Cost Effective Packaging

As part of my research, I started looking at some ideas for packaging that saves money as well as the environment. Being careful with all kinds of resources is the future of design. After searching the internet, I came across some helpful tips to reduce costs. I agree with these tips for the most part, but some of the things said can be altered a bit to take into account the environment:

(http://www.ranpak.com/Blog/post/2012/03/30/6-Tips-to-Safe-and-Cost-Effective-Packaging.aspx)

"1: Use a corrugated box—preferably a new one. When you reuse a box, it becomes less durable."

Corrugated boards are very effective but don't last forever. It is good to use new ones as long as they have been recycled.

"2: Do not overfill a box. Overfilling will direct pressure to the walls of the box which could result in damage to both the box and your product. Many packers smash down paper or loose fill to close the box or fit more material inside. However, this compresses the material, making it less effective in protecting your products. More importantly, using excess packaging material means spending unnecessary money."

Fitting too much of the product into the packaging might seem good in reducing packaging costs, however as noted above, it can end in product spillage when the packaging breaks from too much pressure. Using excess material to compensate for the pressure costs the environment as well.

"3: Do not underfill a box. Underfilling a box could result in possible damage to your product. Make sure the product you are shipping is secure. If it feels loose in the box, either add more packaging material or double check to ensure that you have correctly wrapped the product."

This is a good point and I think it can be avoided completely by simply designing smaller packaging. Not only does this save the product but it also saves money and more importantly the environment. Oversized packaging is such a waste and unnecessary.

"4: The 2-inch rule: In most cases, use at least 2 inches of packaging material around the product and be sure that the product is at least 2 inches from the walls of the box. This will help prevent both underfilling and overfilling, saving you time and money."

"5: Properly close the box. This step is just as important as using proper cushioning. Try to stay away from tapes such as: masking, cellophane and duct. Use strong tape such as pressure sensitive plastic tape. Two inches or more in width is recommended."

Using weak tapes and glue only to find it doesn't work is a huge waste in both instances. That being said tape isn't always entirely necessary and I am still debating if I will use it in my design. A well design packaging net can be just as effective and even more effective in saving the environment.