Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on How a One-Stop Packaging Partner Can Improve Your Packaging Efficiency
Packaging is a complex aspect of product and material production and logistics for most companies. Not only does packaging protect its contents, it plays an important role in branding, and meeting sustainability goals.
Anyone who’s spent time sourcing packaging materials, from boxes and foam to stretch film and custom printing, understands that there are many moving pieces to manage. Finding a reliable supplier that can meet your needs with the right type of packaging at the right time can be a challenge.
Here, we’ll look at how working with an inclusive, one-stop packaging supplier for vendor managed inventory (VMI) packaging services can simplify procurement, production, and logistics.
The Challenges of Disjointed Packaging Solutions
One of the biggest obstacles to smooth packaging and logistics is inconsistent availability of materials. Working with multiple providers means your team needs to juggle different suppliers, portals, and protocols to acquire all the required materials. Suppliers may also differ in their scheduling and reliability, which can create more turbulence. For example, you may end up with an excess of one material and a shortage of another, which complicates inventory storage and ordering plans.
The quality of packaging materials can also differ between vendors, which risks damage to your products during shipping or warehouse storage. Suppliers may also change the specifications of their products because sometimes their own suppliers run low on stock or discontinue packaging products.
Instead of keeping track of each type of packing material, vendor, and your in-house inventory levels, it may make sense to switch to a single supplier for your packaging needs.
Benefits of a One-Stop Packaging Partner
Working with a single procurement packaging partner for VMI services instead of multiple vendors for each type of packing material is simply good for business. Consider these immediate and long-term benefits of making the switch.
Simplicity
With a single point of contact and only one billing system to manage, your team can see significant time savings compared to juggling multiple contacts and online ordering systems. What’s more, your purchase history, inventory, and total supply chain is visible from one screen.
Cost-Effectiveness
Working with a procurement packaging supplier also saves you money. Most end-to-end suppliers purchase their materials and products in bulk at a discount, which means they can pass those savings onto you. As a result you may pay less by bundling all your packaging with a single supplier, and may even be able to negotiate better terms when your contract is larger.
Your organization also indirectly saves money by having a more comprehensive understanding of your budget and spending levels. Savings from packaging can often be diverted to other aspects of operations to reduce costs or make improvements.
Control
VMI allows you to see your supply chain processes as a whole, so it is easier to track how the moving pieces come together. That helps keep things from slipping through the cracks and avoids the need to scramble to find a substitute material if one of your multiple vendors suddenly discontinues a product.
Better Quality and Reputation
A total packaging supplier helps ensure you have exactly the right materials and packaging process equipment for handling every order and product. This makes it easier for your staff to reduce product damage, increase customer satisfaction, and drive customer retention and referrals.
Better Service and Support
VMI programs provide more support and attention because they are coordinating multiple types of packaging products and materials for each customer. In contrast, when packaging supplies are divided among multiple providers, it’s more difficult for each one to be responsive to your unique requirements.
Another advantage is that for VMI to work, the provider must have a close understanding of your products, process, and business. This means they know not just what materials you need, but why you need them and how they are used.
Optimized, Efficient Manufacturing
As part of the holistic insight into your packaging needs, your supplier may be able to audit your process and equipment and find opportunities to save time and money. Their insight into the packaging industry and new innovations can help you reduce waste, stay productive, and improve sustainability.
Access to Industry Forecasting
Vendor managed inventory programs also include forecasting, which helps you plan for scaling production up temporarily or permanently, adding new products, or changing specs for packaging materials.
Combined Procurement and Packaging Services With Alpha Packaging
At Alpha Packaging, we partner with businesses as an end-to-end solutions provider for procurement and packaging. Our comprehensive selection, delivery, and inventory management lets you focus on your core competencies instead of the status of multiple packaging orders. The key benefits of working with Alpha Packaging are:
Real-time stock monitoring. By monitoring your inventory levels in real time we can determine usage patterns and accurately forecast your stock needs over time. This data allows us to right-size your packaging inventory so you don’t run out early but also don’t have an excess of materials to store.
Cost control and savings. We can help you set optimal inventory levels to reduce costs and streamline holding costs without jeopardizing operations or productivity.
Efficient processes. Our team can analyze your current packaging procedures to find opportunities for more speed, lower costs, and greater consistency.
Better space utilization. When you right-size your packaging inventory to your production levels, more facility space can be freed up for production, new services, or more efficient workflows and layouts.
Warehousing and fulfillment strategies. You also have the option to store your inventory in our extensive warehouse instead of in your facility to reclaim space in your building. Deliveries are pre-scheduled yet flexible to accommodate fluctuations in supply and demand.
Bulk and on-demand delivery. We provide bulk and on-demand ordering so you have the materials you need when you need them.
Contact Us Today to Get Started
Making the change to smarter packaging and procurement solutions makes your entire business more efficient and lets your team focus on their most important tasks. At Alpha Packaging, we can transform your packaging procurement, management, and inventory processes with our VMI program. Reach out today to learn more about the benefits and to schedule an initial meeting, or request a quote for pricing details.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on Understanding the Total Cost of Ownership in Packaging
What is Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Why Does It Matter?
When a business is considering investing in new equipment, one of the most important questions to ask is whether the purchase will deliver a strong return on investment (ROI). The most accurate way to answer that question is to calculate the equipment’s total cost of ownership (TCO). Total cost of ownership is a term used to describe the full long-term expenses associated with acquiring, operating, and maintaining a piece of equipment throughout its lifetime.
With packaging machinery, this means considering ongoing maintenance and repair costs, energy consumption, operator training, and the cost of packaging materials. Understanding the direct and indirect costs associated with new equipment is the best way to predict your ROI and make informed investment decisions.
Why Does TCO Matter in Packaging?
For many businesses, packaging is an unavoidable expense that plays a large role in operational efficiency and revenue generation. Packaging methods directly influence whether or not products ship safely and on time, and also impact labor requirements, operation costs, and much more. Taking the time to calculate the total cost of operating packaging equipment allows businesses to determine which option will be the most economical to run and maintain, helping to maximize profitability and improve competitiveness.
Key Elements of TCO in Packaging
For packaging equipment, finding total cost of ownership involves evaluating three main expense areas: acquisition costs, operational costs, and disposal costs.
Acquisition Costs
Acquisition costs are the most straightforward aspect of calculating TCO. They include the costs associated with purchasing the packaging equipment itself and any related items required for operation. While many businesses assume a machine’s purchase price reflects the total cost of their packaging investment, it’s actually only one part of the true cost of ownership.
Operational Costs
Once acquisition costs are determined, the next step is to evaluate your equipment’s operating costs. These ongoing expenses make up a significant portion of the total cost of ownership and are required to keep your equipment running efficiently. For example, common operational costs include:
Energy costs. The price of electricity used to run your equipment.
Maintenance and repairs. All machinery requires ongoing preventative maintenance to keep it running at its best. Certain components may also need to be replaced or repaired throughout the equipment’s lifetime.
Training and payroll expenses. Consider whether you’ll need to hire additional staff to run your new equipment and factor in the time and resources you’ll need for training.
In addition to the expenses previously mentioned, you should also consider the efficiency of your packaging processes. Inefficient packaging methods slow down your output, increasing payroll expenses. Taking the time to consider indirect costs like these will help you find ways to improve the efficiency and profitability of your operations. Since operational costs vary widely depending on the equipment involved, your production volume, and other factors, the calculation requires careful consideration.
Disposal Costs
One often overlooked aspect of TCO is disposal costs. Over time, all machinery loses value and functionality. When your equipment reaches the end of its lifespan, you will be responsible for its disposal and any associated expenses. You’ll need to review the regulations in place for your industry to determine how your equipment can be safely disposed of or properly recycled. You can also consider whether or not resale is an option. No matter what disposal method you choose, the unavoidable associated expenses should be factored into your TCO analysis.
Calculating TCO for Packaging
The formula for calculating packaging TCO can be complex because certain parts of the packaging process are consumable. However, you can get a good start by considering basic factors like initial costs, maintenance costs over five years, and the remaining value of the equipment after five years. Begin with the initial cost and then add the expected maintenance costs. From this, subtract the remaining value after deprecation to obtain the total cost of ownership.
Partner with Alpha Packaging
The right packaging equipment can dramatically improve your operation’s efficiency and profitability, but making a smart investment requires a good understanding of the total cost of ownership. As a leader in corrugated box manufacturing solutions, Alpha Packaging delivers custom packaging systems that help companies improve their operations. With over 200 years of combined experience, our experts are here to help you select the right machinery for overcoming industry-specific challenges. Contact us with any questions or request a quote to get started.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on How PCR Packaging Reduces Plastic Waste and Your Carbon Footprint
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Choosing post-consumer recycled packaging, or PCR packaging, is an efficient and effective way to protect both your products and the environment. Packaging manufacturers create new packing material from previously used plastics like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) to offer businesses a more sustainable option for storing or shipping their goods.
By reducing the demand for virgin materials, PCR recycling reduces landfill waste and better protects the environment from carbon emissions. Read on to learn more about how PCR packaging conserves natural resources and simultaneously brings your company closer to achieving a circular economy through more socially and environmentally responsible practices.
Post-Consumer Materials
Everything from waste sorting and recycling centers to residential recycling bins serves as a resource for PCR materials. The mass recycling of PET, HDPE, and other post-consumer plastics has made PCR packaging a more affordable and attainable solution for manufacturers requiring packing materials. Common PCR options include:
Plastic beverage bottles for water, soda, juice, etc.
Milk jugs
Alcohol containers
Trays for frozen foods and more
Containers for preserves or jellies
Cooking oil receptacles
Medication bottles
Clamshell packaging
Cleaning product receptacles for laundry detergent and bleach
Bottles for toiletries like shampoo and lotions
Cutting boards
Piping
By sending pre-used plastics to factories instead of landfills as part of smarter waste management, recycling enhances sustainability and keeps a significant amount of plastic out of the environment.
Explore Our Full Range of Packaging Products
PCR packaging offers numerous benefits, the most important of which include:
Reducing landfill waste. Landfills only have so much space, and recycling helps address that concern. Importantly, preventing plastic waste streams from ending up in landfills also directly leads to a healthier planet. Packaging manufacturers can obtain and find new uses for this plentiful, cost-effective material resource, a prime example of the principles behind a circular economy.
Decreasing reliance on costly virgin materials. As companies transition to using PCR packaging, the market’s demand for raw, virgin materials will naturally diminish, lessening the burden on our natural resources. PCR materials like metal, plastic, glass, and paper have already undergone energy-intensive extraction and processing operations — some of which are potentially harmful to the environment — so using recycled materials instead can decrease your carbon footprint.
Lowering energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to the production of virgin materials, the process of making recycled materials typically uses less energy and generates fewer emissions. Thus, choosing PCR materials for packaging helps reduce stress on the environment for a smaller carbon footprint and maximized energy conservation.
Complying with recycled material regulations. California, Washington, and multiple other individual states have considered or enacted laws mandating the set minimum amount of recycled material a plastic product must have in its construction. Such state-level packaging laws for extended producer responsibility (EPR) will hopefully compel business owners to embrace PCR materials, as well.
PCR Packaging at Alpha Packaging
PCR packaging offers businesses a more eco-conscious alternative to conventional packaging materials. Founded in 1987, Alpha Packaging, Inc. strives to be your one-stop shop for sustainable, customized packaging systems. Our 200,000-square-foot facility in Greenwood, Arkansas, is equipped with advanced packaging machinery that enables us to produce virtually any type of box or container for your storage or shipping needs.
We understand how the quality of your packaging ultimately contributes to positive customer engagement with your brand. From corrugated boxes to 3M® packaging tapes, our family-owned company specializes in tailored packaging solutions to address the challenges you face in your market. Our diverse client base covers sectors ranging from automotive and heavy equipment to retail and food/beverage.
Along with quality and customer satisfaction, Alpha prioritizes eco-friendly materials in our packaging solutions. With PCR packaging, we can assist you in meeting your company’s sustainability goals and green initiatives with high-quality packaging you can trust with your products. To learn more about our commitment to sustainable packaging and discover the Alpha difference, contact our team today.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Food Packaging
Choosing the right food packaging product for your food or beverage product is paramount to health and safety, as well as brand reputation. Here, we’ve compiled the main factors to assess when selecting food packaging for your application. From temperature control to industry-specific safety regulations, these considerations can help ensure food packaging is both safe and effective.
Choosing the Right Materials For Food Packaging Safety
The right packaging materials prevent spoilage and extend shelf life by protecting against a broad range of environmental factors. Barrier films like EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol) or multilayer structures can be very effective at keeping moisture and air out of different kinds of containers. Other key properties to look for in your food packaging material include:
Temperature resistance. Food-safe packaging must withstand temperature fluctuations during transport and storage, including refrigeration or freezing.
Durability. The packaging material should be strong enough to protect your product during each stage of its journey.
Chemical compatibility. Food packaging materials must not chemically react with the food or beverage product, as this could lead to spoilage and contamination.
Maintaining Product Integrity For Food Packaging Safety
Food packaging safety requires packaging that can protect food products from a range of factors such as:
Physical damage. Use robust materials like metal cans, rigid plastics, or reinforced corrugated boxes to safeguard from physical damage (e.g., punctures or crushing during handling and transport).
Shock absorption. Cushioning materials (such as foam inserts or air pillows) can reduce impact damage from shocks and vibrations.
Temperature fluctuations. Insulated materials are often necessary to maintain a food product’s intended temperature for extended periods.
Product contamination. Aseptic packaging and processing techniques can eliminate the presence of various microorganisms to maintain sterility.
Tampering. Tamper-evident seals and labels deter unauthorized product alteration and protect the authenticity of food and beverage products.
Light and moisture. Light protection can shield food and beverage products from UV radiation that can degrade nutritional compounds and discolor products, while moisture barrier materials keep moisture out to reduce the risk of spoilage, degradation, and mold growth.
Enhancing Shelf Life For Food Packaging Safety
Advanced food packaging safety techniques provide comprehensive protection, thanks to a wide range of Food Safety Certified packages and containers:
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). MAP packaging replaces air with a specific gas mixture (often a combination of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and nitrogen), creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria, mold, and yeast. Fresh produce, cheese, baked goods, and meats often use MAP to maintain product freshness.
Vacuum packaging. Vacuum packaging is also an effective way of preventing oxidation and product spoilage. This process involves removing all air from packages to minimize oxygen exposure and prevent microbial growth.
Barrier packaging. These packaging materials create reliable barriers that minimize exposure to oxygen, moisture, and other environmental factors, extending food and beverage products’ shelf life. Barrier packaging materials include aluminum foil, nylon, and multi-layer films that incorporate materials like EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol).
Temperature control. Insulated containers and packaging materials are carefully designed to keep foods within their required temperature range.
Antimicrobials. Some food safety packaging challenges require the inclusion of antimicrobial agents to prevent microbial growth along the package’s surface.
Food Safety Certification
A food safety certification ensures your food and beverage packaging uses FDA-approved materials and techniques, which is necessary to meet rigorous industry regulations throughout the production process. At Alpha Packaging, we’re proud to be a Food Safety Certified manufacturer of food-safe packaging products such as:
Custom corrugated boxes
Beverage carriers and trays
Fresh produce boxes
Box foam inserts
Cold chain packaging
Wholesale pizza boxes
Gaylord combo bins and other bulk packaging solutions
Food Safety Packaging From Alpha Packaging, Inc.
The right packaging products can protect food and beverage products from spoilage, mold growth, and degradation to guarantee freshness and quality. At Alpha Packaging, Inc., we leverage our status as a Food Safety Certified packaging manufacturer and expert in custom package printing to provide fully curated food-safe packaging solutions. Our packaging products for the food and beverage industry address the widest possible range of food safety and spoilage concerns with moisture barriers, insulated packaging materials, tamper-evident closures and labels, and more.
From robust barrier seals and insulated packaging to tamper-resistant seals, antimicrobial films, and vacuum packs, Alpha Packaging is a true leader in Food Safety Certification manufacturing. To learn more about our commitment to food safety packaging, contact us or request a quote to start on your next order.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on Packaging Automation Systems & Equipment Explained
Manual packaging systems can create a bottleneck and contribute to high labor costs in your operations. Automated packaging machines are designed to remedy these issues while enhancing packaging consistency. Packaging automation handles case erecting, packing, taping, and labeling more efficiently than manual labor.
At Alpha Packaging, we’ve developed standard and customizable automated packaging solutions that cut down the time and cost of multi-stage packaging processes. Our robust packaging equipment includes 3M case sealing systems, Lantech packaging machinery, crush-resistant Emba by Ultima box folders, and more.
Read on to learn more about these examples of packaging automation systems and the benefits of choosing packaging equipment from Alpha Packaging.
What Are Packaging Automation Systems?
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Packaging automation systems use robotic machinery to complete packaging tasks with minimal human intervention. Automated packaging machines can package individual products in boxes as well as large pallets of goods at a lower cost, with less material waste, and with no risk of human error.
The following automated case erectors, case sealers, stretch film machines, and box-making systems from Alpha Packaging are ideal for retail, food, and e-commerce industries.
Case Erectors
Automated case erectors can quickly fold and assemble flat cases into boxes. Our semi-automatic and fully automatic case erectors work fast to assemble up to 30 cases per minute without errors.
Case Sealers
Once each box is filled with the necessary goods, our case sealers seal them with the appropriate amount of tape. These machines pair well with case erectors to create a convenient, streamlined process. Our case sealers are easy to operate and require little maintenance.
Stretch Film Machines
Wrapping pallets of sealed cases prepares them for shipping and secure handling. Our stretch film machines quickly wind plastic films around regular and irregularly shaped loads to prevent slippage. We recommend using stretch film machines with pallet grip machines for a fully controlled process.
Automated Box-Making Equipment
Alpha Packaging partners with Emba by Ultima to provide automated box-making equipment. These machines can quickly produce corrugated cardboard boxes from flat cutouts, using a highly replicable process that preserves the geometry and strength of the box. Emba by Ultima machines also reduce material costs by not crushing the corrugated flute during box production.
The Advantages of Crush-Resistant Boxes
Crush-resistant boxes are vital to operations that rely on high stacking during transport or in warehouses. However, many machines on the market crush the corrugated flute during the box-making process, defeating the purpose of the corrugated box. Our Emba by Ultima machines create stronger, crush-resistant boxes without compromising the corrugated flute. As a result, our solution offers packaging lines and box users the following benefits:
Less material waste due to ruined boxes and packaging material
More sustainable practices and a better business reputation
Fewer box collapses and ruined products inside those boxes
More consistent and reliable delivery processes
Sustainability and Long-Term Impact of Automated Packaging Solutions
Automated machinery helps businesses with long-term sustainability goals. Our box-making and packaging automation systems reduce material waste and last longer. We test all of our boxes through Dynamic Stiffness Testing (DST) and Box Crush Testing (BCT) protocols to guarantee durability and strength. To learn more about the sustainability and cost-saving benefits of automated packaging solutions, including our crush-resistant box-making machines, download our eBook.
Why Alpha’s Packaging Automation Stands Out
Alpha Packaging partners with industry leaders to offer reliable equipment solutions, including innovative box-making machines like our Emba 245 QS Ultima. Our equipment is also cost-effective—your business can quickly recoup the cost of the initial investment by saving on manual labor and material waste. We can also customize automated packaging solutions for your specific needs, whether you are a major manufacturer or a small business.
Cost-Saving Automated Packaging Solutions for Businesses
Automated packaging equipment is a substantial investment, so Alpha Packaging offers a deferred payment plan for businesses to reap the benefits of automation as soon as possible. Rather than paying upfront for the equipment, our clients can pay incrementally by purchasing packaging materials like stretch film and boxes at a slight markup. This allows even small or growing businesses to benefit from the enhanced efficiency and productivity of automation with far less financial strain.
Ready to Automate Your Packaging With Alpha Packaging?
Upgrade your packaging processes today with automated packaging equipment from Alpha Packaging. Choose solutions like Emba by Ultima crush-resistant box-makers, Lantech case erectors, 3M case sealers, and more. Our team will work with you to create custom solutions powered by ArtiosCAD and provide deferred payment options so your organization can reap the benefits of automation without a large upfront payment. Request a quote today to get started.
Posted by Corey Allikas on | Comments Off on Alpha Packaging Featured on The Packaging Portal!
Alpha Packaging Recognized by The Packaging Portal
Earlier this month, Alpha Packaging was profiled on The Packaging Portal’s website, for our use of the EMBA FFG QS Ultima™ platform. Alpha showcases the benefits of using the EMBA platform. The FFG 245 QS Ultima includes an inline die cutter and ClearVision glue system, and can produce up to 500 high-quality boxes per minute. This has vastly helped our backbone accounts. With the non-crush technology, the EMBA platform has helped keep our name associated with the image of high-quality boxes.
Mike Stec says, “Alpha Packaging is equipped to handle any style box the sales force drags in. This Includes foam lined, triplewall, plastic corrugated, and other specialty products. The bread-and-butter base overhead accounts run mainly on two three color EMBA’s. The FFG 245 QS Ultima has an inline die cutter and ClearVision glue system. The new FFG 175 QS Ultima was installed last year and can produce up to 500 high quality boxes per minute. Both machines are considered hybrids because they run panel and blank sizes that competing FFGs cannot. We chose EMBA because of our experience with the reliability and performance of a used machine utilized during our startup phase.”
Read the full article here, and learn more about the non-crush technology and the ecological benefits of the EMBA platform in our free eBook here.
Contact us today to learn more about our corrugated box solutions and how we can help with your next packaging project,
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on Alpha Packaging, Inc. Receives Pregis Renew Award for Reducing 25 Metric Tons of Carbon Emissions in 2023
Celebrating the 2023 Pregis Renew™ Award
We are thrilled to share that Alpha Packaging, Inc. has been recognized with the Pregis Renew Award for our commitment to reducing carbon emissions. This honor reflects not only our efforts but the vital role of our valued customers in achieving this success.
By providing customers with Pregis PolyPlank® Renew foam made with recycled content, we reduced 25 metric tons of carbon emissions in 2023.
Reducing 25 MT of carbon emissions is the environmental equivalent of1:
1,086 trash bags of waste recycled instead of landfilled
27,552 pounds of coal burned
2,813 gallons of gasoline consumed
To learn more about how to incorporate sustainable solutions into your operation, contact your local rep.
1U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator. Retrieved 4-10-2024 , from https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator U.S.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on Difference Between Shrink Film and Stretch Film
Difference Between Shrink Film and Stretch Film
Many types of goods are packaged or bundled with thin polymer films for protection during shipping and storage. Shrink film and stretch film are common examples, but they are made from different materials and serve different purposes.
Here, we’ll look at how they differ, some available options, and how they are typically used in different industries.
Shrink Film
Shrink film, or shrink wrap, is a versatile packaging material that shrinks to mold to the shape of its contents when heat is applied. It is generally used to wrap single product items for individual sale or use. Shrink wrap plastic is available in center-fold or tubular forms on rolls, or as pre-measured bags in different sizes. Shrink wrapping produces a durable and clear barrier to protect the product inside while letting consumers see the contents.
In general, the plastic must be heated to around 300°F to begin the shrinking process. Heat catalyzes the molecules in the film, causing them to align and shrink around the object. While it can be applied with hand-held heat guns, shrink wrap machines that cut and heat seal in one operation are more efficient. These use a conveyor or heat tunnel for quick and even heat distribution.
Materials
Shrink films are made from the following materials:
Polyethylene: A type of polyolefin often used with heavy products and for bundling; lower shrink rate than other options
Polyolefin: Safe for food and non-food products; strong and low-odor film; cross-linked polyolefin is highly clear and sterile
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Only for non-edible products; must be used with proper ventilation due to hydrogen chloride release; cost-effective
In addition to the film material, there are several important considerations when selecting the most suitable shrink film for an application. These include film gauge (i.e., thickness), moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), shrink temperature, shrink rate of the material, how much pressure the shrunken plastic applies to the product inside, and tear or puncture resistance.
Applications
Shrink film is used in many industries for a range of products such as:
Electronics
Food
Games & Sporting Goods
Hardware & Housewares
Printing & Paper Products
Benefits
Shrink film offers various advantages for packaging, including:
Cost reduction over boxes, cartons, and other options
Presentation of products in a tidy and secure package that can be seen through
Protection against component loss, breakage, or spoilage
Sustainability of recyclable plastic
Stretch Film
Stretch film, or stretch wrap, is a flexible and stretchable plastic film that can be wrapped around products to bundle and protect them during shipping and storage. It is often used to secure groups of boxes, bags, or single large objects on pallets. It can be applied by hand or with automated or semi-automated packaging equipment.
Plastic stretch film is available in several gauges and widths and can be purchased pre-stretched for ease of application. Specialized types of stretch film are available for UV protection, ventilation, anti-static buildup, and color preference or opacity.
Materials
Stretch films can be made of several types of polyethylene, the most common being linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). Depending on the application, low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) may deliver improved performance.
Applications
Stretch film is used in many industries for these and other purposes:
Pallet wrapping
Protecting items from dirt, dust, or moisture
Securing rolling or mobile items during storage and transportation
Color coding pallets or bundles, blocking UV exposure, or obscuring contents from view
Bundling small or like items for more efficient storage and shipping
Benefits
Stretch film offers several benefits, such as:
Cost-effectiveness
Durable product protection from tampering, loss, or damage
Efficient transportation and storage of goods
Recyclable plastic is sustainable
Reduces injury risk from falling products
Why Choose Alpha Packaging, Inc.
Shrink film and stretch film are two effective ways to package and protect items. Manufacturers and producers rely on them to minimize damage and loss and to keep products organized.
Alpha Packaging, Inc. provides a full range of packaging supplies, products, and materials including shrink film and stretch film. We also manufacture corrugated board and cardboard boxes, mailers, shipping boxes, and pizza boxes. Additional services include custom packaging, printing, and foam inserts.
Contact us to learn more about our catalog and manufacturing capabilities, or request a quote to get started today.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on Types of Eco-Friendly Packaging
Consumer demand for sustainable manufacturing practices and products continues to grow. Companies in turn seize the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint and impact on the environment, and food and beverage products are no exception. Steps you take toward sustainability may also give you a boost with eco-friendly branding and messaging.
Packaging is one of the most visible ways you communicate with your customers and entice new ones. If you’re just starting to adopt sustainable packaging or looking for new and improved options, Alpha Packaging can help. In this article, we’ll explore the definition of sustainable packaging and look at several examples for food and beverage producers.
About Sustainable Food Packaging
It’s easy to claim you use sustainable food packaging, but what does that really mean? While the goal is always to choose packaging that has the smallest impact on the environment, not all options are sustainable to the same degree. The best ones address several of these aspects of sustainability:
Packaging materials are recycled or have high post-consumer use content
New packaging materials made from renewable sources (i.e., plant fibers or resins)
Designs that reduce the overall amount of packaging material
Packaging production processes that minimize resource consumption (i.e., water, electricity)
Packaging that can be recycled, composted, or reused
Materials that do not pollute waterways or harm wildlife as they break down
Benefits Of Sustainable Food Packaging
Food and beverage manufacturers gain many benefits by investing in sustainable food packaging, such as:
Using sustainable packaging can reduce your brand’s overall carbon footprint and environmental impact.
Sustainable and compostable packaging has a premium appeal that enhances your brand’s image and appeals to consumers.
When eco-conscious consumers trust your commitment to the environment, they are more likely to buy and endorse your products.
Eco-friendly packaging is often lighter and more efficient to pack, saving you money on shipping.
Types Of Sustainable Food Packaging
A sustainable package is only a viable option if it is comparable to traditional packaging in terms of protecting contents from damage, keeping products fresh, and sealing against leaks and contamination. Fortunately, today’s sustainable food packaging selections stand up to this challenge.
Glass Packaging
Glass packaging is a trusted, durable material and is 100% recyclable. This means you can package your products in recycled glass containers, and then those containers can be recycled when they’re empty. This cycle can continue indefinitely.
Kraft Paper Packaging
Kraft paper packaging includes Kraft Paper for Void Fill, Grocery Bags, and Food Delivery Bags. It is a lightweight and versatile choice for filling in empty spaces in boxes, layering, and wrapping. Kraft paper is made from 100% recycled wood pulp, and can be recycled after use.
Plant-Based Packaging
Plant-based packaging includes Eco-friendly Loose Fill, Foam Wrap, and Cushioning Pads. These are made with renewable materials derived from plant starches and other organic vegetal matter.
Compostable & Biodegradable Packaging
Compostable and biodegradable packaging includes Corrugated Trash Cans, Biodegradable Ice Packs, and Honeycomb Sheets. Compostable foam wrap is a plant-based, protective packaging that can be used in multiple applications. It is typically composed of starches from plant-based sources and organic natural fibers. Using compostable packaging reduces your reliance on petroleum-based sources.
Metal Packaging
Reusable tins and boxes made from food-grade metal are strong and attractive options that many consumers gravitate toward (often because they plan to repurpose the container). Metal packaging can also include Food-grade Aluminum Foil. When properly cleaned, aluminum foil can be recycled. Metals, like aluminum, steel, and tin, can be almost infinitely recycled without compromising properties or quality. This reduces the need to extract and process virgin metals.
Recyclable Packaging
Recyclable packaging includes Tape, Void Fill, Insulated Containers, Thermo Chill® Cooler Boxes, and Paper Bubbles. Alpha Packaging manufactures custom recyclable packaging solutions, including plastic corrugated products, triple-wall boxes, and wholesale pizza boxes. Our kraft pizza boxes are a popular choice for packaging freshly made pizzas in a safe and earth-friendly packaging option.
Sustainable Food Packaging Solutions by Alpha Packaging
Alpha Packaging is committed to supplying packaging made with eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. We also offer a full line of plastic and corrugated boxes, inserts, and mailers along with custom services for packaging, foam, and printing.
Whether you have a package design in mind or want to explore options, Alpha Packaging can help. Request a quote to speak with us about your sustainable food packaging needs.
Posted by Alpha Packaging on | Comments Off on How to Recycle Corrugated Packaging
How to Recycle Corrugated Packaging
With many industries striving to go green and reduce their carbon footprint, corrugated packaging has become a popular choice. This type of packaging is tough and sturdy which makes it great for shipping and packaging. Additionally, it is made from a combination of wood fibers and paper pulp, making it recyclable up to seven times. Recycling corrugated packaging reduces waste, conserves resources, and protects the environment.
Why is Corrugated Sustainable?
The concept of sustainability is based on the idea that our existence depends on our natural environment and that it’s important to maintain conditions that allow us to coexist with nature in the present and future.
Corrugated packaging is a sustainable option because it’s made primarily from trees, which are a renewable resource. According to Corrugated, this packaging has a high recovery rate of around 90%. In 2018, the corrugated industry was able to recover and recycle 96% of the old corrugated containers. Compared to other packaging materials, corrugated materials have an extremely high recovery rate, while plastic has a recovery rate of only about 15%.
Moreover, corrugated packaging is biodegradable and can be recycled multiple times without losing strength or quality. This makes it a much better option compared to other non-biodegradable packaging materials that can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills and often release harmful chemicals into the environment.
How to Recycle Corrugated Cardboard
Most corrugated cardboard boxes are recyclable, with only a few exceptions. These boxes are commonly made from recycled materials, such as other corrugated boxes, which makes them one of the most environmentally friendly packaging materials available. The recycling process for corrugated cardboard is as follows:
Preparation: Remove additional packaging materials such as foam inserts, plastic wraps, or wood inserts to ensure that the recycling process only involves the corrugated box.
Cutting: Use a box cutter to cut the packing tape on the bottom and sides of the box to loosen it and make it easier to break down.
Flattening: Extend all of the box’s flaps and press it flat. This step saves space during transportation and makes storing the boxes easier until they are recycled.
Sorting: Check with your local recycling program to determine if corrugated boxes need to be separated from bottles and cans. If so, separate them accordingly.
Recycling: Place the broken-down corrugated box in the curbside recycling bin or take it to a recycling center and place it in the correct bin.
Baling (optional): Many recycling facilities use a baler machine to compact the boxes into dense bundles. This saves space, reduces the number of trips needed for transportation, and promotes more efficient use of resources.
Repulping: The bales are transported to a paper mill where the corrugated boxes are fed into a repulper and agitated to create a slushy mixture of fiber and water.
Contaminant Removal: The fiber solution is filtered to eliminate contaminants and poured onto a conveyor belt to create a seamless mat of fibers.
Slitting and Winding: The wet fiber is dried, rolled onto a large reel spool, slit, and rewound into individual rolls. These rolls are then shipped to sheet plants to be utilized as eco-friendly corrugated packaging.
Alpha Packaging’s Sustainability Efforts
At Alpha Packaging, we are committed to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. We recognize that corrugated cardboard is a greener alternative to plastic, which is why we use clean processing methods, to take our sustainability initiatives to the next level. Additionally, we prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials in our facility.
We create corrugated containers that are made to be as environmentally conscious as possible, reducing waste, chemical impact, and the use of harmful plastics. Our boxes are biodegradable, which helps our customers and their end-users reduce their carbon footprint. We integrate green principles into our product development to ensure we are in line with the latest sustainability practices.
We believe that our sustainability efforts will continue to expand as we integrate more green practices into our operation, helping preserve the Earth’s resources for future generations and keeping local communities cleaner.
Go Green with Alpha Packaging
When you choose products with eco-friendly packaging, you are helping to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. Request a quote or contact us today to learn more about our sustainable packaging solutions, and let us work together to create a greener future.
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benefits of using the EMBA platform. The FFG 245 QS Ultima includes an inline die cutter and ClearVision glue system, and can produce up to 500 high-quality boxes per minute. This has vastly helped our backbone accounts. With the non-crush technology, the EMBA platform has helped keep our name associated with the image of high-quality boxes.
