Your website has made the first impression now it is down to your warehouse packaging to provide that everlasting impression.
When we buy something online do we actually think about where the product is located and packaged? Probably not! Global logistics is at the forefront of the warehouse industry and with the rise of online shopping where consumers can purchase at the click of a button, warehouse packaging is fundamental when it comes to smooth logistics. Your packaging process is the heart of your businesses hub – you need to have an efficient plan in place to ensure you are getting the products packaged and shipped on time and delivered without damage.
Your packing area is the last touch point in your warehouse before it is sent off to the customer. High-quality packaging can be a huge influencing factor of whether your customer will purchase from you again, it can also reduce losses and reseal charges. Clear addressing is another factor that must be considered, using address validating software is a must to ensure the product is delivered by the courier, having a complete and exact address is essential for the courier.
Today, packers in fulfilment centres are highly valued, skilled personnel, who have gained expertise in packing anything, depending on the range of stock from the supplier, from clothes to glass and china to electrical and luxury goods. Packers have to consider the most appropriate packaging for each item, ensuring safety during transit and being mindful of waste and unnecessary weight that may incur additional courier charges. Finally, your packaging needs to be attractive – your packaging should excite your customer and opening the packaging should be a positive experience so the whole process should be on point, with your branding in mind – this can be the make or break of a customer ordering from you again.
It is vital to make sure your packing desk area is designed for efficiency – consumers don’t just want next day delivery, they want their items now, meaning we are seeing more and more businesses offering same day delivery – this puts packers under time pressures. Add Black Friday and busy peaks to their pressures and your packers will stress the importance of having everything they need to hand or in very close proximity. Your warehouse packing area needs to be designed to the needs of your packers!
The benefits of efficient warehouse packaging:
- Your products will be delivered safely and securely
- Products safely and securely received by the Consumer
- Hazardous materials are as safe as possible and conform with best practices
- Packaging materials are recyclable and reusable
- Warehouse space effectiveness increased
For best warehouse packaging practice:
- Use address validation software so all products have the correct, readable delivery information
- Advanced Shipping Notifications policies should be in place
- Create a clear returns policy document to avoid any miscommunications
- Invest in a stock control system and monitor everything coming in and out of your warehouse
- Create the perfect packing process with automation – collect data, note product locations and set label printing
- Use cross-docking directly to delivery to minimise material handling
- Implement strict picking and packing procedures for all warehouse staff to follow
- Ensure minimal touch of products
- Put vendor compliance protocols in place
- Reviewing your supply chain on a regular basis to stay up to date on the best processes
So, make sure when you are designing your warehouse your warehouse packaging area is created with speed and efficiency in mind.
