1. Your delivery slots are dictated by your packing speed, not your production speed.

If you notice a build-up of products, which are constantly waiting to be packaged, it means packing isn’t keeping pace with the speed of production. There should be systems in place that enable operators to easily synchronise their production and packaging to deliver a continuous and cost-effective throughput.

1. Damaged products are on the rise

Product damage is a classic sign of a poorly packaged item. Although high quality packaging helps to avoid this, damage can also occur because of inconsistencies within the manual packing process. Automating repetitive actions such as placing items in bags and placing protective packaging in boxes can improve speeds and consistency, while reducing costs.

1. The packing area is growing out of control

This is a typical sign that packing isn’t growing properly in line with the company. This often means efficiencies, which should come with economies of scale, are being missed and can also compromise quality standards.

1. The packing ‘tail’ is wagging the production ‘dog’

Bottlenecks in the packing area and increasing lead times are signs that packing areas that need upgrading. In such scenarios, the packing part of the operation is starting to influence core decision- making and investment. Companies will find that it will prove much more time and cost-effective to invest in automation of their existing packing line.

1. Operations and outputs are changing

Many companies, especially during unpredictable times, will be looking at how they can make savings, grow revenue and maximise margins. Some ecommerce and fulfilment businesses experience record demand in fluctuating markets, whilst others have to carefully manage costs to address a sharp decline in sales.

Each of these varying scenarios, whether it’s growth or cost management, will impact a company’s outputs. This has a direct effect on packing operations. With this in mind, any strategic review of operations, growth plans or cost-saving exercises are a sign that packing automation should be considered. This doesn’t necessarily mean that new equipment has to be purchased, as there are leasing models available. Companies can now quickly optimise packing to realise efficiencies and improve processes that benefit the bottom line.

Automated packing systems come in all shapes and sizes: from entry-level floor or bench mounted options through to systems which are capable of packing at very high speeds. It’s important to consider which system is right for you now and will grow with you in the future.

Sealed Air is a global packaging company, inventors of the original BUBBLE WRAP® brand packaging, and works closely with fulfilment customers to ensure that their packaging operations meet their needs today and tomorrow.  Systems include the renowned AUTOBAG® brand automated systems.  Visitors to Intralogistex on 28-29th March can interact with Sealed Air solutions on stand 800.