What are the key factors that affect the cost and ROI of packaging machinery?

100% agree with Cory! Too many times people want to rush in to custom packaging, and waste a lot of money on plates, die-lines, and often times unused variations of a packages or designs. When it comes to the machinery, it is really a volume and labor equation every time. But most times with things like Carton Sealers, stretch wrappers, strapping equipment, band sealers…there are lots of way to test demo and have all of that Calculated and easy to understand! And one thing to keep in mind, when it comes to Dunnage…air pillows, paper dunnage, bubble on demand…in many cases there is no investment, if you have the volume, and partner with some suppliers they will provide the equipment, while you purchase their material!

Starting with stock packaging can often be the right decision. There are a lot of stock packaging options that look great and can do the job to get your product to market. A simple custom label or tape can really dress it up too while you’re transitioning to custom packaging.

Investing in packaging machinery isn't just about upfront costs—it's about long-term viability. A strategic investment in scalable and efficient machinery can yield greater flexibility as market conditions evolve.

This can often be true. But you don’t want to invest in a machine that can only do a specific part of a job unless you’re totally sure that process will be necessary long enough to gain the roi.

When developing a project such as buying new equipment or starting a new production line you have to consider that there's going to be a learning curve, this means that your new packing machine or your new filling machine won't work at it's full capacity. There are tests that need to be made especially if you're considering producing different sku's. My advice is to take a period from 6 months to a year when you will learn how to adapt this project to your already going operation. And in this time, your indicators are going to be affected but there's valuable knowledge that you will receive which will help you to recover your investment.

Packaging equipment for the most part will almost always apply the substrate better. When you are thinking of repetitive tasks like taping boxes and wrapping pallets with film. A machine will always be more consistent, accurate, and can be set to maximize the value of the tape and film you are using. When it comes to flexibility and adaptability, yes always consider what options you have when purchasing a machine…it’s always better to add the extended height on the pallet wrapper or invest in the random carton sealer the first time!

Maximizing operational efficiency isn't merely about speed; it's about optimizing processes for consistency and quality. Streamlining this aspect can significantly reduce labor inefficiencies and enhance customer satisfaction.

And soon we will all need to report our scope 1/2/3 emissions which will take into consideration electricity consumption and the source of that electricity.

Yes almost all of the packaging equipment I work with will only be drawing electricity or air. Some of the Robust options will require a lot of electricity. But for your general carton sealer, stretch wrapper, band sealer, etc. you will not be draining the power grid!

Reducing energy consumption goes beyond cutting utility bills—it's an opportunity to align with sustainability goals. Energy-efficient machinery offers long-term savings and strengthens your brand's eco-conscious image.

And use materials that can be used for many different items in your company. If the base material can be used for a whole line and the. Just add a simple label to differentiate that can be a big win.

In most cases the packaging equipment will not be using any different material than you are already using. You will be taping your boxes either way, or wrapping your pallets, or bagging your parts. More often than not the machines will use the material more efficiently, but it is always good to understand if the equipment your purchase is limited to any material usage constraints!

Precision in material usage can drastically cut waste, driving both cost savings and environmental impact. Packaging machinery that balances sustainability with efficiency provides a competitive edge in modern markets.

Very true. If the volume of the package is too large your customer may have a three year supply. This needs to be considered when packaging size if chosen.

Packaging machinery should be agile enough to scale with fluctuating customer demand. Adaptability in production volume not only meets customer needs but also capitalizes on emerging trends swiftly.

You can make an amazing product and still hand tape boxes and hand wrap pallets. I don’t think most companies need packaging equipment for reputation. In fact I see plenty all the time that get plenty of product out the door without it. But I do think many could value from the efficiencies provided!

The right packaging machinery can be a differentiator, creating packaging that tells your brand's story. Unique, functional designs translate into added value that fosters customer loyalty and brand recognition.