The Impact of eCommerce Packaging on Brand Image and Recognition

tensionapdev on October 24, 2023

Your eCommerce packaging is more than just a way to get products safely to customers—it’s a powerful tool for building your brand. Strategic choices like sustainable materials and personalized designs can enhance your brand image, increase customer loyalty, and create a memorable unboxing experience. Don’t let packaging be an afterthought—let it be a statement that sets your business apart.

When your eCommerce business chooses packaging for shipping products to your customers, your considerations probably start with the fundamentals—picking the right kind of packaging to get your product where it needs to go safe and undamaged, without excess cost or wasted material. But if that’s where the conversation ends, you are missing out on significant opportunities to influence your brand image and recognition through your packaging.

After all, when a consumer receives their order, what does its packaging say about your company? If their items arrive on time and intact, that’s great, but there’s so much more you could be conveying with intentional choices that align with your overall branding and marketing strategy. Compared to a retail store, eCommerce businesses have fewer touchpoints in which to create a great experience, so you shouldn’t squander the chances you do get to create a good impression and build your brand. Consider some of the choices that can send a strong message.

Sustainability

Environmental awareness is extremely popular among consumers, with a solid majority indicating that they would pay more for products with sustainable packaging. You can enhance your brand image by tapping into this customer sentiment with your choice of eCommerce packaging. Options include recyclable paper packaging or polybags that include post-consumer resin (PCR) or post-industrial content (PIC), which keep nonbiodegradable plastic waste out of landfills and protect the environment. Customers will positively associate the extra effort you take to align with their values with your brand reputation.

Personalization

Why send a generic package when your materials offer a blank slate for delivering additional messaging directly into the hands of your customers? Putting your logo or slogan on the outside of your package can boost your brand recognition and encourage customer loyalty. Custom packaging can also increase the perceived value of your product and help differentiate you from competitors. In addition, this space can be used for marketing campaigns or special promotions to increase future sales. Both poly bags and paper packaging can be custom printed, giving you options for personalization no matter what your ideal packaging is. Picture your customers’ faces lighting up when they see your logo on the package they’ve just received and realize the order they were anticipating has arrived, and you’ll see the value.

Packaging and Brand Perception

Quality packaging matters for more than just getting your products from point A to point B. Your customers will make judgments about your company based on what they see in your packaging choices. For example, good strong materials and good seals demonstrate that your company takes care in its packaging, which suggests your customers can expect equal concern in the quality of your products and the investment you put into customer service. Similarly, right-sized packaging sends a positive message—after all, we’ve all had the experience of receiving one small item in an outsized box mostly full of empty space. A package that is appropriately sized for its contents is a signal that your company spends its money and efforts wisely and efficiently.

Your Source for Custom Packaging Solutions

Tension Packaging & Automation understands that the demands of eCommerce sales are different from those of traditional brick-and-mortar businesses. Our packaging expertise can help you elevate receiving a package into a satisfying brand experience that complements your overall marketing strategy. We can help you select the right packaging materials for your application (including sustainable packaging) to optimize your fulfillment operation’s workflow while protecting and promoting your brand. We can also help you choose the right customization for your packaging to produce the best return on investment for your marketing efforts.

Realizing that there’s more you could do to get the full benefit of strategic packaging choices for your brand? Don’t wait to get started. To learn more about how Tension can make your eCommerce packaging work to strengthen your brand, contact us here today.

eCommerce Automation: A Guide to Automating the Last 100 Feet, Part 2: SLAM Optimization

tensionapdev on September 21, 2023

Increased sales are great news for your eCommerce business—until your fulfillment operations struggle to keep up. A SLAM (Scan, Label, Apply, Manifest) line can streamline the shipping process, reducing errors and bottlenecks while increasing throughput. From automated labeling to precise sortation, Tension’s SLAM solutions ensure efficiency and accuracy, allowing your business to scale without sacrificing quality.

Increased sales can be a cause for elation in an eCommerce business, or they can be a rock smashing your fulfillment operations against the unrelenting hard place of insufficient labor to meet demand. In Part 1 of this series, we examined the role of right-sizing your packages in keeping shipping costs down and how automation can help you accurately calculate DIMs, efficiently shop for the best rates, and avoid costly adjustments and fees. Now we’ll take a look at the other features of a scanning, labeling, application, and manifesting (SLAM) line and how they work in concert to improve accuracy and throughput.

The Many Steps of Sending a Package Out the Door

Preparing a package to ship to a customer requires a sequence of steps that introduce many opportunities for bottlenecks or errors, especially if you’re relying on an overworked manual labor force. Once the products are packed into a carton or bag, that package must be weighed and measured (again, see Part 1 for the errors and problems that can arise here). Then it must be labeled for the correct recipient and shipping service, and routed to the right carrier to head out on its way.

It’s easy to see where mistakes can creep into repetitive tasks when workers are pressed for time trying to keep up with surges in demand. Wrong label on a package. Box deposited in the wrong bin for shipping. Worse, injuries can result from repetitive motion or from accidents when there’s a rush to get too much done. Automating this process not only drastically reduces these kinds of issues, but also frees up your employees for higher-skilled tasks. Here’s how.

Labeling and Sortation

A package’s SLAM line journey starts with packaging and dimension and weight capture. But that’s just the beginning of how automating the last 100 feet can optimize your fulfillment operations.

  • Print & Apply Labeling: This station assures that the right package is addressed to the right person per the label. It can label bags or cartons, assuring that the line stays moving even when dealing with a variety of package types and sizes. Custom labels are also available, so your packages can fit in seamlessly with your overall marketing strategy.
  • Sortation Scanner: At this station, the package is identified and diverted to the appropriate carrier and class of service with the assistance of our Tension Director software.
  • Z-Sorter for Shipping Sortation: Here packages are routed to the appropriate carrier, using our proprietary waterfall design that works with gravity to create a smooth sorting operation. The sorting machine is modular, so additional sortation units can be added or removed to meet your operation’s needs, depending on volume, carrier selection, shipping regions, and more.

The result from start to finish is an increase in efficiency that allows you to process hundreds of orders per hour, with an improvement in accuracy that reduces costs as packages flow through the system. Best of all, Tension Automation’s SLAM lines are fully customizable, allowing you to adopt a solution that is configured exactly to the unique requirements of your distribution center.

Your Expert eCommerce Automation Resource

If you’re ready to talk about how automation could help your business but have been paralyzed because you don’t know where to start or what improvements will have the greatest impact, Tension Packaging & Automation can help. We can assist in examining your current processes and capabilities, determining your goals for automation, and figuring out the right equipment to implement an effective strategy.

In addition to designing, building, and installing warehouse automation solutions for eCommerce fulfillment, Tension is also your partner in training, service, and ongoing support. As your needs change, we’re here to ensure that your packaging equipment and automation solutions are optimized to grow with your business and that your investment pays off for years to come. To learn more about the benefits of a SLAM line in your business, contact us today.

eCommerce Automation: A Guide to Automating the Last 100 Feet, Part 1: Package Size

tensionapdev on August 22, 2023

When rising customer demands and labor shortages strain your operations, automation can be the key to efficiency and cost savings. A SLAM line ensures accurate package dimensions, enabling rate shopping and reducing costly shipping adjustments. Tension Packaging & Automation’s solutions streamline the last 100 feet of fulfillment, helping you save money while boosting throughput.

When rising customer demands and labor shortages put warehousing and fulfillment operations squarely in the middle of an uncomfortable pinch, automation can be the key to meeting expectations and keeping your clients happy. Just as importantly, however, it can save both time and money in ways that go far beyond supplementing your existing labor force.

The last 100 feet of your operations—scanning, labeling, application, and manifesting (SLAM) of outbound customer shipments—is a significant area of opportunity for improvement. We’ll start by looking at the impact package size can have on your shipping costs, and ways in which automation can help keep those costs under control.

The Importance of a Right-Size Package

The first consideration in packaging items for shipment is, of course, is having the right size and material to ensure that items arrive to their recipients intact and undamaged. Beyond that, however, the picture becomes more nuanced. Carriers charge to ship based on either the weight of the package or the dimensional weight (DIM), whichever is higher. In addition, larger packages mean more money spent on packaging materials, especially if you’re shipping small items in boxes that must be stuffed with additional packing materials to protect their contents. Thus, packages should optimally be only as large as they absolutely need to be and no larger. 

Automation can be a good solution for consistently matching products with the correct size packaging. Using a variable sized package in particular is a good defense against paying to, in effect, ship empty space unnecessarily. However, this isn’t the only way automation can lower your shipping costs.

Do You Know Your DIMS? The Shipping Carriers Do

The major shipping carriers know that it isn’t in their best interest to let customers get away with paying artificially low rates on light packages that take up a disproportionate amount of cargo space. Both FedEx and UPS use a DIM factor of 139—dividing a package’s cubic dimensions by that number gives you its DIM weight. If that number is larger than the package’s actual weight, that’s what determines the charge. The divisor used can vary by carrier and class of service, so determining which rate applies to each package can be time-consuming if you’re trying to do it manually.

Unfortunately, this isn’t an area in which you want to just guess and hope you get it right. Both UPS and FedEx have introduced new scanning technology that measures each package received to obtain more accurate weight and dimensions, which has resulted in higher shipping rates. Further, in cases where incorrect shipping details have been provided to the carrier, you may be hit with correction fees in addition to the actual adjustment of shipping costs.

Tension’s SLAM line can not only help eliminate nasty surprises in your shipping invoices, but also allow you reduce those costs from the outset while increasing your throughput. Each package is scanned and weighed as it goes through, correctly identifying the dimensions to enable rate shopping as well as accurate manifesting. Because the system automatically captures this information, you eliminate potential errors that can creep in from manual manifesting and prevent costly adjustments in shipping fees.

Finding the Right eCommerce Automation Partner

If you’re considering automation, you’ll achieve the best results with careful planning, clear goals, and the right automation partner to help implement your vision. It starts with examining your current processes and capabilities and deciding whether you want to replace your existing systems completely or augment them with new equipment.

Tension Packaging & Automation is a leader in packaging equipment and automation solutions, designing, building, installing, and supporting warehouse automation solutions for eCommerce order fulfillment. We can help you identify the right solution for your needs and provide training, service, and responsive ongoing support to ensure that you realize the full value of your investment. To learn more about the benefits of automated packaging or a SLAM line in your business, contact us today.

#likeaboss: Top 5 Ways to Prepare for Peak Season with Conveyor and Sortation Solutions

tensionapdev on July 20, 2023

Peak season, spanning October through January, sees record-breaking eCommerce sales and returns, with $35 billion spent online in 2022 alone—a 4% increase from the previous year. To stay ahead, flexible and modular sortation and conveyor solutions, like Tension’s Z-Sort and SLAM systems, can boost throughput, handle product variability, and simplify returns. Discover how automation can help you dominate peak season operations and maximize ROI.

Peak season, or the time frame when retailers handle a large surge in orders, usually runs from October as consumers start to prepare for the upcoming holiday season through January as warehouses are still dealing with high return . This article explores the top five compelling reasons to get prepare for peak season.

Key Figures to Consider for Peak Season Preparation

The data suggests that neither holiday spending nor online sales show any signs of slowing down, despite reports of decreasing consumer confidence due to inflation.

Top 5 Ways to Prepare for Peak Season

As eCommerce order fulfillment companies prepare for order demand increases with 2023 peak season, consider these top five ways to prepare for peak season (like a boss) with conveyor and sortation systems: 

Flexibility for Wide Product Variability

Sorting machines not only take the manual out of your sortation process and lend productivity to your team, sortation equipment can also handle a wide variety of product sizes/shapes/weights that are packaged in things like paper mailers, padded mailers, polybags or polymailers and poly bubble bags.

Expandability for Increased Capacity

Sorters can be designed as a more compact solution to fit into a smaller space and maximize your warehouse footprint. Tension’s Z-Sort can easily be expanded as your business needs grow and evolve, and its adjustable height allows for taller gaylords if needed.

These design features allow you to add more capacity through better use of the floor and vertical airspace in your warehouse, critical considerations during your peak season.

Not-So-Modest-Modularity

In addition to increased capacity needs, sorters can be designed to grow for a changing product mix. The modular design of Tension’s Z-Sort allows order fulfillment centers to easily add on or change layout to accommodate changing warehouse automation needs.

Integration Made Easy

Integrate sorting machines and conveyor systems with new or existing automatic packaging equipment in your eCommerce warehouse or pharmacy fulfillment center. Or, go all out this peak season and boost throughput with a complete SLAM (Scan, Label, Apply and Manifest) solution, featuring an intelligent conveyor system that takes the manual process of processing your packages from order induction through dimension and weight capture all the way to shipping sortation.

Multi-Talented Equipment

Sortation equipment and conveyor systems are also ideal for returns processing. According to the FedEx 2022 Peak Season Report, 1.4 billion or 13% of orders purchased in the 2022 holiday season were returned (a 63% increase year-over-year), and 40% of those accounted for purchases made online. And consumer expectations are overwhelmingly in favor of simple, easy returns: 98% of respondents in this study indicated fast and convenient returns will make them more likely to order again.

Case Study: Achieving a 300% Increase in Throughput during Peak with Tension’s SLAM Solution

Discover how an effective sortation and conveyor solution can lead to significant cost savings and deliver a favorable ROI for your organization. Explore our compelling case study on how Tension’s Slam Solution helped Kredo, Inc. achieve an impressive 300% increase in throughput during peak.

Case Study: An effective sortation and conveyor solution must contribute to cost savings and result in an acceptable ROI for your organization. Read how our customer enjoyed a 300% increase in throughput during peak with Tension’s SLAM solution in our new case study, “How Tension’s SLAM Solution Helped Kredo, Inc., Increase Throughput by 300% During Peak.”

Ready to revolutionize your peak season operations? Click here to download. 

Contact Us 

As your order fulfillment operations navigates both an increase in order demand and the challenge of increased volume of returns this peak season, consider the benefits of a flexible, expandable, modular and easy integrated sortation and conveyor solution (and show peak season who’s boss this year). 

Contact us now to get the conversation started. 

Spotlight on Service & Support: Going the Extra Mile

tensionapdev on June 27, 2023

More than 80% of warehouses today lack automation, highlighting significant opportunities for improvement in efficiency and scalability. Tension Packaging & Automation specializes in designing, building, and supporting automation solutions for eCommerce and pharmacy operations, powered by intuitive TensionDirector software. With dedicated service, proactive training, and 24/7 support, we’re your true partner in creating reliable and stress-free automation experiences.

More than 80% of warehouses today have no automation. This statistic was presented at MHI’s (Material Handling Industry) spring meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina where Tension Packaging & Automation joined MHI’s SLAM and Solutions Community industry groups.  

MHI, the nation’s largest material handling, logistics and supply chain association, has more than 800 members and offers a powerful resource for knowledge, networking and solutions sourcing for manufacturing and supply chain professionals. The Solutions Community group represents a network of thought leaders in automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. 

Who Is Tension Packaging & Automation? 

Tension Packaging & Automation is a full solutions integrated provider; we design, build, install and support warehouse automation solutions for: 

  • eCommerce Order Fulfillment Automation to include packaging, conveying, labeling, manifesting, and sorting solutions for distribution centers, 3PLs and warehouse management.  
  • Pharmacy Automation to include dispensing, verification, packaging, labels, sorting and manifesting solutions for central-fill, mail-order, specialty, hospital outpatient and pet pharmacies.  

Many of our solutions run on our innovative, intuitive TensionDirector software architecture aimed at seamlessly integrating your complete suite of automation solutions. 

We’ve Got Your Back: Your True Partner for Service, Support & Success 

Due to the complexities involved in integrating and operating warehouse automation, such projects require a high level of dedicated, responsive and thorough support through the life of the product or contract.

From installation to training and from service to support, our team is committed to providing expertise to our customers through every step. And in doing so, we strive to provide the best possible service and support in the industry — our team of experienced professionals seeks to anticipate customer needs and provide solutions that minimize downtime and maximize efficiency through: 

  • Proactivity: We support our products with on-call troubleshooting and complete training opportunities. Our team teaches your team best practices for running your new equipment, equips them with reference manuals and ensures your operators and technicians are prepared and confident to run it.  
  • Thoroughness: From troubleshooting to maintenance and repair services, our technicians are thorough in their approach, ensuring that all needs are met, and no detail is overlooked. Our team has the dedication and determination to correct the issue and to exceed customer expectations.  
  • Timeliness: We respond to service requests in an extremely timely fashion. All requests are submitted though our Service Portal where they are immediately assessed and assigned for deployment. 
  • Expertise: Our technicians specialize in equipment from sorting machines and conveyor systems to our proprietary pharmacy automation equipment and software solutions. Organizing our team by equipment subject matter experts (SMEs) enables us to quickly and effectively solve inquiries and transfer knowledge to other projects. 
  • Service with a Smile: In addition to our technical expertise, our team is conscientious, courteous, respectful and attentive to the needs of our customers. We are available 24/7 to provide advice, technical support and maintenance services. 

Overall, we pride ourselves on being your true partner; we want your company to be a success. You can rely on us for service and support through available standard and premium service plans for ongoing support needs, or you can select a flexible maintenance plan that works for you. 

Contact Us 

Whether you are considering new warehouse automation solutions or need assistance with an existing system, our team is here to help. We believe that everyone should have access to the highest quality of service and support. It is our mission to make sure your pharmacy or eCommerce warehouse automation experience is successful, reliable and stress-free. Contact us today to get the conversation started. 

The Future of Packaging: Exploring Sustainable Paper Packaging Solutions

tensionapdev on May 17, 2023

Paper packaging offers an eco-friendly solution that meets growing consumer demand for sustainability, with 87% of people preferring paper-based options. Its renewability, biodegradability, and recyclability make it a versatile and effective alternative to plastic packaging. Partnering with Tension Packaging & Automation ensures access to expertly designed sustainable paper packaging solutions backed by over a century of experience.

In our previous post, we explored how polybags can be considered a sustainable choice in packaging consumables. Now, let’s turn our attention to sustainable paper packaging and an environmentally friendly and effective packaging alternative.

How Paper Can Be an Effective Packaging Solution

Sustainable packaging ensures environmentally friendly materials and practices utilize packaging solutions that have minimal impact on the environment. Adapting to consumer demands for “green” products, companies are turning to sustainable packaging alternatives that aim to reduce waste and pollution.

Recent polls have uncovered shifts and expectations in consumer preference for sustainable packaging:

Given its versatility, paper can be an effective solution for sustainable packaging due to its eco-friendly traits like renewability, biodegradability, and recyclability.

Paper Recycling and Certification Requirements

While widely assumed as recyclable, not all paper packaging qualifies as recyclable. Third-party tests – such as the 4Evergreen or Fibre Box Association (FBA) voluntary standard tests, which can qualify paper as certified recyclable.

FBA Parts 1 and 2

FBA features two levels of testing: Part 1 tests for paper repulpability (ability to dissolve in water) and Part 2 tests for paper recyclability.

FBA Part 1, Repulpability Testing

FBA Part 1 involves a pass or fail test to determine the fiber yield to see if the paper can be repulped into another product (i.e., if the fiber is available for recycling).

For example, paper packaging that contains an adhesive as a sealant to close the package can be tested for repulpability. If the repulpability score is very high during the tests, it means the adhesive is released from the paper fiber and is available for recycling into another product. However, if the repulbability score is low and the paper fails the tests, it means the adhesive is too aggressive and doesn’t release enough from the fiber to qualify as repulpable. Utilizing eco-friendly adhesives is an ideal solution for sustainable paper packaging as they are soluble in water and ensures a clean re-pulping process.

FBA Part 2, Recyclability Testing

The FBA Part 2 recyclability test, also a pass or fail test, is a longer and more rigorous test than the FBA Part 1 for Repulpability. FBA Part 2 gauges the paper’s strength and optical and surface properties to determine if the fiber is good for reuse in paper/paperboard.

Western Michigan University (WMU) offers the FBA parts 1 and 2 paper repulbability and recyclability testing and certification program. In addition, WMU is a partner organization of the How2Recycle program. Paper packaging that successfully passes parts 1 and 2 of the FBA tests from WMU qualify for use of the How2Recycle logo.

Paper Packaging: A Durable Packaging Choice

In addition to caring for the environment, a sustainable paper package can protect the goods it carries throughout the supply chain. Creating a paper package that is sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of the shipping process includes both tests and coatings to protect it from its environment.

Paper is Strong

Do you ever wonder how your mail or packages stay intact during transit? The secret lies in the paper’s composition. Tests like ISTA 6 Flexible SIOC and TAPPI 403 Burst strength can determine just how strong a package’s paper really is. To increase its strength, some packages feature heavier paper basis weights, or even a 2-ply layer composition.

Want to protect your package from moisture or weather during delivery? Consider a water-based coating that’s both recyclable and durable. With these techniques, you can rest assured your paper packaging is up to the challenges (and weather) posed by the supply chain.

Contact Us

Partnering with Tension Packaging & Automation for sustainable paper packaging solutions can be a smart choice for your business. Why? We. Know. Paper: Our parent company, Tension Corporation, was established in 1886 and is the second-largest national envelope manufacturer in the U.S.

We have deep, strong relationships with large paper mills, and through these partnerships we can help supply your sustainable paper packaging needs. Our team is well-versed in paper composition, features, specifications, and coatings best suited for packaging applications. Contact us today to get the conversation started.

Sustainable Packaging Materials 101 Part 1: Sustainable Polybag Solutions

tensionapdev on March 15, 2023

Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) companies are under pressure to adopt sustainable packaging strategies, including reducing, reusing, recycling, reformatting, and renewing packaging materials. Polybags, despite being plastic, can support these efforts through right-sizing, using recycled content, and leveraging biodegradable or compostable materials. Tension Packaging & Automation is committed to helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals with innovative packaging solutions tailored to eCommerce and pharmacy needs.

In October 2018, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a global nonprofit committed to creating a circular economy, set out clear, urgent actions for businesses and governments to take to eliminate plastic and outlined ambitious targets for reducing virgin plastic use by 2025. By November 2022, a New Plastics Economy Global Commitment progress report indicated this commitment to use only reusable, recyclable or compostable plastic packaging would not likely be met by 2025, resulting in the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s placing a fresh-acceleration spotlight on businesses urging them to create credible, ambitious plans to scale reuse, deal with the issue of flexible packaging and reduce the need for single-use packaging. 

The heat is on for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) companies to source sustainable packaging solutions. A recent report by the Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI), Packaging Sustainability: A Changing Landscape, details how CPG’s sustainable packaging strategies include: 

  • Reducing – Minimizing packaging to reduce waste. 
  • Reusing – Implementing reusable packaging. 
  • Recycling – Designing recyclable packaging. 
  • Reformatting – Redesigning packaging using more sustainable materials. 
  • Renewing – Choosing renewable-sourced materials. 

Plastic Packaging: A Sustainable Option 

Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics in the world. A bag made with polyethylene, or a polybag, is widely used in the packaging industry due to its durable, pliable and protective qualities. Despite being a plastic product, a polybag can still be considered as a sustainable packaging alternative – especially when the following CPG sustainable packaging strategies are considered: 

Reducing: Minimizing Packaging to Reduce Waste

Options to reduce the amount of poly used in a package includes right-sizing bags or using thinner or “downgauged” packaging such as Linear-Low Density Polyethylene (L-LDPE). 

L-LDPE refers to the type of resin that makes up the plastic in the polybag. L-LDPE is popular for its strength, impact resistance and puncture resistance. L-LDPE is tough, boasting a higher tensile strength than regular low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and this allows L-LDPE to consist of thinner films without compromising the strength of the material, making it an ideal substrate for packaging applications.  

Reusing: Implementing Reusable Packaging

Two-way packages are popular in the apparel segment where returns and exchanges are highly-likely. Shippers who provide a perforation and double-adhesive strip on the initial package — enabling it to double as a return vessel if needed — creates an opportunity for that package to extend beyond single use.  

Recycling: Designing Recyclable Packaging

Did you know polybags can be recycled as a low-density polyethylene or number 4 plastic? Nearly 10,000 retailers and grocers nationwide accept number 4 plastics (e.g., polybags) for recycling. For more information, or to find a number 4 plastic recycling facility in your area, consult the resources at How2Recycle.    

Reformatting: Redesigning Packaging Using More Sustainable Materials 

Polybags made with post-consumer resin (PCR) and/or post-industrial content (PIC) can protect your both products and the environment. The amount of PCR and/or PIC contained in a polybag is expressed in percentages, yet the percentage of PCR and/or PIC included in a package can vary greatly, depending on the specific intended application and end use for the bag. There is a limit to how much PCR and/or PIC a polybag can contain and still maintaining the desired strength, sealability and integrity. Testing is critical to determine the appropriate amount of PCR and/or PIC to be included in a polybag.    

Renewing: Choosing Renewable-sourced Materials 

Packages marked as “compostable” are biodegradable, meaning the packaging materials can break down into tiny pieces that can be safely digested by microorganisms. Biodegradable packaging can be made from bio-based and fossil-based polymers, and there are some petroleum-based plastics composed of weaker carbon chains that degrade efficiently and completely (e.g., polybutylene adipate terephthalate or PBAT, a fully biodegradable polymer) while maintaining the strength and flexibility that makes plastic packaging so attractive for packaging manufacturers. 

Paper Packaging: A Sustainable Option 

Looking for more sustainable packaging options? Stay tuned for part two of this post on paper packaging solutions. 

Contact Tension Packaging & Automation for Your Sustainable Packaging Needs 

Tension remains committed to sustainability, our customers and meeting their needs for sustainability in their business. We are passionate about helping our customers reach their sustainability goals through our sustainable packaging consumables and solutions for pharmacy and eCommerce and have options for sustainable polybags. Contact an expert today to get started. 

Nothing but Net: 5 Benefits of SLAM Systems in your eCommerce Warehouse

tensionapdev on February 7, 2023

SLAM (Scan, Label, Apply, Manifest) systems are powerful tools for eCommerce and warehouse operations, offering benefits like reduced labor costs, improved safety, and increased package throughput. By automating repetitive tasks, optimizing shipping rates, and consolidating workstations, SLAM systems streamline order fulfillment while boosting accuracy and efficiency. Tension Packaging & Automation provides tailored solutions to help you transform your operations into a cost-saving, high-performing success.

SLAM systems, or SCAN, LABEL, APPLY, MANIFEST systems, offer eCommerce order fulfillment centers and warehouses a means to reduce labor costs (in addition to several other benefits). 
 

Located in the last 100 feet of the order fulfillment process, a SLAM label applicator system can offer a variety of benefits to an eCommerce and order fulfillment center, warehouse or B2B shipping facility (including some that positively affect your bottom line or net profits!).

Automating Repetitive Tasks

A SLAM line can help optimize labor in your warehouse by automating many of the tasks associated with order fulfillment.

By automating repetitive labor tasks, your labor force is free to do job tasks that may be of greater interest to them – improving associate satisfaction and potentially team dynamics.

From a cost perspective, task automation can lead to reduced labor costs by a factor of four!

Improve Warehouse Safety

Automation can help improve safety in order fulfillment operations just by automating some of the repetitive tasks that pose a risk to workers. This is a no-brainer when you consider the numbers:

A Positive Ratio: Along with improved safety comes improved associate satisfaction – a win-win for all involved in your operations of order fulfillment services.

Increased Packaging Throughput

A great benefit of a SLAM system is that it can drive accuracy and speed, ultimately leading to higher package throughput. With a SLAM system in place, order accuracy is built into the process.

SLAM lines feature quality checks throughout the process such as scanning an LPN (license plate number) barcode on the carton or package to ensure that it is attached directly to the proper package.

Once the Print & Apply label applicator is attached, the LPN barcode and shipping label are scanned to verify the correct package is going to the correct customer.

Additional options that can be included in the SLAM line include a scale and DIM system with integrated rate shopping to save on shipping cost. This all-in-one system compares the actual parcel weight with the expected weight sorts packages to the correct shipping carrier chute using the package barcode. This all can be done at a rate of 15 – 25 packages per minute with accuracy.

Find Low Shipping and Reduced Carrier Rates 

SLAM systems can also help reduce shipping costs by having the correct weight and DIM of the box packaging or bag. Fast shipping rate shopping software helps to save on carrier costs and optimize order fulfillment.

Additionally, right-sized automated packaging equipment, such as Tension’s HPS-300 variable length packaging system, can reduce excess package waste and help reduce shipping costs by up to 18% when the package is rate shopped on your SLAM line. 

With the option of adding sortation to your line, this reduces labor costs when compared to manual package sorting to different carriers and service levels.

Consolidated Workstations

Another benefit of SLAM systems is that they can help consolidate shipping workstations. With a SLAM system in place, there is no need for multiple shipping stations by carrier.

All orders can be sorted at the end of the fulfillment process and then shipped out from one central location. This consolidation can lead to a 50% reduction in shipping stations, freeing up more space in the warehouse for production and inventory storage.

Contact Us

From increased throughput to reduced labor costs, SLAM systems can offer a multitude of advantages to an eCommerce fulfillment services or warehouse operation.

Looking for ways to improve your operational efficiency and net profits? Consider investing in a system that is sure to be a SLAM dunk for your organization.

Tension offers a full suite of automated packaging equipment including automated bagging machines, conveyor systems, sorters, print and apply labelers and more. Contact an expert at Tension to discuss today.

How a Sortation System Can Optimize Your Order Fulfillment Services

tensionapdev on January 18, 2023

The Role of Sortation Systems in Optimizing Order Fulfillment Services

The eCommerce industry is face paced, featuring order fulfillment as a critical factor of customer satisfaction. To meet customer demands and expectations, warehouses are increasingly turning to automated sortation systems to optimize their order fulfillment process.

When it comes to shipping, fast is no longer fast enough. Consumers who were impressed with Amazon’s two-day shipping now want shorter delivery times and lower shipping charges. Twenty-minute delivery windows may soon be the new standard for delivery times as adopters of quick commerce (Q-Commerce) gain traction in the grocery segment, which could soon expand to other retail industries. A recent study also revealed that 66% of online shoppers had abandoned their carts because of shipping costs.

Creating Operational Efficiencies with Sortation

As consumers want more for less, warehouses, distribution centers and order fulfillment operations are looking for ways to be more productive. One way to offer these efficiencies is through sortation systems for order fulfillment.

Items that have been packaged on our automated packaging equipment , travels to the sorter when the package is identified and diverted with the assistance of our TensionCONNECTTM software.

How a Sortation System Can Help Your Fulfillment Operations

Sortation systems can help optimize your order fulfillment operation by improving order accuracy and speed, reducing labor costs, and ensuring versatility and use of warehouse space. By automating the sorting process, you can process a high volume of orders with minimal resources and reduce the chances of errors occurring during the fulfillment process.

Benefits to using sortation systems in your order fulfillment operations include:

  • Increased Speed: With routing that is completed in a fraction of the time compared to a manual process, a sortation system can help drastically improve item sorting rates.  
  • Improved Accuracy: A scanner automatically assigns the package to the correct carrier so your staff doesn’t have to. 
  • Decreased Labor Costs: With the added efficiencies a sortation system can provide, your staff can focus on other high-skilled areas that need their expertise. 
  • Better Use of Valuable Warehouse Space: Save floor space with a sophisticated, flexible design tailor-made for tight warehouses. 
  • Enhanced Versatility: Our sorters can handle nearly every size, shape and weight, including apparel, shoes, jewelry, pharmaceuticals, CDs, mail, books and small parcels.

What to Consider When Choosing a Sortation System

When choosing a sortation system for order fulfillment, several factors must be taken into consideration, including the type of products being sorted, the layout of the warehouse, budget, and ROI. These can have an impact on which sortation systems work best for your order fulfillment. Choosing the right sortation system for order fulfillment can greatly enhance efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction, making it a critical decision for any warehouse or distribution center.

Choose Sortation Systems Designed to Grow With You

Compact and adjustable, our sortation system fits into small or large spaces, and can adjust to different modes or fulfillment channels. This system is also designed to grow in capacity, and is flexible enough to handle a changing product mix.

We work in an environment where the only constant is change. It’s an environment where responding to a more demanding customer is vital to your business. With increased fulfillment demands, an automated sortation system may just be the key to lasting success.

Contact Tension

Tension Packaging & Automation is a leader in complete packaging and automation solutions for the eCommerce and pharmacy automation industries. Our line of packaging equipment seamlessly integrates with sortation systems and related software to help rate-shop and select the best carrier at the best price.

Contact Tension today to discuss how we can help set up your eCommerce or pharmacy order fulfillment operation for success with the help of our sortation systems.

Simplified Package Shipping Solutions from the USPS Part 2: UPS Mail Innovations and USPS Informed Delivery for Packages

tensionapdev on September 27, 2022

USPS and UPS offer innovative solutions like UPS Mail Innovations® and Informed Delivery® to help businesses streamline eCommerce shipping. UPS Mail Innovations reduces touchpoints and costs by combining UPS’s national network with USPS’s last-mile delivery, while Informed Delivery provides email previews of mail and packages, creating new marketing opportunities with high engagement rates. Together, these programs enhance operational efficiency and customer communication, supporting businesses in meeting rising eCommerce demands.

In our previous post, we explored USPS Connect™ its convenient shipping and return services. Now, let’s turn our attention to some additional simplified package shipping solutions.
 

The United States Postal Service (USPS) claims it’s “delivering for America with innovative solutions for businesses.” Informed Delivery® by USPS and UPS Mail Innovations® make good on that promise.

Both programs help businesses keep pace with the astonishing rise in eCommerce shipping by solving a handful of operational challenges.

What is UPS Mail Innovations?

UPS Mail Innovations is a collaborative program between USPS and UPS to deliver parcels more efficiently. Shipping solutions relying on traditional USPS mailing methods typically see a parcel travel through six separate touchpoints along its journey. By integrating with UPS and leveraging its national network of processing facilities and technology, that number is slashed. UPS handles the heavy lifting—long transits, labeling and, sorting of qualified mail—before dropping mail pieces at a USPS facility for last-mile delivery.

The streamlined solution offers speed and lowers costs. Those aren’t the only benefits, though. Today, 20% of merchants, including pharmaceuticals and healthcare providers, use the service. With the ability to brand, personalize and even include bounce-back incentives, the labels become another important piece of the marketing toolkit.

Convenience can’t be underscored either. Merchants can drop off packages at any UPS store, 24-hour service kiosk*, or rapid drop-off station. And returns are just as simple with easy-to-use, prepaid labels.

What is Informed Delivery?

Informed Delivery by USPS has been around for a few years—enough time to realize the benefits are real. The free service provides recipients an email preview of their mail before it arrives. But the real upside to this shipping solution belongs to those businesses that capitalize upon it.

Informed Delivery email open rates are strong at 63%, meaning more than half of direct mail pieces receive multiple impressions across channels. Shippers can use Informed Delivery to enrich an existing marketing campaign—at no additional cost. What’s more, they have access to a digital dashboard sharing important metrics like click-through and open rates. Great for A/B testing, it can help businesses understand what messaging resonates.

And it’s about to get better. Until now, Informed Delivery only pertained to letters, but package campaigns are coming soon.

Contact us to discuss how we can enhance your operations in tandem with these USPS offerings.

About Tension

Tension Packaging & Automation is a leader in complete packaging and automation solutions for the eCommerce and pharmacy automation industries. Our line of packaging equipment seamlessly integrates with transportation management systems (TMS) with options for weight verification, rate shopping, and sorting to multiple carriers (e.g., USPS) and service levels — contact us to get started.