During the Auto Supply Chain congress in Liverpool, I will
be chairing a discussion on packaging and what the automotive industry wants it
to do in the global supply chain. I am keen to know what the industry is
currently using to package their components, the issues they have with the
materials they are using and most importantly, their plans for the future.
I want to understand the industries thoughts on those areas
because packaging’s role is growing in importance within the global supply
chain and overall manufacturing process in the automotive industry.
Logical planning and implementation of packaging solutions
can help deal with the pressures of the overall manufacturing process from tier
suppliers, OEMs and the 4PL’s through to the manufacturer.
So think about this – are your materials delivering value
for money and, secondly, are they sustainable enough to cope with the
increasing demands related to time frames and quality?
With increasing demand on a global scale, packaging is
required to be robust, agile and cost effective. Are your packaging solutions
meeting these expectations?
Plastic returnable packaging is one solution that caters for
all of the demands of the automotive industry, driving down costs and improving
efficiencies in the global supply chain. Plastic is increasingly becoming the
material of choice for the automotive industry when looking to improve their
packaging, the main reason behind this is the fact it can produce the results
manufacturers require time and again.
Moving to returnable packaging offers a variety of options
and benefits compared to expendables such as wood and cardboard. Plastic
returnable packaging helps to streamline the handling process from tier
supplier to plant reducing both costs and timescales.
You can mould the returnable packaging solution to suit your
requirements by using pooling companies which also helps to reduce the costs of
packaging. Using pooling companies in a global supply chain improves
efficiencies without the need for capital investment as you only pay for the
outbound trip. When using a pooler there is no charge for the return journey as
the company uses it for another customer in the same area. There is no ROI as
there is no investment in the first place when using pooling companies.
I have been surprised at the lack of knowledge of pooling
companies offering returnable solutions in the automotive industry. Even more
surprised to hear that some in the industry aren’t even aware of the viable
options now available.
The packaging discussion at the Auto Supply Chain Congress
is all about hearing your ideas and thoughts on what you want your supply chain
to do for you.
