[NB] 4 tips for using less packaging

Drop air in your parcel – and save millions! Imagine paying to send… air. It sounds strange, but that’s exactly what many companies do every single day.

A global study shows that companies could collectively save over $46 billion annually – just by packing smarter and avoiding unnecessary voids in shipments. At the same time, it would significantly reduce the global environmental impact.

So how can you avoid sending a half-empty box containing a small product wrapped in metres of bubble wrap? Here are 4 concrete tips for smarter packaging – for the environment, your customers and your bottom line.

1. Know your packaging – and your products

You can’t improve something you don’t understand. Start by analysing your current shipments:

• Which products do you ship the most?
• What size and weight are they?
• How much air is actually in your parcels?

Use data from your ERP system to get an overview. Create categories:

• Boxes with too much empty space
• Oversized envelopes
• Packages where you use unnecessary filler

Once you recognise the problem, you can start solving it – and save money in the process.

2. Choose the right packaging (and the right format)

Standard boxes are fine – but do they fit your goods? Sometimes a padded envelope can do the job better than a full cardboard box. It weighs less, takes up less space and can go straight into the letterbox.

Use the knowledge from point 1 and choose packaging types that fit the 10 most common orders. Also check whether the chosen formats can be used for multiple products – it saves both space and money.

RAJA has a large selection of over 600 different box formats, as well as a wide range of padded envelopes and e-commerce bags, so you can easily find something that fits.

A greener choice can lead to fewer returns, more satisfied customers – and a positive development for your brand. Also consider customised packaging. Yes, it costs more initially – but it can save you money:

• Transport damage
• Unnecessary package filling
• Extra tape and time
• …and give your customers a more thoughtful unboxing experience.

3. Get the whole company on board

Optimising packaging isn’t just the warehouse’s job. On the contrary.

• Manufacturing might need something that packs faster or smarter.
• Marketing looks at how the pack supports the brand and the customer journey.
• Customer service knows what customers complain about – and what they love.

Think of packaging as a shared task, and let all departments be heard!

4. Test – and learn

Have you found a new packaging solution? That’s great! But don’t throw the whole warehouse at it at once.

Start small. Use your top 10 orders as a test basis. Measure the impact:

• Robustness: Will the parcel hold up to transport?
• Customer experience: Is the “unboxing” still as good?

Do you want to know more?

Are you curious about sustainable packaging? Read more here: Choose our sustainable products

You can also read more about sustainable packaging on Bring’s website, or contact RAJA’s customer centre on 22 51 40 00 or post@rajapack.no.