PACKAGING & LOGISTICS
Technologies has analysed some 10 million packages across sectors from the toy industry to multinational contract logistics and fulfilment companies, so we can reasonably claim that our figures are robust. Of course, achievable improvements depend on how efficient the existing arrangements are, but on average box volumes are reduced by up to 50% or more (83% has been recorded) with benefits in more efficient use of costly transport and greater consumer satisfaction – not least through the elimination of void fill.
Meanwhile, average savings in cardboard used can run at up to 30% or better – for one global logistics company the calculations range from 36% on the widest board, to 60% on the narrowest – a saving that goes straight to the bottom line.
On the labour side, with throughputs of up to 500 boxes/hour on the Impack line, or 1,100 on the Everest, anywhere up to 20 manual packing stations can be replaced by one or two line operators: labour which, if you are lucky enough to have, can be redeployed to more rewarding and value-adding tasks. The potential for significant cost reduction is obvious. So we can demonstrate serious cost-saving efficiencies – what about flexibility? These
packaging systems are ‘flexible’ in a number of senses. Firstly they can pack orders for several clients in random sequence (identified by bar code). This can be achieved either with the preprinted branded fanfold card feed, or we can also offer in-line mono or CYMK printing of neutral card on three sides – from a simple ‘This Way Up’ message to QR/AR codes or full colour customer branding.
Therefore, there is no downtime or changeover period as different client’s orders come down the line, and a new customer’s needs can be accommodated literally as soon as the artwork is digitised. Obviously, the ability to construct ‘right size’ boxes from a small number of stock widths obviates the need to carry large numbers of SKUs of preforms (even larger numbers if they are customer-branded) which will in any case be only approximately ‘right size’.
But we can also offer flexibility in a different sense. It may be that even with all the efficiency gains outlined, payback within the life of a contract is not certain. So Sparck Technologies’ packaging systems can be acquired on lease rather than outright purchase. The 3PL can minimise risk from a downturn – or, more happily, lease extra lines if business is booming. This low-risk approach, which combines
verifiable efficiency gains and maximum flexibility, is being adopted by a growing number of leading 3PLs in Germany, The Netherlands and the UK – high profile names, such as CEVA Logistics, Van Eupen and Global Freight Management.
Creative thinking around automation is actively helping 3PLs win new business, and just as importantly, is playing an essential role in delivering enhanced value to existing clients, helping service providers to retain customers, protect margin and extend client contracts.
Jo Bradley
Business Development Manager Sparck Technologies
www.sparcktechnologies.com
FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2023 31
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