How to Save Money When Buying Environmentally friendly shrink film factory

Companies are always looking for ways to save money and reduce costs. Often times the dynamics of your packaging line go ignored. You may be wondering, how can you reduce costs in regards to your company's packaging dynamics and what if any, are the true benefits of such an endeavor?

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Choose A Shrink Wrap Supplier

If you attend a packaging expo you will find that different shrink film brands come up many times, creating some “colorful” conversations. However, when cutting through the sales speak, one piece of important information from consumer goods companies prevails: “Shrink film is shrink film.”

That expensive film with the dandy name may actually be a quality film and it very well may beautifully package your product while keeping it protected, but most likely, there are practically identical products offered by multiple competing vendors.

When it comes to shrink wrap, often times, the average offering is as good as the most expensive...

Instead of choosing your brand of shrink film based on a snake-oil elevator pitch such as, it's 'prime-time lowest cost', I would advise you to choose your selection on the customer service experience each vendor offers rather than focusing on the prior dynamics mentioned above.

Is your vendor providing you with an experience worth the price you pay for your wrap? If you answered no, I would consider finding a supplier who does.

Learn everything you need to know with our Complete Guide To Shrink Film!

Save On Your Shrink Wrap Packaging Machine Line

Word on the street is, you have an automatic shrink wrapping machine or you are planning to purchase one on a future date. Did you know that you can nip some costs in the bud without losing an arm and a leg? You can do this by examining the following:

• The Speed Of Your Shrink Wrapping Machine: Again, subtle adjustments here can result in unexpected cost savings when put under the microscope…

• Current Bag Length: It may seem trivial at first, but minor adjustments to this particular dynamic of your packaging line can result in major cost savings.

In our own warehouses, our operators will adjust the bag length from the original specs to ensure the packaging machine line is running efficiently and with ease. This is most noticeable on older pneumatic shrink wrap equipment.

So why do we do this? Running your shrink wrap at just 1" larger than necessary can equate to 2,000 extra feet per day. That means you are wasting 118 extra rolls per year!

I can see you are about to lose sleep over this but don’t freak out… Keep calm and get a check on your packaging machine lines! A good starting point would be to set up a weekly check on your bag length adjustments to be sure you are optimized for maximum savings.

Decrease Your Shrink Wrap Bag Length

There are various ways to cut costs with your shrink packaging, and one of best ways to do so is to look at your bag length. Follow these steps and you can potentially save yourself up to 9.1% on your shrink film costs.

• Package one of your products on your shrink wrapper
  and remove it before it goes into the shrink tunnel.
• Slit the film to allow you to remove the product and
  lay the film flat.
• Measure from one end seal to the other. This
  is your bag length.
• If you can reduce this, for example, from 11”-10”, you
  will save 9.1% immediately!
• Often you will find you are using more film per
  package than required.

Get Thinner Shrink Wrap Gauges

Most of our customers have chosen to employ new film technologies to reduce the gauge of their shrink film. There are multiple advantages to implementing these changes:

• Film cost savings of up to 25%
• Fewer roll changes thereby reducing equipment downtime
• Better scores on Walmart's Sustainability Scorecard
• Reduced waste (fewer cartons and cores to discard)
• Reduced packaging material inventory space. Thinner gauges yield more "film feet" per pallet

How Do I Choose The Best Shrink Wrap Machine For My Needs?

Well that is the burning question, is it not? Honestly, you need to ask yourself these serious questions before making a purchase. These questions include other important dynamics involved with shrink wrap packaging lines. Check out the items below:

• What comes to mind when you consider cost?
• Purchase Price? TCO: Total Cost of Ownership? Cold Hard Cash?

• What is more important to you, price or performance?
• In 3 to 5 years, will it still be important?

• How much use will this machine be getting?
• 24/7 or 1-2 Times Per Week?

• Are your maintenance technicians certified and capable of fixing your equipment?

• Can you operate complicated machinery, or do you need basic controls?
• Your capabilities decide the machinery you will need. Sometimes simplicity is more important than sophistication.

• Will your machine operators be stationary or constantly moving around?
• Buying decisions may be effected by these dynamics.

• Is the cutting edge of technology an important dynamic for your business or would you prefer to use refurbished equipment?

• Do you depend on your supplier to keep your line running at optimum pace?
• Do they have available parts and maintenance plans?

• When unexpected downtime occurs, how much can you really afford?

• Are perishable products something you package?

You need to slow down if your supplier is not available for your emergency needs. Buying new equipment is always more than just “buying new equipment” and dynamics such as consumables, running time, size of production and cost of service and supply should all be taken into consideration.

Mulling over the questions highlighted above will allow you to better prepare your packaging processes. Optimizing your machinery in regards to consumable quality/cost, technological needs and associated costs of repairs and maintenance will save you money.

Armed with all of the information above, it would also be a good idea to write out a set of questions you have in regards to your shrink wrap and machinery needs. Be prepared to ask them when meeting with each of your potential vendor's sales reps in advance of the initial sales meeting.

This will allow you to better vet the options before you and present an educated contact from your own company to host the meeting. This will keep each of the reps on their toes and under the impression that you will not be easily swayed by well a rehearsed elevator pitch.

Packaging plays a critical role in safeguarding your products while also enhancing your brand’s image. It’s more than just a protective layer; it’s a reflection of your business’s values and professionalism. However, balancing high-quality packaging with the need to reduce costs is a common challenge for many companies. The good news is that with a strategic approach, you can lower your packaging expenses without compromising on durability or appeal.

Southern Packaging understands the complexities of the packaging industry and works with businesses to develop cost-effective solutions tailored to their needs. Here’s how you can optimize your packaging approach to strike the perfect balance between quality and affordability.

Assessing Current Packaging Strategies 

The first step toward reducing packaging costs is taking a closer look at your current practices. Analyze the materials, design, and processes you use. Are they fulfilling your needs without excess? For instance, using multi-wall paper packaging for specific applications might be more cost-effective than the materials you currently employ.

The company is the world’s best Environmentally friendly shrink film factory supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

Consider how well your current strategy aligns with your goals not just for protection but also for branding and efficiency. This detailed assessment can reveal inefficiencies that may be costing you money.

Balancing Cost with Material Efficiency 

The materials you choose have a huge impact on both quality and economics. To increase efficiency, focus on materials that provide both durability and cost savings. For example, multi-wall paper packaging is lightweight, sturdy, and excellent for dry goods or granular products. Similarly, poly packaging and durable liner films offer versatile and low-cost alternatives depending on your industry needs.

Innovative designs can also reduce material waste. For example, FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers) bags eliminate the need for excess packaging by offering durability and versatility in a single solution.

These measures ensure your packaging meets your requirements while remaining budget-friendly.

Streamlining Packaging Processes

Packaging processes that are overly complex or disorganized can create unnecessary expenses. Simplifying these processes can lead to significant cost reductions. Explore ways to streamline assembly, improve labor efficiency, or even reduce the number of steps in your current workflow.

For example, integrating liner films into bulk bags can accelerate the packaging process for sensitive materials by combining protection and reduced handling. Streamlined workflows save time and money while ensuring the safety and consistency of your products.

Technology's Role in Cutting Costs 

Investing in advanced technologies is an effective way to reduce packaging costs over time. Automated systems can handle repetitive tasks more efficiently, cutting down on labor costs and improving accuracy.

Automation also reduces waste during production. For instance, precision cutting systems for poly packaging materials ensure minimal leftover, maximizing the utility of every square centimeter. From filling machines to sealing systems, technology can make packaging faster and more cost-efficient while maintaining impeccable quality.

Savings through Bulk Purchasing

Another key strategy is bulk purchasing. Buying materials in larger quantities often reduces the packaging cost per unit and ensures you have consistent supply flow. Many suppliers offer discounts for volume orders, making this approach particularly effective for businesses with high-volume packaging needs.

Liner films, multi-wall paper packaging, and poly packaging are excellent candidates for bulk purchasing. Procure these materials at scale to not only save money but also streamline inventory management, keeping your operations smooth and uninterrupted.

Vendor Managed Inventory Enables Just-in-Time Delivery

Conversely, if you don’t have a need for high volumes of packaging, you can still save money with vendor managed inventory. Southern Packaging offers inventory management as a value-added service to our customers. This service allows us to aggregate the orders of smaller volume customers to achieve the bulk discounts of large manufacturers, so we can pass the savings on to our customers.

Vendor managed inventory offers additional benefits as well. This flexible inventory stocking arrangement allows us to serve as a local fulfillment point and to provide just-in-time delivery so the customer receives the right quantity of packaging when they need it, despite supply chain delays. And, the customer is not invoiced until the product is delivered, allowing for better cash flow management.

Sustainable Practices That Save Money 

Sustainability and cost savings aren't mutually exclusive. With the rise in demand for environmentally friendly options, transitioning to sustainable packaging materials can lower expenses in the long term. Reusable and recyclable materials like poly packaging or multi-use liner films are budget-conscious alternatives to traditional disposable options.

Additionally, eco-friendly branding can appeal to customers who prioritize sustainability, potentially leading to increased sales. By adopting these practices, you contribute to environmental preservation while optimizing your packaging costs.

Packaging Cost and Quality FAQ

What are some effective ways to reduce packaging costs?

You can cut expenses by assessing your current strategy, selecting efficient materials like liner films or multi-wall paper packaging, and automating your processes. Bulk purchases and simplification of designs are also effective.

Can redesigning packaging help reduce costs?

Absolutely. Redesigning packaging to use fewer materials while retaining functionality is a proven way to save money. For example, switching to thinner yet durable liner films or using space-saving poly packaging designs can drastically reduce costs.

What factors should be considered when negotiating with packaging suppliers?

Focus on scalability, availability of innovative solutions, and pricing for bulk orders. Ensuring the supplier can meet specific material needs, such as multi-wall paper packaging or specialized liner films, is crucial for long-term efficiency and savings.

 Optimize Your Packaging Costs

Reducing packaging costs doesn't mean compromising quality. With the right strategies, you can maintain high standards while optimizing your expenses. Start by reassessing your materials and designs, adopting technology, and negotiating better deals with suppliers.

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