Sustainability is at the packaging forefront. E-commerce consumers typically receive items packed in a variety of shapes and sizes of corrugated boxes. These containers are considered as the “best sustainable e-commerce solution”. Are they really? It appears firms may need training and education in regards to proper sustainable distribution packaging.
A good example: E-commerce razor blades shipped in a standard “cigar” or “pizza” box (technically called a FEFCO 427).
Razor Blade E-Commerce Shipper
The first thing noticed is the height of the container. The box height was shorter compared to previous shipments. Great Improvement!
Two separate cartridges of razor blades were discovered inside the shipper. The cartridges were placed in an extra die-cut panel of the box. There was ample space between the product and the container. This was unusual.
Razor Blade Interior Packaging
Additional Die-cut Corrugated Panel
There was no need for razor cartridges to be placed in a die-cut container. Better sustainable packaging options exist and should have been implemented. The company most likely chose the die-cut corrugated box because of the “out of box experience” or marketing factors.
Razor Blade Plastic Primary Packaging
Let’s be honest: A majority of e-commerce customers do not care of how razor blades are presented to them. Most users remove items and discard/recycle the packaging. Why was a corrugated box used for razor blades already placed in two piece plastic “trays”? Especially when the previous razor blades received were abutted to other larger and heavier products with no issues.
The razor blades are over-packaged. The overall length and width of the “new” packaging greatly exceeded the dimensions of the product.
A few observations to potentially improve this pack:
- The length and width package dimensions need to fit the product appropriately.
- If a corrugated box is still needed, reduce the dimensions of the box to the minimum size of the shipping label.
- The ultra-light, razor blades do not need a box. The blades are already encapsulated in plastic trays.
- Convert to a Kraft paper bag (lay flat or gusseted) or similar with an open-end and self adhering strip. If Kraft paper bag is not viable, go to a compostable or recyclable poly or bio material bag and close the logistics loop.
- If concerned about product movement, use Kraft paper void fill which is easier to recycle compared to a “manila envelope with air-cap laminated on inside”
- Company should investigate packaging return program or partnering with a 3rd party recycling service. Use of prepaid return shipping may encourage return of pack that can be reused multiple times.
- Instead of using plastic/paper shipping labels, direct print legible shipping information to package itself. Use of direct printing will reduce the quantity of materials being utilized and improve recyclability.
E-commerce packaging is increasing and greater sustainability efforts can be made. Products need to be evaluated and assessed before a company goes into default packaging selection mode. The trend of all e-commerce shipments in a corrugated box because other product lines or companies use them is inexcusable. Firms need to be leaders and not followers!
If your company needs support with their e-commerce/sustainability efforts, feel free to contact Pack Protocols LLC at [email protected] or 657-204-6093. We would love to discuss and possibly support your project needs!