Transport Archives - 360ecopackaging

Custom Packaging for Electrical Equipment

By 360 Ecopackaging On 14 de February de 2025 0 Comments

Why should you use custom packaging for electrical equipment?

The use of custom electrical packaging is important because electrical manufacturers work with high-value, often fragile and heavy equipment and products. Engineering, industrial and energy solutions in this sector increasingly have connections and finishes where the slightest impact can render the product unusable and result in financial loss.

As a result, the supply chain in this sector is one of the most demanding in terms of transportation and storage, requiring packaging that offers maximum security during the different phases of distribution.

The power and energy sector is also one of the most concerned about reducing its carbon footprint, so there is a growing interest in implementing sustainable packaging.

What are the benefits of custom packaging for electrical equipment manufacturers?

This is a big challenge for packaging companies. For us, it is essential to carry out a technical-economic study based on which we design the most efficient packaging solution to optimize the logistics process.

In most cases, customized packaging is the best option because it offers significant advantages:

By adapting to the goods, they guarantee integral protection during transportation.
Mobility and handling of products is more efficient, saving packaging time and auxiliary packaging costs.
By reducing the use of unnecessary materials, space is used efficiently and excess waste is avoided.

Wood Packaging for Electrical Equipment and Components

Due to its strength and versatility, wood packaging for the electrical industry has proven to be the most efficient for your supply chain.

Our wooden crates are manufactured with high quality materials, shock and moisture resistant. They have ISPM 15 certification for international trade, valid for all types of transportation (air, sea and land).

Assembly and disassembly do not require the use of tools or nails. It is quick and safe to handle, and when disassembled it takes up a fifth of its size, saving on storage costs.

Because it is modular, it can be fully utilized as it can be used in components. The base can be used for auxiliary transportation before the box is completely closed for shipping.

Success story: Registered fastening system for electrical cabinets

If you follow our blog, you will have noticed the importance of packing aids in securing loads during transportation.

Lashing and securing elements are necessary complements because they provide additional protection. At 360 Eco Packaging, we are always thinking about new packaging solutions, so we have been studying how to incorporate fastening systems into the packaging itself, without altering its characteristics.

And Eureka, the result is an innovative internal lashing system for electrical cabinets.

Customized wooden cabinet for the transport and handling of electrical material. Registered system.

With this device, we are able to quickly and efficiently secure the case by integrating the immobilization elements into the base of the case itself.

Thanks to this system, we have eliminated unnecessary packaging aids such as pallets, supports, cleats, etc. In this way, we optimize weight and internal volume, which translates into a reduction in logistics and transport costs for our customers, especially in air transport.

In 360 Eco Packaging we have a wide experience in packaging for industrial sectors.

Contact us and take advantage of the economic and environmental benefits of using customized packaging for your product.

Issues to Consider in the Transportation of Goods by Road

By 360 Ecopackaging On 20 de September de 2024 0 Comments

The wheel is one of the most important inventions in human history. It revolutionized the transportation of goods, thus stimulating foreign trade and the economic development of countries.

In Spain, almost 95% of goods are transported by road. Because of its speed, the vast majority of companies choose road transportation instead of rail to transport their products to other countries in the European Union.

This is despite the higher costs. The reason is that in logistics, transport optimization, cargo safety and delivery reliability take precedence over economic criteria.

In this article, we review the most important issues in road transportation.

Advantages of road transportation

Transporting goods by road offers companies a number of advantages over other modes of transportation:

Speed.
Safety and versatility to transport any type of goods.
It is the only means that guarantees a door-to-door service.
Traceability, allowing vehicles and loads to be tracked.

But it is not without its disadvantages:

High accident rate compared to trains, planes or ships.
The volume of loads is limited, in contrast to sea or rail, which have a greater capacity.
Highly polluting and subject to fluctuations in fuel prices.

Load units and measurements in road transport

Road transportation has become increasingly standardized, which has made it easier to combine with other modes of transportation.

The standardized vehicle for transporting goods by road is the truck, and the most commonly used unit load in this mode of transport is the wooden pallet. As a result, trucks are designed with pallet dimensions in mind, so it is possible to calculate how many pallets will fit on a trailer.

This palletizing process not only minimizes handling, but also optimizes space in the warehouse and on the truck, thus reducing costs.

The basic rules for transporting goods by road

In Spain, the general legal framework for land transportation of goods consists of three main regulations:

The LOTT, or Law 16/1987 on the Regulation of Land Transport, is the main piece of legislation covering road freight in Spain. It lays out the general principles of road transport and the role of public administrations.
Royal Decree 1211/1990, which approves the Regulations of the Land Transport Law (ROTT). It covers things like supervisory bodies, control and safety elements, and contracts.
This is Directive 85/3/EEC from the Council of the European Communities on December 19, 1984. It covers all the technical details of the main vehicles used in road transport.

On top of that, international conventions also apply, such as:

CMR stands for Convention for the International Carriage of Goods by Road.
ADR stands for European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.

The importance of storage when transporting goods

When shipping goods by road, we need to think about things that can affect the safety of the cargo and how well the process works.

That means there are certain rules for transporting different types of goods.For instance, perishable products must be kept cold, while chemical or flammable products require special safety measures.

It’s also important to think about what we’re using to secure the cargo. Here’s a quick summary of the main technical standards you need to know about:

These standards are based on EN 12195 for the stowage and securing of cargo: “Devices for securing cargo on road vehicles” and its parts 1, 2, 3 and 4 regulate the securing or lashing specification that we must apply to the cargo, as well as the fastening elements used.

In addition, as we have already mentioned, for the transportation of dangerous goods by road, the ADR 2019 regulations, of international application, must be taken as a reference.

These are the main standards used in road transportation, but they are not the only ones. Transporting goods by road is a complex task, but fundamental to any supply chain, so you need to be up to date with the required regulations.

At 360 Eco Packaging we can help you choose the best packaging to secure your goods in road transport. 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.

Oversized Packaging

By 360 Ecopackaging On 18 de December de 2023 0 Comments

Any goods can be moved from one side of the world to the other by sea, air or road. However, there are loads that, due to their volume or dimensions, require special packaging and modes of transport to be able to do so.

In this post we will talk about packaging for large loads, or also known as packaging for large dimensions or packaging for oversized cargo.

What is oversized cargo?

We refer to oversized cargo when, due to its size or tonnage, it cannot be transported in a conventional way, being necessary to resort to specially designed and manufactured solutions to be able to handle it safely.

For example, industrial machinery such as large engines, construction materials such as beams or pipes, as well as all types of packaging for aeronautical, automotive or renewable energy parts such as wind blades or solar panels.

Today, most of the companies in the industrial sector that operate at an international level need a goods protection service for large parts or loads.

Packaging for oversized cargoes – Main considerations

In most cases, it must be approved for export, which means that it has to comply with ISPM-15 certification to avoid any problems at customs.

In addition, it must be reinforced to efficiently support the weight, and if we are talking about bulky goods, it may require a special platform to facilitate its movement.

Phases when designing an oversized package

The first step is to conduct a preliminary study on the needs of the cargo: weight, size or other requirements. From production to delivery, each step is carefully planned and comprehensively oriented.

Our technical department develops the best type of protection taking into account factors such as packaging efficiency, use of sustainable materials and space optimization during transport, all from the best technical and economical point of view.

Mechanical considerations

At 360 Eco Packaging we are manufacturers, which allows us to offer ad-hoc packaging according to the needs of our customers.

The designs not only take into account the shape and size of the cargo, but also the use of products approved for storage and lashing in sea containers and trailers.

These are packaging aids, such as heat-sealable plastic and shrink-wrapped plastic, which act as reinforcement against external agents to protect items susceptible to damage by external agents, as well as retention systems to stabilize it, even if it has suffered some kind of impact during the logistics process.

Economic Considerations

We also pay attention to the economic factor. We know that an excess of material and accessories could increase the cost associated with the process. Therefore, the custom design must be economically viable for the customer without compromising cargo safety.

Production and delivery

If necessary, we can carry out packaging of the goods at the customer’s facilities.

Please contact us without any commitment.

Pharmaceutical product Packaging

By 360 Ecopackaging On 16 de November de 2023 0 Comments

Pharmaceutical packaging plays a fundamental role in the protection of medicines during storage and transport. Tablets, syrups, ampoules, vaccines… Everything must be packaged in compliance with strict safety requirements so that they reach the patient in optimum conditions.

In addition, the way in which medicines are administered determines the design of the packaging, which must facilitate opening and dosing.

Pharmaceutical packaging regulations

Pharmaceutical packaging is regulated by different regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines, as well as the protection of people and the environment.

In Europe, Directive 2001/83/EC determines the information, packaging and labeling that medicinal products must carry. There are also specific rules governing other aspects, such as protection against counterfeit medicines (Directive 2011/62/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council) and waste management (Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council).

Types of pharmaceutical packaging

The most common types of packaging in the pharmaceutical sector are:

Blister:

Consists of a plastic or aluminum foil containing the drug, allowing its administration in doses such as tablets, individual capsules, dragees, etc.

Bottle:

Made of glass or plastic, used for the storage of liquids and solids.

Which packaging is the most suitable for the pharmaceutical sector?

Pharmaceutical products are a delicate type of goods, which require special control conditions during the whole packaging process. Therefore, a pharmaceutical packaging must be able to keep the medicines intact throughout the entire supply chain.

For example, using opaque materials that protect it from light, that act as a barrier to water vapor and oxygen, and with a correct sealing and immobilization that prevents degradation or overturning of the product.

In this sense, corrugated cardboard boxes on wooden or cardboard pallets are an interesting option, because they are suitable for both storage and transport of this type of merchandise.

They are also compatible with the standardized European and American palletizing systems and, as they are certified with the ISPM -15 phytosanitary seal, they are suitable for export.

In addition, auxiliary fastening systems such as strapping help to keep the goods securely fastened. Likewise, desiccant salts absorb the humidity inside the packaging during transit.

Sustainable pharmaceutical packaging

Pharmaceutical packaging is constantly evolving. Innovation, sustainability and safety set the trends in the sector.

Environmental impact is another of the challenges facing the industry. In the area of primary packaging, the first steps are being taken in the manufacture of recyclable paper blister packs.

Regarding secondary and tertiary packaging, 360 Eco Packaging has been developing sustainable packaging for years, using reusable and recyclable materials. All this together with an optimization service aimed at helping companies implement more efficient logistics, with lower energy consumption and less impact on nature.

Contact us.

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.

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.

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Tag Archives: Transport