DHL has released a new report examining the future of packaging in the logistics industry. The report, Rethinking Packaging, breaks down the trends accelerating the need to rethink packaging. It also looks at how industries and their packaging needs are evolving and provides insights into how packaging innovations will shape greener and more efficient logistics operations.
A survey conducted by DHL of its customers and partners showed that for 9 out of 10 companies, packaging will play an important role in the next three to five years.
Demand for more sustainable shipping is driving new efforts in packaging to minimize waste, promote green materials, and implement convenient recovery systems. The logistics industry will play a key role in reducing the cost, inconvenience and environmental impact of packaging.
Matthias Heutger, SVP, global head of innovation and commercial development, DHL, said, “The trend report and our customer survey illustrate just how important easy, recyclable and robust packaging is to an overall positive customer experience. The acceleration of changing needs of companies, consumers, and the wider environment however increase costs and reduce effectiveness. We believe that the adoption of new packaging optimization tools, materials and handling technologies will significantly boost efficiency and productivity. That in turn, will drive changes in the operation of supply chains and logistics processes.”
There will be a number of key areas to focus on to achieve more sustainable packaging, according to the report. Packaging optimization, for example, can help companies calculate the best possible ratio of items, cartons and pallets and then communicates the results directly to pickers.
Sustainable packaging material is another important consideration. In the DHL customer survey, the majority of respondents said that the introduction of sustainable packaging materials is their number one near-future packaging priority. Research into green alternatives to plastic shrink wrap and single-use plastic envelopes, as well as sustainable groceries’ packaging, is ramping up while at the same time, balancing cost and customer convenience is proving challenging for retailers.
To read the full report, click here. 
