Paper and paperboard play an important role in packaging, providing both structural support and a printable surface for labels and other information. Paperboard is most often used by consumer product companies for primary packaging such as monocartons and for transport packaging for multiple SKUs in corrugated cartons for delivery to distribution and retail outlets. For the cartons to perform their function and to withstand the requirements of both storage and logistics the input materials and the finished cartons must have certain qualities that can be established by the appropriate tests performed by using accurate paper and package testing instruments.
Testing paper and packaging
Testing paper products helps to ensure that they are safe for use and are not damaged or destroyed before reaching the customer. One of the leading suppliers of accurate testing instruments for high-quality paper and paper-based packaging is Testronix whose instruments include a box compression tester, bursting strength tester, drop tester, and moisture meter. These lab testing instruments and other from the same company can help carton converters by testing a wide variety of papers and packaging products.
Common challenges faced by paper and carton manufacturers
As the industry and new materials continuously consumer change, so too do the challenges faced by the carton manufacturers. From environmental regulations to changing consumer demands, both the paper manufacturers and the packaging printers and converters are continuously innovating and adapting.
A key challenge that affects the entire supply chain as well as the bottom line of all the stakeholders is packaging failure and the high rejection rate by product manufacturers. The rejection may be caused by incorrect or inconsistent product specifications, the use of poor quality raw materials, inefficient production processes, lack of skilled resources or technology in the production process, and finally by inadequate quality control, testing, and inspection at the appropriate time in the production workflow.
Any of these factors can lead to increased rejection rates, which can be extremely costly for a manufacturer. In order to reduce rejections, manufacturers need to ensure that they have clear and accurate product specifications, use high-quality raw materials, and have efficient and effective production processes in place. Additionally, having a strong quality control system is essential to catching and correcting errors before they result in finished products being rejected
Poor quality of material delivered and rejections
One of the most common challenges that paper and packaging manufacturers face is the poor quality of the material delivered. This can be a result of the suppliers not providing the correct materials or simply because the materials are not up to the specifications. Either way, these shortcomings can lead to production delays and increased costs.
Carton converters or manufacturers need to be very thorough in their sourcing and quality control processes. They should work closely with their suppliers to ensure that they are receiving the correct materials and that those materials meet their high standards. The strict quality control procedures in place can identify any subpar materials and remove them before they enter the production process.
Customer confidence
The opportunity for packaging converters to work with the leading brand owners requires confidence building which comes from the transparency of the production process. A key way to inspire confidence amongst consumer product manufacturers is to show them that you have the right testing and quality control processes in place. Assuring them that you have properly calibrated testing instruments from a leading supplier with local service backup strengthens their appreciation of your commitment to delivering quality packaging.
Competitive advantage
The paper and packaging manufacturing industry are highly competitive, with manufacturers competing for market share. The industry is also capital-intensive, meaning that companies need to invest heavily in plants, technology, and equipment to be competitive. Additionally, the industry is subject to changes in raw material prices, which can impact margins and profitability.
High-quality lab testing equipment from companies such as Testronix makes it easier for carton manufacturers to test raw material inputs and final carton and packaging quality, which also inspires confidence amongst the brand owners. Testronix has a knowledgeable team that can guide the production team and advises it in setting up the appropriate testing systems.
