Don’t forget how important it is to have simple, high-quality packaging. Not only can it help customers remember your brand, but if it’s done right, it can also help your business run smoothly. But, of course, for this to happen, you need the right packaging machinery and equipment.
Having the right packaging tools and efficient processes in place can save your business and employees a lot of time. So, how do you choose the best Protective packaging equipment for your business and products? Think about what you need, talk to experts, and figure out the best solution to work well with how you do things now. Packaging equipment has many options; since it’s a big investment, your business needs to make the right choice. Take the time to determine which option is best for your business and product.
Here are the most important questions when looking for new packaging equipment and machinery for your business.
What Are Your Packaging Needs?
Once you know exactly what you need to package, buying the equipment and machinery you’ll need is easier. So, your packaging partner will know your best options for equipment that will meet your needs without wasting money. You can narrow down your needs by answering a few simple questions:
What Is Your Main Goal For Purchasing New Equipment?
Do you just need to be more efficient, or are you trying to grow your business and enter a new or bigger market? Are your needs for making all of your products the same? Getting the right equipment for your needs will be easy if you can answer these questions.
Are You Doing A Complete Overhaul Of Your Machinery?
If your packaging needs a total makeover with new tools and methods, you will also need to train your staff. In this case, it’s also a good idea to talk to other people in your field who may have experience with the machinery and find out what works best and what doesn’t. You must look for equipment and brand reviews to find the best vendor and equipment for your needs. Do you have enough room for new packaging equipment and the process that goes with it? For instance, will the staff be able to move around the new equipment easily, and will it be a safe place to work? Make sure you use your space well, so the packaging process goes smoothly and doesn’t get in the way of other business tasks.
Are You Upgrading Your Equipment?
If you want to improve your packaging process, bring in your key employees who have worked with it and learn from them. Find out how you can improve the packaging process and the tools you use, as well as what they think will help you move forward.
Have You Created A User Requirements Specification Document?
A simple document will help vendors understand what you need, determine what equipment will work best for your packaging needs, and give you a price that reflects that.
Make sure you define the following:
- Your warehouse environment
- If you have any component brands, you’d prefer them to use
- Compliance with local safety and electrical standards
- Documentation required (user’s manual, maintenance schedule, drawings, copy of programs)
- Performance warranty
Determine The Price And Costs Involved
When deciding whether or not to change your packaging process, the cost of the equipment you need is, of course, a big deal. Still, it shouldn’t be the most important thing to think about. Choosing a vendor with good customer service after the sale will cost a little more, but it may be more important than saving money. This is because you might need help with your new gear after you buy it. This help is useful for things like understanding the documentation, getting technical support, dealing with spare parts or finding components when the time comes, changing parts when they need to be changed, getting software updates, training staff, and solving performance problems. And if you have a good relationship with a trustworthy vendor who can help you when you need it, it is worth the money.
Are There Financing Options?
There are different ways to pay for your new machinery. Your first option is to buy the equipment outright and talk to your bank about ways to pay for it. The bank usually finances more than the value, such as integration, shipping, and getting the project up and running. The second option is to rent the equipment, which can help with cash flow in the short term, but you won’t own it.
What Should Safety Standards Be Considered?
Make sure your vendor gives you all the local safety standards for the different kinds of equipment you are buying. So, you can think about the safety zones you need in your workspace, like a sensor that detects movement in certain areas or a button that turns off the power. Also, training your staff is important if you want to keep your operations safe and legal.
When it comes to choosing packaging machinery, there are many different options. Whatever you decide, talking to the experts about automating this process will save your company time and money. Find out how your packaging partners at Britwrap can help.
How Britwrap Enterprises Can Help
Britwrap is a company that designs and makes good protective packaging. Packaging solutions include sealing, chilled packaging, case packing, case erecting, case forming, strapping, stretch wrapping, labeling, marking, and shrink wrap. The Britwrap team can help you set up an automated packaging system or process that you want to use. Britwrap’s expert packaging consultants can automate and integrate your packaging and shipping lines. Even if you need a unique way to make your packaging stand out from the competition or you need equipment that can work in harsh environments, we’re ready to give you the best options to meet your packaging needs.
We’ve been packaging things for decades, so we’re ready to help with even the strangest or most unexpected problems. Call us at +44 (0)151 934 1250, or contact us for more information.
