Shipping boxes are just as important to your shipping process as the product you’re sending. Products get shipped, but they don’t ship alone – they depend on a protective layer to shield them from potential harm en route. Therefore, selecting an appropriate shipping box is critical. Not only does a quality shipping box protect products from damage, but it can also save your business money down the road.
A very common question many people have is “How do I know if a shipping box is the correct size?” Simply stated, a shipping box should allow adequate protection of the product while minimizing excess empty space. Too little space could lead to improper placement of the product and/or excessive side pressure. On the other hand, too much empty space within the box allows the product to move freely throughout shipping, increasing the likelihood of damage prior to arrival.
Another question frequently asked is whether every shipment requires the same type of shipping box. The response is simply no. Shipping needs vary depending upon each individual product being sent. For example, candles, books, and tools require completely different types of shipping boxes. Most lightweight products will suffice in a standard box, while heavier items are generally best suited for stronger corrugated boxes designed specifically for greater weight capacity. When you match the shipping box to the product, you greatly enhance the likelihood that your shipment will arrive intact.
Businesses are also interested in knowing whether having fewer box sizes would result in simpler packing procedures. There are times when this is true. When you limit yourself to a few common sizes used most often, you will simplify inventory management and increase the efficiency of your packing process. Less time will be spent by employees attempting to locate the proper box. Additionally, supply organization becomes easier as well. However, there are situations when it is necessary to maintain sufficient variety of box sizes to ensure products are packed with minimal wasted space.
Business owners are also curious regarding whether the condition of shipping boxes prior to utilization matters. Yes, it does. Any shipping box displaying evidence of previous usage such as dented corners, crushed sides, and/or water damage is compromised in terms of its ability to provide structural support to the contents it contains. Even if it retains its overall shape, it may not offer the level of protection needed to safeguard the product being shipped. A quick inspection of all boxes before they are utilized will assist in preventing unnecessary issues later.
Smart companies also pay close attention to customer feedback. Repeatedly hearing complaints from customers regarding damaged shipping containers or broken products can indicate a packaging issue. It may be possible to address these issues by utilizing a sturdier shipping container, changing the size of the container, or adding additional padding and cushioning material inside the container. Companies that listen to customer feedback enable themselves to continually refine their own internal processes related to packaging.
Finally, numerous people feel that strong shipping boxes always cost too much. Although they may be slightly more expensive than weaker shipping boxes, they can ultimately save you money through the reduction of replacement and return shipments. Shipping a product two separate times due to initial damages sustained in transit typically costs much more than purchasing the correct shipping container in the first place. Frequently comparing total expenses rather than only purchase prices enables you to make wiser financial decisions.
Proper storage is crucial in maintaining ready-to-use shipping boxes. All shipping boxes must be stored in a clean, dry environment where they will not develop bends or absorb moisture. Organizing like-size boxes together also facilitates quicker access and retrieval for employees by eliminating extensive search times among large amounts of disorganized boxes.
Shipping containers do far more than merely contain products. They serve as barriers against physical abuse, drops, shocks, and transportation mishaps during delivery. Stronger containers can minimize waste, shorten packing time, decrease expenses associated with replacing damaged goods, and promote consumer confidence when receiving their orders. Taking time to select the right shipping container is one of the easiest methods for improving your company’s shipping procedure and creating positive experiences for every customer.
