What does it mean when people talk about packaging logistics? In simple terms, it is the science of how to pack and deliver goods and materials, according to their required destination and packaging logistics. The science of packaging was developed around 1000 B.C and involves the use of cedarwood, toxins, and spices as effective packing material.
While ancient civilizations used several primary packing materials, modern approaches to packaging techniques and materials have dramatically improved over recent history. This modern approach has been largely responsible for the modern packaging material and technology we see today. One important milestone in this evolution was the development of paperboard packaging, which was first used commercially in the 18th century. In its early days, paperboard was quite durable, but not suitable for high-volume, sensitive, or long-term shipping. Modern advancements in packaging technology and methods allowed improvements in paperboard packaging quality and performance, and paperboard was eventually replaced by other materials such as lead-free cardboard, corrugated fiberboard, and polyester-based Vibratile Solids (Viscosives). All of these primary packaging and manufacturing technologies are widely used today.
The modern era of packaging logistics began with the Industrial Revolution, which brought about the onset of new, more efficient, and speedy shipping processes. Shipping containers were quickly constructed, and quickly became a fixture of the manufacturing industry. Improvements in railroad infrastructure allowed faster and more economical transportation of products between ports. These changes in shipping processes were also responsible for the introduction of standardized shipping boxes and other packaging materials, and this basic bundling of logistics was later carried forward to the packaging industry.
Benefits of a well-organized supply chain management:
There are many benefits of a well-organized supply chain management system. Among these benefits is the reduction in overhead expenses, because the entire supply chain is well-planned and optimized. Another benefit of packaging logistics systems is the reduction in loss or damage of merchandise. This type of management also reduces loss due to theft, accidental breaks, and adverse weather conditions such as floods and storms. Finally, production efficiency is improved because the distribution and preparation of products are made faster, using better packaging methods.
Modern packaging strategies have evolved to accommodate new needs and market demands. New packaging methods reduce the consumption of valuable resources, including petroleum and natural gas. Moreover, packaging logistics help to improve the availability of inventory, and thereby, decrease cycle times for finished goods. Improved inventory availability and faster processing of goods lead to improved sales and revenue streams.
The value of good packaging lies in its ability to conserve product integrity and maximize profit potential. It is important for packaging logistics to incorporate stringent standards and specifications to achieve maximum protection of product quality. Good packaging requires highly developed product identification systems, and stringent quality control processes. To meet these stringent standards, manufacturers often outsource specialized firms that specialize in advanced product identification systems and other core Packaging System Components.
Understanding of all aspects of the logistics process:
A thorough understanding of all aspects of the logistics process is absolutely necessary for packaging producers. Packaging producers must be aware of the entire product life cycle and must be able to forecast demand, determine market trends, and forecast supply. They must be able to integrate supply with the shipping, receiving, and export processes, and be aware of all transportation logistics, from sourcing to delivery. Likewise, they should understand the relationship between product design, production process, marketing, branding, and financing.
With specialization in one or more of these four areas, a logistics specialist can help packaging producers to become better organized and more efficient. He can use advanced software to track production and assets. He can improve inventory control by enabling more efficient and accurate decision-making about supplies and also get the services of the call center. He can improve return on investment by identifying cost savings opportunities, and he can enhance the effectiveness of the packaging system by developing and using optimal product identification systems. He can also assist in the development of improved customer service, quality control, and marketing programs by educating them about the nature, costs, and benefits of their products.
