Reusables Basics
Do You Have What it Takes to Make the Switch to Reusable Shipping Containers?
Here are some key characteristics of businesses that are well-suited for reusable transport packaging:
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Large Consistent Product Volume – Enough volume to justify purchasing containers, with minimal seasonal fluctuations or changes in quantity, specifications, or routes.
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High Volumes of Solid Waste – Single- and limited-use cardboard boxes, pallets and palletwrap make up a significant part of the solid waste stream.
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Recurring Product Damage – Products are damaged or spoiled during transportation or storage due to failed stacking or inadequate product protection.
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Expensive Expendable Packaging – Single- and limited-use containers are purchased on an on-going basis.
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Under-Utilized Trailer and/or Storage Space – Loads are are not "cubed out" and/or warehouse space is not maximized due to stacking limitations and/or weight restrictions.
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Worker Safety or Ergonomic Issues – Injuries have occurred or have been identified as potentially unsafe due to overfilling of non-uniform boxes, broken pallets, and/or repeated bending, lifting and handling.
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Frequent Trips and/or Short Shipping Distance – Quick turnaround of containers can maximize benefits and speed up the payback period.
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Localized - "Milk runs" (small, daily truck routes) and consolidation centers (loading docks used to sort, clean and stage reusable packaging) can cut costs and save money. Or, "work-in-process" containers are used internally or for inter-site transfers.
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Dedicated Fleet/Closed-Loop - Reusable transport packaging works best in a closed- or managed open-loop shipping system. Once packages are shipped to a final destination and contents are removed, the empty reusable containers are collected and returned without a great deal of time or cost.
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Cooperation - Clients and suppliers are open to operational changes.
The resources provided on this site can help you determine if reusable transport packaging makes sense for your company. Download Reusables 101 for more information and 102 for real-world cost comparison models to help you make an informed decision.
If you'd like to take the next step in evaluating reusables for your organization, please complete this questionnaire. We will follow up with you and use the information to solicit responses from solutions providers on your behalf.
Ready to make the switch? Contact us for more information
