Read this blog to reduce your packing times
If you are struggling to fulfil demand and are looking for ways to speed up your operational throughput, then read on!
Great packaging doesn’t stop at protecting your products, it can do so much more. With a little consideration, the right packaging can help to reduce packing times and push your goods through to dispatch much more quickly.
Here are some key areas for review, these will help you to understand if it’s time to rethink your packaging.
How long does it take to assemble each pack?
Does each pack require assembly? If so, how long does it take?
Complex die-cut boxes typically require training and speed of assembly comes with experience. Even simple shipper cartons can require taping top and bottom, which extends your packing time.
There may be opportunities to switch to a design which requires minimal assembly before packing. If a complex pack is necessary then perhaps it’s worth exploring delivery of ready assembled packs – freeing up your packers to focus on getting goods out of the door, quickly.
How much time is spent taping?
If you look at the amount of time spent assembling a shipper carton, chances are the majority of it is taken up taping the box. There are many shipper alternatives that can reduce the amount of taping required – some even remove the need for tape altogether.
If your operators are applying tape using a hand dispenser, there may be an opportunity to switch to an electronic version which dispenses pre-programmed lengths of tape. The introduction of gummed paper tape can also reduce taping time as it forms a strong bond with corrugate and removes the need to H-tape boxes.
How is void fill dispensed to the pack?
Is there an opportunity to switch to a system that dispenses void fill more quickly but provides the same (or higher) level of protection? Void Fill dispensers not only speed up packing, but they can also be programmed to fill packs with set lengths of material, ensuring that the right amount is used every time.
There may be a possibility to remove the need to use void fill altogether – Korrvu packs, for example, have in-built protection that can hold your products in place during transit, removing the need for additional packaging material.
Is the packing bench well organised?
Do your packers have everything to hand or are they having to move around the workspace to get everything they need? Having an organised packaging bench or work station can make a big positive impact on packing times.
Switching to longer rolls of packaging material can also ensure that fewer roll changes are required, this reduces the amount of stock maintenance in the packing area. Hoppers containing sensors can help ensure that void fill stock is automatically dispensed to maintain a consistent flow of material for packing.
Are you missing opportunities for packaging automation?
There are many levels of packaging automation – from small solutions like tape dispensers and semi-automated strapping machines, right through to box erectors, stretch wrap machines and full-on autoboxing and bagging machines. There is an entry-level for any business looking to speed up their processes.
Automated packaging application also uses less material, as a consistent amount of packaging is applied each time. This typically reduces material costs and the volume of waste packaging.
If you would like to find out more about speeding up your packing operation, our team of packaging experts are on hand to offer advice. Why not contact us today to find out how we can help.
