Ten tips from Totebox to help you save money, reduce time and improve the carbon footprint of your storage, handling and distribution operations.
- Optimise vehicle fill
Whether you use your own transport or a haulage contractor, huge savings can be made by
maximising the lorry’s storage capacity. Reducing the number of vehicle trips will not only
save you money, it will also have a positive impact on your carbon footprint. Totebox can help
you calculate vehicle fill. - Deter pilfering from boxes
Choose containers which can be fitted with tamper-evident security seals such as Totebox
attached-lid containers (ALCs). - Prevent theft of the containers themselves
Reusable containers are by nature extremely useful for all types of storage and handling
activities, making empty boxes vulnerable to theft. It is the anonymity of the boxes that make
them a popular target, which can be significantly reduced by printing your company logo and
contact details as boldly as possible on the container’s sides. - Speed warehouse handling operations
Warehouse picking and packing can be cost and time inefficient. For example, operations
that use a turntable for stretch-wrapping palletised boxes prior to despatch can save time
and costs by using crates that securely interlock when stacked and by fitting a top cap (pallet
lid) instead of stretch wrapping. The area used for stretch-wrapping can then be used for
additional storage. - Eliminate double-handling
Some containers can perform both order picking and distribution applications, saving users
the time of decanting box contents boxes onto shelving. Check out Totebox’s Distribution
Picking Container which combines the ease of access required for order picking with the
protection and security of an attached-lid container. - Speed identification of contents and destination
Crates with integral label holders can help improve identification of contents and destination,
helping you to deliver correct quantity of crates, to right location, at right time. - Improve operator safety
Choosing containers with secure and comfortable hand-grips will help operators to reduce
injuries incurred through manual lifting and carrying. Use wheeled dollies to further ease and
speed handling tasks. Visit the HSE website for full details of manual handling guidelines
including risk assessment and techniques: www.hse.gov.uk. - Eliminate dust
Cardboard packaging generates dust which can adhere to machinery lubricants resulting
in increased maintenance costs. Dust also creates an unpleasant working environment.
Reusable containers generate no dust. - Maximise hygiene
Containers with smooth sides and curved corners promote hygiene, are easy to clean and
stay clean for longer. - Publicise your business
Containers printed with your logo and contact details promote brand identity.
Still using disposable transit packaging?
Ask Totebox to calculate how much you could save by replacing single or limited trip cardboard with reusable transit packaging. With a pay-back period usually of around 18 months, Totebox trays and containers can pay for themselves many times over during their
long lives and help you to meet your environmental objectives.