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Showing posts from April, 2023

Questions To Answer Before You Buy Packaging Materials And Machinery

Questions To Answer Before You Buy Packaging Materials And Machinery Before you buy packaging materials and machinery, here are some questions to consider: What type of product are you packaging? Consider the size, shape, weight, and fragility of your product. What are your production requirements? Determine how many packages you need to produce per hour, day, or week. What are your packaging goals? Are you looking to reduce waste, improve efficiency, or enhance your product's appearance? What is your budget? Consider the upfront cost of the equipment and materials as well as ongoing maintenance and operating expenses. What is your space availability? Ensure you have enough space for your packaging equipment, materials, and storage. What are your environmental goals? Consider using sustainable or biodegradable materials or equipment that reduces waste. What is your timeline for implementation? Determine when you need the packaging materials and equipment to be installed and fully o

First Time Packaging Buyer's Guide

First Time Packaging Buyer's Guide If you are a first-time packaging buyer, there are a few key things you should consider before making your purchase: Understand your product: Before you can choose the right packaging, you need to understand the product you are packaging. What is its shape, weight, and fragility? Will it require any special handling or storage conditions? Answering these questions will help you choose the right type of packaging to protect your product. Consider the shipping process: How will your product be transported? Will it be shipped by truck, plane, or boat? Understanding the shipping process will help you choose packaging that can withstand the rigors of transportation. Choose the right material: There are many different packaging materials to choose from, including cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your product and budget. Think about sustain

How Downgauging Stretch Film Can Save You Money ?

How Downgauging Stretch Film Can Save You Money ? Downgauging stretch film means using a thinner film without sacrificing the strength and quality of the wrap. Here are some ways downgauging can save you money: Reduce material costs: Using thinner stretch film means you will use less material, which can result in significant savings over time. Reduce freight costs: Since thinner stretch film is lighter, it can reduce the weight of your shipments, leading to lower freight costs. Image Source : WCP Solution Increase productivity: With less material to wrap, your workers can wrap more pallets per hour, increasing productivity and reducing labor costs. Reduce waste: Since you are using less material, there will be less waste, which can lead to additional savings in disposal costs. Improve sustainability: Using thinner stretch film can help reduce your company's carbon footprint, which is beneficial for the environment and your brand image. However, it's important to note that downg

Can You Recycle Stretch Film?

Can You Recycle Stretch Film? Stretch film is a type of plastic film that is commonly used to wrap and secure products on pallets during shipping or storage. Unfortunately, stretch film is not widely accepted by most curbside recycling programs, and it is not easily recyclable on its own. However, some companies and recycling facilities offer specialized recycling programs for stretch film. The process involves baling the stretch film and sending it to a recycling facility where it can be transformed into new products. The recycled stretch film can be used in products such as plastic bags, composite lumber, and shipping pallets. If you want to recycle stretch film, it's best to check with your local recycling facility or waste management company to see if they accept it. Some retailers and warehouses may also have stretch film recycling programs in place that you can participate in.

Why Packaging Prices Continue To Increase ?

Why Packaging Prices Continue To Increase ? There are several reasons why packaging prices continue to increase: Raw material costs: The cost of the raw materials used to make packaging, such as paper, plastics, and metals, can fluctuate based on supply and demand. When there is a shortage of raw materials, the price can increase. Transportation costs: The cost of transporting packaging materials from the manufacturer to the packaging supplier and then to the end-user can also impact the price. Fluctuations in fuel prices and transportation fees can drive up costs. Labor costs: Labor costs can also impact the price of packaging. As wages increase, so does the cost of producing and supplying packaging materials. Inflation: Inflation can cause the cost of goods and services to rise, including the cost of packaging materials. Tariffs and trade disputes: Tariffs and trade disputes between countries can cause the cost of imported packaging materials to increase. Environmental regulations: N

Stabilizing Loads With Slip Sheets For Stretch Wrapping

Stabilizing Loads With Slip Sheets For Stretch Wrapping Slip sheets are thin pallet-sized sheets made of corrugated cardboard or plastic that are used to stabilize loads during transportation and storage. They are placed between the layers of a product or between the product and the pallet to create a more stable base for stretch wrapping. Slip sheets are an effective alternative to pallets, as they are more lightweight, take up less space and are less expensive. Using slip sheets for stretch wrapping offers several benefits, including: Improved stability: Slip sheets provide a stable base for products during transportation and storage. They help to prevent products from shifting or toppling over during transit. Reduced costs: Slip sheets are less expensive than pallets and take up less space, making them a cost-effective option for businesses. Improved efficiency: Using slip sheets can speed up the loading and unloading process as they are easier to handle than pallets. This can lead

Top 6 Packaging Materials For Metal CNC Milling Parts

Top 6 Packaging Materials For Metal CNC Milling Parts When it comes to packaging materials for metal CNC milling parts, there are several options to consider based on the specific needs of your parts. Here are the top 6 packaging materials commonly used for metal CNC milling parts: Foam Inserts: Foam inserts are a popular packaging option for metal CNC milling parts due to their ability to protect the parts during transport. They can be customized to fit the exact shape and size of the parts to ensure they do not move or become damaged during shipping. Bubble Wrap: Bubble wrap is another popular option for protecting metal CNC milling parts during transport. It is lightweight, flexible, and can be easily wrapped around parts of any shape and size. Corrugated Boxes: Corrugated boxes are a sturdy and versatile packaging option for metal CNC milling parts. They are available in a variety of sizes and can be customized to fit the exact needs of your parts. Polyethylene Bags: Polyethylene b

Packaging Automation: Can You Automate Your Packaging?

Packaging Automation: Can You Automate Your Packaging? Yes, many packaging processes can be automated, and there are a variety of packaging machines and systems available to automate various stages of the packaging process. Some examples include: Filling and sealing machines: These machines can automatically fill and seal bags, pouches, bottles, and containers with a variety of products. Labeling machines: These machines can automatically apply labels to products, containers, or packaging materials. Capping machines: These machines can automatically apply caps or lids to bottles or containers. Cartoning machines: These machines can automatically form, fill, and seal cartons or boxes. Palletizing machines: These machines can automatically stack and arrange products on pallets for shipping. Automating packaging can bring many benefits, such as increased efficiency, improved product quality and consistency, reduced labor costs, and higher production capacity. However, it's important

Flexible Pouches VS Glass Bottles For Beverage Packaging

Flexible Pouches VS Glass Bottles For Beverage Packaging Flexible pouches and glass bottles are both popular choices for beverage packaging, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Flexible pouches are lightweight, easy to transport, and take up less space than glass bottles. They are also more durable and less prone to breakage, which can be an important consideration when shipping beverages. In addition, flexible pouches are typically less expensive to produce than glass bottles, making them a cost-effective option for small and large beverage manufacturers alike. On the other hand, glass bottles are more traditional and have a premium look and feel that can appeal to consumers. They are also more easily recyclable than flexible pouches, which can be made from a combination of materials that are difficult to separate and recycle. Glass bottles also provide a better barrier to oxygen and other gases, which can help preserve the freshness and flavor of the beverage for a lon

Sustainable Stretch Film Options

Sustainable Stretch Film Options There are several sustainable stretch film options available in the market. Here are a few of them: Biodegradable Stretch Film: Biodegradable stretch film is made from plant-based materials such as cornstarch, which can be broken down by microorganisms and decompose in a short amount of time. It is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic stretch film. Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Stretch Film: PCR stretch film is made from recycled plastic waste, typically post-consumer materials, such as water bottles or other plastic packaging. Post-Industrial Recycled (PIR) Stretch Film: PIR stretch film is made from recycled industrial waste, such as excess material from the manufacturing process. Downgauged Stretch Film: Downgauged stretch film is made with thinner material without sacrificing performance, reducing the amount of plastic used and saving resources. Pre-Stretched Stretch Film: Pre-stretched stretch film is a thin, lightweight film that is s

The Importance Of Packaging Machinery Predictive Maintenance

The Importance Of Packaging Machinery Predictive Maintenance Packaging machinery predictive maintenance is essential for ensuring that packaging machines remain functional, efficient, and reliable. It is a proactive maintenance approach that involves the use of advanced technologies to detect potential problems in packaging machinery before they cause significant disruptions or downtime. By predicting and preventing machine failure, predictive maintenance helps companies save money, improve operational efficiency, and reduce downtime. One of the key benefits of predictive maintenance is that it enables companies to schedule maintenance activities at times that will least impact production. Predictive maintenance technology can provide real-time monitoring of equipment to detect abnormal conditions that indicate an issue is about to occur. This data can be analyzed to identify the root cause of the problem, and a maintenance plan can be developed to resolve it. Predictive maintenance te

All About RFID For Warehousing

All About RFID For Warehousing RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology that uses radio waves to automatically identify and track objects. RFID tags contain a microchip and an antenna, which transmit data to an RFID reader when within its range. The technology is widely used in warehousing and logistics, providing greater visibility into inventory and supply chain processes. RFID systems consist of three components: RFID tags, RFID readers, and software. The tags are attached to items, and the readers detect and read the tags as they pass by. The software then collects and analyzes the data, providing real-time information about inventory levels, item locations, and other logistics-related data. RFID technology offers several benefits for warehousing operations, including: Increased efficiency: RFID technology can automate inventory tracking and reduce the time and labor required for manual processes. Improved accuracy: RFID technology can reduce errors associated with man

How To Onshore, Store, & Buy Packaging Supplies For Today's Climate

How To Onshore, Store, & Buy Packaging Supplies For Today's Climate In today's climate, it's becoming more important to onshore, store, and buy packaging supplies for a variety of reasons such as reducing lead times, ensuring supply chain stability, and supporting local businesses. Here are some tips to help you with this process: Research local packaging suppliers: Look for packaging suppliers in your area that offer the products you need. Check if they have a website or contact them directly to get more information about their products and services. Compare prices and lead times: Once you have a list of potential suppliers, compare their prices and lead times. Keep in mind that lead times can vary depending on the supplier's location and the product you need. Consider storage options: If you have the space, consider storing your packaging supplies on-site. This can help you reduce lead times and ensure you have the supplies you need when you need them. Alternative

Why Do Small Contract Packaging Projects Cost More?

Why Do Small Contract Packaging Projects Cost More? Small contract packaging projects often cost more per unit compared to larger projects due to several factors: Economy of scale: Larger projects typically have a higher volume, which means that the cost per unit is reduced due to the economy of scale. In contrast, small projects have a lower volume, and as a result, the cost per unit is higher. Set-up costs: Packaging machinery requires time and labor to set up, which is a fixed cost regardless of the project size. Small projects may not have enough volume to absorb these costs, leading to higher costs per unit. Material costs: Some packaging materials have a minimum order quantity, and smaller projects may not meet that requirement. As a result, the supplier may charge more for the smaller quantity to offset the loss of profit from not meeting the minimum order quantity. Labor costs: Labor costs for packaging small projects may be higher due to the need for more manual labor, such as

Importance Of Lead Times For Packaging Machinery And Materials

Importance Of Lead Times For Packaging Machinery And Materials Lead times are a crucial consideration for businesses when it comes to packaging machinery and materials. Lead time refers to the time that elapses between placing an order and the delivery of the order. It is important to have a good understanding of lead times so that businesses can plan their production schedules, manage inventory levels, and meet customer demands. When it comes to packaging machinery, lead times can vary depending on the type of equipment and the manufacturer. Some manufacturers have longer lead times than others, so it is important to research and compare different options. Longer lead times may be due to a variety of factors such as high demand, customizations, or overseas production. For packaging materials, lead times can also vary depending on the type of material and the supplier. It is important to consider lead times when placing orders to ensure that the materials will arrive in time for produc

Reduce Sticking Pallets With One-Sided Cling Stretch Wrap

Reduce Sticking Pallets With One-Sided Cling Stretch Wrap One-sided cling stretch wrap is a type of stretch film that features a cling layer on only one side of the film. This unique feature reduces the amount of friction between pallets during transportation, which can help to prevent sticking and other problems. Here are some tips for using one-sided cling stretch wrap to reduce sticking pallets: Ensure proper stretch: One-sided cling stretch wrap needs to be stretched properly to be effective. Be sure to stretch the film to its maximum length while wrapping the pallet. This will activate the cling layer and help to reduce the likelihood of sticking. Use a suitable film gauge: One-sided cling stretch wrap comes in a range of gauges. Choosing the right gauge for your application is important. If the film is too thin, it may not provide enough holding force. If the film is too thick, it may not stretch properly, reducing its effectiveness. Consider pallet size and shape: The size and s

Printed Shrink Film VS Printed Bundling Film: Which Is Right For You?

Printed Shrink Film VS Printed Bundling Film: Which Is Right For You? Printed shrink film and printed bundling film are two different types of packaging materials, each with their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. The choice between them will depend on several factors, including the specific needs of your product and your budget. Here is a brief overview of each: Printed Shrink Film: Printed shrink film is a plastic film that shrinks tightly around a product when heat is applied, creating a tight and protective seal. Printed shrink film can be customized with high-quality graphics, logos, and other branding elements to create a unique and eye-catching package. It is ideal for packaging products that need to be tightly wrapped, such as food and beverage products, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Printed shrink film is also tamper-evident, as any attempt to open the package will cause the shrink film to tear or break. Printed Bundling Film: Printed bundling film is a stretch film

Strapping Material VS Stretch Film: Which Is Right For You?

Strapping Material VS Stretch Film: Which Is Right For You? Strapping material and stretch film are two common options for securing and stabilizing products during shipping and handling. While both options have their benefits, the choice between them largely depends on the specific needs of your product and shipping process. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when deciding between strapping material and stretch film: Strength and Durability: Strapping material, typically made from plastic or steel, is generally stronger and more durable than stretch film. It can handle heavier loads and is less likely to break or tear during transport. However, stretch film can be equally strong and durable if applied correctly, and can also help protect against dust, dirt, and moisture. Cost: Strapping material can be more expensive than stretch film, especially if you need additional tools or machinery to apply it. However, if your product requires more security and stability, the added

How Packaging Impacts Your Shipping Rates And What To Do About It

How Packaging Impacts Your Shipping Rates And What To Do About It Packaging can have a significant impact on your shipping rates. The weight and dimensions of your packages can affect the shipping charges imposed by the carrier, as well as any additional fees for oversized or irregularly shaped packages. Here are some tips to help you minimize the impact of packaging on your shipping costs: Choose the right box size: Use the smallest box possible to fit your product and provide sufficient protection. Avoid using oversized boxes as they can result in dimensional weight charges. Use lightweight materials: Choose packaging materials that are lightweight but still provide adequate protection, such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or air pillows. Lightweight packaging can help you avoid dimensional weight charges. Optimize your packaging design: Consider the shape and design of your package, as well as the materials used, to ensure it is optimized for shipping. Using a design that maximizes

Tamper-Evident Packaging: Maximizing Product Security And Shelf Life

Tamper-Evident Packaging: Maximizing Product Security And Shelf Life Tamper-evident packaging is a packaging technique that ensures the integrity of a product by providing visual evidence of tampering or opening. This type of packaging is used to protect products from theft, contamination, and counterfeiting, and is particularly important in the food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries. Tamper-evident packaging can take many forms, including: Seals: These are adhesive or mechanical devices that are placed over the opening of a package to prevent unauthorized access. When the seal is broken or removed, it leaves behind evidence of tampering, such as a tear, perforation, or print. Shrink Bands: These are plastic or paper bands that are wrapped around the closure of a container, such as a bottle or jar. The band is heated and shrinks to create a tight seal that is difficult to break without leaving evidence. Tear Tape: This is a thin strip of material that is applied to the pac

How To Replace Stretch Film And Strapping With One Material ?

How To Replace Stretch Film And Strapping With One Material ? Replacing stretch film and strapping with one material is possible by using a type of plastic film called machine-grade stretch wrap that has an adhesive layer. This film adheres to itself when wrapped around the product or pallet, creating a secure and tight seal without the need for strapping or tape. Here are the steps to replace stretch film and strapping with machine-grade stretch wrap: Choose the appropriate machine-grade stretch wrap for your application based on the weight and size of the product or pallet being wrapped. Load the machine-grade stretch wrap onto a stretch wrap machine or dispenser. Adjust the tension and speed of the machine to achieve the desired level of tightness and coverage. Begin wrapping the product or pallet using the machine, ensuring that the adhesive layer of the stretch wrap is facing inward. Continue wrapping until the product or pallet is completely covered and secured. Cut the stretch w

Are You Ready For Single Serve Packaging?

Are You Ready For Single Serve Packaging? Single-serve packaging has been growing in popularity in recent years as it offers convenience and portion control to consumers. Here are some factors to consider if you're considering implementing single-serve packaging for your products: Market demand: Before investing in single-serve packaging, make sure that there is a market demand for it. Conduct market research to understand whether your target audience prefers single-serve packaging or if they have specific packaging requirements. Cost: Single-serve packaging can be more expensive than traditional packaging. Calculate the costs of the materials, production, and distribution, and ensure that the cost of the single-serve packaging does not impact your profitability. Sustainability: Single-serve packaging can generate more waste, which may not align with your sustainability goals. Consider using biodegradable or compostable materials for the single-serve packaging or finding ways to en

Why Hand-Wrapping Pallets is Losing You Money ?

Why Hand-Wrapping Pallets is Losing You Money ? Hand-wrapping pallets can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, which can lead to increased costs for a business. Here are some reasons why hand-wrapping pallets may be losing you money: Inefficiency: Hand-wrapping pallets is a slow and tedious process, which can result in an inefficient use of labor hours. This can lead to increased labor costs and a slower turnaround time for orders. Inconsistency: Hand-wrapping pallets can result in inconsistent wrapping tension and coverage, which can lead to product damage during transit. This can result in increased product returns and customer dissatisfaction. Waste: Hand-wrapping pallets can lead to the overuse of stretch film, which can result in increased waste and material costs. Overwrapping can also lead to increased shipping costs due to the added weight and volume of the pallet. Safety: Hand-wrapping pallets can be a physically demanding task that can lead to repetitive motion in

4 Product Packaging Strategies To Attract Consumers

4 Product Packaging Strategies To Attract Consumers Here are four product packaging strategies to attract consumers: Eye-catching design: Consumers are drawn to visually appealing packaging that stands out on the shelves. A well-designed package should be memorable and recognizable from a distance. Clear messaging: Your package should clearly communicate what the product is and what makes it unique. Use concise and straightforward language to highlight the product's benefits and features. Sustainable packaging: Consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious, and they appreciate brands that share those values. Using sustainable materials and reducing packaging waste can help attract customers who prioritize eco-friendliness. Convenience: Consumers appreciate packaging that makes their lives easier. Consider packaging that is easy to open, resealable, and lightweight for easy transportation. Convenience is key when it comes to packaging.

Guide To CNC Cutting For Foam And Plastic Packaging

Guide To CNC Cutting For Foam And Plastic Packaging CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting is a manufacturing process that uses automated machines to cut, shape, and form materials with a high level of precision. CNC cutting is widely used in the packaging industry for cutting and shaping foam and plastic materials to create custom packaging solutions for various products. Here is a guide to CNC cutting for foam and plastic packaging: Design the Packaging: The first step is to design the packaging using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. The software allows you to create a 3D model of the packaging design, which can then be used to program the CNC machine. Select the Material: Once the design is complete, select the foam or plastic material that will be used for the packaging. The material should be chosen based on the product's weight, size, and fragility. Set Up the CNC Machine: The next step is to set up the CNC machine. This involves mounting the foam or plastic material o

What Are PCR and PIR Packaging Materials?

What Are PCR and PIR Packaging Materials? PCR and PIR are two types of packaging materials that are commonly used in the industry. PCR stands for "post-consumer recycled" and refers to packaging materials that have been recycled from consumer waste. These materials are typically made from materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic, and metal that have been collected from curbside recycling programs or other waste streams. By using PCR materials, companies can reduce their reliance on virgin materials, which can help to conserve natural resources and reduce the environmental impact of their packaging. PIR stands for "post-industrial recycled" and refers to packaging materials that have been recycled from industrial waste. These materials are typically generated during the manufacturing process, such as scrap or trim waste, and can be recycled and used as a raw material for new packaging. PIR materials are often used in applications where the packaging requirements a

Upgrading To A Semi-Automatic Stretch Wrapper

Upgrading To A Semi-Automatic Stretch Wrapper Upgrading to a semi-automatic stretch wrapper can offer a number of benefits for your packaging operation. Here are some key factors to consider when making the switch: Production Volume: If you have a relatively low volume of pallets to wrap, a semi-automatic stretch wrapper may be a more cost-effective option compared to a fully automatic machine. Labor Cost: Manual pallet wrapping can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Switching to a semi-automatic stretch wrapper can help to reduce labor costs and increase efficiency. Load Size: A semi-automatic stretch wrapper is ideal for wrapping pallets of a consistent size and weight. If you have a range of pallet sizes or irregular loads, you may need to consider a more advanced machine with customizable settings. Space Requirements: Semi-automatic stretch wrappers are typically smaller than fully automatic machines and may be a better fit for packaging operations with limited floor space. Fil

Packaging Machinery 101: Predictive VS Preventive Maintenance

Packaging Machinery 101: Predictive VS Preventive Maintenance Predictive maintenance and preventive maintenance are two different approaches to maintain packaging machinery. Predictive maintenance involves using data and technology to predict when maintenance is required. It involves monitoring the machinery's performance and identifying potential issues before they become actual problems. In contrast, preventive maintenance involves scheduling regular maintenance and inspections to prevent problems from occurring. Predictive maintenance can be more cost-effective than preventive maintenance, as it can help avoid unnecessary maintenance or repairs. It also minimizes the downtime of packaging machinery and reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. Predictive maintenance can be achieved through various methods, including vibration analysis, thermography, and oil analysis. Preventive maintenance, on the other hand, is a more traditional approach that involves following a schedu

Exploring The Different Types Of Stretch Wrappers

Exploring The Different Types Of Stretch Wrappers There are several types of stretch wrappers, each designed for specific applications and packaging needs. Here are some of the most common types: Manual Stretch Wrappers: As the name suggests, these stretch wrappers are operated manually by an operator. They are typically used for low-volume operations or for wrapping irregularly shaped loads. Semi-Automatic Stretch Wrappers: These stretch wrappers are partially automated and require an operator to load and unload the pallet. The machine takes care of wrapping the pallet automatically. Semi-automatic stretch wrappers are ideal for moderate-volume operations. Automatic Stretch Wrappers: These stretch wrappers are fully automated and require no manual intervention. They are designed for high-volume operations and can handle a wide range of loads. Automatic stretch wrappers are more expensive than manual or semi-automatic models but offer significant time and labor savings. Robotic Stretch

Packaging You Can Eat? Is Edible Packaging Delicious Or Disgusting?

Packaging You Can Eat? Is Edible Packaging Delicious Or Disgusting? Edible packaging refers to packaging materials that can be consumed along with the product they contain. These packaging materials are typically made from natural ingredients such as starches, proteins, and sugars. The idea behind edible packaging is to reduce packaging waste and provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional packaging materials such as plastics. Edible packaging can also add a fun and unique aspect to the product. However, whether edible packaging is delicious or disgusting depends on personal taste preferences and the specific type of edible packaging used. Some edible packaging may be flavored and enjoyable to eat, while others may have a bland or unappealing taste. In addition, there are also concerns about the safety and hygiene of edible packaging, as it can be more susceptible to contamination and spoilage than traditional packaging materials. It's important for edible packaging to be

The Skin Packaging You're In

The Skin Packaging You're In Skin packaging is a type of packaging that involves sealing a product to a paperboard backing using a plastic film. This creates a skin-tight package that conforms to the shape of the product, providing a high level of protection and a clear display of the product. The benefits of skin packaging include: Enhanced product visibility: The skin-tight packaging creates a clear view of the product, making it easier for customers to see what they are buying. Improved protection: The plastic film provides a tight seal around the product, protecting it from damage during shipping and handling. Longer shelf life: The tight seal helps to keep the product fresh for longer, reducing the need for frequent restocking. Reduced packaging waste: Skin packaging uses less material than other types of packaging, reducing waste and making it a more environmentally friendly option. Customizable design: Skin packaging can be customized with different colors, graphics, and bra