ecological packaging Archives

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.

Types of folding packaging III: Wooden Crates

By 360 Ecopackaging On 30 de April de 2024 0 Comments

Wooden folding collapsible crates are one of the most widely used export packaging systems since the dawn of trade. Throughout the history of packaging, man has transformed wood into barrels, crates, cradles and boxes of large tonnage in order to obtain a robust solution that would allow him to store all types of products and be able to ship them by sea, land or air.

One of the most innovative of these has been the collapsible crate made of disassembled wood. Thanks to the development of engineering, the cumbersome, heavy and difficult-to-move models with nails have gradually fallen into disuse. In their place, a much more cost-effective, sustainable and easy-to-handle protective solution for transporting goods has emerged: the collapsible crate.

Benefits of wooden collapsible crates

It should be noted that all wooden packaging traveling outside the European Union must comply with the international standard ISPM-15, which certifies that the wood is free of harmful pests and bacteria.

Companies dealing with fragile products and international shipments often turn to wooden collapsible crates for their many advantages.

Our flagship product is Clipping Crate®:

Easy to handle

Wood is a resistant material that can withstand shocks, vibrations and temperature changes. In addition, this type of packaging is designed to be easy to handle and to speed up opening/closing at destination or in transit (customs inspection).

Reusable, Removable and Recyclable

Collapsible wooden crates can be disassembled and stored for future use. And they are repairable. With spare parts available, any of its parts can be easily replaced. Once it has reached its useful life, it can be returned for recycling. Thus, no waste is generated.

Customizable

It can be manufactured in standard and custom sizes, and can be personalized with the company’s brand or logo. This improves brand image and product identification during transport and storage.

Reduce costs

They are proven to help reduce the company’s logistics costs. Because they are stackable, they take up less warehouse space, which means fewer resources to store and transport them. This, coupled with their long shelf life, provides a quick return on investment.

Calculate here how much your company can save by using returnable packaging.

Clipping Crate® System

As mentioned above, our reference product in manufacturing is the Clipping Crate®.

It is a reusable, economical, resistant box with an innovative design. In addition, it stands out for its closing system using galvanized zinc clips or staples, which give it flexibility. The box can be assembled and disassembled by one person in just a few minutes without the use of tools.

Contact us and start taking advantage of the benefits of folding packaging.

Types of folding packaging II: Foldable Plastic Packaging

By 360 Ecopackaging On 18 de April de 2024 0 Comments

Foldable plastic packaging helps to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of the logistics process.

Foldable plastic packaging has qualities that are highly valued in today’s production lines. They are made of stable, lightweight material and are very easy to clean. They are therefore the ideal solution when extreme hygiene is required, as in the case of pharmaceuticals, agricultural products or foodstuffs.

Moreover, they do not require any treatment. They offer a barrier effect against humidity, temperature changes and microorganisms and are suitable for export.

Qualities of foldable plastic packaging

If we add to these properties their ability to fold, we obtain a product that will also help us to optimize warehouse space when not in use.

We cannot ignore the fact that Law 7/2022, of April 8, on waste and contaminated soils for a circular economy (LRSC) penalizes single-use plastic containers and packaging. Returnable and foldable plastic packaging solutions benefit all links in the supply network – producer, distributor and point of sale.

Most commonly used plastic packaging

Plastic boxes

At 360 Eco Packaging we are constantly innovating. We have spent years developing solutions that meet the changing needs of the market.

In our product portfolio, we have a range of plastic foldable container boxes that are specifically developed for reuse, stacking and returnability. This type of box is as robust and stable as any other rigid box, but much more versatile, handy and lightweight.

It is made of high-quality recycled plastic and can be recycled again. Its three parts <base, ring and sliding lid> become a plastic container box valid for storage on shelves and / or transport of goods, being suitable for all kinds of roller and chain conveyors.

It is provided with a Velcro system that facilitates its opening and closing. It folds quickly and easily, in just 4 seconds without the use of tools.

Each box can be customized with the company’s corporate colors, bar code labels or RFID elements.

Plastic pallets

Weight is a determining factor in the logistics of any business. The plastic pallet offers optimal stacking resistance. And because of its lightness and durability, it is another foldable packaging with an excellent price/performance ratio.

Advantages of foldable plastic pallets

They are lightweight.
They are reusable.
They have nestable skids.
Easy to clean.

Check our foldable packaging solutions, and if you have any questions, please contact our team.

We will find the most suitable packaging for your logistic process.

Types of folding packaging I: Cardboard Folding Packages

By 360 Ecopackaging On 8 de April de 2024 0 Comments

Supply chain security, inflation and sustainability are some of the major challenges that companies face. Among other things, we will discuss the advantages of folding carton packaging.

In the packaging industry, we find ourselves in a market where the demand for sustainable products is growing, the trend is to reduce single-use packaging and to optimize transport and storage costs.

Folding packaging meets all these requirements perfectly. With this post, we begin a series of articles to explain which ones are going to be the most frequently used and what benefits they bring to companies.

Advantages of Foldable Packaging

Quality folding packaging meets all the conditions for use in logistical operations with full guarantees. Their efficiency is proven every day in the storage and transport of goods in any industry.

In addition to strength and safety, they provide a series of advantages that have a direct impact on logistics cost savings:

Greater space utilization. When not in use, folding packaging takes up less space in the warehouse, which allows for better management.
Ease of handling. It is ergonomic and facilitates assembly/disassembly, with little need for tools. This cuts work times and minimizes possible damage caused by handling.

In addition, they can be made of cardboard, metal or plastic. In this post we will focus on cardboard folding packaging.

Types of folding packaging I_Cardboard Folding Packages

Cardboard Folding Packaging

By its nature, cardboard packaging is considered one of the most efficient on the market. Its popularity is increasing, due to the rise of ecommerce and the ongoing debate on sustainability and ecopackaging.

Cardboard is a natural, resistant and recyclable material, whose versatility makes it the best alternative for creating sustainable and original packaging solutions. Most are also reusable, so they can be used efficiently until the end of their useful life.

Cardboard boxes and pallet boxes

In industrial packaging we use corrugated cardboard, which, unlike other types of cardboard, is the strongest and most durable. Corrugated cardboard boxes in standard sizes or large-volume cardboard boxes can be used for packing and palletizing light and heavy goods, either alone or in combination with protective and cushioning solutions.

When the type of 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 at the base and sides with wooden slats to facilitate storage and picking.

In 360 Eco Packaging we develop efficient packaging solutions that provide savings along the entire supply chain. Contact us.

How Just in Case logistics Works

By 360 Ecopackaging On 28 de August de 2023 0 Comments

Just in Case logistics (JIC) is an inventory management methodology that consists of having enough product in stock at all times.

Compared to Just-In-Time logistics, where products are manufactured and stored on demand, Just-In-Case logistics is based on having more inventory than necessary. In this way, the company ensures that products are always available to be able to cope with increased demand or any type of eventuality.

This “just in case” management will imply, among other things, a greater investment in warehousing.

In which sectors and companies is Just in case logistics used?

The Just in case methodology is usually used in sectors with volatile demand, and in particular, in those that manufacture products with a long shelf life. For example, pharmaceuticals, where it is important to have availability of medicines and where stock-outs can have serious consequences.

In recent years, however, due to pandemics, war and the materials crisis that have strained supply chains, companies have turned to this strategy in order to maintain supply in all sectors.

What are the advantages of just-in-case logistics for companies?

From an inventory management point of view, one of the main advantages of just-in-case logistics is that it allows for greater flexibility. That is, by having a larger volume of products than necessary, companies can respond quickly to changes in demand without fear of running out of stock.

On the other hand, although it may seem that companies incur higher costs with this type of stockpiling, the truth is that this method can generate considerable savings in the long term.

First, by buying in larger volumes, they benefit from better prices. In addition, they have sufficient stock to ensure sales and respond to customers more efficiently than their competitors.

Just in case logistics packaging

More stock, more storage. For this reason, the unitization of cargo is one of the pillars of just-in-case logistics. Through palletizing, we manage to group and arrange the goods in the warehouse in higher loading units. In this way, we make maximum use of space.

In addition, since the products are palletized and sorted, they are kept in perfect condition while they remain in the warehouse for a long time, they can be located more quickly and the loading and unloading task is more agile.

Finally, the EPAL Euro pallet is a key element in this process. Thanks to its standard dimensions of 800 mm x 1,200 mm, the EPAL europallet can be adapted both to the dimensions of transport logistics (trucks and railroad wagons) and to those required in intralogistics (lifting, transfer on conveyor belts, handling of cardboard and wood packaging, etc.).

In short, packaging must meet the requirements of today’s supply chains. At 360 Eco Packaging we can help you find the best storage solution for your just-in-case operations.

Packing for moving

By 360 Ecopackaging On 7 de August de 2023 0 Comments

Nobody is aware of what they have until they have to move, that is why in this post we will talk about packing for moving. Moving our belongings from one place to another requires good planning, starting with choosing the optimal packaging so that the move is resolved quickly and smoothly.

Like any other type of shipment, each move will require different packaging, depending on the contents to be transported and the mode of transport.

What is the most suitable packing for a move?

The packaging systems for the moving or furniture storage sector share the following characteristics:

They are light and resistant packaging.
They are collapsible and can be disassembled and can withstand handling and almost any type of movement.
They are ergonomic and can be assembled/disassembled very easily, almost without the use of tools.
Most of them are also reusable, which means cost savings and respect for the environment.
They have auxiliary packaging systems to ensure the integrity of the load (fastening and lashing, protection and cushioning, control elements).

Types of packaging for moving

No two moves are the same. Moving a house is not the same as moving an office where electronic equipment and components are moved, much less a transoceanic move in a container.

Depending on the volume of material to be transported, wooden, cardboard or cardboard combined with wood packaging solutions can be used.

The most common are:

Cardboard boxes

Cardboard boxes are the most common type of packaging used in removals. As is logical, boxes of different sizes are used, depending on the needs. From a weight of 8 kilos upwards, it is advisable to use two-channel cardboard boxes, which offer greater resistance and protection.

Large-volume cardboard boxes, available with flaps or lids, are used to move large furniture and belongings.

Folding wooden boxes

Plywood transport crates with lids are the most commonly used for transoceanic moves. This type of box is made of ISPM15 certified wood, so it is suitable for international shipments.

It is a reusable, stackable and collapsible box. It consists of a lid, a base with support and a very consistent central body. The anchorage of the pieces is by means of metallic tabs, which gives it great resistance.

Fillings to protect the inside of the boxes

Just as important as choosing the most suitable box for a move is to have protection and padding aids to protect the contents inside.

Packing padding products immobilize objects to prevent them from suffering any impact during transportation and protect them from humidity or vibrations so that they arrive at their destination in perfect condition.

An economical solution to protect ceramic pieces, glassware or fragile products, as well as to fill the gaps left in boxes, is cardboard netting.

Cardboard corner protectors and foam profiles are essential to protect the edges on the inside and outside of the boxes.

In international moves, and especially in sea transport, inflatable bags or airbags are used as a complementary system in cargo lashing to fill the gaps in containers and prevent them from moving.

At 360 Eco Packaging we can’t move your things, but we can provide you with the necessary packing material to make your move as safe as possible. Contact us.

Cardboard, a strategic packaging for the Circular Economy

By 360 Ecopackaging On 19 de May de 2023 0 Comments

In a Circular Economy model where waste becomes a resource, the paper and board industry has a key role to play.

We know that the future of packaging involves incorporating sustainable materials, reducing the ecological footprint associated with its production and use, and that its waste can be revalued, without neglecting the purpose for which it is designed: to protect the product. In this future, cartonboard packaging will be a priority.

Cardboard as a sustainable packaging material

Cardboard is a natural, renewable, recyclable and biodegradable material. In recent years, it has been replacing other traditional packaging materials such as plastic.

Paper and cardboard fibers are also much stronger than previously thought. It has been shown that fiber-based packaging material – paper, cardboard, paperboard and folding cartons – can be recycled more than 25 times, retaining their mechanical properties for re-integration into the production process.

This makes it one of the most sustainable materials in the packaging sector and one of the preferred packaging solutions for the consumer.

Why is cardboard packaging preferred by consumers?

The way companies package their products is a matter of concern for consumers, influencing their purchasing decisions.

The European Association of Carton and Cartonboard Manufacturers reveals that 4 out of 5 consumers prefer cartons to plastic. In its report, it says that more than half of the consumers surveyed in Spain claim to have switched brands because the packaging was not recyclable or because they used unnecessary packaging. It adds that 82 percent would be willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.

Most commonly used carton packaging

For companies interested in incorporating circularity into their packaging, cardboard packaging represents a zero-waste system of significant social, economic and environmental value.

Because of its versatility, it can be used throughout the packaging chain:

Primary packaging, which is directly in contact with the product.
Packaging for Ecommerce.
Cargo units for storage and transport of consumer goods.
Protective elements, such as interior fillers to pack merchandise shipments, or corners to avoid friction during transport.

The most commonly used cartons are:

Corrugated cardboard boxes

Can be used in standard size or large volume for packing and palletizing light and heavy goods. They are foldable, which facilitates storage, reducing space.

Pallet boxes

They are corrugated cardboard boxes placed on a wooden pallet or cardboard. Its use as commercial exhibitors has been extended by its profitability, since they serve both as product container shelf and advertising support, because the cardboard can be easily printed and incorporate gaps or shelves to place the product.

The cardboard pallet

Consists of corrugated cardboard sheets and solid cardboard blocks that are inserted as pillars. Resistant and lighter than the wooden pallet, it is also valid for international transport, without having to undergo phytosanitary treatment.

The road map to a Circular Economy is written on cardboard.

Contact us if you are interested in adding reusable packaging to your logistics.

Happy Easter Holidays!

By 360 Ecopackaging On 5 de April de 2023 0 Comments

Happy Easter holiday!
We will return next week with more energy, more information about our packaging products, photos, content and the most outstanding news about the sectors of interest of the industry.

Joyeuses vacances de Pâques!
Nous reviendrons la semaine prochaine avec plus d’énergie, plus d’informations sur nos produits d’emballage, photos, contenus et les nouvelles les plus remarquables sur les secteurs d’intérêt de l’industrie.

Boas férias de Páscoa!
Voltaremos na próxima semana com mais energia, mais informações sobre nossos produtos de embalagem, fotos, conteúdos e as notícias mais marcantes sobre os setores de interesse da indústria.

Ecological Cardboard Pallets: Are they the alternative to wooden pallets?

By 360 Ecopackaging On 1 de July de 2022 0 Comments

The pallet is one of the most widely used elements in the packaging industry. Its use facilitates the handling, loading, transport and storage of goods.

Due to its resistance to support any type of load, grouping of goods and ease of handling, the wooden pallet occupies most of the market, being one of the most widely used packaging systems for export.

However, it is indisputable that wood is an increasingly scarce resource. In recent months, supply problems have led to a rise in the price of wood, which, together with a growing environmental awareness, is driving companies to look for sustainable and cost-effective packaging solutions. One such solution is the cardboard pallet.

What are the characteristics of the cardboard pallet?

The cardboard pallet is composed of corrugated cardboard sheets and solid cardboard blocks that are inserted as pillars. This manufacturing system gives it a stacking strength similar to that of a wooden pallet, since it can carry loads of over 600 kilograms.

It is also much lighter. A cardboard pallet weighs up to 10 times less than a wooden pallet. This reduces the risk of occupational accidents during handling and damage to palletized products.

Cardboard pallets are manufactured with the same dimensions as a traditional pallet, so they are suitable for use with forklifts.

What are the advantages of cardboard pallets over wooden pallets?

The demand for sustainable transport packaging has sparked interest in the cardboard pallet, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industry, where its advantages over traditional palletizing systems have not gone unnoticed:

Stronger and lighter than the wooden pallet. A cardboard pallet weighs between 1 and 5 kilos compared to 10-25 kilos for wood. This facilitates handling during transport and storage and reduces warehouse space.
It is valid for export without the use of phytosanitary treatments, which are mandatory for wooden pallets for international transport, according to ISPM15 standard.
Easy recycling, in any common paper container.
It is customizable.
Reduces CO2 emissions.

The search for sustainable alternatives for packaging all kinds of goods is one of the trends that will mark the packaging industry in the coming years. Cardboard packaging, and in particular the cardboard pallet, meets the requirements of quality, efficiency and recyclability demanded by an industry committed to efficient resource management and respect for the environment.

Did you know about this type of packaging? Which of its qualities do you find most interesting?

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