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Author Archives: TPC Packaging Solutions

1. The Future of Packaging Lines: Trends in Automation

   March 15, 2024 12:00 pm Leave a Comment

   

   Automation has transformed many industries, including the packaging industry. Automated machinery and robots have increased the speed and efficiency of packaging processes and helped reduce labor costs and human error. From pick-and-place robots to collaborative robots that work alongside human staff, companies can choose from many types of automation options. Several factors are driving growth in the automated packaging industry, including technological advances and consumer demand for healthy and sustainable products.

   Browse Our Automated Packaging Machines

   Here we will explore these packaging automation trends and how to keep up with the changing landscape of the packaging industry.

   Automation Revolution

   AI and automation trends are helping the packaging industry improve quality control and consistency, increase production speed and efficiency, and reduce costs and time associated with manual labor. According to Precedence Research, the global packaging automation industry is expected to reach about $125 billion by 2030.

   The exponential growth of packaging automation is driven by various factors, such as the increased demand for sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, alongside technological advances in automation. While automated packaging equipment was once primarily for the highest-volume packaging companies with the largest budgets, modern automation solutions have become an affordable option for small and medium-sized packaging operations, too.

   Adoption of Robotics

   When adopting automation, it’s not necessary to replace the entire packaging line. Typically, companies invest in automating critical points in the packaging operation for cost-effective enhancement of the entire packaging process. Some ways companies can automate certain aspects of their packaging operations include:

   • Integrating a robotic arm to reduce manual labor, time, and costs for pick and place operations
   • Implementing motion control systems to deliver faster changeovers and other functions
   • Palletizing robots can reduce workplace injuries by taking the physical strain off staff and making palletizing more efficient

   Cobots, or collaborative robots, work alongside human workers to handle repetitive or physically demanding tasks, freeing up employees to handle more challenging or specialized tasks in the packaging process. Cobots are becoming a popular automation solution due to their safety, compact design, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

   Meeting the Needs of the Growing Food and Beverage Industry

   Experts expect the food and beverage market to grow at a CAGR of 12% between 2022 and 2027. Consumer demand for nutritional, convenient, and natural beverages has driven growth in the food and beverage industry, with producers moving away from empty calories and sodas. Dairy substitutes, such as coconut, almond, and soy milk, also drive the industry’s growth. These trends have supported the increasing automation of the food packaging industry, making it invaluable in delivering consistent food products with fewer errors and increased productivity.

   Committing to Sustainability

   Sustainability and reducing environmental impact have long been a concern across many industries, with a specific focus on sustainable packaging. Consumer appetite, brand values, and local and international government regulations have driven the growth and demand for sustainable packaging. Packaging companies strive to meet these demands by designing and manufacturing packaging using materials and constructions that reduce their environmental impact.

   Packaging companies can make their products more sustainable by:

   • Using mono-materials and biodegradable packaging
   • Switching to reusable or returnable packaging
   • Reducing packaging weight and void fill

   Stay On Top of Trends in Automated Packaging With TPC Packaging

   Automation is a cost-effective solution for increasing the speed and efficiency of packaging operations of all sizes. Packaging automation is a growing industry, delivering individual robots and complete packaging lines to boost productivity and minimize human error in facilities. Demand for automated packaging is increasing as consumer attitudes and regulators shift toward sustainability. The food and beverage industry, for example, is adopting automation technologies to fulfill changing consumer preferences and the need for sustainable products.

   TPC Packaging can help you stay on top of packaging automation trends in food processing and other industries. We have helped packaging operations increase their efficiency, speed, and accuracy since 1967. Contact us to speak with a specialist about your automated packaging needs.

2. Coding, Marking, and the Future of Labeling

   February 19, 2024 9:04 am Leave a Comment

   

   Marking and coding are integral to traceability and identification across every industry. They are especially crucial to combating counterfeiting and recalling products for consumer safety. When choosing a partner for your marking and coding needs, select a provider that can meet the rigorous labeling standards of major retailers in the U.S. Here we will explore the importance of labeling for retailers, changing technologies in marking and coding equipment, the rise of QR codes, and more to help you select a labeling partner.

   Browse Our Marking, Coding, and Labelling Machines

   What’s Driving Growth in Marking and Coding?

   Coding and marking are essential to meeting traceability requirements, fortifying the supply chain, and improving response to product recalls. If a manufacturer identifies a complaint, they can trace the lots and shipments of all affected products and make an effective recall. The improved traceability of coded and marked products helps address the growing pressure from stakeholders, consumers, and government regulators to provide accurate information about the origin of ingredients and materials in products.

   According to an August 2022 article in Supply Chain Management Review, 96% of organizations surveyed believe it’s beneficial to use a single platform for all their direct marking, coding, and thermal transfer needs. 78% of respondents expect coding and marking requirements to increase over the next three years.

   Coding and marking allow the manufacturer to prove a product’s authenticity. By providing identification information, consumers, retailers, and other groups or individuals can trace the product to its original manufacturing location, ensuring its authenticity and safety for transportation, sale, and use.

   For instance, in 2021 Amazon identified, seized, and disposed of over 3 million counterfeit products resellers were attempting to sell to consumers. Counterfeit products risk the safety of consumers as well as the reputation of manufacturers and e-commerce businesses. In response to counterfeit products, experts at Business Insider expect the global anti-counterfeit packaging market to increase by 45% from 2018 to 2026.

   Embracing Technological Improvements

   The labeling software landscape is evolving so that previously manual systems can now be connected and integrated by centralized control systems. Companies are using these centralized, standardized platforms to meet labeling requirements. The platforms offer integration and management of all devices, including:

   • Inline printers applying directly to your product or cases
   • Print-and-apply on-demand labeling systems
   • Hand coding and marking devices
   • Visual inspection devices

   The Rise of QR Codes Over Barcodes

   QR codes are rising in popularity as a marking solution. While a barcode provides up to 25 characters, QR codes offer as many as 2,500 characters, allowing manufacturers to store more product information, including the URLs to product pages or manufacturers’ websites. Furthermore, barcodes store information in horizontal parallel lines (1D), while QR codes store information horizontally and vertically (2D). This makes QR codes easier for scanners to read. While scanners must be pointed directly in line with barcodes, scanners can read QR codes from any angle.

   QR codes are less prone to degradation and are more efficient at storing information. Their margin of error correction is high, allowing the code to be scanned even if approximately 30% of the code is damaged, erased, dirty, or unreadable. QR codes can also be read when up to 10 times smaller than barcodes.

   Growing Importance of Retailer Marking and Coding Requirements

   To improve the efficiency of the ordering and receiving process, retailers are implementing rigorous shipping labeling standards. These requirements mandate vendors to ensure compliance before delivery to the retailer. Vendors can rely on labeling specialists for guidance in selecting the correct marking and coding equipment for their needs.

   According to a 2018 study by McKinsey, non-compliant vendors in the U.S. consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry could face retailer penalties amounting to $5 billion every year, cutting into vendor profits by 1%. Two of the largest retailers in the U.S., Amazon and Walmart, are leading the industry in detailed requirements for labeling. Labeling companies with knowledge and experience working with these large retailers can handle labeling to ensure shipments comply with the retailer’s requirements.

   Turn to TPC Packaging for Innovative Product Labeling

   Coding and marking is a growing industry fighting against counterfeiting, recall, and traceability concerns. Labeling systems are becoming interconnected to deliver greater efficiency and convenience for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. Many manufacturers are also transitioning from standard barcodes to QR codes for more information storage and readability. We expect labeling to continue growing as major retailers implement stricter labeling requirements.

   TPC Packaging has been in the packaging business since 1967. We can adapt our industrial coding, marking, and labeling systems for your business. Contact us to speak with a specialist about your marking and coding equipment needs.

3. How Automated Packaging Enhances Product Protection

   February 12, 2024 2:21 pm Leave a Comment

   

   Packaging automation solutions offer numerous benefits for products, such as protecting them more effectively during storage and transit. The following are some of the main ways product protection packaging and automation can improve your operations.

   Browse Our Automated Packaging Solutions

   Packaging Sizing & Protection

   When packaging materials are too big for the products contained, the contents shift around inside, increasing the likelihood of damage when traveling along the supply chain. If the product is under-packaged, there is an increased risk of damage through crushing and altering the overall look and quality of the product before it gets to market.

   The right amount of packaging hinges on several factors, including product fragility, dimensions, and weight. An automation packaging expert will analyze your product and recommend a cost-effective, structurally sound packaging design that contains your product in appropriately sized packaging. They can also then marry your new packaging design to the correct automated equipment to craft a total packaging solution that reduces labor costs while guaranteeing product protection and quality.

   Package Consistency

   Manual packaging can lead to inconsistencies. Workers might not make the right packaging selections or otherwise inadequately package products. Automation will simplify the process and keep packaging more consistent across the production line.

   Using automated machines, your products will benefit from reduced damage and packaging waste along with improved overall quality control. As a result, your customers will receive high-quality products, contributing to a positive brand experience and helping you attract and retain more customers.

   Load Containment

   Proper load containment is crucial before shipping products. Loose pallet wraps could cause the load to tip or move around in vehicles, potentially causing damage to its contents. Some customers will reject the entire contents of a truck’s load at their receiving door if they see visible damage from improper load containment during a sight inspection.

   To facilitate proper load containment and keep products protected during transport, use automated solutions that correctly and securely load your packages. Automated stretch wrap machines can surround and protect product packages on a pallet through a tight wrapping pattern that prevents separation at any point throughout shipping. Look for a machine that’s capable of wrapping small to large items, which will keep packages of all sizes consistently protected and streamline packing operations.

   Learn More About Automated Packaging

   Finding and working with a packaging and automation expert who strives to understand your business will result in a number of bottom-line benefits. An expert that can implement a more effective packaged and protected product strategy could result in more products per master case, which could correlate to larger shipments using the same amount of space today. In turn, you can scale your business more effectively as you deal with increasing demand, helping you maintain efficient operations and save money. Complementing an effective packaging design with equipment automation will also maximize your productivity, allowing you to package products at a faster rate and free up your labor force for other tasks.

   Standardizing the entire packaging process (design and automation) will ultimately keep products safer from potential damage during shipping. The key is finding the best solutions based on your unique application requirements.

   At TPC Packaging Solutions, we carry a wide range of packaging equipment to help automate production facilities and packaging processes. Our packaging automation solutions include:

   • Horizontal flow wrappers
   • Vertical form, fill, and seal machines
   • Case erectors
   • Case sealers
   • Tray formers
   • Rotary case settling conveyors
   • Shrink equipment, shrink applicators, and shrink sleeves
   • Label applicators
   • And much more

   Regardless of what you require for your facility, we’ll help you find and implement the right selections for your operations. Contact us today to discuss the ideal solution for your needs.

4. How to Automate Your Packaging Processes

   June 10, 2023 10:57 pm Leave a Comment

   

   TPC Packaging Solutions is an industry leader in superior automated packaging products and services. We’ve seen firsthand that companies have major incentives to learn how to automate packaging, but initially approach it solely as a matter of purchasing select equipment or adopting new processes.

   The reality can be far more complex, and for the most complex packaging, it may not be an option. The simpler your packaging needs are, the more likely it can be automated without exceeding your budget. If you’re wondering how to automate your packaging process, what exactly do you need to know?

   What To Consider When Automating Your Packaging Process

   Repetition, precision, cost, and space are all core considerations when exploring how to automate packaging. First, you must determine whether it can, or should, be done according to your specific packaging needs and processes.

   • Repetition: Simpler packaging procedures involve high amounts of repetition, but fewer intricate tasks. Determining which actions predominate your manual packaging procedures is the first step to identifying which packaging processes will have the greatest impact when automated.
   • Precision: Similarly, look at how exact the automated processes must be. More precise packaging functions with tighter tolerance ranges will require precision instruments to match. If a packaging process is difficult for manual laborers, robotics will probably not be able to perform the task more effectively.
   • Cost-effectiveness: What is your ROI threshold for automation equipment and related expenses? Packaging automation systems can cost upwards of $1 million. Determine how much time and cost savings you stand to gain, taking into account labor, materials, and equipment costs.
   • Space: How packaging automation will impact your facility is equally important. Consider the new equipment’s footprint and how it will alter the layout of your facility.

   Ways To Automate Your Packaging Process

   Robots are now affordable enough that mid-market companies in a multitude of industries have adopted them. Still, robotic automation is often only applied to manufacturing and distribution. Packaging automation is the next logical step in streamlining operations and reducing costs. It’s an investment that requires system-wide changes beyond the one-time purchase of new equipment. Those learning how to automate packaging should consider it an investment that goes beyond equipment, encompassing an entirely new system, workflow, and learning curve.

   Automation packaging systems require numerous components to be synchronized correctly for reliable functioning. Depending on your packaging needs, this could include any combination of the following:

   • Robotic Packing Systems: A robotic packing system can facilitate many distinct functions at once. Labeling and coding products, inspecting containers and shelves, accurately identifying your specific range of products, and self-timing and -adjusting with the other automated packaging components are just several important factors.
   • Motion Control & Synchronization: Motion control involves managing the flow of goods through the automated packaging process. This is most easily applied to pharmaceutical products, food, drinks, and related items. Palletizing cases and boxes is one application that remains challenging for motion control and process synchronization, as boxes or cartons must be placed in a stable configuration to prevent tipping.
   • Semi-Automated Pallet Wrappers: Though palletized items often vary in size, shape, and weight, partial automation is still possible — particularly in pre-stretching and -positioning wrapping materials for easier application. They also reduce material waste, cutting costs and operating expenses.
   • Form Fill Seal Machine: Packaged food and other perishable products particularly benefit from automated sealing, filling, and forming packages, which become more durable. Modern form-fill-seal machines automatically notify operators when an improper seal is detected, reducing waste and liability.
   • Smart Equipment Sensors: Tracking and tracing products is very important, especially when perishable items are involved. Along with expiration or best-by dates, batch and lot codes can easily be indexed for superior reviewing purposes and granular control of the movement of packaged goods. Additionally, sensors streamline products and container counting. This further assists in any sanitization processes, where accurate accounting of individual containers and various container properties is essential.

   Need Help Automating Your Packaging Process? Call TPC Packaging Solutions

   Learning how to automate packaging is far from a one-size-fits-all process. It can challenge the way you manage your entire packaging process, and the type of equipment, materials, and procedures it requires fully depends on your exact packaging needs.

   After considering process repetition, accuracy, and tolerance windows, profit thresholds, and required facility alterations, it’s necessary to compare the different packaging automation components and consider how they fit into the overall packaging process.

   If you need help learning how to automate your packaging process and selecting the right equipment for your company, contact TPC Packaging Solutions. For over 50 years, we’ve helped businesses across numerous industries to harness the latest advances in automated packaging technologies — and we’re dedicated to your success through optimized packaging services.

5. 5 Ways to Improve Your Ecommerce Packaging Design and Style

   May 9, 2023 3:58 pm Leave a Comment

   

   Online shopping is continuously growing in popularity, which means many consumers will encounter your product for the first time through a website purchase. They don’t get the opportunity to touch it and see it up close, so having the best ecommerce packaging is your most powerful tool for influencing buying decisions and attracting loyal customers.

   In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some ecommerce packaging ideas and design best practices.

   1. Fit the Packaging to Your Product

   The smaller the package, the lower your carbon footprint and the less you have to spend on it, making it a good idea to fit your packaging as closely to the product as possible, preferably with a bit of space to add padding and protection. This also helps to prevent damage to your product during transit, as it will not jostle around in your packaging.

   2. Consider Protective Packaging Materials

   Balancing a close fit with practical packaging solutions means there will still be a little space between your product and the package. This gap will need to be filled with something, depending on your particular product and how fragile it is. You have many options to choose from for protective packaging, including:

   • Bubble Wrap
   • Packing Paper or Foam
   • Air Pillows
   • Packaging Paper (HexcelWrap™is an excellent curbside recyclable and repulpable choice)

   3. Using Reusable or Recyclable Packaging

   Reusable and recyclable packaging reduces waste while improving your company’s image as a sustainable and responsible one. Consumers feel better about their purchase, as they will be aware that they are not contributing to waste, and they may be more likely to purchase from you again in the future based on this value. Today’s recyclable options are just as durable as non-recyclable choices, ensuring your products will arrive safely.

   An alternative (or addition) to recyclable packaging is reusable packaging. Creative reversible mailers, for one example, allow customers to return merchandise. Boxes can be reused as a gift wrap alternative.

   
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   4. Know Your Printed Materials

   Printed materials give you a wide variety of options for reaching your customers. These are especially important for ecommerce packaging:

   • Printed Tape: Custom printed tape can be less expensive than a printed box while allowing you to maintain your branding.
   • Bubble Mailers: With a durable poly exterior and bubble wrap on the inside, bubble mailers are great for mailing small items. You can keep printing simple on poly mailers, or you may choose to add more complex designs or information via stickers.
   • Flat Mailers: Flat mailers are typically made of paper, poly, or cardboard, which are easily printed with your branding or product information.
   • PACjacket: When you require a high volume of high-quality sealed bags, the PACjacket can produce 15-20 of them every minute. It is an automatic system where you can make your own mailer that can increase your fulfillment efficiency by up to 500%.
   • Custom Mailers: Customized branded mailers allow you to create one that fits your product, rather than trying to make a standard mailer work for your unique item.

   5. Keep Your Packaging Choices Consistent & Unique

   Your packaging becomes a part of your brand as return customers know what to expect when they receive a package from you. Your customers will be able to identify your distinct bags and boxes, and you will ultimately save money from not constantly reinventing the packaging style.

   Unique, attractive packaging increases the chances of it being shared with others, too: unboxing videos on YouTube and features on other social media channels have notably been on the rise in recent years. Companies may encourage this sharing by offering giveaways and perks for those who create this content, further helping to spread brand awareness.

   Ecommerce Packaging at TPC Packaging Solutions

   From tapes and labels to mailers, packaging equipment, and protective packaging, TPC Packaging Solutions has everything you need for effective ecommerce-ready packaging. With more than 50 years of experience across industries, we stand ready to help fulfill your needs and build long-lasting relationships with our clients. We take an innovative approach to everything we do, investing in the latest technology and top education and training for our team, so we can deliver the best ecommerce packaging solutions for you.

   Contact us to learn more about our unique packaging ideas for shipping your products safely and in a way that brings your brand home to your customers.

6. What is Sustainable Packaging?

   April 27, 2023 7:01 am Leave a Comment

   Sustainable packaging uses environmentally friendly material in packaging needed for wrapping, shipping, or storing items. It’s an increasingly popular option for protecting products with minimal negative impacts on the environment, and almost any industry can make the switch with customized sustainable material converting services.

   TPC has been at the forefront of specialty packaging solutions for over half a decade — and we’ve spearheaded sustainable packaging designs utilizing biodegradable and post-consumer materials that numerous industries rely on. Read on to learn how sustainable packaging is transforming businesses by prioritizing the health of consumers and the environment.

   Sustainable Packaging Overview

   What does sustainable packaging mean? Sustainable packaging is rapidly aligning numerous business, industry, and public interests toward mutually beneficial and sustainable outcomes for the environment.

   It accomplishes this by fulfilling the needs of manufacturing, transportation, and waste management industries with a minimal negative impact on consumers and their natural resources. With sustainable packaging, everyone involved in modern trade can enjoy participating in their economy with confidence that product packaging isn’t harming the environment.

   This is because sustainable packaging reduces pollution, making it easier to safely reuse, recycle, or dispose of packaging materials. It also requires introducing fewer harmful chemicals into the environment, with more carefully chosen materials and packaging designs that take into account the source and destination of packaging materials.

   This is done via a full life cycle assessment of a product’s impact on the environment — from how the material is sourced to how it will be disposed of. After use, sustainable packaging companies can convert them into other useful resources or they can degrade into harmless substances more quickly than the standard packaging of yesterday.

   Sustainable Packaging Materials

   This term is broad, encompassing a variety of materials that reduce the negative impact on the environment. This can be done through more creative packaging designs that reduce packaging volume and/or use materials that have minimal impacts on natural resources.

   Examples of sustainable packaging materials include:

   • Air pillows made from recycled content
   • Biodegradable and recycled plastics
   • Corrugated bubble wrap
   • Recycled cardboard and paper
   • PCR (post-consumer recyclable material)

   What are The Benefits Of Sustainable Packaging

   How does sustainable packaging help the environment? By switching to sustainable packaging, the following benefits can be achieved, both immediately and long-term:

   • Reduced landfill waste & pollution
   • Biodegradable materials
   • Easier packaging disposal
   • Elimination of harmful toxins
   • Packaging can be easily reused or recycled
   • Eco-friendly packaging has versatile uses
   • Improved brand image
   • Reduced transportation costs

   Why Choose TPC Packaging Solutions

   Sustainable packaging dramatically reduces the impact packaging materials have on environmental resources, landfill size, and the health of people and ecosystems. Creative packaging solutions using ecologically friendly materials reduce the number of raw materials needed, and after use they can be reapplied in other useful ways or harmlessly disposed of. Businesses and the general public both benefit, as transportation and other costs become lower, along with reduced pollution and environmental toxins.

   TPC Packaging Solutions is proudly leading the way in ecologically safe packaging solutions. Our sustainable packaging converting services allow us to customize tapes, films, labels, and other materials for our clients’ unique packaging requirements. We leverage over 55 years of experience dedicated to resolving the most challenging packaging challenges — and we’re continually innovating eco-friendly packaging solutions for people, industry, and the planet.

   For assistance determining the best sustainable packaging solutions according to your specific applications, contact us today.

7. Get to Know TPC Packaging Solutions

   August 26, 2022 2:55 pm Leave a Comment

   TPC Packaging Solutions delivers customized packaging solutions for several areas of business, ranging from manufacturing and assembly to maintenance and repair, shipping and receiving, facilities repair and maintenance, and many more. With over five decades of experience working with various industries and products, we strive to continuously provide innovative, effective, and efficient solutions for our partners.

   Industries TPC Packaging Solutions Serves

   At TPC Packaging Solutions, we serve a diverse range of industries with our packaging solutions. Key industries we provide for include:

   • Ecommerce. Pick and pack is a critical application of ecommerce packaging equipment and products. When you ship a premium product, your packaging should ensure that the product arrives in ideal conditions. To ensure this, our product line includes a range of dependable ecommerce solutions.
   • Food and Beverage. We specialize in high-quality packaging products that meet the unique needs of our food and beverage industry clients. Our customized solutions include specialized airtight products, tamper-evident packages, and other food-safe products that keep food fresh while protecting it from environmental and chemical contamination.
   • Contract Packaging. Contract packagers are third-party companies that take on all packaging operations for their clients, allowing them to focus on their core competencies. Because they handle all aspects of packaging, they require quality equipment such as our tamper-evident banding and sleeve labeling machines.

   Other industries we serve include:

   • Maintenance, Repair, & Operations (MRO)
   • Shipping & Receiving
   • Manufacturing & Assembly
   • Building & Construction
   • Temperature Controlled Packaging

   ISO-Certified Converting Services and Capabilities

   TPC Packaging Solutions offers ISO-certified converting services to turn raw goods into usable packaging products. Our products include custom equipment, labels, films, and standard tapes.

   Our converting services include:

   • Spooling and Rewind Finishing: We can customize spool-wound products to suit automatic applications. 
   • Precision Cutting. Our precision cutting capabilities rely on advanced technologies to cut precise shapes and dimensions from various materials.
   • Die-Cutting. Die-cutting uses a die and press to cut a range of shapes from a roll or sheet. We offer flatbed die-cutting, rotary die-cutting, and specialized die-cutting services.
   • Printing. We offer foil stamping, thermal printing, inkjet printing, and flexographic printing services.
   • Slitting. We can cut a master roll to your precise dimensions in narrow or specialized sizes for easier distribution and handling.
   • Adhesive Coating and Lamination. Our coating and lamination services allow us to make almost any substrate adhesive. We work with various materials and can manufacture custom adhesives to suit any application.
   • Value-Added Services. To further streamline the process for our customers, we offer value-added services including inventory management, prototyping, and consulting.

   Semi- and Fully-Automated Packaging Equipment

   At TPC Packaging Solutions, we specialize in semi-automated and fully-automated systems for packaging. Packaging equipment can help optimize your packing operations, reducing labor while increasing productivity. Automation allows you to consolidate personnel to areas where they are most effective, providing improved efficiency without sacrificing product quality. 

   Semi-Automated Packaging Equipment

   Semi-automated packaging equipment requires an operator to complete tasks. This usually means that the operator initiates the process and the machine finishes it. For example, a semi-automated bottle labeler requires an operator to load the blank bottle into the machine and press a switch so that the machine precisely applies the label. This reduces the labor and time involved while delivering accurate results.

   Fully Automated Packaging Equipment

   Fully automated packaging equipment relies on the machine to start and finish the task and requires minimal operator intervention. For example, a palletized load can be automatically conveyed through a facility until it arrives at its wrapping station where sensors will tell it to stop. The wrapping station applies the correct amount of wrap along with a tracking label. The system will transport the pallet to storage, where it can be picked up by a forklift operator and moved to its next destination.

   Packaging Careers at TPC Packaging Solutions

   We’re Hiring! See our frequently updated list of packaging industry positions, and step into an exciting and rewarding career. We seek motivated people to deliver exceptional customer care with our superior quality products and solutions. If you want to build your career with a leader in the packaging industry, please apply for one of our available positions.

8. Why Choose a Packaging Industry Career?

   January 31, 2022 5:42 pm Leave a Comment

   The packaging industry offers a surprising number of opportunities for job seekers at virtually every level of skill and experience. Packaging is an industry rapidly moving towards a trillion-dollar market, and industry reports indicate there is no sign of slowing. 

   Choosing a career in the packaging industry is a wise move for applicants seeking job stability, as the need for packaging is unlikely to go away anytime soon. With more than 100,000 open jobs available, there are opportunities for applicants with wide-ranging experience, including marketing, engineering, food science, and much more.

   About Jobs in The Packaging Industry

   There may be a perception that jobs in the packaging industry are mostly production and design-focused, but packaging is a full-fledged industry with plentiful opportunities ranging from fabrication and design to digital marketing and project management.

   The packaging industry services nearly all production and manufacturing industries in America and across the globe, making it one of the largest industries in existence. The increasing sophistication and technological developments in the field have likewise increased the demand for packaging professionals.

   There are countless reasons to consider making a career in the packaging industry, including:

   • Career growth potential: Career advancement opportunities in this dynamic industry is virtually limitless. With a heavy reliance on technology, the packaging industry values promoting from within to retain in-house knowledge.
     

   • Creative opportunities: Marketing and design have become increasingly important to brands in every industry, and packaging is one of the primary platforms used for brand identification. With such a heavy emphasis on branding, the packaging industry is in high demand for graphic designers, marketers, packaging engineers, and much more.
     

   • Stability: Even through economic downturns, the need for packaging is constant. The rapid growth of the e-commerce industry has further solidified the need for protective packaging. Packaging needs are constantly evolving. From convenience in the food and beverage industry to theft prevention in the retail sector, these fluctuating needs provided added stability for professionals in the packaging industry.
     

   • Accessibility: The packaging industry needs workers from a huge spectrum of backgrounds and industries. Packaging requires the expertise of creatives, engineers, assembly workers, information technology professionals, human resources, legal experts, scientists, and many more.

   Types of Packaging Industry Jobs

   The packaging industry has much to offer in terms of opportunity and growth. To delve into more detail on the specific jobs that can be found in the industry, here are a few examples of open packaging career positions at TPC Packaging Solutions:

   • Machine Operator Jobs: Responsible for operating various types of machinery, machine operators facilitate the production of industrial packaging materials. They oversee the entire production process from reviewing work orders and determining required materials to quality checking finished products and final packaging. Ideal candidates will be highly organized and have the ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
     

   • Territory Sales Manager Jobs: Territory sales managers are responsible for the overall sales and marketing strategies for their assigned territory. This includes researching, making contact with, and developing relationships with sales leads. Territory managers must familiarize themselves with TPC’s entire catalog of products and services. Ideal candidates will have excellent interpersonal skills, a high capacity for leadership, and the ability to interpret sales data and analytics.
     

   • Field Service Technician Jobs: Field service technicians interface with customers to instruct them on proper equipment usage to increase productivity. Technicians provide on-site maintenance and repair services and identify additional sales opportunities. Field technicians should be able to use diagrams to perform repairs and have a basic understanding of electronics and computers.

   Key Packaging Industry Trends

   The packaging industry is burgeoning with innovative technologies to suit the evolving packaging needs of industries from electronics to food and beverage, making it an exciting time to enter the field. Artificial intelligence is an emerging technology in the production line that increases efficiency and reduces manufacturing costs.

   Sustainability is another important movement that countless companies are moving towards. The packaging industry needs personnel to engineer innovative solutions for sustainable packaging as it becomes more prevalent.

   Packaging manufacturers are implementing real-time analytics to quickly identify abnormalities, allowing maintenance crews and engineers to make repairs, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency. These analytics will provide useful information to optimize productivity.

   Packaging Career Opportunities at TPC Packaging Solutions

   Innovation abounds in the packaging industry, and with thousands of packaging jobs available, now is the perfect time to explore a career in the packaging industry. TPC Packaging has been an industry leader for over 50 years. Our commitment to advanced technology and emphasis on customer service put us at the forefront of this thriving industry. To learn more about careers in the packaging industry, take a look at our currently open positions or contact us today.

9. What’s New at TPC Packaging Solutions? (October 2021 Updates)

   October 11, 2021 9:22 pm Leave a Comment

   There are many exciting things happening at TPC Packaging Solutions lately, and we wanted to share them with you. In this blog, we will highlight some of the biggest updates at TPC in recent months, including our converting and die cutting services, electric vehicle (EV) battery capabilities, and our online equipment catalog. 

   New Converting & Die Cutting Services

   

   TPC is proud to offer a superior selection of converting services for a wide range of materials. Our converting capabilities include: 

   • Precision cutting. We use the most advanced equipment available to perfectly cut even the most intricate designs within the tightest tolerances. 
   • Slitting. The TPC team can customize your master rolls into a variety of widths, including narrow and non-standard, based on the precise dimensional requirements of your application. 
   • Printing. TPC offers extensive printing capabilities for your packaging solutions, including flexographic, thermal, inkjet, and foil stamping.
   • Prototyping. We have the ability to create prototypes quickly and without tools.
   • Laminating adhesive substrates. We are able to laminate adhesives to one or both sides of a substrate.
   • Spooling and rewind finishing. TPC provides customized spool-wound products to suit the needs of each client and ensure fewer roll changes. 
   • Tool-less die cutting. At TPC, our laser gives us the ability to do tool-less die cutting, kiss cutting, perfing, and more without waiting for dies.

   We also provide several types of die cutting services and can advise you on the most cost-efficient and precise method for your purposes. We rely on die cutting to produce many types of products, including foam tapes and protective films. The die cutting process provides precise cuts, decreases scrap material, and maximizes productivity. TPC provides two types of in-house die cutting:

   • Rotary die cutting. This type of die cutting uses cylindrical dies attached to a rotary press to cut precise shapes. It also slits, laminates, and perforates materials. 
   • Flatbed die cutting. Also referred to as steel rule die cutting, this process cuts custom designs from materials using a flatbed die cutting press and steel rule dies. 

   At TPC, our in-house capabilities for die cutting are extensive. Our rotary die press can perform guillotine cutting, scoring, island placement, liner changes, pneumatic knock-out stations, and more. We also have a flashcut table that allows us to cut shapes, punch holes, score, and fold without using a cutting die, making it ideal for prototyping or sample runs. We regularly work with a diverse selection of materials, including rubber, plastic, abrasive materials, pressure-sensitive materials, and more.

   EV Battery Capabilities

   

   As electric vehicles become more prevalent in the automotive industry, EV batteries become an area of critical importance. TPC offers high-quality adhesives, tapes, and encapsulation materials to hold and protect electric car batteries. Our EV battery solutions include:

   • Cell-to-cell bonding
   • Compression pads
   • Thermal runaway protection
   • Thermal interface materials (TIMs)
   • Pack seal and gasketing
   • Flexible busbar adhesives
   • Electrical insulation
   • Cell wrapping

   Choosing the right type of tape and adhesive is critical in EV battery applications. At TPC, all our products for EV batteries have been specially designed for optimal performance in the specific challenges of electric vehicle operating environments.

   Online Packaging Equipment Catalog

   

   Investing in the right packaging equipment can dramatically increase your company’s productivity. Automated and semi-automated packaging solutions enhance your staff and free up time to focus on other important tasks. 

   TPC provides customized packaging solutions and stocks a wide range of equipment. Our packaging equipment portfolio can be seen in our online catalog, where you will find all the details on our equipment’s features and specifications. If you see something you’re interested in, you can request more information directly from the catalog. 

   Packaging Equipment & Services at TPC Packaging Solutions

   If you’re looking for a reliable provider of customized packaging solutions, TPC has over 50 years of experience and a broad portfolio of services and equipment to meet your needs. Our team works closely with you to choose the perfect processes, adhesives, and other solutions, enabling you to streamline processes and budgets. If you’re looking for packaging equipment, EV battery solutions, converting, or die cutting services, please contact us to get started on your customized solution.

10. Crucial Considerations for E-commerce Packaging

    February 3, 2021 2:36 pm Leave a Comment

    

    Packaging is not only a necessary part of shipping and transport, it is also one of the most effective ways for a business to provide online customers with a personal touch and a positive first impression. Everything about e-commerce packaging, from its size to its coloring and aesthetic design, serves to establish a brand identity while improving the profitability of your business. Memorable, attractive e-commerce packaging designed with the following factors in mind increases brand recognition, improves overall efficiency, and reduces costs.
    

    
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    Consider the Box/Package Size

    Compared to standard packaging, e-commerce packaging can often be smaller and softer, eliminating the need for many features such as hanging tabs. This means that you can design your box and packaging to be optimized for shipping. Even light items can be heavy and bulky if packaged improperly, making them expensive to ship. Many items that are not delicate or fragile can be shipped in a padded mailer, unprinted or printed. This reduces shipping material costs and shipping costs.

    To reduce costs, it is vital to consider the size of the product, as well as how many products will need to fit into one box. By choosing lightweight packaging that perfectly fits the product, you will be able to reduce the size of your boxes. This helps protect the product, as there is less space for it to slide around. Additionally, by reducing the need for void fill, your company will be more eco-friendly and save money on unnecessary materials.

    Consider the Box/Package Material

    In addition to the size of the packaging, the material itself plays an important role in the durability and weight of the final product. Although always an important consideration, durability is particularly essential for e-commerce packaging, as the product must uphold during shipping and arrive to the customer in pristine condition. Packaging that fails to protect the product during transit will result in dissatisfied customers and higher return rates (and likely, negative reviews).

    Wherever possible, choosing flexible packaging over rigid packaging is optimal. Flexible packaging is easier to fit into compact boxes or envelopes, reducing weight and making it easier to ship items without unnecessary amounts of negative space. This also helps reduce waste, lessening your impact on the environment and improving your brand image. 

    However, more fragile items may require stiffer packaging for protection. In these cases, double-walled cardboard boxes and the proper void fill or product cushioning are often a good way to ensure the product reaches its final destination without damage.

    Tape Selection

    Although packing tape may seem to be a straightforward, set-in-stone aspect of the packaging process, it can actually serve several important purposes at once, including:

    • Sealing the box
    • Providing a marketing message
    • Improving brand recognition

    Tape can also serve as additional advertising on every box. If you choose to print your logo on packing tape, it will help your packaging stand out to customers from the moment it lands on their doorstep. It will also be recognizable to anyone else around who may see the box, driving new customers to your business.

    Void Fill, Packaging Cushioning, Make-Your-Own Mailers, and Automated Packaging Systems

    Ecommerce manufacturers looking to optimize the safety and protection of their products throughout the shipping process should explore the various void fill packaging, packaging cushioning, and custom mailer solutions available to them – as well as packaging automation systems to make dispensing these products much more efficient.

    Void fill and cushioning products are types of packaging fillers, and they are excellent, protective means of bracing products from facility to destination. You have likely encountered EPS- or styrofoam-based void fill (the peanut-shaped, lightweight, and pourable variety). As sustainability is one of the biggest up-and-coming trends in the realm of packaging, the use of paper-based void fill has quickly become a popular packaging solution. Paper void fill is 100% biodegradable and a great way to immediately improve the sustainability of your packaging, and to resonate with eco-conscious customers.

    Foam and bubble cushioning offer high levels of protection, as well. Foam is an ideal option for those looking to protect products in transit from scratches (paper is not as effective for this case). Bubble cushioning is a reputable and sturdy protector, and it is a great option for high-shock, high-vibration conditions. A hot topic in the packaging industry is the use of on-demand inflatable systems over traditional bubble cushioning, as this can largely improve the speed, safety, and waste reduction of protective packaging. These systems are particularly worth considering if rapid production growth and space constraints are expected.

    

    The Storopack PAPERplus® Chevron Pack Table provides flexible and protective paper cushioning.

    Traditionally, customers have had to adapt existing mailers to their needs – today, make-your-own mailers make it possible to have these packaging solutions tailor-made to customers’ own specifications. For example, PAC offers build-your-own mailers to bring an exact mailer size and look to life.

    Automated packaging systems are an excellent way to significantly increase the speed and efficiency of dispensing void fill, cushioning, and custom mailers. Examples of automated equipment include the PACJacket, which can produce 15–20 bags per minute with quality, precision and speed, and the Polyair® X-Fill™ System, which features a rapid throughput speed of 335 ft/min and produces a higher yield. 

    Consider Branding and Unboxing

    When it comes to e-commerce packaging, the box is your customer’s first and main interaction with your business. While retail shops are able to create an in-person experience for the customer, e-commerce depends on packaging to connect with the customer and provide a memorable experience.

    Brand-specific colors and designs on the exterior of the box will improve brand visibility, but the interior of the packaging is equally important. Consider the customer’s unboxing experience: the box should be easy to open and aesthetically pleasing on the inside. Depending on the type of products you are shipping, you may opt for modular packaging to keep the products in place and avoid a disorganized appearance. 

    E-commerce Packaging at TPC Packaging Solutions 

    For over five decades, TPC Packaging Solutions has been working closely with companies in virtually every industry to provide expert packaging products, equipment, and services. We attend trade shows globally, and are continually expanding our knowledge on the latest trends and technologies to provide the most accurate guidance on e-commerce packaging. To work with us on your next project, contact us here and a TPC Packaging Solutions team member will reach out to help.