Packaging costs go beyond the price of a box. They encompass everything from material selection and graphics to shipping preferences and dealing with damage in transit. Bad packaging decisions can lead to unnecessary expense, but a poor packaging strategy can also cause damage to a company’s reputation, brand strength, and standing in the marketplace. 

More Isn’t Always Better—But Less Can Be Costly 

At M-Line, we often see companies underestimate their shipping requirements. Many times, customers seek the lowest cost solution to their packaging needs, especially if the project comes in over budget. In nine out of ten cases, customers “underpackage” their products, which opens them up to shipping damage and all the costs it entails.  

In some cases, businesses overpackage items. Some products may be packaged to withstand the jostling they would receive if shipped by a parcel delivery service when, in fact, they will be shipped on a pallet directly to a retailer and will not face the same kind of punishment. In these situations, they might not require extra foam or other packaging.  

Taking the Wrong Approach to Materials and Methods 

One of the biggest culprits behind bloated packaging costs is using the wrong materials or relying on the wrong fabrication techniques. For example, one customer started with waterjet-cut foam, which made sense in low volumes up to 100 pieces. But later, as the volumes ramped up into the thousands, the company continued using the same method when a die-cut process would have been more cost-effective. 

Other cost-saving solutions might include: 

• Replacing bulky foam with more compact, efficient materials 
• Taking advantage of just-in-time warehousing to cut storage costs 
• Rethinking the entire design for better efficiency and protection 
• Exploring new fabrication technologies for more cost-effective production methods  

Collaborating to Cut Costs 

M-Line can help customers reduce their packaging costs, which starts with asking the right questions. We take the time to fully understand your product, its shipping cycle and destination, and any special considerations that might cause complications.

By collaborating closely from the start, we can design more cost-effective packaging that protects your product and saves you money in the long run. In fact, the time and efficiency gains from our services can often free up resources equivalent to one or two full-time positions—delivering real value to your bottom line.

To learn more about M-Line and how we can help you reduce packaging costs while ensuring your products arrive at their destinations safely and securely, call (800) 659-8559 or contact us.