Packaging is one of the most significant expenses for any business. Nonetheless, there are several ways to control costs while still ensuring the best service quality. Achieving this goal can help you earn a good reputation for your brand in the market and industry.

Not only packaging waste is harmful to your bottom line, but its impact on the environment is also undesirable. Sustainability has become a hot topic across industries quite recently. That is because of a higher demand for the deployment of sustainable packaging measures from consumers. Apart from consumer demands, companies should also realize their responsibility to control waste to preserve the environment.

In this article, we will discuss ways companies are wasting money on packaging. We will also discuss pro tips on how to avoid these mistakes.

Ineffective packaging products

When it comes to packaging your product, you can choose from several options. Waste from outer packaging is produced in case of an occurrence of damage. It can also result in a damaged product. This damage results in the production of wastes from both the product and its packaging.

You can avoid damage by selecting the right packaging materials right from the start. Although high-quality outer packaging materials may cost more, they help save money in the long term.

Many companies waste money by choosing the wrong type of void-fill or dunnage. Whether you are overstuffing your packaging box or using the wrong type of cushioning materials, you will end up wasting money.

Equipment failure and lack of service

The purpose of packaging equipment is to make distribution centers more efficient. With the help of appropriate equipment, you can ensure higher outputs and your warehouse running at an optimal speed. Since machines can produce what humans can’t, using the right type of equipment will make the working environment safer. However, not managing equipment properly can result in waste.

Poorly managed equipment can suffer wear and tear, which can result in malfunctioning. Regular maintenance can help rectify these issues quite nicely. You may need to look for signs that show you machinery needs some maintenance work.

Time wasted in distribution centers

Any time wasted at distribution centers adds to the overall inefficiency of the supply chain. Such inefficiency can result in unnecessary complications, resulting in the waste of time and materials.

You have to make sure that your distribution center layout is designed to make operations more efficient. For instance, any two products that are commonly packaged together should be stored near each other in the distribution center.

Stock replenishment deficiency is one of the most significant reasons for wasted time. Purchasing departments usually make the mistake of waiting for the product to run out of stock before they order for replenishment. Using automated inventory management systems is one of the ways to deal with such inefficiencies.

Improper use of mixed packaging

The best way to combat packaging wastes is to deploy recycling measures. However, you first have to make sure that your end-user knows how to recycle packaging after the product is used up. Similarly, it is necessary to tell your customers whether or not your product packaging is recyclable.

Businesses usually face a challenge with mixed packaging comprising of recyclable and non-recyclable materials. Such materials should be separated before disposing of by consumers. That’s where it becomes crucial to educate your consumers.