Are you looking to improve your productivity?
Amazon is one of the many companies investing in packaging automation. It helped the industry titan maintain production despite the recent health crisis.
While the benefits of automated packaging systems are apparent, don’t rush headlong into it. Know the basics and decide from there.
Fortunately, we’ve created a guide to the what, when, and why of packaging automation. Read on and learn.
What Is Packaging Automation?
Automated packaging is the process of programming repetitive tasks into machines and robots. It enables you to neatly package products more rapidly without using a lot of human resources.
There are three main types of packaging automation to choose from.
Hard packaging automation uses machines or robots dedicated to accomplishing tasks faster than humans. Examples include canning machines, sorters, and a case-packer.
Soft automation involves computer-controlled packaging automation machines. These are more flexible since you can adjust them for production changes.
Flexible automation involves a robotic arm with a programmable custom end-of-arm tool. It’s costly, but it can adapt to changing production requirements.
Integrating all these types of packaging automation systems enables you to customize your processing line further.
When and Why Should You Automate Your Packaging Line?
An automated packaging line is a wise investment if your demands are above what you can usually handle. Automating the packaging line will hasten product delivery, resulting in happy customers.
Automation is best when hiring more workers is costlier than the machines. They are also the best solution when health crises occur.
The recent health issue forced social distancing and lockdown, impairing production but increasing eCommerce. As a result, demand for product delivery skyrocketed.
Automated packaging is the most helpful method of completing orders as fast as possible. Packaging automation also reduces wastes and packaging error. It boosts your customer satisfaction, increases your profit, and doesn’t risk employee health.
An automated packaging line will result in:
- Lower labor demand and cost
- Lower waste management needs
- Effective use of workspace
- Minimal to no manual packaging
- Reduced packaging errors
- Higher output
- Higher profit
Packaging automation will also help if you’re shipping several types of orders in various shapes and sizes. Automation cuts down labor since they can design boxes in any form and size, reducing the number of packing stations. You’ll have a centralized assembly line, boosting productivity.
Invest in Packaging Automation Now
Automation is one solution most organizations turn to because of the current health situation’s industrial problems. It’s why you must integrate this solution into your packaging line. Use the information you gleaned from this guide to make the most out of your packaging machine investment.
However, picking the right vendor will also determine your packaging automation success. Check their reputation and ensure they only sell high-quality machines. Look for online reviews and recommendations to accomplish this task.
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