The latest in sustainable products for securing and sealing

Packaging Solutions

Ensuring packages reach their destination safely and securely is the foundation of any good packaging and logistics business and keeps customers happy. But how do you combine pack security with sustainability and an enhanced customer experience? 

Business development manager at Antalis Packaging, Kim Allen, said: ‘Package security is a big issue, but so are efficiency, sustainability, customer perception, and experience. It is an area we have been working with suppliers and customers on to test new products, equipment, and different approaches to package security.’

Antalis Packaging has been exploring two of the most commonly used products for securing and sealing packages – tape and stretch film – to find new products capable of fulfilling the goals required.

Standard packaging tape is highly durable and cheap, but it is made from PVC or polypropylene, which are difficult to recycle. Easy to peel off and reseal virtually undetected, it is also a poor theft deterrent. In contrast, paper tape is usually made from kraft paper, which is 100% recyclable and adheres firmly, which can be highly effective in deterring theft.

Kim commented, ‘Paper tape is popular because of its environmental credentials; however, it can be inefficient to use in its standard form for high volume packaging. On the other hand, water activated tape (WAT) can be applied using a WAT dispenser, which is easy to use, fast and effective.’ 

Antalis Packaging has recently added the Optimax OM700 WAT dispenser to its range. With a large water and tape capacity, it is ideal for high volume, fast paced shipping environments and can increase packer productivity by up to 20%.

For most packages being shipped, loading onto pallets is the most effective solution; however, it is also a significant area of plastic use for companies, potentially contributing to high Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) charges.

Antalis is working with its customers to address stretch film usage. Kim said, ‘It is often a case of recalibrating pallet wrapping or matching film to the machine and to the loads being stacked. We have helped customers achieve up to a 75% reduction in packaging waste, 70% faster wrapping time, and a 60% reduction in cost. A well wrapped pallet, using the right kind and quantity of film, is also a more secure and stable pallet, which means happier customers, too.’

The company has developed and sourced stretch films that are both effective and PPT exempt. These include stretch films containing at least 30% recycled content and a paper stretch film.

Kim concluded, ‘Package security is the foundation of all warehouse and logistics businesses, but it is no longer enough for securing and sealing to simply be effective. With efficiency, sustainability and customer experience also important, it could be time to see where improvements can be made.’

The company also offers a greenConsult service, which reviews all aspects of a customer’s packaging operation, including securing and sealing, before recommending materials and tailor made solutions to reduce cost and environmental impact.