of wooden pallet. Also known as a moulded wood pallet, they are made by moulding wood fibres from wood byproducts at high pressure with resin.

The wood chips used to make presswood pallets are heat treated to high temperatures, so they are often IPSM15 compliant.

The design of presswood pallets also means they can be easily stacked to save space and can hold significant weight relative to how light they are.

Corrugated cardboard pallets

Less common that wooden pallets, are corrugated cardboard pallets.

They are a lightweight alternative to wooden pallets. Switching to a corrugated pallet can take weight out of your shipping process, reducing carbon emissions and lowering fuel consumption.

Corrugated pallets can hold up to 750kg and are exempt from IPSM15 requirements. Plus, they can be recycled, even at kerbside.

Metal pallets

Metal pallets are a heavy-duty alternative to wooden and plastic pallets.

Often manufactured from steel and aluminium, metal pallets are designed to hold the heaviest loads. They’re incredibly long lasting and can be  made in standard and euro pallet sizes.

Standard pallets

When someone refers to a standard pallet, this often refers to the standard size pallet in that country. In our case, this refers to UK standard pallet sizes.

Euro pallets

The term “euro pallet” refers to a pallet that meets European standard as specified by the UIC pallet working group. Pallets that conform to this size are eligible for the European Pallet Pool.

4-way and 2-way entry pallets

Pallets that are called 4-way or 2-way pallets refer to the number of sides of a pallet that a forklift can get under.

On a 2-way pallet, a forklift can get in two sides and on a 4-way pallet a forklift can access all four sides.

Pallet sizes and their importance

The size of a pallet directly impacts their overall capacity and compatibility with different transportation systems.

So, where you’re shipping to and from, as well as the size and weight of the goods can all dictate which pallet size you’ll need. The size and weight of the pallet you choose can also impact your shipping costs! 

Here are some of the most popular pallet sizes:

UK standard size pallets

In the UK, the dimensions of a standard pallet are 1200m x 1000mm. Pallets this size allow them to be used seamlessly with most UK warehouse racking and forklifts, plus they’re well optimised for transport.

UK standard pallet are 20% larger than Euro pallets. This pallet size is also commonly used throughout Asia.

Euro pallet sizes

Typical Euro pallet size dimensions are 1200mm x 800mm. This is the standard pallet size as specified by the European Pallet Association and can be identified by the abbreviation EPAL or EUR on the pallet.

Pallets that meet European pallet size specifications qualify for the aforementioned European Pallet Pool.  

Other pallet sizes

Some other globally recognised pallet sizes include:

• 1219x1016mm – most commonly used in North America
• 1165x1165mm – most commonly used in Australia
• 1067x1067mm – widely used across North America, Asia and Europe
• 1100x1100mm – most commonly used in Asia

Full, half and quarter pallets

The height of a pallet’s load will dictate if it is a full, half or quarter pallet.  A full pallet has a maximum height of 2200mm, a half pallet has a height of 1200mm, and a quarter pallet has a height of 800mm. These heights apply to both Euro and UK pallet sizes.

So, in the UK:

• A full pallet is 1200m x 1000mm x 1200mm high
• A half pallet is 1200m x 1000mm x 1000mm high
• A quarter pallet is 1200m x 1000mm x 800mm high

Maximum load weights for different pallet sizes

The maximum weight a pallet can hold often depends on the material it’s made from, as well as it’s sizes.

UK standard size wooden pallets can accommodate up to 1200kg. Whereas corrugated cardboard pallets will hold lighter loads up to 750kg. Depending on size, plastic pallets can hold up to 1000kg and presswood pallets can hold up to 1250kg. Some metal pallets may be able to hold more than this.

Choosing the right pallet

When choosing a pallet, it’s important to consider the product you’ll be transporting or storing, and the associated requirements in terms of weight, dimensions, and fragility.

You also need to think about the shipping conditions you need to transport your product through, as well as any country or region specific requirements.

Balancing quality and affordability is also crucial. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in durable pallets for sale will pay off in the long run by reducing the chances of damages and replacements.

For example, if you are operating in Europe, opting for heat treated wooden Euro pallets would make sense, as you can take advantage of the European Pallet Pool system, while complying with IPSM15 requirements. Alternatively, if you’re operating in a clean environment where pallets need washing, plastic pallets could be your go to.

Use and maintenance of pallets

Proper handling and maintenance of pallet types are essential for their longevity and the safe transportation of goods. Regular inspection and repair of damaged pallets, along with proper storage conditions, can maximise the lifespan of your pallets too.

When handling pallets, using correct lifting techniques and ensuring an evenly distributed load are paramount. Safety measures such as using protective equipment and providing training for employees on proper pallet handling techniques are also crucial.

Support with pallets and shipping packaging

At Macfarlane Packaging, we can provide an extensive range of pallets and pallet size packaging. This incudes Euro modular boxes and palletised containers to UK and Euro pallet standards. Get in touch today for further advice.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Pallets and Pallet Sizes appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Custom packing benches are a great solution to optimise your packing process, as they can be tailored exactly to your needs and customised according to specific requirements.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can maximise productivity by introducing custom pack benches to your operation. We will look at some of the main benefits of an efficient packing station and how bespoke packing benches can help achieve them.

We will also discuss ways you can customise your pack stations to fit your specific business needs, as well as investigate cost considerations and return on investment. 

The benefits of an efficient packing station

A well-organised packing area is crucial to ensuring your packing operation runs as smoothly as possible. Some of the main benefits include:

1. Increased efficiency and speed of packing

Your packers will be able to pack and dispatch products faster if they have all the necessary packing materials at hand. Disorganised shelves and misplaced items may cause delays and impact the speed of your packing lines. A well-organised packing area will help avoid mistakes and save your team time searching for products and packing materials they need for a fast and efficient product dispatch.

2. Maximised space utilisation

Organising and configuring your packing benches is essential to maximising room in your warehouse. Packaging stations that are tailored to your space will help optimise your warehouse floor.

Making sure your warehouse is laid out as efficiently as possible will not only help you better utilise space but also ensure your packers don’t need to walk long distances to pick up necessary items. This, in turn, will help enhance efficiency and avoid unnecessary downtime.

3. Enhanced packer comfort and safety

Ensure your team is comfortable and happy with their work area. It will be hard for them to pack efficiently if they are tired or need to twist a lot to pick up packing materials.

A well-organised pack bench with packing items organised between hip and shoulder height will help prevent fatigue and increase productivity.

Customisation to meet specific business needs

Custom pack benches can be tailored to your specific requirements, allowing you to simplify your packing processes, boost efficiency and make the most of your space.

There are many features to choose from and you may also want to consider adding some of the tools that can help you pack faster and more efficiently. Options include:

• Organisational tools, such as trays and dividers to keep packing materials in order and make them easy to find

• Efficiency tools, like dispensers, roll holders and cutters to maximise productivity
• Ergonomic tools, including adjustable monitor arms and keyboard droppers that reduce strain
• Mobility and stability tools, such as braked castors and levelling feet, ensuring benches can be moved if needed

Cost consideration and return on investment

Flexibility in the design of custom pack benches allows you to select solutions that meet not only your packing needs but also your budget. The benefits of custom packing benches will also help you save money in the long term, and this should be considered when calculating ROI.

With well-structured packing benches in place, your products can be shipped quickly, meeting deadlines, and satisfying your customers. A more efficient packing area will result in enhanced productivity, happier staff, and quicker product dispatch.

Custom packing benches available from Macfarlane

Our new range of custom pack benches have been designed to take up less space and increase efficiency in your packing processes.

To make things simple, you can choose from 4 main pack bench designs and add 20 additional part options for greater flexibility with your design.

Customisable pack benches are made from high-quality, heavy-duty steel to withstand even the toughest warehouse conditions. They are assembled to order in the UK, ensuring quality craftmanship, and delivered ready-to-use for ease and convenience.

Contact us today to find out more about our custom pack benches and the options available.

The post How to Maximise Productivity with Custom Packing Benches appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.