Tag Archives: packaging

Trending packaging
Circular packaging, Ecology, Industrial packaging

What will be new in Packaging in 2023?

 

The way companies distribute their products is constantly evolving. Aspects as diverse as legislation, profitability, innovation and consumer preferences condition the changes to which logistics processes are subjected in order to meet quality, safety and efficiency requirements.

 

As far as packaging design is concerned, everything indicates that packaging in the year 2023 will continue to follow the path of sustainability it has taken in recent years, albeit under the imperative of regulations that will entail new fiscal obligations.

Packaging

As manufacturers of packaging solutions, we review the main innovations that 2023 will bring to the packaging sector.

 

Plastic tax

The Law on Waste and Contaminated Soils for a Circular Economy, which was passed last year, aims to improve the management of waste generated in Spain. Among other measures, it has established a “green tax” on plastic, in force since January 1.

 

According to this, all non-reusable primary, secondary or tertiary packaging containing plastic will be subject to a charge of €0.45/kg. This amount may be reduced if part of the product comes from recycled material.

 

Ecodesign

Spanish companies have been working for years to incorporate sustainability into their production processes in order to reduce their environmental footprint.

 

In fact, last year more than 2,000 Spanish companies implemented 4,632 sustainable design measures to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging.

Packaging

Achieving the EU’s reduction, reuse and recyclability objectives means knowing the principles of ecopackaging and knowing how to apply them to the design and development of sustainable packaging.

 

The trend will continue to be to opt for packaging that, with the minimum amount of material possible, guarantees product protection throughout the distribution chain, reducing environmental impact and the economic cost associated with transportation, while meeting consumer expectations.

 

Growth of online commerce

Online commerce will continue to grow, which will have an impact on packaging and logistics. Demand for packaging solutions such as corrugated boxes and products for protecting and cushioning goods will increase, and new specialty packaging and customized shipping options will emerge.

Ecommerce

Smart packaging

The use of technology applied to the field of packaging is driving a new generation of packaging. We are talking about smart packaging, which is increasingly being applied in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.

 

Packaging that will change color if the product is about to expire, or that emits particles for preservation, will see the light of day throughout the year.

It is becoming increasingly common to integrate smart labels, RFID, QR codes and NFC chips into packaging. These devices provide more and better information on product quality, storage conditions and traceability.

 

Automation with “Pick and Place” robots will also be extended to more industries in order to bring more efficiency and flexibility to packaging processes.

 

What do you think of these changes, and would you add any more to the list?

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How to Choose Good Packaging
Circular packaging, Folding packaging, Industrial packaging, Transport and logistics

How to Choose Good Packaging?

In the last posts we have talked about the importance of packaging and the conditioning of the load inside it, as well as its monitoring by means of active or passive control systems (impact detectors, verticality,…).

 

In today’s post we are going to focus on the different competitive advantages that packaging can provide.

How to Choose Good Packaging

A good choice of packaging system can be key to ensure a correct shipment and savings in transportation costs, the packaging must be designed to suit the load to be transported, thus optimizing weight and volume and saving on handling and transportation costs.

How to Choose Good Packaging

The use of reusable packaging in addition to saving resources consumed by the planet is an effective cost saving, we must study whether this option is viable for our company and define which model of those on the market is best suited to our needs (reusability, weight, functionality, strength, …).

How to Choose Good Packaging

Reusable and desassemble packaging – Clipping Crate® System

As for the tangible part of what a good packaging can bring us in addition to resistance and functionality, as we have seen, cost savings is one of the main parameters to take into account.

As for the intangible part, we must appreciate that the packaging is the letter of introduction of our product, it says more in 10 seconds (quality, type, image, dimensions, weight …) than any sales manager can tell us in hours.

 

Discover here the Clipping Crate® System, a high quality reusable crate model.

 

We must use this salesperson to show our product to the consumer, even before the product comes out of the box.

 

In today’s post we have seen how the choice of something as “simple” as packaging can save us handling and logistics costs, as well as increase the value of our product by giving it an improved image.

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Pallets
Circular packaging, Industrial packaging, Transport and logistics

Pallets, Regulatory Requirements

We begin today’s post with one of the most used elements in the packaging sector: the pallet. In this post we are going to detail the different regulatory requirements depending on the packaging needs that we can find.

pallets

In the logistics – transport – packaging sector it is common to request “certified pallets”, what does this certificate refer to?

Well, this certificate usually refers to the phytosanitary certificate unless otherwise specified, this certificate as we have seen in previous posts is required in the field of international transport and must incorporate a marking on the pallet itself. This marking certifies that this pallet has received the required treatment and is suitable to be imported by a third country according to the international treaty ISPM Nº15.

 

An example of this marking is shown below.

ISPM15

As we have seen, this widely used packaging system is regulated by different regulations, we must identify which one is required and then select the right pallet for our needs.

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Packaging for exporting automotive products
Circular packaging, Industrial packaging, Transport and logistics

Packaging for Exporting Automotive Products

Packaging represents a strategic factor in the supply chain. Even more so in times of uncertainty like the ones we are living in.

Automotive companies and the ancillary industry know that optimizing their investment in packaging reduces costs, time and storage space. A key aspect considering the difficulties the sector is going through due to the shortage of microchips, the war in Ukraine and the rising cost of energy.

 

Packaging solutions for the automotive industry

The automotive industry works with tight deadlines. It is crucial that all components in the chain arrive on time and in perfect condition at the assembly line.

 

Custom Packaging

Automotive manufacturers’ vehicles are made up of parts with different weights, volumes, shapes and sizes. At 360 Eco Packaging we design each packaging according to the type of part to be protected, the means of transport and destination, incorporating as many as possible in order to optimize the logistics process to the maximum.

 

Protections and packaging for batteries

 

Parts in the automotive sector are delicate. The dashboards and windows must be protected against possible impacts or vibrations during transport. Different auxiliary means are usually used to secure the goods, technical foams or corner protectors, which allow each part to be immobilized, preventing them from colliding with each other or moving during shipment.

Bulky parts such as engines or bodywork may require special packaging, such as heavy-duty crates or shrink wrap, which adapts to the contours of the cargo. Batteries and electrical components are considered dangerous goods and require special transport conditions. We are currently participating as a member of the CTN 192 SC 03 Subcommittee (UNE/ISO) in the development of a new regulation in the field of transport of dangerous goods, together with AENOR and the Ministry of Industry.

 

Packaging for the automotive and railway industry

 

Automotive components are not usually manufactured in one place, but arrive at the assembly line from different origins and suppliers.

Our automotive export packaging is made of ISPM 15 certified wood for international trade and transport of dangerous goods (ADR, IMDG, RID, IATA) to any destination in the world.

Our high quality reusable boxes can reach a resistance of up to 1,200 kg. Assembly and disassembly is done without the need for nails or tools, quickly and safely. And once disassembled, it takes up 20% of its size, saving space and storage costs.

Considering that many international shipments are subject to customs inspection, it is a very useful system that can be opened and closed in the same way without damaging the box, saving time and hassle.

 

Since our beginnings in 360 Eco Packaging we have been linked to the automotive and railway sector, working with renowned companies that rely on our experience. Check here our packaging and protection solutions for the automotive sector.

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Solar Panels
Industrial packaging, Transport and logistics

What is the most suitable packaging for transporting Solar Panels?

Demand for solar panels is experiencing strong growth in the European market as a result of rising electricity and gas prices. In Spain, solar energy grew by 37% in 2021 compared to the previous year. And everything points to this trend consolidating thanks to the aid plans for self-consumption, the agility in installation licenses and greater environmental awareness.

 

Packaging manufacturers are no strangers to this energy transformation. For years, packaging engineering has been providing solutions for large and heavy equipment, machinery and goods that require special treatment for storage and transport, such as packaging for glass, crystal and solar panels.

 

Factors to consider when transporting Solar Panels

 

Not all goods are the same and do not need the same protection. It is important to know what type of packaging to use depending on our merchandise to protect it against external agents such as heat, humidity, corrosion or impacts that it may suffer during the journey and arrive at its destination as if it had just left the factory.

 

Solar panels are composed of photovoltaic cells formed by silicon wafers. Due to their nature, they require packaging that is suitable for their weight, allows stacking and incorporates protective elements that absorb possible vibrations or impacts that could compromise their integrity.

 

Until recently in the solar energy sector, it was common to use metal racks for the maritime transport of containerized solar panels. However, metal is vulnerable to corrosion. And these types of metal structures are often damaged by repeated use of the forklift’s claw, resulting in a shorter service life.

 

As a result, they have been replaced by logistical solutions that are more advantageous in terms of both safety and economic profitability.

 

Advantages of wood packaging for solar panels and glass

 

Wood is a durable material, which allows for greater customization and reusability of the packaging.

Specialized packaging for the solar industry stands out for its maximum capacity optimization, being between 5 and 7 percent higher than other packaging used in this sector. By maximizing the number of pieces per container, direct savings in transportation costs are achieved.

 

As in the case of glass packaging, wood packaging for solar panels complies with ISPM15 certification for international transport, and is equipped with corner protection to prevent possible breakage of parts during transport.

 

Another benefit is the ease of handling. As it does not use nails, it can be assembled without the need for tools, making this task faster and safer. And since all its components can be disassembled, the space it takes up after use is minimal.

 

Today there are customized packaging solutions that adapt to the particularities of each merchandise and sector.

 

Contact us for a correct choice.

 

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Returnable packaging plastic
Circular packaging, Ecology, Folding packaging, Industrial packaging

Types of Returnable Packaging III: Plastic Packages

As we told you a few days ago, during this month in the blog, we talked about the different types of returnable packaging that exist.
In this post, we define plastic returnable packaging whose purpose is optimal for transportation and storage over long periods of time.

 

The logistics industry is beginning to clearly perceive the advantages of using returnable transport packaging systems.

Compared to single-use packaging, returnable packaging optimizes the supply chain, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly. Although this type of packaging requires an initial investment, it usually pays for itself within the first few months and leads to significant savings in logistics costs. See for yourself by calculating how much you can save per year with returnable packaging.

There is a wide range of returnable packaging solutions for every need. We have already explained which wooden returnable packaging is commonly used and which metal returnable packaging is the most commonly used. In this post we will explain the most commonly used plastic returnable packaging and its benefits.

 

Properties of plastic Packaging

 

Plastic is one of the most commonly used packaging materials. It stands out for its lightness, resistance and high protection against external factors such as humidity, temperature or microorganisms. All these innate characteristics have made it an essential packaging material for the food, agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors.

Plastic packaging can be easily handled. And because of its durability, it is a returnable packaging with an excellent price/performance ratio. Especially now, when due to the scarcity of raw materials such as wood and the rise in market prices, it is a very competitive product.

 

What are the most common plastic returnable packages?

The most commonly used plastic returnable packaging models are:

They are detachable, stackable and very versatile. They can be folded, taking up less storage space. They save 85% in return transport and storage. There is the possibility of providing the box with a lock, securing the goods. Manufactured in polyethylene and polypropylene. They are suitable for food use and are available in different sizes and types.

Foldable plastic box-FlexiCrate ©
Returnable packaging- Plastic
Reusable Packaging - Plastic packaging
Reusable Packaging - Plastic packaging
Reusable Packaging - Plastic packaging
Returnable packaging - Plastic Packaging
  • Removable and reusable plastic packaging.

This type of plastic packaging is characterized by its strength, low weight, reusability and re-stackability. They are available in several standard sizes that cover most of the needs of the packaging sector.

Plastic collapsible crate – Container storage box
Returnable Packaging -Plastic Packaging

Manufactured to support medium and heavy loads, plastic pallets are lightweight, durable and reusable. They are available in a range of standard sizes.

Returnable Packaging_plastic packages
  • Lego pallet/paletkit.

It is a modular plastic pallet that can be disassembled for its return. The parts that deteriorate over time can be easily replaced.  In addition, it is dimensional according to your needs. Being modular, it can be assembled as long as required and benefit from a logistical return.

 

  • Woodyplast collars.

These collars are manufactured with a combination of materials: 70% wood (spruce) and 30% plastic (PP + additives). This mixture is then thermoplastically processed into granules and WPC is obtained. They are highly resistant to moisture and are 100% recyclable. They are available in standard sizes.

Returnable Packaging_plastic packages

In short, there are different plastic returnable packaging that can be an efficient and cost-effective alternative to your conventional packaging system.

 

Contact 360 Eco Packaging. We will help you find the right solution for your logistics processes.

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Circular packaging, Industrial packaging, Transport and logistics

Presenting our Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe

Presenting our Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe

On May 11, 12 and 13, 360 Eco Packaging Encaja Embalajes had the opportunity to present its packaging solutions for the solar industry at the Intersolar Europe Fair, the most important exhibition of the sector worldwide, held in Munich (Germany).

The meeting was attended by Jesús Álvarez, commercial director, and José Ramón Novoa (ASTUREX; Sociedad de Promoción Exterior Principado de Asturias S.A.)

Our participation was possible thanks to the Sociedad de Promoción Exterior Principado de Asturias S.A. (ASTUREX), which organized a joint stand with 8 Asturian companies that supply products and services related to the solar energy value chain.

With commercial actions such as Intersolar Europe, ASTUREX contributes to a greater presence of Asturian companies in international markets.

On this occasion, among all the participating companies, we have highlighted the potential of the region as a producer of goods and services in the value chain of renewable energies linked to solar energy.

We were accompanied by: Alusín Solar S.L.U., Distribuciones Solares del Principado S.L. (DSP Solar), Duro Felguera S.A., Ingeniería y Suministros Asturias S.A., Mecanizados CAS S.A., Procinsa Energías Renovables S.L. and Temper Energy International S.L. (Temper).

 

As part of the fair, 360 Eco Packaging – Encaja Embalajes informed attendees about the most efficient packaging for transporting solar panels, sustainable packaging and the reusability of wooden packaging and its impact on logistics costs, as well as the specifications that this type of packaging must meet for export.

 

Why Intersolar Europe?

Intersolar Europe is one of the most significant events in the energy sector calendar.

The event brings together more than 50,000 visitors and around 1,500 exhibitors interested in showcasing their innovative products, solutions and business models for the energy transition and security of supply in Europe.

 

The importance of Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe

As industrial packaging manufacturers, we remain attentive to market demands in order to offer solutions that meet the needs of the supply chains of each sector and customer. 

It has been an honour for us to present our Sustainable Packaging at Intersolar Europe.

See you at the next edition!

Presenting our sustainable packaging at Intersolar Europe

Presenting our sustainable packaging at Intersolar Europe

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Circular packaging
Circular packaging

Circular Packaging for a New Cycle

It is a fact that the intensive use of natural resources and the volume of waste we generate have a huge environmental impact. It is also a fact that through a Circular Economy we can transform our throwaway model into a new, more balanced and respectful production system, able to provide value thanks to continuous and regenerative cycles.

At 360 Eco Packaging we are contributing to a sustainable economic model.

Our company has spent years helping companies in a wide variety of sectors to be more productive and reduce their environmental footprint through efficient, sustainable and profitable packaging systems.

And we do this from a circular perspective based on three principles:

  • Reduce and valorize our resources.

Our raw materials come from certified sustainable sources, as well as from our own manufacturing surpluses. We also apply circular designs to our packaging solutions, based on technical, economic and ecological feasibility diagnoses.

  • Extending the useful life of our products.

We manufacture returnable packaging that can be reused and recycled by companies, allowing them to save costs, produce less waste and optimize their logistics processes.

  • Identify opportunities for improvement in the supply chain of our customers.

We provide an advisory service and optimization of packaging processes, creating circular packaging solutions for every need.

With this work philosophy we have developed patents in returnable packaging, such as our Clipping Crate® and obtained certifications in ISO9001, PEFC/FSC chain of custody and ISPM15 (phytosanitary regulations for export), among others.

We also participate as a member of the Subcommittee CTN 192 SC 03 (UNE/ISO) in the development of a new regulation in the field of transport of dangerous goods, together with AENOR and the Ministry of Industry. We also belong to the board of directors of the Innovation Club in Asturias and collaborate in the development of new projects with leading technology centers and companies such as AIDIMME and Aglae.

 

For our company, being sustainable has become a competitive advantage.

For this reason, we want to share our knowledge and experience with companies and professionals who are still unaware of the benefits of the circular economy or are wondering how to implement a circular strategy in their packaging systems.

We want this blog to serve as a meeting point where we can provide resources on trends, regulations, programs and success stories that facilitate the practical application of a circular economy.

The future will be circular. And as in every cycle, there is always a starting point.

We hope that each post will be a source of inspiration that helps to see packaging in a different way.

 

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