KNAPP and Packsize Partner to Develop Sustainable Packaging Solutions

KNAPP, the technology partner for value chains, and Packsize, the global right-sized, sustainable packaging specialists, announce their strategic collaboration following an initial project to deliver sustainable packaging solutions with Walmart. Together, the companies possess a fully automated packaging solution which has been deployed in multiple Walmart distribution facilities, that minimizes the number of cartons used as well as the amount of filler material in packages. The results are a phenomenal step forward in sustainability: reduced cardboard waste, fewer trips for trucks and a reduction in personnel costs.

Everyone has ordered goods online to find that they arrive in a box that is far too big and stuffed with filler material. This produces excess waste and wastes valuable space on delivery trucks by transporting air. However, the combination of KNAPP automation technology and Packsize right-sized packaging technology uses space efficiently to make packaging more intelligent. For customers in segments like online retail, this provides a clear competitive advantage.

Right-sizing for packaging saves space and costs

Right-sized packaging means that the packaging is tailored precisely to the size of the goods. “As soon as an order is started, the software uses master data to calculate the required size for the shipping carton, the Packsize machine then produces. Then the custom-sized target carton is sent directly to the work station for picking. This significantly reduces unnecessary packaging and fill material, which also reduces shipping costs,” says Samuel Krauser, Product Manager and sustainability expert at KNAPP in Graz.

The benefits for the customer are clear: By fitting the packaging size perfectly, carton size is reduced by up to 40%. One third of the amount of filling material is also saved in comparison to traditional packaging, where items are packed in finished cartons and the void filled with filling materials. However, reduced waste and less filling material are not the only advantages; smaller packages are also much more cost-effective because this ultimately translates into less transport and fewer personnel.

Walmart relies on right-sized packaging

In the US, where KNAPP implemented four high-tech distribution centers for the retail giant Walmart, right-sized packaging is already being utilized. This joint project by KNAPP and Packsize reduced Walmart’s cardboard waste by 26 percent and their use of infill by 60 percent. This has not only positive effects on sustainability, but also creates a better experience for customers.

Similar results are expected for an international sport clothing retailer, who is currently implementing right-sized packaging. The global player in sport fashion ships 6.2 million cartons per year across the globe. The 45 percent reduction in shipping volumes not only reduces void fill by 30 percent, but also saves more than 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles) of packaging tape. In total, this saves up to 500 tons of CO₂ annually simply by reducing the amount of material used. Additionally, the carbon footprint is reduced because optimally loading trucks means fewer trucks on the highway.

KNAPP setting trends in sustainable logistics

KNAPP AG is the high-tech partner for the entire value chain. With sustainable solutions for warehouse logistics, the KNAPP group makes an important contribution by designing processes in manufacturing, in distribution centers, on the last mile and in stores to be smarter and more efficient than ever.