In order to speed up the packaging processes in its logistics centres, Zalando has redesigned its most common shipping packaging size. The development partner and supplier of the optimised solution is the display and packaging manufacturer DS Smith. Instead of the previous cardboard version, the shipping carton now has an automatic bottom that can be unfolded more quickly.
Fashion-loving online shoppers clicked the „Buy now“ button in the Zalando online shop over 116 million times in 2018. This means that over 28 per cent more orders were received than in the previous year. To ensure that the goods reach the customer on time and safely despite the growing volume of orders, the Warehouse and logistics centres extremely Efficient processes in demand.
Time savings and customer satisfaction
Every second counts, especially at the packing tables, in order to best fulfil customer expectations and requests for fast delivery times. For this reason, Zalando wanted to convert its most frequently used packaging size, whose dimensions correspond to the volume of two standardised shoe boxes, to the quicker to unfold automatic base.
The display and packaging strategists at DS Smith were commissioned with the design change. Their Solution with automatic floor meets industrial standards and fulfils the high load requirements with a stacking crush resistance of 1400 Newton.
„So far, the feedback from the sites on the packaging solution optimised by DS Smith has been consistently positive. The time saved by colleagues in the logistics centres during the packing process is significant.“
Alex Astanin, Junior Manager Packaging Management at Zalando SE
According to the packaging manager, Zalando will therefore gradually roll out the shipping carton in all locations. Not least because the new automatic bottom packaging from DS Smith not only saves time, but also offers a number of advantages. Significant ecological advantages brings with it. Thanks to the more stable packing scheme, pallets can be utilised more effectively when transporting cardboard boxes.
Sustainability along the entire supply chain
The improved capacity utilisation should save 200 lorry loads per year. At the same time, the company can dispense with the previous stretch-wrapping process. According to Zalando, the elimination of around eight tonnes of film per year alone will reduce its ecological footprint by 20 tonnes of CO2.
The Customised packaging design from DS Smith is convincing along the entire supply chain and underpins the packaging manufacturer's high level of expertise in the area of e-commerce.
„Zalando wants to become the leading platform for sustainable fashion in Europe. Packaging is a strategic topic for us with great potential for brand building. In order to achieve our goals, we are working closely with partners such as DS Smith, who support us with their packaging expertise in the development of sustainable solutions and guarantee consistently high quality in production, even with high volumes and short delivery times.“
Uwe Streiber, Lead Packaging Management at Zalando SE
Source: DS Smith
