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What is automated packaging?

What can automated packaging do for your business? Discover the benefits and learn how it streamlines processes, reduces costs, and enhances efficiency.

What is automated packaging

In the modern world of distribution and production, efficiency takes an increasingly important role for webshops and e-commerce companies. Companies are constantly looking for ways to optimize their processes and reduce costs. One of the most innovative solutions available today is automated packaging. But what exactly is automated packaging, and why should a company invest in it?

We will dive deeper into the technology, explore its benefits and applications, the role of automated packaging machines, the future of automated packaging, and show why Sparck Technologies is the best choice for your packaging needs.

The definition of automated packaging

Automated packaging is the use of advanced machinery and technologies for the packaging process. Instead of using manual labour to pack products, companies are utilizing systems that fully automate tasks such as sealing and labelling products. These systems offer a more advanced way of packing, using 3D technology instead of traditional 2D packaging methods. Unlike 2D technology, 3D can scan all the dimensions of the product. By using 3D technology, these systems can work more efficiently and accurately, allowing for more complex product shapes and minimizing material waste.

Automated packaging machines and systems replace traditional packaging methods and address the challenges they pose. Consider, for example, labor costs, shipping volume, and sustainability. Automated packaging offers solutions that can reduce your costs and decrease shipping volume. It also makes your packaging process more sustainable, as you can pack smarter and therefore use less material. With these solutions, packaging and shipping challenges can be resolved.

Sparck Technologies quote Kees Oosting
Kees Oosting
CEO

"At Sparck, we’re not only providers of fit-to-size automated packaging solutions; we’re enthusiastic engineers of innovations committed to adding a spark through performance.

The history of automated packaging

There has always been a great need to ship, store and package materials and products. The origins of automated packaging can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, the first mechanical packaging machines were invented to meet the growing demands of mass production. This included simple machines that could fill and seal products more efficiently than manual labour. 

From the start of the 21st century, there have been rapid advancements in packaging automation and sustainability. Sparck Technologies contributed with such advancements, such as packaging driven by fit-to-size auto-packing technology. This technology measures, constructs, tapes, weighs and labels each hard or soft single- or multi-item order in one seamless process, making fulfilment faster, more reliable and more efficient. The focus on sustainability has also led to innovations in minimizing packaging waste and improving material efficiency.

The history of automated packaging

What is the role of automation in the packaging industry?

Automation now plays a central role in the packaging industry by streamlining processes and increasing productivity. This involves the use of advanced machinery and technology to perform tasks traditionally done by humans. By integrating automation into these processes, companies can achieve faster production rates, reduce errors, and ensure consistent quality. Moreover, automation allows for greater flexibility in handling various packaging formats and sizes, catering to the diverse needs of different industries.

For businesses, this means significant cost savings through reduced labour expenses and minimized waste due to precise operations. Automation also enhances scalability, allowing companies to easily ramp up packaging during peak periods without compromising efficiency. This also helps in maintaining high standards of product quality, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Want to know all about the benefits of automated packaging? We also have an article where we look deeper into the advantages.

Sparck Technologies quote Kees Oosting
Adam Coventry

Head of Warehousing
for Boots.com

“Sparck is supporting us all the way. It feels like a partnership rather than a customer relationship”

Which machine is used for automated packing?

When it comes to state-of-the-art automated packaging solutions, Sparck Technologies offers two exceptional en reliable machines: the CVP Impack and the CVP Everest. These machines are designed to optimize the packaging process, providing unparalleled efficiency and precision.

  • CVP Impack: The CVP Impack is a highly versatile automated packaging solution ideal for businesses looking to enhance their packaging operations. It automatically measures, constructs, tapes, and labels each order in a custom fit-to-size parcel at high speed and can process up to 500 packages per hour. The CVP Impack is perfect for companies with a diverse product range. Businesses can see a strong ROI starting from just 600 packages per day.

  • CVP Everest: For businesses with even higher volume needs, the CVP Everest is the perfect automated packaging solution. It offers all the benefits of the CVP Impack but with enhanced capabilities to handle even greater throughput. The CVP Everest can process up to 1,100 packages per hour, making it an excellent choice for large-scale operations.

Sparck Technologies offers machines that make fulfilment faster, more reliable, and more efficient than ever before. These machines not only enhance productivity but also contribute to a more sustainable packaging strategy by minimizing waste and reducing shipping volumes. Our CVP machines have high uptime and are highly rated by our customers thanks to their good reliability and support.

Fast or furious?

Comparing the two CVP’s.
Sparck Technologies CVP Impack machine

CVP Impack

Up to 500 boxes per hour.

Sparck Technologies CVP Everest machine

CVP Everest

Up to 1,100 boxes per hour

The future of packaging automation

The future of packaging automation is poised to be transformative, driven by advancements in technology and evolving industry demands. Future automated packaging systems, like the CVP Impack and CVP Everest, will continue to enhance efficiency, handling higher volumes with greater speed and accuracy. In addition, automation will focus on reducing packaging waste and improving sustainability. Systems will create fit-to-size packages, minimizing the use of materials and reducing environmental impact.

Looking forward, we can expect more comprehensive automation across both upstream and downstream processes. Automated sorting, robotic handling of products, and fully integrated workflows will become increasingly standard. This shift is not limited to high-wage countries; even in regions where labor has historically been abundant and affordable, there is a growing need for automation. Factors such as labor shortages, environmental regulations, and the push for greater efficiency will drive adoption worldwide. Over time, machines will also become quieter, more sustainable, and more efficient, setting a new standard for effective distribution systems. While today’s automation leaders are pioneering these advancements, the future will see automated packaging as the essential foundation for modern, sustainable logistics.

Sparck and automated packaging

Our customers know our service options support their productivity goals. As a valued partner, our support team makes a personal commitment to deliver the best customer experience in the industry. Sparck Technologies has many assistance options that can be customized to your needs, including remote support, daily reporting, on-site services, parts support, product training, and software maintenance.

Sparck’s number one priority is to ensure our customers meet or exceed their production and service levels with our direct customer support. Do you want to know what we can do for your business? Contact us today and accomplish your business goals with automated packaging solutions!

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