What is the real importance of protective packaging in logistics?

The main objective of investing in the protective packaging in logistics is to guarantee the physical integrity of the products so that they reach customers in perfect condition. In just one operation, various types, formats and sizes can be used according to the need. Learn more about how important it is to operations. Importance of protective packaging in the life of a product

Although the protection of products is the main function of protective packaging, it also plays other roles, such as:

• accommodate the products properly;
• provide information about the items;
• generate consumer appeal.

Types of protective packaging in logistics

Primaries

This protective packaging has direct contact with the item and protects it directly. This is the case with the plastic that surrounds

a shampoo.

Secondary

They store primary protective packaging and may or may not be used for transportation. For example, this is the case with the cardboard box surrounding a pack of medicines.

Tertiary

They group secondary protective packaging and already have the role of packing the products for transport. A large box containing a batch of several boxes of tea bags is an example.

Quaternary

They accommodate many units and make handling and transport much easier. A pallet is an excellent option.

Fifth Level

They generally aim to transport over long distances, as with containers used in international shipments.

Most used protective packaging materials in logistics and their indications

Cardboard

It is widely used to transport dry loads that do not require special conditions (such as temperature control).

Polystyrene

This type of protective packaging is mainly used for transporting household appliances, electronics and food and other

refrigerated products.

Plastic

Among the main applications are protective packaging items that are not feasible to put in boxes (such as car bumpers) and unitizing small loads, such as a bag of candy.

Madeira

The transport of fresh produce is a good example, as well as loads that must be used but cannot

be opened, as in the case of pallets.

Metallic alloys

Steel cans and aluminum alloys are examples of this type of protective packaging, which can be used to transport tools, and metal parts, among others.

Importance of protective packaging in logistics

In storage

Protective packaging helps in stocking and moving products in the warehouse, protecting them from damage that may occur internally. Therefore, it is important to observe the capacity and possibility of stacking.

In moving and handling

Protective packaging needs to be resistant and offers easy handling to optimize handling in the various stages of the

logistics process.

Care in choosing the protective packaging

Product suitability

They must be designed to take advantage of the space while being strong to protect the products. This means that they cannot be too tight (at the risk of tearing) or too wide (leaving the item loose and subject

to damage).

Environmental impact

Sustainability is an increasingly demanded practice. The ideal is to bet on recyclable, returnable or reusable materials.

Protective packaging costs

It is necessary to balance the quality of the protective packaging with a satisfactory cost — aiming not to make the operation too expensive —at the same time, resistance is combined with the weight, which cannot be high, as this affects the freight price.

Certification

Assessing whether the protective packaging has Inmetro certification is essential. Through it, there is a guarantee that the protective packaging can protect the goods from possible damage.

Relationship between protective packaging, reverse logistics and sustainability

Reverse logistics and sustainability are two closely linked concepts. The reverse flow of products and protective packaging helps to avoid excessive and inappropriate disposal of materials in the environment and enables the use of recyclable and returnable protective packaging.

Protective packaging as a logistical differential

When there is an investment in innovative and differentiated protective packaging, the chances of going beyond the customer's expectations are increased, offering something extra — a practice called overdelivering. A good example is some cosmetics companies that use glass protective packaging and other materials that can be reused as a mug, for example, after the product runs out.

The choice of protective packaging in logistics must be well thought out and balance several factors to ensure a good cost-benefit for the operation. With the right investment, it is possible to demonstrate the care with the products and, at the same time, achieve customer satisfaction.

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