Monthly Archives: May 2017

This Will Cost You Later

How many times have you seen how a single shipping mistake can create two additional problems? If a box is damaged then there is a risk that the contents of the box will be damaged too. Damaged goods result in a refund and refunds result in customers no longer returning as repeat customers. For these reasons, many business owners spend considerable amounts of time researching and selecting the correct packaging supplies prior to shipping.

Open damaged cardboard box labeled fragile and refund requested with broken dishes inside and on table
A damaged package of fragile items with a refund requested label sits on a wooden table.

When asked the question whether quality packaging matters; this is easily answered by looking at the state of a customer’s package upon opening. Quality boxes, secure tape and high-quality packing materials indicate that someone has taken the time to protect each item since the beginning.

Additionally, consider all of the stops the package will take. From trucking to warehouse storage to conveyor belt travel to delivery van travel, every stop creates opportunities for the package to become dislodged or crushed. Quality packaging supplies assist in preparation for this process.

Some companies feel that larger boxes are safer, however this is not always true. There is an opportunity for items to shift within larger boxes during shipping unless the empty areas are filled with protective materials. Selecting the right-sized box (as well as filling the empty space) provides a higher level of protection to items being shipped while minimizing shipping expenses.

Businesses also want to know whether it is worthwhile investing in higher end packing materials. In some instances, yes, it is. Investing a few dollars to protect an order could potentially eliminate costly returns, replacement shipments and angry telephone calls. Most businesses would agree that this is a worthwhile investment.

Another advantage is organization. Maintaining a supply of quality packaging supplies on hand assists in making the packaging process faster and more efficient. Employees spend less time finding required materials and more time preparing packages to ship out of the facility.

Organized packaging supplies in warehouse workspace

In addition to providing strong packaging supplies, many modern packaging products are made from recyclable materials. Providing your company with another means to minimize waste and provide quality packaging to your customers.

Quality packaging supplies do more than simply transport products from one location to another. Quality packaging protects your time, your money and your image. Each and every shipment is an opportunity to positively represent yourself to your customers, and that representation often begins early in the shipping process.

What do I need? 

People have been asking One question over and over again about Packaging Supplies. What type of Supplies am i going to really need? This is usually a pretty easy answer depending upon the items being shipped, stored, or protected. But there is no One size fits all as far as Packaging goes because different products call for unique solutions. Knowing some basic information related to your particular product can assist you in making better purchasing choices.

Most people who begin to purchase Packaging Supplies start out by purchasing the most popular Supplies. Boxes, tape, and various types of filler materials are purchased without much consideration as to how these products will be utilized. Sometimes this results in acceptable protection for products. Most of the time however, this creates excess cost and Packaging problems.

A more effective method of choosing Packaging Supplies would be to begin with the product being packaged. Lightweight items typically require minimal protection, whereas fragile items may require multiple levels of protection to prevent damage from occurring due to shipping.

Understanding the nature of your product will greatly assist in determining which Packaging Supplies will provide the greatest benefits.

Boxes are often thought of as the primary source of Packaging. Boxes provide structural support for products as well as protective support during transportation. However, it is extremely rare that a box provides sufficient protection for a product. Empty space within a box allows products to shift, thereby increasing the potential for damage. Filler materials aid in filling empty space within boxes and reduce the likelihood of product movement.

Businesses also inquire as to whether or not Packaging Supplies apply to products that are simply stored in a warehouse. Absolutely. Products can become damaged prior to shipping. Warehouse products are susceptible to dust, moisture, and careless impacts. The utilization of protective Packaging reduces the likelihood of damage and ensures that products remain in a condition that meets customer expectations.

The next area of concern in regards to Packaging is tape. While tape seems like a minor component of the Packaging process; poor quality tape can result in significant issues. Cartons that open during shipment can result in lost products, dissatisfied customers, etc. Selecting tape specifically designed for the shipping process aids in maintaining security throughout the entire shipping process.

Labels are also critical components of the Packaging process. Properly labeled products ensure that products move through shipping processes efficiently and allow warehouse employees to rapidly locate inventory. Clear Labels eliminate confusion and enhance efficiency.

Finally, many businesses also seek environmentally friendly alternatives for Packaging Supplies. Recyclable and eco-friendly Packaging Supplies are now readily available. Businesses can utilize green Packaging Supplies to significantly minimize waste while continuing to protect their products. In addition, customers appreciate efforts made by businesses to utilize responsible Packaging whenever possible.

Ultimately, the best Packaging Supplies are those that resolve individual challenges. As opposed to selecting Supplies based on past experience or habit, businesses should focus on their individual product requirements, storage conditions, and shipping processes. Frequently this approach yields superior protection for their products at reduced costs.

Packaging Supplies may appear to be relatively simplistic tools; however, they affect virtually every aspect of the shipping process. When businesses gain insight into how each supply functions, they will generally make wiser decisions that ultimately promote improved efficiency, decreased damage to their products and enhanced satisfaction among their customers.