Today, one of the major problems faced by eCommerce fulfillment centers catering directly to the consumer is increasing shipping costs. This comes at a time when order sizes are smaller, and labor costs are rising. These factors eat into the bottom line, but cartonization software can significantly help to reduce the impact on profits. Increasingly, direct-to-consumer eCommerce fulfillment centers are turning toward Cartonization software and here are just a few of the reasons why your company should consider it.
Maximize Efficiency
Using Cartonization software makes it possible to generate batches of orders based on packaging needs. Orders requiring a specific size of carton are generated and assigned to packing lines expressly for those sizes. This allows orders to be separated into manual and automated lines and allocated to stations with the necessary materials. Each order is directed to the line that can package it most efficiently. When the order arrives at the pack station, Cartonization software tells the packer the specific size of carton, preventing unnecessary void-fill and use of over-size cartons.
Increasingly, direct-to-consumer eCommerce fulfillment centers are turning toward Cartonization software and here are just a few of the reasons why your company should consider it.
Reduce Shipping Charges
Dimensional weight or DIM weight use carton dimensions as well as the actual weight to determine shipping charges. Using the correct sized carton can decrease DIM charges significantly. Also, by using smaller cartons, more orders can be loaded, reducing overall loads and their associated costs.
Reducing Consumer Returns
Cartonization software follows strict loading rules that assess the dimensions and fragility of items to determine how best to ship them and how to pack the order. For example, it can choose the most efficient type of void-fill to protect the item, such as foam or bubble wrap. The weight of the item decides its pack position, ensuring heavy items are always positioned at the bottom of the carton. The SKU dimensions determine which carton size is allocated to the order. All these factors ensure the consumer receives their product in pristine condition, reducing returns due to damage.
Reducing Packaging Costs
Not surprisingly, packaging costs are reduced when the correct-sized carton is chosen. Additionally, smaller cartons require less fill-void and take less tape. These saving might seem small, but when added up over a month or year, can be significant.
Reducing Your Company’s Carbon Footprint
Increasingly, consumers prefer to use companies that try to be more environmentally conscious. There is little more infuriating than to receive an over-sized box. Cartonization can form an essential part of any project to ensure your supply chain is greener, minimizing your consumption of materials that aren’t always easily recycled. Also, fewer loads reduce your carbon footprint even further, as does using recycled packaging materials whenever possible.
If you are interested in better, faster solutions for Cartonization or complex mixed palletization, contact MagicLogic and ask about our BlackBox. Chat with us directly using our Online Help.
