PACKING EQUIPMENT

Pack Stations,  Void Fill, Tapers, Strappers

The table is the most basic component of any pack station. There are a lot of enhancements you can make to a rudimentary table to improve packing efficiency. Although you may not think about it, spending a little money on the table and ergonomics can have a very big payback over time since it enables the packer to do their job faster and with less fatigue. Saving just a few second per order adds up and can often create a payback that repays you investment in less than a year.

If you would like help designing a customized packing environment, click here.

Vendor Links:

• CTEK Industrial - http://www.americanpropipe.com/ - (888) 611-1981
• CTEK Industrial - http://www.dehnco.com/ - (888) 611-1981
• IAC Industries - http://www.iacindustries.com/ - (800) 639-5805

There are a lot of different available void fill systems, roughly divided into peanuts, pillows, bubble, or paper. Each has advantages and each has liabilities. Some systems dispense faster and some are more consumer friendly. Some biodegrade quicker. When choosing a void fill system, first think about your customer and what they will be happy with, then try out several different systems to see which works best for your company. Most equipment providers will give you a "loaner" machine as long as you are willing to pay for the supplies.

Vendor Links:

• Autobag (plastic) - http://www.autobag.com/ - (800) 527-0733
• Geami (tissue) - http://www.geami.com/ - (877) 888-2030
• FP International (plastic)- http://www.fpintl.com// - (650) 261-5300
• Ranpak (paper) - http://www.ranpak.com/ - (800) 726-7257
• Sealed Air (paper, plastic) - http://www.sealedair.com/ - (201) 791-7600
• StoroPack (plastic, paper, peanuts) - http://www.storopack.com/ - (714) 632-3334

In-line tapers can dramatically speed up the carton sealing process. Combine this with in-line void fill and you can easily double or triple productivity.

Vendor Links:

• 3m - http://www.3m.com/us/mfg_industrial/packaging/ - (770) 383.3358
• Loveshaw - http://www.loveshaw.com/ - (800) 572.3434

Strappers can strap two packages together or reinforce a package with heavy or bulky items inside it. Strappers are generally not needed for most lighter weight products.

Vendor Links:

• Signode - http://www.signode.com/na/systems_products/pss_machine.htm - (800) 323-2464
• PTI Packaging - http://www.ptipackaging.com/ - (800) 826-4405
• U-Line - http://www.uline.com/BrowseWebClass.asp - (800) 958-5463