One of the services we provide at BoldtSmith Packaging is a packaging assessment. This service consists of completing onsite visits to your manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, etc. We want to see the packaging designs, materials, how the product is packed, handled, and stored and speak with the team on the floor to learn about their pain points related to packaging.
We do not manufacture or sell packaging, instead, we offer unbiased assessments so that you get a “true” look into what opportunity exists within your packaging system. Our team of experts has experience creating optimized packaging designs for products ranging from microwaves to pancake mixes to motorcycles.
What does a packaging assessment provide?
So, what should a customer expect after we complete an assessment on their current packaging? A wealth of knowledge uncovering hidden cost-saving opportunities! We will provide a detailed evaluation that outlines all packaging opportunities by material and process. This includes ALL packaging materials and processes ranging from tape used to seal boxes to pallets, packaging automation, storage methods, etc. A few examples are outlined below by packaging material and process from recently completed packaging assessments.
Stretch film
Often an overlooked packaging material that is often billed under misc. packaging or warehouse expenses. A recent customer was using just over 2 lbs of film on their pallets due to a poor quality film and pre-stretch rollers being damaged. They engaged us on a project after the packaging assessment and we reduced their film weight to just over 5 oz. This resulted in just under $200,000 in hidden cost savings!
Corrugated box strength
When we discover a customer relied on a corrugated manufacturer to complete the design work and testing, it screams opportunity! So often do we find companies utilizing box designs or material strengths that do not match their supply chain.
Retail vs E-Commerce packaging
You ship a product on pallets to a retail store and also via e-commerce not on a pallet to a customer’s house. Should that product share the same packaging? Different packaging? An overpack on the retail SKU for small parcel shipments? We will provide an assessment on your current shipping methods using data to provide evidence on what solution is best for you!
Shipping methods
A customer was stacking their boxes 65” tall on a pallet which did not allow them to double stack in the trailer. They did this because the box design that was utilized would crush when double stacked in transit. We identified this as an opportunity and changed the box design to allow for double stacking in the trailer and reduced the pallet height to 48”.
BoldtSmith’s unbiased packaging assessments
Our goal after we complete the assessment is to then complete the identified projects. We rank the identified projects on key variables such as ROI potential, risk level, project duration, company goals, etc. After completing the assessment, it is not uncommon for us to have identified upwards for 30+ packaging projects. Depending on annual quantities, packaging spend, etc. these projects can often lead to millions of identified and implemented cost savings!
Interested in learning how we can save you money through optimized packaging solutions? Contact us today to set up your own consultation.