Secondary packaging containers such as Melbourne plastic crates, bags, cubes, trays, baskets, etc. are common in Melbourne but are gaining popularity in Australia. While cardboard has always been a popular choice in Australian warehouses, it can be easily damaged during the order fulfillment and shipping process. Plastic crates are a great option. They are easy to store. In addition, they can avoid processing issues and ensure that customers receive quality products without damage.
Here are five reasons to switch to plastic boxes:
1. The box can withstand heavy products
While cardboard can handle the lighter end of the spectrum, plastic is stronger to handle heavier loads. Sydney’s plastic crates are also more durable, meaning they can withstand the shock, vibration and pressure of moving and retrieving from storage, picking up, packing and shipping.
2.Easy storage and retrieval
In an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS), containers are often stacked tightly on top of each other for storage on the warehouse floor. Cardboard boxes can vary in size and shape, so it’s easy to get an unbalanced load or an unexpected leak. On the other hand, plastic crates are available in standard sizes to ensure safe stacking.
3. Health and safety
Dust, dirt and spills are easily removed from plastic containers. They can also be disinfected, which is especially useful when strict health and safety standards are followed.
4. Environmental factors
Is your warehouse hot and humid? Or is it a refrigerator? While cardboard containers can easily warp or decompose, plastic containers are better able to withstand moisture and extreme conditions without losing structural integrity.
5. Sustainable Development Goals
Although cardboard boxes are relatively cheap, they are not durable. Plastic boxes can be reused, sometimes hundreds or even thousands of times, reducing waste. This can save you a lot of money in the long run and fit in with your institution’s environmental initiatives.
Choose the option that best suits your chosen system
The best storage packaging option will ultimately depend on the type of order fulfillment system you are implementing. For example, in a crate picking system, plastic crates are best suited due to their uniform size, strength and stability. And in individual loading configurations, plastic containers are more compatible with AS/RS and high speed conveyor systems.
However, with an automated layer selection system, you’ll find that cardboard boxes offer the most organized way to create perfect layers and color palettes. An automation system supplier can help you make the right decision and find the right solutions for your business. And if you already use certain containers, an experienced supplier can design your system with equipment optimized for your existing packaging.
Production of plastic boxes.
Plastic boxes are mainly made of high density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). Polyethylene has a high impact resistance and is less damaged by ultraviolet radiation, while polypropylene resists scratching better. Antioxidants and UV protectants can be added to improve the performance of both materials.
The type of plastic production process depends on the shape of the plastic box. Each type of plastic box has its own unique shape and design, making one type of manufacturing process better than others. Below are some common ways to make plastic boxes.
injection molding process
Injection molding is a plastic manufacturing process in which molten plastic raw material is injected into a closed chamber or mold. There are three main steps in this process:
Grind and heat the plastic until it flows under pressure.
Place the plastic in the mold and let it cool.
When opening the mold, push out the plastic container.
Piston screw extrudes are mainly used in the industry for the production of plastics for compounds; Screw extruders require frequent stirring and kneading. When the plastic (raw material) is ready to be injected, the screw moves, pushing the plastic out of the extrude and into the mould.
