One unique rise in the world are fulfillment centers that aren’t majority manned by humans, but instead machines. Some of them don’t have humans at all, from the onset of the order, until it gets shipped to a courier. While these are rare, more companies are opening up to the idea of using automation for this.
Robots bring about their own set of challenges, and some companies might wonder what they can add to make shipments better, and more effective. Here, we will go over the rise in such minimal-touch packaging, and how this packaging changes when there is no human factor added into the fray.
The Packaging Made for Robot Hands
Robotic handling differs from human handling for a few reasons.
First, you need to be exact. Human hands differ in size, but robot hands are a sort of one-size-fits-all ordeal for many companies, so if you're going to use this, the packaging needs to be the same each time. so, either have a singular product, or factor in different arms.
Another big thing is the zone of grip. Some robots have a stronger grip than others, so you want to make sure that the packaging factors this in. make sure the packaging isn’t so flimsy that they crush it upon handling, but also not so hard and awkward that it can’t give them a good hold.
There's also RFID readable surfaces, which are surfaces with RFID on them, and of course, with such an addition, it adds in the security protocol of such, giving it a better touch that really makes the packaging stand out.
Supplies for Auto-Pack Lines
You want to make sure that you have the right materials on there for the auto pack capabilities.
Auto-fold cartons are one of them, which are cartons that will fold and adjust as needed. It will help create a sort of automatic, methodical process that’s easy to put together.
Smart void fillers are another. These void fillers are quick, efficient, and will wrap around the item without too much trouble or issues.
Finally, you have auto-seal flaps. These are flaps that, when pushed together, will automatically seal. In some cases, there might be tape added to help reinforce this, and you’ll definitely want to use this.
If you’re going auto-pack, consider all of these and see for yourself just what it’s capable of.
Focus on Efficiency, not Branding
This type of packaging is not for every company. If branding is your biggest focus, you may want to have some packaging that’s designed for multiple, different types of boxes and use cases. With this type of packaging, your goal is to get it out the door.
Speed is the name of the game, not aesthetics, so you want to put branding on the backseat.
That isn’t to say you can’t add minimal branding to this. a logo here and there, maybe specific colors, or something to make it stand out might work.
But, if you’re going to get hundreds of thousands of shipments out, you need something that’s quick and efficient, and doesn’t leave room for pause.
Most of the time, we see this with big-name stores and brands because this is something that they use. However, other companies are also considering this type of packaging too, and it might be good.
Overall, if you’re looking to improve your packaging incentives and stand out, and are willing to go automation, then consider these for your fully-automated businesses out there, and see if it’s fitting for your needs. Again, not for everyone, but a window to consider.
