Being one of the staples of any warehouse, it’ll be hard to find an operation that doesn’t use tape at all in their packing process. But how much do we really know about it? 

This blog will be exploring what packing tape is made from, the different types of tape and methods to apply it! We’ll cover common questions about recyclability and help you decide the best tape for your business. 

What is packing tape made from? 

Generally, packing tape is composed of 2 to 3 main parts. Here’s a short explanation of each: 

• The backing or carrier – this the physical material tape is made from. In the case of packing tape, the backing is often made from polypropylene, vinyl or kraft paper. Other more technical types might have a backing or carrier made from other materials, such as crepe paper or even cloth. 

• The adhesive – this is the stuff that makes tape stick. There are several different adhesives used for parcel tape, including acrylic, solvent, hot melt and even water-activated adhesives. 

• The liner – when it comes to packing tape, a liner is sometimes used on some pressure sensitive or double-sided tapes. It stops layers of the backing material from sticking together. 

What are the different adhesive types used on packing tape? 

Most packing tape will use one of these four adhesives: 

• Acrylic – water-based acrylic adhesive is the most popular and low-cost adhesive used on packing tape. It works in a wide range of ambient temperatures, up to 50°C. It has good resistance to discolouration and adhesive bonds it forms get stronger over time. Tapes with acrylic adhesive are primarily applied by hand. 

• Solvent – if you are looking for long-term strength, solvent-based adhesives could be great for you, as they can be stuck down with low pressure and form strong bonds. Solvent adhesives have excellent temperature tolerance, working at -4°C up to 65°C. It’s the ideal choice for cold chain environments.  

• Hot Melt – when heated, this synthetic resin becomes tacky which creates this adhesive. It is one of the strongest types of adhesive available. It has high initial tack, so is a good option when sealing at speed with electronic tape dispensers. It has a more limited temperature tolerance, so is suited to ambient packing environments.   

• Water Activated – this is a starch-based adhesive used on gummed paper tape. It needs to be moistened to activate the adhesive and it solidifies as it dries. It creates strong bonds with cardboard and can provide tamper evidence. 

Different kinds of tape dispensers & ways to apply packing tape 

• Handheld tape dispensers or tape guns – If you’re packing more than one box, you can use a handheld tape dispenser; it saves time by never losing the end! Designed for use with most self-adhesive tapes, handheld dispensers often have a built-in brake that adjust easily to accommodate varying unwinding speeds. Tape guns come in different sizes for packing tapes with different size cores, too.  

• Manual gummed paper tape dispensers – manual gummed paper tape dispensers are reliable and user-friendly. For example, our BP222 model has fifteen manually set lengths and is ideal for use where there is no convenient electrical power supply. Perfect for light to medium usage and compatible with either reinforced or non-reinforced water-activated tapes. 

• Automated tape gummed paper tape dispensers – Moisten, cut, and deliver pre-programmed lengths of gummed paper tape. Ideal for medium to high usage. 

• Automatic case sealers – for high-demand environments, a case sealer or in-line tape machine is the ideal choice. As a box goes through a case sealer, they apply pressure sensitive tape to the box. They can seal up to 30 boxes per minute, depending on the model. You can also opt for a case sealer that uses glue rather than tape.  

Packing Tape Types 

There is a wide range of different packing tape types. When you’re looking at which tape to buy, most types will be classified by the material they’re made from and the adhesive they use.  

Adhesive tape can be made with:  

• Polypropylene  

• PVC (also called vinyl)  

• Kraft paper  

• Crepe paper  

• Cloth  

• Foam  

• Foil  

The three most popular materials used for packing tape are polypropylene, PVC and paper.  

These tapes can come in lots of different variants, like reinforced tape (which contains filaments to make it stronger), tamper evident tape, low noise tape and lots more! For example, if you’re looking for the strongest tape, a reinforced tape with a solvent adhesive would be a great option.  

Common questions about packing tape 

Below we have listed some popular questions people have around packing tape. If you have any more queries that are not listed, our team of experts will be happy to help you. 

What is packing tape used for?  

Packing tape is primarily used for sealing cardboard boxes. The adhesive in packing tape forms a bond with the cardboard to prevent boxes from opening during storage or transit.  

Can packing tape be recycled? 

Whether packing tape can be recycled depends on the type you are using. Most types, such as polypropylene and PVC, are not easily recyclable in the UK. 

If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, both polyester adhesive (PET) and paper-based tapes can be recycled. Paper options come in either a self-adhesive or gummed format. 

In theory, paper tape may be recycled as part of the paper recycling process; however, UK Recycling facilities have been developed with mechanical processes that separate it from paper and card. The paper products can then be recycled, while the plastic alternatives are usually incinerated for energy recovery. 

Water activated tape is by far the most “recycle-friendly” option, as the bond it forms with cardboard means it essentially becomes “part of the box”. 

Can I have tape printed with my logo? 

Yes, we can offer a wide range of custom print options to meet various requirements. Adding a logo or message to your tape is a great, relatively inexpensive way to customise your packaging quickly and easily. 

We can also supply a range of standard printed options, such as fragile tape, as well as floor marking and masking tapes. 

Which packing tape is best? 

The kind of packing tape you need will depend on the product that you’re sealing. 

For a recommendation tailored to your packing processes and product, contact us to speak with one of our packaging experts who will help you determine the best packing tape for your requirements.  

How do I choose the right packing tape?  

Choosing the right packing tape depends on lots of different factors. You need to consider:  

• The boxes you’re packing in (different board grades can impact adhesion)  

• The weight of the product you’re packing (heavier parcels may require reinforced tape or a strong adhesive)  

• The environment you’re packing your parcels in (e.g. is it cold chain or ambient? This can impact adhesive performance)  

• How you want to apply the tape (e.g. some tapes and adhesives are better suited to machine application than others) 

• Do you need any special messages or tamper protection?  

Support with packing tape  

Macfarlane Packaging can supply an extensive range of packing tape, as well as associated machinery, like gummed paper tape dispensers and automatic case sealers. Get in touch today for tailored advice.  

The post A guide to packing tape and adhesive tape  appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

The act of sealing parcels is often one of the most time-consuming parts of the packaging process. Therefore, automation can help to transform the way businesses approach this essential task. Using case sealers or gummed paper tape dispensers can quickly improve productivity.  It doesn’t have to break the bank either – there are options for a range of budgets.

In this blog, we will discuss case sealing and case sealing automation. We will talk about why it is important, the various types of equipment, and how it can affect your packing process.

Understanding Carton Sealing

Using tape to close a box is a simple part of packing, but it can be more complex than you think. The complexity of case sealing can vary depending on the type, amount and mode of application of the tape. This is especially true when done manually.

Sealing a cardboard box can consume 60% of your overall packing time.  Therefore, it’s a great area to review when you need to increase your productivity.

The Importance of Carton Sealing

Sealing is an important and time-consuming part of packing. It can also impact your pack security, costs and packaging waste if you’re not sealing the boxes effectively.

Too much tape, and you’re wasting packaging, increasing cost and often, producing an unsightly parcel. Not enough tape and you risk your parcel opening during shipping, leading to poor customer experience.

The type of adhesive you use for sealing is important too. For example, if you’re shipping in freezing conditions, you’d need to use an adhesive suitable for that. Some adhesives won’t work if they’re too cold!

The packing process can influence many of these important factors. Using automation can help you control costs, effective application and the amount of material used. Paired with the right tape and you’ve got a recipe for sealing success.

Different Types of Automatic Case Sealers & Tape Dispensers

Automatic tape dispensers and case sealers (also called carton sealers) can dispense and apply pre-set lengths of tape. They reduce packaging waste and significantly speed-up packing.  Some automatic case sealers also use glue rather than tape.

Here are the common types of carton-sealing automation:

• Electronic gummed paper tape dispensers – available as tabletop or portable dispensers, these machines dispense pre-set lengths of gummed paper tape. They’re often a good first step in sealing automation, as they’re relatively low-cost. The below video shows the Grip Taper: a portable gummed-paper tape dispenser.

• Self-adhesive tape case sealers – these machines will automatically seal your boxes using lengths of tape. Standard case sealers are usually pre-set to work with a specific size box or case format.

• Hot melt glue case sealers – working on the same principle as a self-adhesive tape case sealer that uses tape, this type of carton sealing equipment uses molten glue to seal boxes.

• Random case sealers – random case sealers can seal different sizes boxes and formats. They can use tape or glue as the sealing material. They’re suitable for operations where many different sizes and shapes of products are being packed. Here’s a video of a random case sealing machine that uses tape to seal the cartons.

How to Choose the Right Carton Sealing Equipment for Your Business

The carton sealing equipment you choose will depend on lots of factors. You should think about what you’re packing as well as your storage and shipping conditions. Your production goals, budget and warehouse space will also be important considerations too.

For smaller operations, gummed paper tape dispensers are a good first step. If you’re packing a higher volume of boxes, pre-set case sealers would be the logical next step. For high-capacity production lines with a range of pack sizes, random case sealers are an ideal choice.

Carton sealers and tape dispensers can be added to your packing line along with other automation like a case erector.

Ultimately, it’s worth taking advice from packaging automation experts. You can often get a recommendation that’s specific to your business.

How Automation Can Speed Up Case Sealing and Benefit Businesses

Speeding up carton-taping can be a big productivity win. Using a case sealing machine or automatic tape dispenser can be key to doing this. Let’s explore the benefits of automating your sealing process:   

How Automatic Case Sealers Can Improve Productivity

Automatic case sealers streamline the packing process. They drastically improve productivity with consistent, reliable results.

An automatic case sealer will automatically fold the top flaps on a box, dispense tape or glue and consistently seal it every time.  This not only improves overall productivity but also frees up manpower for more complex tasks.

Cost-Saving Benefits of Efficient Carton Sealing

Investing in automation may seem expensive at first, but the long-term advantages are worth the initial investment. Plus, there are lower-cost options like gummed paper tape dispensers that can work for smaller budgets.

In terms of cost-saving benefits of using a case sealer or electronic dispenser, key advantages are:

• Lower material costs – save money on tape by using the right amount of material each time, allowing you to monitor and control your spending on tape.
• Labour cost-savings – as the packing time is much quicker, your operators can manage increased throughput. You can also reduce the need for temporary staff during peak periods.
• Reduced damages and returns – secure, consistent sealing can reduce damages and returns. In turn, this lowers waste and costs associated with this process.

Investing in Carton Sealing Equipment: ROI and Benefits

Automating sealing using a case sealer or electronic dispenser saves money in so many ways. Because of this, the investment can often pay off in months rather than years.

To determine the ROI of sealing automation, consider both the machine’s upfront cost and the long-term savings it provides.

FAQs: Answering Your Carton Sealing Queries

What Are the Different Methods of Carton Sealing?

Lots of ways to seal a carton exist. The most common way is using self-adhesive tape and a manual tape dispenser.

Other ways include semi-automatic and fully automatic processes, such as gummed paper tape dispensers and the previously mentioned case sealers.

What Is a Carton Sealer?

A carton sealer is a machine designed to automate the process of sealing cartons or boxes. Also known as case sealers, they either apply tape or glue to a box to seal it.

There are various types of carton sealers, like random case sealers that can seal different sizes and formats of boxes.

How Does an Automatic Carton Sealer Work?

Automatic Carton sealers work by automatically folding the top flaps of a carton, applying adhesive materials such as tape or glue, and securely sealing the box. The process varies depending on the type of carton sealer, with manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic options available.

Summary

There are sealing automation solutions to suit every size of business.  Whether you are looking for an integrated system for high volume shipments, or a semi-automatic solution to fit into a fledging packing operation.

Introducing a case sealer or electronic tape dispenser can help you significantly speed up carton sealing, saving you time and money.

When you have the right carton sealing solution, you can enhance productivity, reduce costs and ultimately deliver an improved customer experience.

To help make the right choice for business, get in touch with one of our packing automation experts today.

The post Using Automation to Speed Up Case Sealing appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Businesses will have thousands of pounds worth of stock in transit at any given time, and parcel security can be critical in ensuring that their products arrive to their destination intact.

One effective way to improve parcel security is by using gummed paper tape. Also known as water activated tape, this eco-friendly and tamper-evident packaging solution can enhance the security of parcels during their journey.

In this blog we’ll look at:

What are the tamper evident properties of gummed paper tape

Gummed paper tape, also known as water activated tape, is designed to provide clear evidence of tampering whilst goods are in transit.

Typically made from Kraft paper, which is known for its high tear strength, the application of gummed paper tape forms a permanent adhesion to packs.  This means that it is highly noticeable if someone tries to peel it from the pack.

The addition of fibreglass threads to reinforced gummed paper tape further enhances the material strength, making it impossible to break the tape where the flaps of a carton meet.

This means that parcels can only be opened using a box opener or blade, making it obvious that your parcel has been interfered with.

Why does gummed paper tape form such a strong seal with cartons

Unlike traditional plastic tape, gummed paper tape adheres tightly to a variety of surfaces, including cardboard boxes and envelopes.

As the tape is moistened, the fibres of the tape and corrugate combine, forming a secure seal and making it difficult to tear away without leaving tape residue or, removing the top layer of corrugate.

It is impossible to reseal the tape to the pack to disguise these tell-tale signs of pack interference.

Once the tape has been applied to a pack, it’s resistance to further moisture and temperature changes also help to maintain a strong seal whilst in transit, reducing the risk of the pack opening and damage to the contents occurring.

What impact does gummed paper tape have on theft rates?

The ability to access parcels and remove goods is a significant concern in the shipping and logistics industry. Using gummed paper tape makes it more challenging to access the contents of a package discreetly. Any attempt to tamper with the tape becomes evident, deterring theft and unauthorised access.

Water activated tape can also be customised with your messaging or logo, which makes it more challenging to replicate a replacement tape if would be thieves were to break into parcels whilst in transit.

What are the environmental credentials of gummed paper tape?

Water-activated paper tape is eco-friendly and sustainable, as it is made from renewable materials and can be sourced in FSC paper.  

Using environmentally friendly packaging materials not only aligns with corporate responsibility initiatives but can also improve your sustainability, reducing your carbon footprint and meeting the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers. 

As the tape is made from paper, it means that your cardboard pack is 100% recyclable! There is no need to remove the tape before placing into the paper recycling bin.  If you are using a reinforced paper tape, the fibreglass is removed during the recycling process, as it makes up less than 5% of the total material.

If you’re currently using a plastic tape, by replacing with a paper tape you are literally removing miles of plastic from your packing operation too!

A switch to gummed paper tape often means that you can reduce the amount of tape you use too. As the bond of tape is so strong, it removes the need for H taping and allows you to use less material, reducing waste.

How is gummed paper tape applied?

Gummed paper tape is applied using a water activated tape dispenser, these clever machines also speed up the application of tape to parcels.

From a BP222, which is a manual system that wets and cuts the tape to length, to a BP555 which can be programmed electronically to dispense a variety of tape lengths, there will be a dispenser to suit your operations.  If you need to apply tape in different sections of the warehouse, the Grip Taper system will allow you to apply water activated tape on the go – take the dispenser to the parcel, rather than bring the parcel to the dispenser!

Use of a tape dispenser drives improves efficiency and helps your operators to apply a consistent amount of tape each time, reducing overpacking and material waste.

What are the possibilities of printing on gummed paper tape?

Just like any other format of parcel tape, it is possible to print on gummed paper tape. You can customise it with branding, printed logos, trading addresses, or customer facing messaging.  With four colour print available, and tape available in either brown or white kraft material, the possibilities are endless.

When designing your artwork for printed gummed paper tape, you will need to consider the suitability of colour scheme for the paper you’re printing on – for example, will the colours work on a brown background or do you need a white kraft tape?   

As the tape is printed bespoke to your requirements, you will need to factor in a lead time for artwork approval and printing time.

Water-activated paper tape offers a practical and effective solution for improving parcel security during shipping and delivery. Its tamper-evident properties, secure seal, and eco-friendliness make it a quick win for logistics and packing.

At Macfarlane Packaging we offer a full range of gummed paper tapes, including reinforced formats, along with a variety of tape dispensers to speed up the packing process and use less material.  Contact us today to find the right gummed paper tape solution for your business.

The post How gummed paper tape can increase parcel security appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

As the environmental impact of our activities continues to be scrutinised, companies are actively seeking eco-friendly alternatives to reduce their carbon footprint.

A quick win for sustainability in any packing operation is often parcel tape, as businesses literally use miles of it each day.

We do a lot of work around plastic tape replacement, switching customers to gummed paper tape but, if your unable to do this due to material suitability, how can you make your plastic tape more sustainable?

Well, you could consider a switch to a recycled content tape.  The reduces the amount of virgin material in the roll, making better use of raw resources, and diverts waste into recycling production.

In this article we will explore why recycled content material could have a positive impact on the sustainable goals of your packing operation.  We’ll examine:

How recycled content plastic can reduce the extraction of fossil fuels

When recycled plastic is used to create new products, it reduces the demand for virgin plastic production. Virgin plastic is made from petrochemicals derived from fossil fuels, such as oil and natural gas.

By switching to a recycled plastic, there is less need to extract and process these fossil fuels to create new materials. 

The production of virgin plastic is energy-intensive, involving processes like refining and polymerisation, which require significant amounts of energy.

Recycling plastic, on the other hand, generally consumes less energy. The use of recycled plastic in manufacturing helps to conserve energy and reduce the need for fossil fuel extraction. As well as reduce the need for new plastic production, it also extends the life of existing plastic materials.

The impact of recycling on extending the life cycle of plastics

Recycling has a significant impact on extending the life cycle of plastics, enabling the reuse of plastic materials and diverting them from waste streams such as landfill, where they could take hundreds of years to decompose.

The recycling infrastructure for plastics does require significant investment to increase the amount of plastic that can be processed for reuse.  The UK government have tackled this head-on through the introduction of the Plastic Packaging Tax, which adds an additional cost of £211 per tonne of virgin plastic packaging or, packaging which contains less than 30% recycled plastic.  This has driven a significant change not only in the packaging industry, but also the plastic recycling industry by driving a demand for recycled content – this is making it commercially viable to process more plastic waste for reuse.

The introduction of EPR will also place the cost of waste processing from local councils to brands and packaging suppliers who release Primary and Secondary packaging into households.  It’s hoped that this increased revenue will drive consistent kerbside collections throughout the UK, make waste products a valuable commodity, drive a wider capability in recycling and shape a true circular economy in material manufacture.

What effect can a recycled content plastic tape have on your carbon footprint

Switching to recycled content tape, from a virgin plastic material, can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. 

As it reduces the need to source and extract fossil fuels, the CO2 emissions during the manufacturing process reduce significantly.  Imperial College London state that recycled plastics can save between 30% – 80% of the carbon emissions that virgin plastic processing and manufacturing generate. If you use a lot of plastic tape, it’s a quick win bring down your CO2e emissions.

Where can I purchase recycled content tape

Macfarlane Packaging have just relaunched it’s plastic tape range to contain a minimum of 30% recycled content, it’s available in standard polypropylene parcel tape, we also offer a low noise version.

We’ve also converted our eco tape to 30% recycled content, with 200 metres on a roll it means fewer dispenser changes and less cores to recycle.  Our PET tape contains a minimum of 60% recycled content.

If you’d rather switch from plastic tape completely, we do have a range of self-adhesive paper tapes which could work for the products your wrapping.  Not to forget gummed paper tape too!

Recycled content tape is just one switch to help you improve the sustainability of your packing operation. There are many others that can help to reduce the amount of virgin material used in your packaging and reduce your carbon footprint. Contact Macfarlane Packaging to find out more, whatever you are packing, we can find the right solution for your business.

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This type of kraft paper tape has become popular in recent years because of its ease of use and eco-friendly credentials. Plus, it can provide a professional and attractive finish on top of sealing your packaging!  

If you’re curious about paper tape and its applications, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll be exploring everything you need to know about self-adhesive paper tape. Read on to find out what self-adhesive paper tape is, if it’s different to gummed paper tape and learn about the advantage of choosing this product as your packing tape of choice.

Understanding Self-Adhesive Paper Tape

What is Self-Adhesive Paper Tape?

Self-adhesive paper tape is a type of packaging tape made from a kraft paper backing lined with an adhesive. It is also known as sticky paper tape or pressure-sensitive paper tape.

At the moment, the two most common adhesives used with paper tape are hot melt and solvent. These adhesives have slightly different properties, so may impact which self-adhesive paper tape you opt for. We explain them in our free packing tape guide download, which you can find here.

Composition and Eco-Friendly Properties

One of the standout features of paper packing tape is its eco-friendly composition. Typically made from natural fibres like kraft paper, it is easy to recycle.

Another benefit of paper tape is that, as it’s made from a wood derivative, it is manufactured from a sustainable resource. It’s also worth noting that you can obtain paper tapes that are made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) sustainably managed forests, further adding to the eco-credentials of this product.

While paper tape can be recycled, it is worth noting that some paper tapes are not suitable for home composting or biodegrading due to the adhesives they use. The same goes for reinforced tapes where glass fibres are used within the paper backing.

However, for businesses looking to reduce their ecological footprint, paper tape is still a great sealing option, as it can provide a plastic-free alternative to traditional packing tapes.

The difference between self-adhesive paper tape and gummed paper tape

When you’re searching for paper tape online, you’ll be presented with lots of options including gummed paper tape, masking tape and self-adhesive paper tape. So, what’s the difference between them?

• Self-adhesive paper tape – this is tape made from a flatback kraft paper backing lined with a ready-to-use adhesive. Essentially, this means you can use it straight away. Once it’s loaded onto a tape gun, you can use it like regular plastic packing tape. This type of tape is also known as pressure-sensitive tape, and is available in longer rolls for machines, as well as standard rolls that work with hand dispensers.
• Gummed paper tape – another popular paper tape, this type has a water-activated adhesive. This means you need to moisten the adhesive with water before it can be used. There is an array of gummed paper tape dispensers on the market, both manual and automated, which help you to easily moisten and apply the tape.
• Masking tape – primarily used in decorating to enable a straight-line finish to painted surfaces, this tape is designed to form a quick bond to the surface which can be easily removed without leaving a sticky residue.

The advantages of self-adhesive paper tape

As mentioned, the eco-friendly nature of self-adhesive paper tape is a significant advantage compared to plastic-based alternatives. But did you know that despite its paper-based composition, self-adhesive paper tape offers impressive strength and durability? When properly applied, it forms a robust seal that can withstand temperature changes and rigorous transportation conditions.

The smooth, matte finish of self-adhesive paper tape also provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance. It’s an ideal choice for businesses looking to create a polished and distinctive brand image.

It can be custom printed with your company logos or messaging, providing you with an eco-friendly platform to tell your brand story too, making this type of tape a good option if you want to promote your brand on your packaging.

Applications of self-adhesive paper tape

The primary application of paper tape is in packing and shipping. It provides a secure seal for boxes, envelopes, and a variety of materials, ensuring that contents remain intact during transit. 

You can apply self-adhesive paper tape to multiple surfaces, including cardboard, plastic, or polythene. It differs from gummed paper tape, which primarily sticks to cardboard surfaces.

Before applying tape to a pack, ensure the surface is clean and dry, then press it down firmly to create a secure bond.

Store paper tape in a cool, dry place to maintain its adhesive properties. Avoid exposure to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.

Help choosing packing tape for your business

The eco-friendly composition of paper tape, along with its strength, and versatility, make it a valuable addition to any packing operation.

At Macfarlane Packaging we offer a wide range of self-adhesive paper tapes which have been responsibly sourced, we can even provide an option for inline tape machines.

Contact us today to enquire about a switch to paper tape and experience the benefits for yourself! Why not download our FREE packing tape guide to get hints and tips about what tape is best for you too?

The post Self-Adhesive Paper Tape: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

Being one of the staples of any warehouse, it’ll be hard to find an operation that doesn’t use tape at all in their packing process. But how much do we really know about it?

This blog will be exploring what packing tape is made from, the different types and methods to apply! We’ll cover common questions about recyclability and help you decide the best tape for your business.

What is packing tape made from?

Generally, packing tape is composed of 2 to 3 main parts. Here’s a short explanation of each:

• The backing or carrier – this the material it’s made from. In the case of packing tape, the backing is often made from polypropylene, vinyl or kraft paper.  Other more technical types might have a backing or carrier made from other materials such as crepe paper or even cloth.
• The adhesive – this is the stuff that makes it stick.  There are several different adhesives including acrylic.
• The liner – when it comes to packing tape, a liner is sometimes used on some pressure sensitive or double-sided tapes. It stops layers of the backing material from sticking together.

What are the different adhesive types used on packing tape?

Most packing tape will use one of these four adhesives:

• Acrylic – You can get water-based or solvent-based acrylic adhesives, it has great bonding properties. Water based will be cheaper than solvent based adhesives.
• Solvent – if you are looking for long term strength, solvent based adhesives could be great for you, as it can be stuck down with low pressure.
• Hot Melt – when heated, this synthetic resin becomes tacky which creates this adhesive. It is one of the strongest types and should be applied with an applicator.
• Water Activated – this is a starch-based adhesive used on gummed paper tape. It requires water to activate it and it solidifies as it dries.

Different kinds of tape dispensers & ways to apply

• Hand – If you’re packing more than one box, you can use a handheld dispenser; it saves time by never losing the end! Designed for use with most self-adhesive tapes, handheld dispensers often have a built-in brake that adjust easily to accommodate varying unwinding speeds. It is particularly suitable for use with polypropylene and quick release style.
• Manual – Manual Dispensers are reliable and user-friendly, it has fifteen manually set lengths and is ideal for use where there is no convenient electrical power supply. Perfect for light to medium usage and is compatible with either reinforced or non-reinforced water-activated tapes.
• Auto dispensers – Moistens, cuts, and delivers pre-programmed lengths of gummed paper tape. Ideal for medium to high usage

Adhesive Tape Products

We offer a wide range of packing tape products; include those made with polypropylene and PVC, as well as self-adhesive and gummed paper solutions. All our tapes are available in a variety of widths and roll lengths, as well as different adhesive types, such as acrylic, hotmelt and solvent. We can provide dispensing equipment too, making application a breeze.

Below you will see a small range of what we have to offer, if you are looking for a specific style or material, please contact us today!

• Gummed Paper Tapes – biodegradable and recyclable; providing an environmentally friendly alternative for standard packaging. These hardwearing tapes are suitable for sealing all parcels and cartons.
• Self-Adhesive Paper Tape – A recyclable alternative to plastic based. Using a Hot Melt adhesive and adhering directly to the box, it can be applied using a standard tape gun. We offer this product in either a matt or gloss finish, to enhance the look of your shipments.
• Standard Polypropylene Tapes – Manufactured using 25-micron BOPP polypropylene, in buff or clear shiny-finish, standard tapes come either with solvent-based adhesives, for long-term sealing, or hot melt adhesives, recognised for their versatile application, superior tensile strength and ultimate fixing power. These standard tapes are hard to tear and therefore require a hand dispenser for cutting.
• Reinforced Filament Tapes – Strong tape that is typically used for bundling heavy products, and sealing and reinforcing heavy boxes and container boxes. As it’s reinforced with glass fibre filaments, a packing knife or scissors is required to cut reinforced filament tape, offering tamper-evident qualities, as any cut will be easily noticed.

Common questions about packing tape

Below we have listed some popular questions people have around packing tape. If you have any more queries that are not listed, our team of experts will be happy to help you.

Can packing tape be recycled?

Whether packing tape can be recycled depends on the type you are using. Most types, such as polypropylene and PVC are not easily recyclable in the UK.

If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, both polyester adhesive (PET) and paper-based tapes can be recycled. Paper options come in either a self-adhesive or gummed format.

In theory, paper tape may be recycled as part of the paper recycling process; however, UK Recycling facilities have been developed with mechanical processes that separate it from paper and card. The paper products can then be recycled, while the plastic alternatives are usually incinerated for energy recovery.

Water activated tape is by far the most “recycle-friendly” option, as the bond it forms with cardboard means it essentially becomes “part of the box”.

Can I have tape printed with my logo?

Yes, we can offer a wide range of custom print options to meet various requirements. Adding a logo or message to your tape is a great, relatively inexpensive way to customise your packaging quickly and easily.

We can also supply a range of standard printed options such as fragile tape, as well as floor marking and masking tapes.

Which packing tape is best?

The kind of packing tape you need will depend on the product that you’re sealing.

For a recommendation tailored to your packing processes and product, contact us to speak with one of our packaging experts who will help you determine the best packing tape for your requirements. If you would any other packaging advice as well, why not contact us today!

The post A guide to packing tape and adhesive tape appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

If you do, you may be aware of the incoming rise to business rates for large distribution warehouses. Announced in the 2022 Autumn statement, the review of business rates could see some online retailers (and their 3PL partners) feel the pain of a 27% increase in their bills from April 2023.  

Understandably, the warehousing sector has criticised the move, with the rates rise being described as “painful” and ”unfair”.

So, what’s the driving force behind the and how can your packaging optimisation help you combat the increase in costs?

The background of rising business rates for large distribution warehouses

Why are the UK Government set to increase business rates for large distribution warehouses? Well, there are a number of factors and it’s largely being driven by the bricks vs. clicks imbalance…

Bricks vs. clicks imbalance

Online retail has been the great digital disrupter across many industries. The prime example that comes to mind is the Netflix effect on Blockbuster.  Once valued at over $4bn and with over 10,000 bricks and mortar retail, Blockbuster was the video entertainment brand leader for decades, but failure to innovate and the bricks and mortar business model meant that Netflix rapidly overtook them.

With online retailers usually having lower overheads versus traditional high street retailers, there has long been a tussle between clicks and bricks. Traditional retail models are often seen by some as unsustainable.

And stats back this up – by the end of 2019 almost ¼ of all retail sales had moved online. In the UK, pandemic lockdowns exacerbated this trend, with online sales reaching a peak of 36% of all retail in January 2021. At the same time, bricks and mortar retail has been in sharp decline. Britain’s high street vacancies are at an all-time high of 13.7% and the British Retail Consortium reported a 77% decline in footfall to stores.  

Shelving the Online Sales Tax

To address the bricks vs. clicks imbalance, the UK Government had floated the idea of the Online Sales Tax  (OTS) at the start of 2022. At the time, it was estimated that a 1% OTS on businesses with a £2m turnover or higher could raise £2bn.

However, the consultation raised issues around complexity, non-resident evasion and how the tax would be applied to non-pureplay models like click and collet and omni-channel retailers. Therefore, for now the Government has decided to shelve the proposed Online Sales Tax.

Introducing increased business rates for large distribution warehouses

The solution to the complexity of the OTS and the clicks vs. bricks imbalance? A rise in business rates for large distribution warehouses and a £13.6bn freeze on bricks and mortar business rates.

Pressure for online retailers to keep costs down

On top of rising business rates, online retailers are seeing operational costs rise. Constraints on supply chains and the availability of raw materials are all pushing costs up and margins down. On top of this, labour shortages and the premium expense of warehouse space are only adding to the pressure online retailers face when trying to operate cost-effectively.

With the cost-of-living crisis also having the potential to negatively influence internet retails sales in coming months too, now more than ever retailers need to look at how to make savings…

So, where does packaging factor into all of this?

How packaging optimisation can help combat increasing business rates

Inefficient packaging and processes can have a big impact on the costs throughout your supply chain. If a business uses packaging that doesn’t provide protection, their product gets damaged and returns rise. Likewise, packaging materials that are too big or clunky it could take up too much space.

And when we’re thinking about the rise in business rates, the volume of warehousing space you’re using is important. This is because business rates are calculated based on a property’s “rateable value”. The larger the square footage of your warehouse, the more likely it is to attract higher business rates. Not ideal with the 27% increase on the horizon!

That’s where packaging optimisation comes in…

Tackling storage space through lighter, more efficient packaging

Using packaging materials that are lighter and more space efficient can help you reduce your costs associated with storage and warehousing.

Shaving just a few millimeters off the size of a cardboard box could enable you re-think how they’re palletised and stored. The same goes for an alternative design that’s more space efficient.

Similarly, are you using any bulky-to-store in fill like polystyrene or packing chips? Swapping to compact, on-demand inflatable air pillows or tightly wound rolls of paper void fill could all help you cut back on the storage space you need.

Taking advantage of stock holding so you can use smaller premises

How many pallet spaces does your packaging take up in your warehouse? If you’re purchasing packaging direct from a manufacturer, you may need to buy high volumes of packaging to achieve a certain price point. The flipside of that may be that you need to take delivery of a high volume of packaging and store it all in your own warehouse.

If you work with a distributor (like us), you could take advantage of stock holding and just-in-time supply. This is when your packaging is stored at your supplier’s warehouse and drip fed into your site in line with demand.

Services like this can help you release space and could even allow you to use smaller premises, rather than allocate valuable pallet spaces to a relatively low value commodity – a win if you want to mitigate the impact of rising business rates.

Assessing storage and packing area layouts to maximise existing space

If you’ve been through a period of growth, you might be considering moving to a larger warehouse. But with the business rates hike on the horizon you might find yourself put off by this. So, how do you make the most of the space you have?

If you’ve already made your packaging lighter and smaller, and use a stock holding service, it might be time to assess your warehouse layout.

Often, warehouse layouts evolve over time. This could mean that the space isn’t being used as efficiently as possible.

Investing in compact or revised packing benches could help you make the most of the space you have and help you organise where packing materials are stored more effectively.

Another option is flexing space for spikes in demand with corrugated or correx pick bins. These modular storage spaces are light enough to be moved around and can be broken down.

Support with packaging optimisation

At Macfarlane Packaging we can help you with all areas of packaging optimisation, including combatting storage and space issues that could help you save on the size of the warehouse you need.

We can even show you how changes to your packaging can impact key areas across your supply chain and the financial and environmental savings you could be making with our Packaging Optimiser tool.

Why not get in touch to see how we can help you protect your business from business rate rises?

The post How online retailers can combat rising business rates through packaging optimisation appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

At Macfarlane Packaging we always think about what we could do differently to the last in the coming year in January. It’s a great time to assess how peak went, spot bottlenecks, and implement initiatives to achieve new goals.

That’s why this blog looks at the 10 things you could do differently with your packaging in 2023! A good place to start is considering what the packaging trends will be in 2023….

Blog Contents

A quick look at packaging trends for 2023

In December we published a blog about the packaging trends people can expect in 2023. So, what were they?

Based on the current economic climate, as well as consumer pressures and supply chain challenges, the packaging trends we predicated are:

Reducing operating costs through packaging – it should come as no surprise that businesses will want to control operating costs in the tough economic climate. However, many people will not always pinpoint packaging as a big business cost. But the right packaging solution can drastically cut operating costs in a number of areas, including warehousing and transport, as well as labour costs and damages. So, reducing costs associated packaging will be a key trend in 2023!

Putting carbon reduction at the heart of packaging strategies – sustainability has become more and more important to businesses, as well as consumers. In fact, 27% of consumers reported that they won’t buy from companies who don’t use sustainable packaging. On top of this, more businesses are focusing on serious carbon reduction, which is a key in the fight against climate change. When it comes to packaging, materials matter, but so do the carbon emissions associated with the manufacturing and use of the packaging. In 2023, we predict more businesses will consider the total carbon impact of their packaging throughout the supply chain.

Using connected packaging to enhance the customer experience & innovate – as brands compete for share of voice, looking for ways to differentiate is key. Connected packaging presents the opportunity to get their digital and physical customer journey to align and engage with consumers. Looping customers back into a brand through an interactive experience also offers the opportunity to collect more customer behaviour data, that allows businesses to further personalise customer experience and offers, which is why it’s a trend we expect to see more of this year.

Digitising packing processes through packaging automation – using automated packing machinery can help businesses tackle labour shortages, cope with seasonal demand and future proof for growth. All great reasons why increased use of packaging automation is one of our packaging trends for 2023.

Are any of these trends on your agenda for the year? With these trends in mind, now let’s consider what you’re aiming for in 2023 and what you could do differently with your packaging.

What will you protect this year?

If you’ve visited our blog before, you know we often talk about the role of packaging… Its primary purpose it to protect things.

On a basic level, the transit packaging you use will protect your products. But have you ever considered how your packaging can help you protect lots of areas in your business?

The right packaging can help you protect:

• Your products
• Your profit margins
• Your customer experience
• Your brand
• The environment

Plus, lots more! So, what will you be protecting this year with your packaging? Here are 10 things you could do differently with your packaging in 2023 and how they can help protect your business and your products!

10 things you could do differently with your packaging in 2023

1. Review your packaging process to identify bottlenecks

If you’ve just been through a seasonal spike in demand, January is a great time to take stock and review your packing processes. This will help you identify any bottlenecks in your packing processes, such as pinch points like hard to assemble packaging or points that need multiple touches.  

A great thing to do differently in 2023 could be to introduce best practice packing guidelines. Giving your team clear instruction about how to pack effectively can help you protect productivity and optimise how your team spend their time.  This is great for futureproofing for spikes in demand too, as it can help you quality-control what packaging materials are used when and where.  Packing guidelines can also help you reduce waste, which is great if you’re trying to reduce your environmental impact and protect the environment.

2. Re-engineer your packaging to reduce cubage or improve palletisation

Is your packaging as space efficient as it could be? Re-engineering your packaging to reduce its cubage or improve your product palletisation can be a big win.

Smaller, more space efficient packaging can have a knock-on effect throughout your supply chain.  If you use couriers to deliver your product, optimised parcel cubage can help you reduce your dimensional weight and delivery costs. For those of you that palletise your products, increasing your pallet yield can drastically cut the fuel you need to deliver products and therefore reduce the emissions you’re creating during deliveries. A win for you and the environment.

In all cases, if your packaging is smaller, you will save on storage space. In a time where warehouse space is at a premium, reducing how much space you need can help generate savings. This is worth bearing in mind if you are company that will be affected by the rise in business rates on large distribution warehouses.

3. Adopt clear, recognisable recycling labelling

Did you know that under the forthcoming Extended Producer Responsibilities (EPR) businesses affected will have to adopt clear, recognisable recycling labelling?

The labelling required is expected to be binary – which means your packaging will needed to be labelled as either recyclable or not recyclable.

While there’s no date set for EPR to be introduced, it’s worth getting a head start on this now. Our own unboxing research shows that over 90% of consumers want to recycle, but 11% of packages still arrive  without recycling labels. Making things as clear as possible will help ensure more of your packaging is recycled at the end of its life too – helping protect the environment from pollution.

4. Introduce smart or connected packaging

Smart or connected packaging can work for both business-to-consumer (B2C) or business-to-business brands (B2B) companies.

Smart packaging that uses barcodes, RFID or NFC technology can be used to control industrial goods and tracking throughout the supply chain. Particularly useful if you want to monitor the conditions your goods are kept in – for example if you’re in pharmaceutical or food distribution and need to know what the in-container temperature is.

On the flip side, connected packaging is a great way for brands to connect with their customers. Simple QR codes can launch instruction videos or a simple website-based experience through full immersive gamification or augmented reality. This can act as a great differentiator in a competitive market, can be used to educate your customers and even help you create repeat sales through promotions. All of this can help you protect your customer experience and your brand!

5. Automate labour intensive packing processes

If you want to protect your productivity in 2023 and look for ways to combat labour shortages, packaging automation could be the answer.

You can automate almost any packing process from bagging and boxing through to sealing, filling, and conveying. There are numerous benefits such as controlling material use, increasing pack times and throughput and even future proofing your operation, as well as controlling operating costs longer term. Click here read our quick packaging automation guide.

6. Make simple sustainable packaging switches

Approaching sustainable packaging can sometimes seem daunting. There are lots of choices – is paper better than plastic? Which material will reduce your carbon footprint? Will it cost more than your current packaging?

That’s why it can sometimes be best to try simple changes first. A small but effective change can be swapping from plastic packing tape to paper tape. Swapping to paper tape helps you remove plastic from your operation, increases your packs recyclability and can help you use less sealing material.

If you’re not sure where to start, tools like our Packaging Optimiser can help you see how changes can impact your packing operation both financially and environmentally by showing you the carbon impact simple sustainable swaps can make.

7. Switch up your packing area for maximum efficiency

Is your packing areas as efficient as it could be? Often, packing benches and locations evolve as your business grows, so what once worked may no longer be fit for purpose.

Taking stock of where your packing materials are stored and how they’re organised on workstations can have a big impact on your productivity. Keeping packing materials no higher than shoulder height can encourage faster packing and implementing “water spiders” (team members with trollies who re-stock materials) can keep downtime to a minimum, protecting your productivity.

8. Increase recycled content in your packaging

Looking for extra ways to cut your carbon footprint? Increasing the recycled content in your packaging is a great way to remove emissions from your supply chain and support your sustainability goals. That’s why we have a wide range of recycled content packaging and our teams can provide dedicated support around eco-friendly packaging!

Packaging materials that make use of recycled content help conserve natural resources and cut emissions during the manufacturing process compared to the use of virgin materials. For example, virgin paper processing CO2e is 100kg per tonne higher than recycled material processing from a closed loop source.

On top of this, if you’re using recycled content plastic materials, ensuring they contain at least 30% recycled content can help you mitigate the plastic packaging tax.

9. Optimise how you buy packaging

Does coordinating the purchasing of your packaging take up a lot of your time? If you’re working with multiple SKUs or a range of packaging suppliers, packaging procurement can be lengthy and complex.

Optimising how you buy your packaging can reduce your admin in 2023 and give you back valuable time for other tasks. Consolidating your packaging materials with one packaging distributor can give you access to local and global packaging manufacturers without the hassle of dealing with multiple contacts. You can also take advantage of stock holding and management, which can help release space and cashflow!

Accessing e-trading software that integrates with your systems and generates reports can make packaging management a breeze too.

10. Get granular with your packaging product data to prepare for new legislation

Do you know everything about the packaging products you use? For example:

• The weight of the packaging
• The recycled content
• The material type
• How it’s recycled
• If it can be reused
• The CO2e of the pack
• Usage across all packaging SKUs

Getting your packaging data in order will help you prepare for updated packaging waste reporting under Extended Producer Responsibilities as well as any disclosures you will have to make if you’re in scope of the upcoming EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

It can also help you become more effective at managing your packaging supplies and help you spot inconsistencies or identify opportunities for improvement. This can help you protect your margins as well as protect your reputation from any legal repercussions.

Help making changes to your packaging in 2023

The experts at Macfarlane Packaging can help you make changes to your packaging that protect your business and keep costs down in 2023. Get in touch to learn more.

The post 10 things you could do differently with your packaging in 2023 appeared first on Macfarlane Packaging.

The packaging industry is a fast-paced environment, so we’re turning our heads to the packaging trends to expect in 2023. What will the latest packaging trends be? Are there any sustainable packaging trends to watch out for?

In this article we’ll consider what happened in the packaging industry during 2022, as well as the economic and social trends happening now that will impact the packaging trends we expect next year.

Blog Contents

Reviewing what happened in packaging during 2022

The start of 2022 was all about the impending introduction of the UK Plastic Packaging Tax. As businesses prepared for the tax to come into force in April 2022, we saw a flurry of recycled content and plastic-free packaging products enter the market, with more and more business opting for them. (See trend 2 from our 2022 packaging trend predictions!)

At the start of summer we launched our 7^th annual unboxing survey, which saw over 1,000 consumers give us their opinions on the packaging used by online retailers. The research highlighted how much ecommerce packaging has changed over the last seven years and emphasised how sustainable packaging materials and custom packaging should be key considerations for businesses using packaging.

In fact, 27% of consumers said they won’t buy again from retailers who don’t use sustainable packaging and 41% said that branded packaging can influence their repeat purchase decisions.

The latter half of the year saw the Environmental Packaging Summit take place at the Coventry Building Society arena. Experts from around the industry gathered to provide updates on Extended Producer Responsibilities, which are set to impact businesses that manufacture, import and distribute packaging, as well as brands that use packaging in the not too distant future. The summit also stressed how critical carbon reduction is as a baseline for lessening packaging’s impact on the planet.

Economic and social trends that will impact packaging in 2023

Life after lockdown – we’re spending slightly less money online

In 2022, we’ve all been adjusting to life after lockdown. This has had an impact on how people are spending, which has been reflected in a slight downturn in online retail sales, with more shoppers returning to bricks and mortar stores compared to pandemic years.

Although it is worth noting that while demand for online shopping is more subdued compared to during lockdown, ecommerce remains a huge piece of the total retail pie. A decade ago, online sales represented 10% of total retail sales, but now accounts for a quarter of all retail sales – well above pre-pandemic years.  

UK labour shortages – businesses struggling to fill vacancies

Job vacancies in the UK were at a record high as we entered 2022. The changes to freedom of movement as a result of Brexit meant the labour market was negatively impacted. Lack of viable labour has also been compounded by spikes in early retirement and industry specific impacts caused by the pandemic. This means businesses everywhere have faced recruitment difficulties.

In the high-pressure online retail and logistics sectors, the knock-on effect of this is that it’s harder to be as productive when you do not have a readily available workforce.

The political backdrop – supply chain challenges and rising costs

War in Ukraine and upheaval in Government leadership can’t be ignored either. Businesses are struggling to get raw materials, impacting supply chain continuity and the availability of key products across the nation, and driving up fuel prices – for both vehicles and energy. Inflation is also rising faster than ever, driving up the cost of essentials for everyone.

The result of these social and economic trends is the cost-of-living crisis being faced in the UK. Millions of people are looking to cut spending – both personally and at work.

Packaging trends to expect in 2023

So, thinking about what’s happened in the packaging industry this year, as well as the social and economic backdrop – what packaging trends should you expect in 2023?

1. Packaging cost reduction will be a priority

It should come as no surprise that our first packaging trend is that businesses will be looking to reduce their packaging costs in 2023.

This is particularly important to the retail market, where some 41% of retail employees predict the cost of living crisis will negatively impact non-essential, non-food items for the next couple of years. So, as businesses tighten their belts and try to weather the storm, protecting profits will of course be a priority.

And while many will look at how they can shave pennies off the unit price of their packaging supplies, this may not always be the best tactic. 90% of a business’ packaging costs can be hidden behind the unit price paid.

Taking a holistic approach that considers how packaging can influence many areas in a supply chain, like storage, transport, damages, productivity, administration, and customer experience can yield much higher savings. That’s why we have created tools like the Packaging Optimiser, which will allow businesses of all kinds, including online retailers and third party logistics companies to assess what packaging is really costing them. The Optimiser tool also enables us highlight where and how to cut operational costs associated with packaging.

2. Sustainable packaging and carbon reduction at the heart of packaging strategies

While cutting how much packaging is costing businesses will be critical for many, it shouldn’t come at the expense of improving sustainability.

The climate crisis continues to escalate and that means packaging trend number two is that businesses will need to put sustainable packaging at the heart of their packaging strategies. So, when we look closely at this, what are the sustainable packaging trends?

Well, on the surface lots of online retailers and businesses across the country focus on swapping plastic packaging for paper packing materials. In some ways, this makes a lot of sense – paper is a renewable material and it’s easy to recycle for the end user. But businesses need to look beyond the physical material they’re using and consider the carbon impact of their packaging…

Carbon emission created by human impact on the world are simultaneously driving biodiversity loss and climate change. Biodiversity loss means the planet can absorb less carbon, fueling global warming, which then results in more biodiversity loss. It’s a cycle we need to break and it’s why considering the CO2e of your business’ packaging should be front and centre in 2023.

With this in mind – do you know how much CO2e your packaging creates?

First let’s consider the materials – their weight and how they’re manufactured can all contribute to carbon emissions.

Next, how your packaging is transported – effective palletisation can cut the amount of transport needed to move it, impacting fuel use and emissions. Likewise, if your parcels are optimised for delivery to the end-user as well (i.e. lighter weight, improved dimensional weight etc), this is another carbon saving.

How well your packaging protects your product is crucial too. Damages and returns will instantly push up the carbon cost of transactions, so making sure your packaging protects your products adequately instantly gives you a carbon saving.

All of this is why our previously mentioned Packaging Optimiser can also assess packaging’s carbon impact on your supply chain!

3. Leveraging packaging materials to connect with consumers and gather data for innovation

Marketing Week recently published an e-book about retail trends for 2023 that highlighted personalisation can be a key differentiator for retailers in the coming year. They stated 80% of shoppers are more likely to make purchases where brands offer personalised experiences.

Enter packaging trend number three – connected packaging. Connected packaging is when packaging materials use QR codes or NFC technology to create an interactive (connected) experience for consumers. Most people think about this as an option for primary packaging, but it can work just as well for the protective packaging used for shipping their goods.

The unboxing experience is a critical moment for customers of online retailers, as it’s the first physical interaction with a brand. Connected packaging offers the opportunity to align physical and digital touchpoints and redirect users back to a business’ website.

Connected packaging also offers the opportunity to gather behavioural data when consumers interact with the packaging and the experience that launches. For example, gamification could be used to explain a brand’s sustainability proposition AND help customers earn rewards such as discounts (this is a big driver for UK consumers  – 85% report that they desire discounts on future purchases the most!).

4. Digitalisation of packing processes

The fourth packaging trend we expect in 2023 is the continued digitalisation of packing processes.

In short, this refers to the use of robotics and packaging automation to enhance the packing processes businesses are using. For ecommerce and online retailers, as well as the logistics sector, this will be key to overcoming the labor shortages we mentioned earlier.

Packaging automation can also tie into cutting costs for businesses and link back to the first trend mentioned in this article.  While the initial investment in automation can seem expensive it can have a direct impact on the overall amount companies spend on packaging materials and labour. The precision offered by automation also allows businesses to optimise parcel sizes or pallet loads more effectively, impacting transport costs too.

Additionally, automated packing processes can help improve productivity and help businesses to future proof their operations for changes in demand further down the line.

Support handling the 2023 packaging trends coming your way

If you need help with your ecommerce packaging (or any type of packaging) in the New Year, Macfarlane Packaging is here to help.

We have packaging design experts on hand to guide you through the journey of optimising your packaging, as well as the tools to prove how we can help you handle the packaging trends we expect in 2023. Get in touch today to see how we can help your business.  

About the author – Rachel Fellows

Rachel Fellows is Macfarlane Packaging expert in all things retail and 3PL. As director of National Accounts for the retail industry, Rachel has over 20 years of expertise delivering ecommerce packaging solutions that fulfil the complex needs of online retailers and omni-channel retailers, as well as their 3PL partners.

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