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Why industrial cardboard is changing Company Logistics

By 360 Ecopackaging On 21 de November de 2024 0 Comments

Although we tend to think of cardboard as a simple material, its versatility and strength have made it the basis for many advanced industrial packaging solutions.

Known as the ‘beige gold’, cardboard stands out for being lightweight, strong, customizable and environmentally friendly. These qualities have positioned it as a key material in industrial logistics, where high-performance packaging is required for land, air and sea transport.

To understand how cardboard is changing the logistics of companies, we must begin by explaining what corrugated cardboard is, what its quality depends on, and most importantly, how to choose the most suitable cardboard packaging for our shipments.

What is Corrugated Cardboard?

To begin with, corrugated cardboard is composed of several layers of paper on top of each other. Generally, it has a three-layer structure: two flat outer layers (liner) and a corrugated middle layer (flute).

This arrangement gives the cardboard its capacity for shock absorption and weight distribution. It is therefore ideal for protecting products and optimizing space in the transport of goods.

This structure has been perfected over the years, adapting to different industry needs. Today, there are cardboard solutions that can support significant weights, withstand shocks and protect even sensitive products. From the traditional American box, to boxes for dangerous goods or cardboard pallets, with exceptional density and that do not require ISPM15 phytosanitary certification.

Types of Industrial Cardboard

We can classify industrial cardboard according to the number of paper sheets that make it up. Bearing in mind that the outer smooth sheets are called faces or covers; the intermediate sheets, smooth faces; and finally, the corrugated sheets that form the carcasses; corrugated, gut or “medium”; would result:

The simple-face (single face – SF)

The simplest, consisting of a smooth sheet (one face) and a corrugated sheet, joined together with glue. It is used, for example, as reinforcement in packaging.

The double-sided (SW – Simple Wall)

Consists of two sides and a corrugated board. This type of cardboard is ideal for industrial packaging of medium-sized products, as well as for long transport times.

If a second single-side module is added to the double-side, it constitutes the so-called double-double (DD).

Similarly, a triple corrugated results from a double-double with a third single-side. This type of cardboard is ideal in industrial packaging for heavy equipment and for long transport times. It is therefore preferred by companies shipping internationally by sea or air, where the risks of movement and compression are high.

On the other hand, we can classify corrugated cardboard according to its thickness, with different letters. The most common are:

The greater the thickness, the greater the cushioning capacity. This makes the board easier to stack.

Industrial board properties

The thickness and number of layers of industrial cardboard determine its level of strength and flexibility, adapting to the different packaging needs demanded by industry:

Compression Resistance

One of the most important properties of industrial cardboard is its ability to withstand vertical compression. This is because the corrugated structure distributes the force across the layers, preventing them from being crushed by the weight of other products. This property is critical for shipping in containers, where goods are often stacked.

Absorbs shock and vibration

Similarly, the board structure itself acts as a cushion, reducing the impact of drops and absorbing jolts during transit.

Lightweight and economical

Despite its strength, industrial paperboard is very light. This gives it an added advantage as it does not add significant weight to the final packaging or additional transportation costs.

Which box solution is best for my goods?

In summary, the most commonly used parameters to determine the type of board to use are:

Consistency (ECT – Edge Crush Test).
Vertical compression resistance (BCT – Box Compression Test).

As we have seen, this is the most important parameter, since it indicates the weight that a box will be able to support when subjected to a stacking load.

Taking both into account, it is possible to design cardboard packaging solutions for different industries and in a wide range of sizes. The most common are:

Cardboard pallets

The cardboard pallet has a stacking strength similar to that of a wooden pallet and can carry loads of more than 1,200 kilograms. It is also much lighter than wood or plastic pallets. It is primarily used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Pallet Box

When the nature of the load requires a folding solution of greater resistance, we can opt for the pallet box, a mixed packaging. In the pallet box, the cardboard box is reinforced with wooden slats on the bottom and sides to facilitate storage and picking.

Its main advantage, however, is its compatibility with standardized European and American palletizing systems, and since it is certified with the ISPM-15 phytosanitary seal, it is ideal for export.

At 360 Eco Packaging, we believe that cardboard will continue to be a fundamental pillar in the supply chain. We dedicate all our experience and know-how to develop new customized industrial packaging solutions, guaranteeing quality and safety. Contact us today!

Rail Transport

By 360 Ecopackaging On 26 de July de 2024 0 Comments

The transport of goods by rail is the best way to move large goods from one place to another. In this post, we will talk about the transport regulations related to this modality and its advantages.

Rail freight transport regulations

At the international level, rail freight transport is regulated by a series of international agreements and conventions:

In the European Union:

Directive on Railway Liberalization.
Directive on the Interoperability of the Railway System.

In Spain:

Railway Sector Law and its corresponding regulatory provisions.

Advantages of Rail Freight Transportation

Rail represents great advantages for certain routes and types of cargo, compared to other modes of transport. For example:

Efficiency

First and foremost, rail is more efficient in terms of energy consumption and carbon emissions. According to the European Environment Agency, CO2 emissions from rail transport are 3.5 times lower per tonne-kilometer than those of road transport.

Reliability

One of the singularities of rail freight transport is that, unlike other modes of transport, it is the least vulnerable to external agents such as traffic or weather conditions.
Its routes are fixed and its schedules are pre-established and punctual. Consequently, it is one of the transport systems with the highest level of organization, fluidity and regularity.

Capacity and adaptability

The load capacity of a rail convoy is very wide. A freight train can carry almost any type of cargo, since it has a variety of platforms and wagons. For example, boxcars, gondolas, trailer boxes, hoppers, tank cars, intermodal platforms and autoracks.
This versatility allows it to move any type of goods quickly and safely, especially heavy loads or large packages.

Economical

The railroad has a more stable and lower cost than other types of transportation, although the transshipment of cargo can increase costs.

To conclude, it is true that rail transport is the most popular intermodal system. This is because it complements perfectly with other connections via land, sea and air. But limitations in infrastructure or traffic routes in some countries make logistics difficult.

At 360 Eco Packaging we are convinced that rail freight has the potential to continue to grow. With the implementation of appropriate policies and measures, rail will play a key role in the future of logistics in Spain and Europe.

Main packaging certifications

By 360 Ecopackaging On 6 de November de 2023 0 Comments

Certifications are key indicators in any activity. Through these accreditations, packaging manufacturers can demonstrate that their products or services comply with the regulations required by transport agreements, and at the same time meet high standards of safety, quality or environmental responsibility. They are, therefore, a guarantee of how we do things.

ISO 9001 certification is one of the most widely implemented standards among companies. In our case, this seal accredits the quality of our processes for the design and manufacture of industrial packaging.

In the packaging field there are other valuable rules and certifications that we highlight below:

Phytosanitary-certified wood packaging material

The International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures ISPM-15 was created by FAO to regulate wood packaging in international trade in order to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of pests.

The ISPM 15 seal is based on a heat treatment that consists of the wood reaching 56 ºC in its core for at least 30 continuous minutes.

Once the wood has been treated, the mark must be visible on at least two opposite sides of the wood.

The ISPM-15 standard affects packaging made wholly or partially from raw wood, such as pallets, crates, crates, crates, crates, dunnage, pallets, cable drums and reels. Plywood is excluded.

To obtain the ISPM-15 label, it is necessary to be registered in the national system and to pass the required annual audits, through the control of the traceability of the manufactured elements.

The issuance of a certificate will only be necessary if required by the phytosanitary protection agencies of the destination countries.

Certified Dangerous Goods Packaging

Dangerous goods are considered to be solid, liquid or powdered products that represent a risk to the safety and health of people or the environment.

The transport of dangerous goods requires specific approved packaging, with its corresponding certificate in accordance with the regulations of each mode of transport. The regulation par excellence in the transport of dangerous goods by road is the ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road).

Compliance is also mandatory:

Rail RID (Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail).
Air transport IATA (International Air Transport Association).
Maritime transport IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code).

The UN has established a universal system of classification, packaging, marking and labeling of the different dangerous goods valid for all modes of transport.

Dangerous goods packaging can be made of plastic, cardboard or metal, but must always be properly labeled. In addition to the labeling required for each type of goods, according to its classification in the ADR, each package must show a UN number, among other data such as the manufacturer’s code, type of box, password, country and year of manufacture.

The ADR defines packing instructions for each UN number, according to which the physical-chemical specifications that the packaging must meet for a given good will be detailed.

Packaging with PEFC / FSC® certification

Nowadays, it is impossible to talk about quality without taking environmental criteria into account. PEFC and FSC® chain-of-custody certification guarantees good practices along the entire wood value chain.

PEFC-certified pallets, wooden crates and cardboard boxes use raw material from sustainable logging, recycled material or both. Choosing PEFC / FSC® certified packaging means promoting a responsible supply chain, contributing to sustainable forest management and the well-being of forest communities.

These seals are also a competitive advantage in markets that require the supply of environmentally responsible materials.

Use certified packaging suppliers that add value to your logistics.

Safe transport of Lithium Batteries

By 360 Ecopackaging On 30 de October de 2023 0 Comments

Our cell phones, electronic devices and electric vehicles are powered by lithium batteries, a source of energy that is increasingly present in our daily lives.

By their nature, lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods, and as such require approved packaging to avoid potential risks during handling and transport, both for people and the environment. As certified and approved manufacturers of this type of packaging, we want to show in this post the high importance of storage and transport of this type of product.

Lithium battery regulations

All dangerous goods must comply with specific regulations and warnings, and batteries are no exception.

First of all, lithium batteries contain high levels of electrical energy, which makes them prone to overcharging, extreme temperature, short circuit and mechanical damage. Therefore, improper use or storage could lead to fires or explosions such as the one that occurred on the Felicity Ace cargo ship in 2022, with more than 4,000 luxury cars on board.

Therefore, manufacturers and intermediaries must use approved packaging, which complies with the regulations of the chosen means of transport, whether by land, sea or air. That is:

Land:

European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).

By Air:

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions (TI) for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations.

By Rail:

International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID).

By sea:

International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG).

Packaging of lithium batteries

Secondly, there are a number of considerations to take into account when looking for solutions for handling and transporting batteries.

Heat resistance: use materials resistant to high temperatures.
Insulation: each battery must be individually insulated in its own compartment or container to avoid short circuits and shocks that could damage it.
Avoid contact with metals: lithium batteries should not come into contact with metal objects, as this could cause short circuits. They should be separated from each other by non-conductive insulators, such as polyethylene or plastic foams.
Hazard statements: use the correct labeling according to the applicable transport regulations.
Stability: by means of protection and fastening elements that guarantee their safety. The heavier the battery, the more support it needs.

Identification and labeling of packaging for lithium batteries

The packaging of lithium batteries must also be provided with labels and information warning of the risks of handling and transport:

The class 9 identification label, model 9A, is mandatory.

The UN number, which identifies the material from four digits. The identification codes for the different types of batteries are:

Lithium-ion batteries UN-3480.

Lithium-ion batteries UN-3481 included or packaged in a device.

Lithium metal batteries UN-3090.

Lithium metal batteries contained or packaged in a device UN-3091.

The homologation password indicating the material, country, year of manufacture and manufacturer’s code.

In conclusion, please consult here without obligation our approved solutions for the storage of lithium batteries, individual or integrated in equipment, for each mode of transport.

Also in our usual communication channels: info@360ecopackaging.com and on the phone (+34) 699 239 392

Battery packaging, essentials and main factors to be taken into account

By 360 Ecopackaging On 18 de October de 2023 0 Comments

In our more than 80 years, 360 Eco Packaging has manufactured many certified packaging for dangerous goods and explosives, so we want to mention that we are members of the Subcommittee CTN 192 SC 03 (UNE/ISO) in the development of a new regulation in the field of transport of dangerous goods with AENOR and the Ministry of Industry (ISO 16495 development).

In this post, we will talk about the packaging and batteries shipping, including those coming from the automotive sector as one of the most complex in the field of transport and logistics.

To begin with, we must take into account the type of item to be transported; in this case, batteries classified as hazardous under current regulations. Therefore, as a normative and legal basis we must take among others the ADR code that identifies this type of element in category 2, class 9.

For the different types of batteries, this ADR code classifies them according to their construction material, for example:

Lithium-ion battery: UN No. 3480
Lithium metal battery: UN No 3090
Nickel-metal hydride battery: UN No. 3496

In this link, you can consult all the information.

Once the type of battery to be protected has been defined, the ADR code defines specific instructions for each type of battery depending on different parameters such as: the point in its life cycle, the degree of deterioration, whether it is installed in equipment, etc.

After this short introduction, we will try to answer the main questions that may arise:

What are ADR boxes or certified packaging for battery transport?

The certified packaging for the transport of batteries or ADR crates for batteries is a type of packaging specifically designed and developed for this purpose.

These crates come with the product from the factory to the recycling plant. In other words, we offer the solution for the entire circuit from the point of view of savings, since the cost is the minimum.

Therefore, the packaging not only serves as a mere means of protection, but is positioned as a key link in the value chain that makes up the life cycle of the batteries.

Why is the transport of batteries classified as dangerous?

Mainly, because due to their construction type, this type of batteries are sensitive to impacts and sudden temperature changes, and there is a risk of internal component leakage, explosion or fire due to high temperature, among others.

Therefore, it is essential to minimize these risks by designing a packaging that contains and minimizes them.

Can damaged batteries be transported?

Yes, as we mentioned at the beginning of this post, there is a specific regulation for these issues.

In this case, it is a robust packaging capable of containing and retaining liquid spills, thus avoiding explosions, perforations, deterioration or other types of incidents capable of damaging not only the product but also causing damage to the population or the environment.

As a conclusion, storing, transporting and shipping a battery correctly ensures that the risks involved are eliminated or minimized.

Keeping the battery at a suitable temperature is essential to avoid spontaneous combustion. These types of batteries are very sensitive to humidity, high and low temperatures. In addition to the main packaging, there are temperature and humidity detectors capable of monitoring these parameters.

Finally, it must be taken into account that the transport agency with which the service is carried out must be certified for this type of shipment. They must be qualified for the transport of dangerous goods and comply with the established regulations.

ISO Symbols for Packaging

By 360 Ecopackaging On 28 de October de 2021 0 Comments

ISO symbols are universal graphic representations used to indicate the handling, preservation and protection of goods. In this post, we cover this type of marking.

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