Ever wonder why there could be such an extreme difference in the appearance of two packages that traveled the same distance. One may arrive in pristine condition and ready to go; the other could be crushed, ripped, or literally coming apart at the seams. Often times, the customer blames the shipping carrier, but the packaging itself has a lot to do with how well the item travels. Selecting the appropriate shipping box is likely one of the easiest ways to protect your products before they ever leave your facility.
There are two questions most people ask when it comes to selecting a shipping box. First, “What type of shipping box should I select?”, and second, “Is it acceptable to select a large shipping box.” The answers to these two questions begin with the product that you are placing inside the shipping container. Heavy items require stronger boxes than light weight items. Also, fragile items typically require enough room within the shipping container for proper packing material, where-as non-fragile items typically don’t require as much additional room. Examining the product prior to choosing a shipping box can help eliminate several of the more common shipping issues.
In addition to determining which shipping box to use, people also want to know if it’s possible to use the largest shipping box available. At first glance this would appear to be the simplest option. However, using a shipping box that is significantly larger than the actual product increases the likelihood that the product will shift around during shipping. Even though you may be using adequate amounts of packing paper and/or air pillows for cushioning purposes, there is no substitute for proper fit. A shipping box that properly fits the product generally offers greater protection.
Businesses also inquire as to whether the expense associated with using stronger shipping boxes is always warranted. In fact, in many cases, they are. When a weak shipping box fails during transit, the cost of replacement for the damaged product can be significantly higher than the savings in box expense. Therefore, spending a little extra money on the proper shipping box can potentially eliminate costly returns and refunds, as well as prevent dissatisfied customers.
Finally, many people wonder if it is acceptable to reuse shipping containers. In some instances, the answer is yes; however, only if the container is in superior condition. Containers that have been crushed on one corner, torn along an edge, have soft spots, or evidence of previous exposure to moisture are already compromised and therefore less effective. Although they may look usable, reusing these types of containers can result in inadequate protection for products contained within them. It is essential to thoroughly inspect each reusable container prior to repacking it.
Storage of shipping containers is another aspect of maintaining their effectiveness. Shipping containers exposed to excessive moisture over long periods of time lose their integrity. Similarly, shipping containers stacked improperly can be bent before they are ever utilized. Maintaining storage conditions that provide optimal flatness, dryness, and organization will promote preservation of their integrity until they are required.
Additionally, some businesses question whether the dimensions of shipping containers affect shipping costs. In some cases, they do. Larger shipping containers are more expensive due to increased truck space requirements. Using shipping containers that properly accommodate products can potentially reduce shipping costs by eliminating excess filler material requirements. Reduced filler material usage reduces the overall cost of both materials and transportation.
When a customer receives a shipment that looks clean and secure upon arrival, it creates a sense of trust prior to opening it. Conversely, receiving a shipment in a crushed or damaged box causes concern regarding what they will find once opened. As previously mentioned, creating positive impressions through quality packaging is significant since it indicates the level of care taken in preparing the shipment.
Shipping containers are not necessarily solely determined by either cost or durability. Instead, they represent a balance between protecting products during transport and providing an economical means of doing so. By taking a short amount of time to determine which shipping container will provide the best possible protection for a particular product can reduce damage, decrease shipping costs, increase customer satisfaction, and ultimately produce a more efficient shipping experience from start-to-finish.