From Protection to Presentation: The Importance of Packaging

 

Introduction

Welcome to another installment of our series on logistics management! In today's blog, we will explore the crucial role of packaging in the logistical system. Packaging is not only about protecting products; it also plays a significant role in storage, transportation, communication, and promotion. Understanding the types, objectives, and design considerations of packaging can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your logistics operations.

Types of Packaging

1. Primary Packaging

   • Examples: Boxes, bags, bottles.
   • Purpose: Directly encases the product.

2. Secondary Packaging

   • Examples: Cardboard boxes, pallets.
   • Purpose: Groups primary packages together.

3. Tertiary Packaging

   • Purpose: Provides protection and consolidation of multiple units for transportation and storage.

4. Consumer Packaging / Interior Packaging

   • Purpose: Designed for household consumption.

5. Industrial Packaging / External Packaging

   • Purpose: Bulk packaging for industrial use.

Objectives of Packaging

1. Damage Protection

   • Ensures products are protected from damage during transportation and handling.

2. Storage of Products

   • Facilitates efficient storage by providing appropriate containment.

3. Provides Information about Products

   • Communicates essential information such as ingredients, usage instructions, and expiration dates.

4. Used for Positioning of Products

   • Helps in market positioning by enhancing the product's visual appeal.

5. Promotions

   • Attracts customers through eye-catching designs and promotional information.

6. Distribution

   • Enhances the distribution process by ensuring products are easily and safely transported.

7. Changes the Product Density

   • Optimizes the density of the product for better storage and transportation efficiency.

8. Provides Reuse Value for Customers

   • Adds value by allowing customers to reuse packaging materials.

9. Better Utilization of Transport Equipment

   • Improves the utilization of transport equipment by optimizing space and weight distribution.

Functions of Packaging

1. Protection

   • Safeguards products from physical damage, contamination, and tampering.

2. Storage

   • Ensures safe and efficient storage.

3. Efficiency / Utilization

   • Maximizes space and resource utilization in transportation and storage.

4. Promotion

   • Acts as a marketing tool to attract and inform customers.

5. Assurance

   • Provides guarantees about the product's safety and quality.

6. Communication

   • Identification: Provides information about the manufacturer, product, and type of container.
   • Tracking: Enables the tracking of products through the supply chain.
   • Handling Instructions: Offers guidance on how to handle the product safely.

7. Disposal

   • Facilitates proper disposal or recycling of packaging materials.

Packaging Design Considerations

Both the exterior and interior appearance of packaging should be considered with the following objectives:

Material Handling

1. Reasons for Product Damages During Loading & Unloading Operations:
   • Height of loading platform.
   • Method of handling.
   • Vehicle conditions.

Transportation

Depends on the following factors:

1. Gross Weight
2. Gross Volume
3. Size & Shape
4. Modes of Transportation
   • Consignment packages should be designed to withstand environmental factors and the multimodal nature of travel.

Storage

The "Make & Sale" equation is critical, ensuring the cubic space utilization of floor space. It involves a balance between storage, material handling, and packaging.

Communication

1. Contents of Package
2. Type of Goods
3. Name of the Manufacturer
4. Place of Origin
5. Country of Origin

Proper communication ensures the tracking of consignment and minimizes the loss of packages due to misplacement, pilferage, or theft.

Conclusion

Packaging plays a vital role in the logistical system, offering protection, facilitating storage and transportation, and enhancing communication and promotion. By considering the types, objectives, and design aspects of packaging, businesses can achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness in their logistics operations.

Reminder

Don’t forget to review our previous blogs for more insights into logistics management and stay tuned for our upcoming posts.