How to Select the Right Packaging Supplies

The type of packaging supplies that a business will eventually use depends on its product type and the industry it belongs to. Regardless of what size and
shape of packaging cartons you require, you will easily find packaging solutions for all sizes and shapes, from large scale specialty packaging to postal
tube packaging products.

Selecting the right packaging supplies based on your requirements is a crucial decision for your business success. For those not aware, packaging products aren’t only used to hold, store and protect the products. Instead packaging has become a key arsenal in branding and marketing products.

However, it is essential to ensure the right set of protection and branding requirements of your products as well as your business, with the budget amount
you can spend on packaging products.

Small Company, Small Purchase

Startups and small scale business are not always having the financial capacity to place large purchase orders. In fact, they often have to balance their
packaging requirements against their budget – and also with the floor space available in their warehouse or office to store those packaging products.

And hence, startups mostly prefer to outsource their packaging needs to a vendor who also caters to small orders without compromising the quality. Reasonable rates and good discounts on smaller orders help small businesses grow and start seeking for larger quantities of packaging solution gradually. The supplier company that offers quality cartons at affordable price and ensure a hassle-free, on-time delivery all the time is more likely to rule the packaging market and retain the interests of businesses in their transitional phase.

Packaging Outsourcing

A growing company often comes at a point where it has to revise its existing order arrangements. Earlier it might be appropriate for the company to put an order of small quantities of packaging products and deal with all shipping process in-house. But with the significant growth, the company needs to
emphasize more on product development and sourcing, and a little less on the supply-chain.

And this is when the company needs to take the warehouse related decision – should I get my own warehouse and appoint needed management and other staff or should I simply outsource the storage and shipping to another company, who has ample experience and expertise to accomplish this for you professionally?

Most of the time, the experts go with the second choice i.e. to outsource the packaging and shipping needs to another professional company. With this
option, the company can leverage from custom warehouse facility and the workforce it needs to best match its packaging requirements. And most
interestingly, this will cost you very less money than what you might have invested in owing a warehouse of own and hiring new resources.

There are a number of companies across the U.S. that offers comprehensive packaging solutions – packaging design and delivery, to all businesses and individuals. Some packaging companies also offer logistical assistance, making a one-stop-solution for all sizes of businesses.

What are the packaging choices available out there?

While you can easily get an idea of company’s packaging demand based on the kind of products it makes or supplies, there is still a room for maneuver. Some packaging solutions are aptly environmental friendly – quite a right packaging choice for a company who want to boost awareness of the green world and create an ethical and more powerful social image of their brand or business in the marketplace.

However, if you want to explore all packaging options, including styles, types, shapes and sizes, available out there, resort to the internet. Start browsing and partner with the best packaging supplier you can find.

[7/25/2013]

How to Shop for Shipping Boxes

There won’t be hype if I say corrugated cartons are the synonymous of shipping boxes. These boxes make the third highest overhead cost, after labor and facilities cost, in all order fulfillment operations. Regardless if you outsource the packaging of your shipment or do it on own in-house, keeping the cost of shipping boxes and other supplies as low as possible is a top concern for businesses that ship products in bulk on a regular basis.

Make a blanket order

Creating a blanket order for the manufacturer or supplier of corrugated boxes is the first step in cost reduction. Learn about blanket orders. Most of the time businesses looking for shipping supplies starts with local vendors and buy the boxes in small lots at the market price (or the one published on its website).

When the volume of your order increases, it’s the right time to contact the supplier company’s custom quote department and put a blanket purchase order entitled to some big discounts. Of course, it will require a purchase in large volume, but the savings can be crucial for your business.

Purchasing in Bulk Isn’t Always Economical

Per unit cost of shipping box or supply increases if the quantity or order size decreases; vice versa is true as well. But when you order extra quantity, you are actually making ‘extra investment’ in packaging stock. Now the real thing you need to check is, if your extra savings when divided by the extra
investment results in ample return amount as compared to other investment opportunities, it is worth making an additional stock of packaging supplies on hand.

How blanket order can boost your revenues?

There is a solution for the low ROI problem discussed in the above paragraph. You can place blanket orders with the packaging companies subjected to batch releases over time. In this case, the blanket purchase order allows you to fix the volume targeting lower unit price in advance, but then you can release it in monthly or quarterly amounts till the blanket order volume is filled. This way you can ensure cost savings on boxes for shipping and at the same time
can lower the added investment per release to a level your ROI can go beyond your minimum.

Buying custom boxes from local manufacturers can further reduce the cost

If you put a blanket purchase order for minimum 1000 corrugated boxes of the same size, you can certainly cut down the expense to the next lower level by having your boxes made to order by a local supplier or a manufacturing company in your region. You may take help of yellow pages and other trade directory kind of services to find one or more suppliers of shipping supplies in your area. However, internet is the fastest and simplest way to find your best packaging partner.

The supplier company will provide you with the exact size boxes that you need to fulfill your packaging requirements. The supplier can imprint your company’s logo and a sales message above the shipping boxes; this will gain more exposure and visibility for your brand.

Moreover, the supplier company will deliver the boxes to your site, and probably will warehouse your production run and release covering a blanket quantity; this will not only increase your return on investments but make the most of floor space available.

Follow these tips while buying shipping supplies including small shipping boxes, heavy duty shipping boxes, mail tubes and RSC boxes, and save BIG!

7/22/2013

Moving to Canada: Boxes for Shipping and Other Tips

Whether you are moving overseas to or from a city in Canada, the use of a professional cargo company may be helpful in order to properly make the
transition. The use of Canadian shipping companies can help you to effectively forward cargo and household possessions in eitherlarge shipping boxes or small shipping boxes. Certain tips have been identified in order to make the process of moving to Canada easier.

  • If you are moving to Canada, you may wish to take many of your personal belongings with you. This is easiest if you are moving from elsewhere in North
    America. However, if you are moving from further away, the costs associated with transporting these items may exceed the worth of the item. It is also important to select the right shipping company in order to ensure that your belongings reach their final destination without damage.
  • Choosing your potential moving company carefully is essential. This may require you do significant research regarding the shipping market, including
    calling companies, requesting quotes, checking their reputation online, and calling references. Following these steps is essential in ensuring that your boxes for shipping will be in the right hands, as you will want to choose a company with both high levels of experience and professionalism.
  • Check out the services that a potential company has to offer. There are many different companies in the market, but some may specialize in one type of
    shipping, such as refrigerated containers, dry cargo containers, tank shipping containers, or open top containers.
  • Research prices and consider your options carefully. When shipping to Canada for your move, you need to find a balance between practicality and affordability in a moving or shipping company. See if any discounted rates re available that may allow you to save money or that may set one company apart from the competition. Compare rates with other companies and select the company that offers the best ration between price and services.
  • Ask a potential company about their shipping protocols. Any company that you choose for your shipping needs will need to be well-versed in the laws of both Canada and the country you are either moving from or moving to. Some countries may forbid bringing certain products and goods into their territories, so a good shipping company should have familiarity with these laws in order to help you with the packing process before you make your move.

7/18/2013

Frequently Asked Questions for a Canadian Folding Carton Manufacturer

Folding cartons are an extremely popular packaging option, and a folding carton manufacturer in Edmonton can help to create packaging solutions for your business, company, or home. When considering this type of packaging, you may have some questions for a potential folding cartons manufacturer, and some of the most frequently asked questions have been identified below to help you make your decision.

What styles of folding cartons are available?

There are numerous styles of folding cartons available for purchase, and the most common include the following:

  • Straight tuck end
  • Reverse tuck end
  • Locking tray and lid
  • Countertop display
  • Windowed cartons
  • Full sealed ends

What is a window on a folding carton?

A window on a folding carton is a shape which has been die cut and stripped from the carton, and this allows a customer or consumer to see inside of the carton to view the contents.

Can folding cartons be recycled?

Yes, the paperboard used to produce a folding carton is entirely recyclable, and much of the current paperboard has also been made from using entirely
recycled materials.

Is the type of paperboard used in a folding carton important?

Yes. Different paperboard materials offer different advantages, have unique characteristics, and are priced at different levels. Paperboard also comes in a variety of different thicknesses.

What exactly is a four color process?

The four color process is a type of printing technique that utilizes pixation in order to develop images similar to pictures. The colors used are black,
yellow, magenta, and cyan, and the use of these four colors can trick the eye into seeing all possible colors.

What exactly is die cutting?

Die cutting is a process that involves stamping materials with the use of a steel rule that is affixed to a type of board. When it comes to creating a
folding carton, areas may be stamped to create empty spaces or blanks.

What types of coatings are available for folding cartons?

Varnish and aqueous coatings are available for folding cartons. Aqueous coatings are water-based and serve as a protective sealant. They are also fast
drying and have better qualities in protection than varnish coatings. Both varnish and aqueous coatings can be applied to have a matte or a glossy finish.

Can folding cartons have texted printed on them?

Yes. Both pictures and text can be printed on folding cartons to appear clear and crisp in order to market your product.

7/15/2013

All about Recyclable Packaging Materials

As the number of consumers and mass consumption in Canada grow, the amount of packaging materials that are being used in the market is also rising. Many of these materials are causing a negative impact on the environment and as scrutiny of the environmental practices involved in the packaging industry increases, some traditional items like packing peanuts and Styrofoam are falling by the wayside. This is causing a push for greener and more environmentally responsible packaging options. Additionally, the waste that is involved with packaging supplies and materials are causing a concern that is leading to improved designs from the packaging industry and an increase in the use of recyclable materials.

The most common materials used for packaging are plastic, paper, glass, board, aluminum, and steel. A number of these commonly used packaging materials can now be recyclable. While some plastics can now be recycled, in order to determine whether a specific item is recyclable, it is important to check with the product manufacturer. Traditional plastics and polystyrene are usually recyclable and are used in a variety of products, but the large amounts of oil required to manufacture them is thought to play a major role in global warming. Therefore, in order to reduce your environmental impact in Canada, other options should be considered.

Paper packing materials are some of the best eco-friendly packaging options, as they can be recycled easily in the same manner as other paper products. While paper product packaging materials are just as efficient and effective as foam packaging materials, they are also simple to dispose of. Paper packaging products are lightweight, resilient, and can also absorb moisture. These packaging materials are also commonly produced from recycled paper, and this avoids the cutting down of additional trees to make the products. Paper products also tend to be inexpensive, as they are created from inexpensive materials that can be reused.

Another benefit of paper packaging materials is that they can biodegrade safely in Canadian landfills. Other commonly used packing products that are produced from plastic may not degrade in landfills or can cause toxic products, which can be detrimental to the environment. Many plastics that do degrade will also require hundreds of years to complete the process, unlike recyclable products. This is why choosing paper is a more environmentally friendly option. Paper products degrade quickly and can be disposed of anywhere in Canada and the rest of the world.

7/11/2013

Advantages of Folding Carton Packaging

Folding cartons
are some of the most common types of consumer packaging on the market. They are used in retail packaging to hold individual products, and they can also be used to effectively display and promote products in order to generate impulse buying. Whether you have used folding cartons for your business for many years or are considering them for your business for the first time, you should be aware of the many advantages that come with this packaging solution.

Rigidity

The paperboard that is used to create a folding carton comes in a variety of weights, and this allows for the carton to remain structurally sound and to keep the contents secure. Additionally, these cartons can also be made through the use of corrugated board, and this can provide for additional support needed to house a heavier product. These cartons are also ideal for shipping containers that are branded.

Creativity and Flexibility

Folding cartons are engineered and designed, and they can be created into a variety of different styles. Each style can then be tailored to meet certain specifications. Features like hanging tabs or windows can be added. If necessary, wet strength paperboard may be added to keep moisture from penetrating into the board and causing curl, and other specifications can be added.

Environmentally Friendly

Most of the pulp that is used to create non-virgin paperboard has been manufactured from entirely recycled materials. In addition, the scraps that are left over from the folding carton manufacturer and the created carton can also be recycled, which can minimize potentially negative environmental impact. This creates a cyclical process that contributes to minimal landfill waste products.

Clean Graphics

Folding cartons also offer clean graphics. This can be done through the use of a four color process. The option also exists to print up to seven colors, and this allows for a wide variety of product branding options. This results in crisp text and graphics that can be placed both outside and inside of the folding carton. The colored graphic printing ability of folding cartons is unmatched to other styles of packaging, and this also allows for the folding carton to serve as a key marketing device that can make your product stand out among the competition. The carton can also be given a matte or glossy look during the printing process, and this can be done to protect graphics and text from damage or abrasions.

7/8/2013

Choosing Folding Cartons in Calgary

A folding carton is a staple of the Calgary packaging industry, and it is made out of paperboard that is cut, laminated, and printed, for manufacturers. These folding cartons are then folded and shipped flat to manufacturers, which utilize their own machinery to fold them into their final shape as a product container. In Calgary, these cartons can also be used for packaging and shipping.

Folding Carton Styles

There are a variety of different folding carton styles, the most common of which are the four panel boxes. These boxes typically include end closure flaps and panels that are fastened in ways to create lock end, seal end, or tuck end closures. A few of the most popular styles are outlined below.

  • Reverse Tuck End: The Reverse Tuck End box will have top closure that hinges off its front panel and is then tucked into the rear, and the closure hinges on the bottom are found at the rear while tucking into the front. These boxes are commonly used for cosmetics, retail products, software, and pharmaceutical packaging.
  • Seal End: This style is glued closed by the folding carton manufacturer and its bottom and top flaps are folded over the end that is opened and then glued once the product has been inserted.
  • Straight Tuck End: The Straight Tuck End box will have bottom and top closure panels which tuck back to front or vice versa. This type of box is well-matched for any product that requires a box made of paper that has a window for product display through the front panel.

Why Choose Folding Cartons in Calgary

In terms of packaging options that are available in Calgary, folding cartons come with a variety of benefits. They are light-weight and easy to create, and they can also be produced fairly quickly. A folding carton can be filled easily, and once the product has been inserted they are effortlessly sealed and stacked. This can make the shipping process extremely easy and efficient. Some of the other top reasons that folding cartons are used in Calgary include the following:

  • They provide for brand identification.
  • They have both graphic and billboard impact and can provide for unique merchandising opportunities.
  • Folding cartons offer product visibility and differentiation.
  • Products are thoroughly protected during the shipping process due to their high level of environmental performance.
  • They are easily stored, distributed, and shelved.
  • Folding cartons are available in a variety of designs, shapes, and sizes.

7/3/2013

Selecting the Right Packaging Tape

If you are looking to ship a product or to simply store it in your home, selecting the right packaging tape is vital in order to ensure that your package stays tightly sealed. Packaging companies offer a variety of tape options that typically have two applications: sealing shipping boxes and sealing storage boxes. Therefore, a variety of tape types are available that differ in terms of thickness, color, width, and adhesive type.

Adhesive Type

A packaging tape with hot melt adhesive is the best option if you need to seal a box for shipping. This is because this type of tape has superior holding power and high initial tack. When your boxes are being transported, they may not be handled with the utmost care, so it is important to select a tape that will not remove from your package. When using this type of tape you can ensure that your package will stay sealed, and it can also be used to connect boxes together.

If you are simply storing items in boxes, your adhesive strength needs may be different. In this case, a tape containing an acrylic adhesive is usually your best option. Acrylic tape is able to withstand a variety of temperatures and environments, including storage facilities, garages, and warehouses. This type of tape can also remain sealed for several years.

Thickness

When it comes to product packaging, the weight of the package is essential in determining the type of tape to use, especially when it comes to tape thickness. Packaging tape is typically measured in the term of “mils” for thickness. Most options range between 1.6 and 3.0 mils. Light-weight packages typically only need a tape that is 1.6 mils, while packages that exceed 20 lbs. in weight will need to use an adhesive tape measuring 3.0 mils in thickness.

Width and Color

Width and color also differ when it comes to packaging tape, and these factors can be important in choosing the right type. The common width for packing tape options are two and three inches. Small and lightweight boxes can remain sealed with a two inch tape, while large boxes may need a three inch roll in order to achieve greater security and adhesion during transport. In terms of color, options are available in almost all hues, but the most commonly used tape is usually clear, and this is also thought to be the most economical option on the market.

7/2/2013

Tips for Using Mailing Tubes

There are a variety of items that you may wish to ship that are too large for an envelope, such as architectural plans, posters, and banners. These items are often too fragile to fold and require a special level of protection during shipping. The use of mailing tubes is the perfect product packaging for these shipping needs, as they provide a unique package for optimal protection of your items. Mailing tubes can be produced in a variety of colors to personalize your shipment and to ensure that it gets noticed up until its final destination.

Mailing tubes are simple to use, and some of the basic instructions to ensure that you are using your shipping tubes appropriately include the following:

  • Remove an end cap from one side of the tube.
  • Roll your document carefully into the shape of a cylinder. It is important to ensure that the cylinder is small enough to fit into the tube while remaining loose in order to avoid damaging the product.
  • Place your rolled product into the tube through the open end, carefully, in order to avoid damaging the product against the opposite, closed end of your mailing tube.
  • Replace the previously removed cap in order to properly close the shipping tube.
  • Package labels are best for addressing mailing tubes. With a marker, write the recipient’s name and address in the center of a large, adhesive package label. Also on the label, be sure to indicate your return address in the event that your mailing tube fails to reach its intended destination.
  • Remove the label from its adhesive and apply it onto the shaft of the mailing tube, and try to place it in the center of the shaft.
  • Ensure that both caps at the end of the tube are secured firmly before you mail the document.
  • To mail your shipping tube, take your item to your local shipping company or post office to be weighed. Postage will depend on the weight of the item and the shipping tube combined, but since these items are light-weight, the total cost is usually inexpensive.

Additional tips should also be considered when using a mailing tube. Prior to purchasing a mailing tube, be sure to measure the size of the document you intend to send. This will help to ensure that you purchase the proper size tube. Use packaging tape to properly secure end caps, and do not tape your document in order to keep it rolled within the tube. Instead, use a rubber band to ensure that the document remains rolled tightly.

7/1/2013

How to Pick the Right Boxes for Shipping

Most people store away several cardboard boxes so that they have them available if needed. However, if you have to ship an item, you may need to buy a box that has been designed specifically for that item and that purpose. In this case, choosing the right type of box is essential in order to ensure that your item arrives at its final destination intact and without damage.

Choosing a Box

Whether you are in need of small shipping boxes or large shipping boxes, choosing the right one is essential. Boxes can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, and strengths and the item you are shipping will determine the type of box you need. If you are trying to ship something that is breakable or fragile, you may wish to purchase a thick box that is made from heavy corrugated heavy cardboard.

Other boxes are specifically designed to transport certain products. For example, wardrobe boxes are highly desirable when shipping or moving clothing, as they contain a metal bar at the top that is helpful in holding hangers. Heavy items, such as a television or computer, may be packaged in their original boxes with the addition of foam inserts. Once placed in the original packaging, they can be inserted into another heavy-duty, corrugated box in order to provide double protection.

Take Caution While Packing

Even though you may have the right size and type of box needed to transport or ship your item, even if the contents are packed correctly, they may still be damaged during the trip. While traditional bubble wrap is useful in protecting items during the shipment process, other materials can also provide a necessary protective cushioning. These items include:

  • Foam peanuts
  • Corner protectors
  • Corrugated packing pads
  • Packing foam

Even if you feel confident with your box and packing skills, it is still important to fully insure your package before shipping. This provides you with insurance in the event that your package is damaged or lost during transit. Many shipping companies will also provide you with tracking information so that you can ensure that your item arrives at its intended destination.

Finding Boxes

Your local box or packaging supply shop can provide you with the boxes needed for your move or shipping needs. Many options are available from online retailers, and this allows you the opportunity to look through the products in stock to find the boxes that are best suited for your project.

6/25/2013