Streamline Your Fulfillment—Six Ways Automatic Box Sizers Create Ecommerce Efficiency

Last Updated: October 24, 2024

Automatic box sizers, also known as automated box-making machines or case erectors, are devices designed to efficiently create custom-sized boxes based on the dimensions of the products being shipped. These machines can automatically measure, cut, fold, and seal cardboard or corrugated board to create boxes that perfectly fit the items to be shipped. This technology is particularly valuable in the logistics and ecommerce industries, where efficiency and cost-effectiveness are crucial. 

Here are six ways automatic box sizers are typically used by a third-party logistics provider (3PL) to support ecommerce businesses.  

1. Dynamic Box Sizing

Automatic box sizers use sensors and software algorithms to measure the dimensions of the products being shipped in real-time.  

This information is then used to create a box that snugly fits the items, minimizing empty space within the packaging. 

2. Cost Efficiency

By creating custom-sized boxes, your 3PL can minimize the amount of packaging material used, reducing waste and cutting down on shipping costs. Right-sized boxes can greatly reduce the further charges tied to dimensional weight.  

Efficient use of packaging materials also contributes to sustainability efforts, which is an increasingly important consideration for both businesses and consumers. 

3. Time Savings

Automated box sizers streamline the packaging process, saving time compared to manual box assembly and reducing labor costs. By increasing your warehouse output or orders per hour (OPH), this can have a significant impact on reducing or minimizing your per order cost. 

Faster packaging processes contribute to quicker order fulfillment, which is crucial in the fast-paced world of ecommerce. 

4. Optimized Shipping and Storage 

Custom-sized boxes help maximize the use of space within shipping containers and storage facilities. Reducing the space required of your packaging throughout the supply chain, from shipping containers to last mile delivery to your end customer, can have a major impact on your overall costs. 

This optimization is particularly important for reducing shipping costs and improving warehouse efficiency, as 3PLs can pack more products in the available space. 

5. Enhanced Customer Experience 

Custom-sized packaging not only reduces waste but also presents a more polished and environmentally friendly image to customers. According to a survey from McKinsey & Co., 66% of all respondents and 75% of millennial respondents say that they consider sustainability when they make a purchase. Customers now align themselves with brands that are compatible with their values and priorities. 

Well-packaged items are less likely to be damaged during transit, leading to a positive customer experience and potentially reducing return rates. 

6. Integration with Ecommerce Platforms

Some automatic box sizers can integrate with ecommerce platforms or order management systems to receive real-time information about the products being shipped. 

This integration ensures that the correct box size is generated for each order automatically. Accuracy and overall efficiency naturally increase with automated processes, especially when it comes to order management and inventory tracking.  

Bottom Line 

Automatic box sizers play a crucial role in optimizing the packaging process for 3PLs in the ecommerce industry. They contribute to cost savings, time efficiency, and improved customer satisfaction by creating custom-sized boxes tailored to the dimensions of the products being shipped. 

Tags: Packaging, Sustainability