Packaging Supply Chains and Logistics
YORULMAZ AMBALAJ · SUPPLY GUIDE
Packaging supply chainThe right product.
Planned stock.
Careful shipment.
Packaging supply chain; It is the process that extends from determining the need to supplier selection, from receiving goods to storage and shipment. The goal is to keep appropriate packaging ready for use in the quantity and time needed.
LET'S SEPARATE THE CONCEPTS
Difference between supply chain and logistics
Purchasing packaging alone does not complete the process. Identification of the product, stock registration and delivery to the place of use are also parts of the same plan.
Supply chain
Purchasing is the broader structure that includes the production or supply plan, coordination with business partners, and meeting demand. When and for which product the order will be placed is determined within this framework.
Logistics
It is the movement, storage, preparation of the material for order and management of the related information flow. It is located within the supply chain; It is not just about the journey of the cargo vehicle.
Source: CSCMP — supply chain and logistics definitions
Let's think through a cafe
Selecting the volume and compatible lid of the paper cup, calculating the consumption amount and determining the order date are parts of the supply plan. Counting the incoming packages, placing them in the warehouse and transferring them to the service area in a controlled manner are included in the logistics order.
END-TO-END PLAN
6 key stages of the packaging supply chain
The output of each step feeds the next step. Regular recording reduces reliance on verbal information.
Define need and know-how
Write the purpose of use, material, volume, size, color and cover match. Keep the quantity in a package and the number of packages in a box in separate areas.
Evaluate the supplier and product
Compare product description, technical information, sample availability, minimum order and contact processes. Verify that seemingly similar products are actually equivalent.
Clarify production or supply plan
The process of the standard product purchased from stock and the special production or printed product may be different. Please clearly state deadlines, quantities and changes in the order confirmation.
Record goods acceptance and stock
Compare the code, quantity and condition of the incoming product with the order. Track missing or inappropriate material separately from available stock.
Manage picking, packing and shipping
Choose the right product and quantity; Create external protection suitable for the type of transportation. Match parcel contents, address and tracking information.
Monitor the result and update the plan
Record delivery differences, damages, consumption variation and recurring errors. Use this data in subsequent purchasing and packaging decisions.
NOT JUST UNIT PRICE
What to look for when choosing a packaging supplier?
Compare offers with the same product description, same quantity and same scope of delivery.
| Subject | Question to ask | Avoidable error |
|---|---|---|
| Product description | Are the material, volume, size, cover code and package content clear? | Ordering products in different series by looking at the photo. |
| Technical conformity | Are descriptions and necessary technical information available for the planned use? | Assuming temperature or food contact suitability based on appearance. |
| Lead time | From which event does the period start; What is the stock or production status? | Confusing the shipping date with the delivery date. |
| Quantity and price | Is minimum purchase, package-parcel conversion, cover and transportation included? | To accept packages of different quantities or contents as equal. |
| Change management | How will it be reported if the product code, size or package quantity changes? | Using new series products that are incompatible with the old cover or stock. |
| Contact and follow-up | How will order confirmation, missing product and nonconformity notification be made? | Not being able to find which order the problem belongs to. |
You can swipe right in the table on mobile. You can focus on the table and use the arrow keys on the keyboard.
PLAN BEFORE STOCK OUTS
Packaging stock management and order point
Running out of a frequently used cup, lid or food container may disrupt the service flow. Monitor not only quantity on the shelf, but also consumption and lead time.
In a simple beginner account order pointis the sum of expected consumption and safety stock during the lead time. Safety stock; It is the allowance allocated against demand and supply time variability.
Order point = Average daily consumption × Lead time + Safety stock
Daily consumption
The example assumes the same amount of containers are consumed every day.
Lead time
Sample time from order to product being ready for use.
Safety stock
Hypothetical share chosen to illustrate the account only.
These numbers are an instructive example; It is not a stock or delivery commitment by Yorulmaz Ambalaj. Use same day definition for consumption and duration.
Also take into account orders in transit
In the new order decision, available stock, confirmed orders expected to arrive on time and demands to be met should be examined together. Do not order the same need twice; Do not count the delayed order as if it has been delivered.
LATEST STORAGE, LESS MESS
Goods acceptance and packaging storage
Checking at the entrance to the warehouse helps prevent the faulty product from progressing to the production or service area.
- Product code and sizeDo the incoming series, volume, color and cover match the order?
- Number of packages and parcelsDo the number of boxes, number of packages and pieces in the package confirm each other?
- Physical conditionIs it crushed, torn, wet, dirty or any other non-conformity?
- Registration and distinctionIf available, have lot information, entry date and shelf location been recorded? Was the suspect product separated?
Basic layout that can be applied in the warehouse
Storage in accordance with the conditions
Follow the manufacturer's storage and stacking instructions. Protect packaging from contamination, water contact and crushing; Keep separate from materials that may pose a risk of contamination, such as cleaning chemicals.
Visible shelf and product codes
Label similar containers and lids in separate locations. Identify opened packages and counting unit. Keep records with code and content information instead of “one box”.
Proper stock rotation
FIFO is the product that goes in first and is used first. For products with an expiration date, FEFO is based on using the product that expires first; Consider the date and manufacturer's instructions together.
THINK ABOUT THE PRODUCT'S JOURNEY
Packaging and correct packaging in logistics
Mode of transportation, weight, fragility and structure of the product change the packaging decision. The takeaway container and its cargo box undertake different tasks.
Suitable outer packaging
Select the box according to the weight and shape of the contents. Do not use the damaged box; Avoid forceful insertion of the product and unnecessary large box.
Internal protection and fixing
Apply protection to reduce products hitting each other or the box wall. Do not let the content move; The filling material should not be compressed in a way that would crush the product.
Closure and readable label
Close the joints of the parcel appropriately. Place the shipping label on a flat, legible surface; Prevent old tags from creating routing confusion.
Source: DHL — shipment preparation and packaging guide
Why do volume and volume affect cost?
A light but large parcel may take up a lot of space in the transport vehicle. The divisor, rounding and charging method used in calculating volumetric weight or decimal weight should be controlled by carrier and service.
Example comparing volume only
50 × 40 × 30 cm external volume of a parcel is 60,000 cm³; 40 × 30 × 30 cm is 36,000 cm³ of a parcel. The second volume is 40% smaller. This does not mean that the transportation fee will necessarily decrease by 40%; Actual weight, tariff and need for protection also affect the result.
PROTECT THE FLOW OF INFORMATION
Order tracking, traceability and shipment control
Not every business needs a complex system for regular monitoring. First, product, order and parcel records must be linked together.
Product code what was bought and sold; order number for which transaction it is prepared; parcel and tracking information helps distinguish which post you are moving with. If there is lot or party information, associate it with the relevant entry and exit records.
What does SSCC do in large operations?
in GS1 system SSCCis used to singularly identify a logistics unit, such as a parcel or pallet. Scanning the tag provides a match to relevant records. Just because it is explained in this guide does not mean that every small business has to use SSCC right away.
Source: GS1 — logistics unit and SSCC identification
6 checks before shipment
- Order matchingAre the product codes, quantities, caps and other ingredients OK?
- Contents of parcelIn a multi-parcel shipment, are the contents of each parcel and the total number of parcels clear?
- Packaging conditionHave internal protection, closure and external surface been checked?
- Address and contactAre the recipient name, full address, district and telephone information correct?
- Tag and followDoes the correct tracking record match the correct order; Is the barcode read?
- Delivery record to carrierHave the actual delivery date and number of parcels been recorded; Are there any parcels waiting or leaving?
Damage, missing items and reverse logistics
When a problem is reported, collect order, product, quantity and photo information, if any, in the same record. Do not mix products in the return or recall process with stock available for sale before the evaluation is completed. Examine recurring issues by product, packaging, and transportation.
This section describes the operation order; It does not constitute a condition that limits the customer's return and other legal rights.
MEASURABLE IMPROVEMENT
What indicators are monitored in packaging logistics?
The following are examples of metrics you can adapt in your business. Use the same period and the same counting method for each indicator.
| Indicator | Sample account or registration | Point to note |
|---|---|---|
| On time and complete delivery | Order delivered both on time and in full within the specified period / order that should be delivered in the same period × 100. | Define “on time” and “complete” criteria from scratch; Don't overlook open orders that are delayed. |
| Insufficient stock | Number of demand lines that could not be met due to lack of stock in the selected period. | Prevent a row from being counted again; See which products are repeated frequently. |
| Damaged product rate | Items arriving or arriving damaged / Total items within the same scope × 100. | Track the damage coming from the supply and the damage reaching the customer separately. |
| Stock record accuracy | Item-location record matching count record / counted item-location record × 100. | Keep tolerance and unit of measurement constant; Identify opened packages separately. |
| Total packaging cost | Packaging, cover, internal protection and related labor costs for the selected period. | Fix compared scope; Clearly state additional items such as wastage and transportation. |
The table can be scrolled horizontally on a narrow screen.
APPLICABLE STEPS
How to improve supply and logistics?
Select the product group that most frequently fails or runs out of stock first. Start by measuring a small change; Move the method that works to other groups.
Simplify the product list
Identify unnecessary similar product codes. Examine the possibility of using common lids or standard cases on compatible series; Do not assemble without verifying product suitability.
Make consumption visible
Keep regular sales and usage records. Separate the campaign, holiday or seasonal period from normal consumption. Renew the plan based on current data.
Edit shelf layout
Place frequently used products in easy-to-access locations. Maintain code and marking to prevent mixing of similar products while shortening the collection route.
Establish digital tracking with the right foundation
You can start with simple spreadsheet or stock software. Barcode reader and automation are useful when there is accurate product card and regular entry-exit record.
Measure material usage
Monitor the amount of filler and packaging per case. Reduce unnecessary layer; Plan to check condition and cleanliness on products suitable for reuse.
Try alternatives in advance
Select an alternative code or supply option for the critical product. Don't leave sample evaluation and cover matching to the moment of crisis.
Sample first month plan
First week: Correct product codes and package quantities. Second week: Count critical products and record consumption. Third week: Check lead times and container-lid matches. Fourth week: Update next month's plan by looking at missing product, urgent order and damage records.
SHORT DICTIONARY
Concepts you may encounter in procurement negotiations
- Deadline / lead time
- The period between which start and end points the order will be completed. Allocate a shipping and delivery date.
- Minimum order quantity
- The lowest purchase quantity accepted by the supplier. It can be defined by quantity, package or parcel.
- Safety stock
- Buffer amount reserved for uncertainty in consumption or supply time.
- Order point
- Threshold used to begin evaluating the replenishment decision.
- SKU / product code
- Code that distinguishes a product type in the stock system. Different volume, color or package content may require separate codes.
- Reverse logistics
- Management of the return flow of products for return, inspection, reuse or appropriate handling.
QUESTIONS
24 questions about procurement and logistics
Brief answers to frequently encountered questions, from pre-order preparation to shipment tracking.
Supply and product selection
What is the packaging supply chain?
It is the process of identifying the packaging need, procuring it from the appropriate source, accepting the goods, stocking them and delivering them to the point of use or delivery. Product, quantity, time and information flow are managed together.
Does packaging logistics only mean cargo?
No. Storage, material movement, order picking, packaging and related records are also part of the logistics setup. Cargo is one of the transportation stages of this structure.
What information should I give to the supplier when asking for a price?
Share the product name and, if possible, code, material, volume or size, cover requirement, total quantity, delivery address and date of need. Separate the quantity in the package from the number of boxes.
Is the lowest priced packaging always more economical?
Not always. Evaluate items such as cover, package content, transportation, possible loss during use and workmanship together. Make the comparison based on equivalent usage characteristics and the same total quantity.
Are containers and lids of the same volume compatible with each other?
It is not enough for the volume to be the same. Mouth size, series, model and lock structure may differ. Check manufacturer compatibility information or matching product codes.
Why might the process be different for custom printed products?
There may be additional stages such as design approval, print preparation, production order and minimum quantity. Do not consider these to be the same as the preparation time of the standard stock product; Get confirmation regarding your order.
Stock and storage
When should I renew the packaging order?
Follow the order point you set according to consumption and supply time. Avoid ordering the same need twice by evaluating confirmed incoming orders and demands to be met.
Can the safety stock be the same percentage for everyone?
No. The impact of demand variability, lead time, criticality of the product and stock shortage is different. Re-evaluate the buffer amount as data accumulates.
Are products in transit considered as existing stock?
It is not physically received stock. It can be tracked as a separate expected entry in planning; Keep up to date on delivery date and confirmation status.
What is the difference between FIFO and FEFO?
FIFO means the product that goes in first is used first. FEFO is based on using the product with the earlier expiration date first. Choose the appropriate method according to the date and storage instructions of the product.
If a product is sold well, is it always right to overstock?
Consumption is not the only criterion. Warehouse space, lead time, capital, product changes and usage conditions are also important. Balance unnecessary stock with understock.
Is just counting the parcels sufficient for accepting goods?
No. Product code, quantity in the package, components such as lids and physical condition should also be checked. Record nonconformities and separate from usable stock until evaluated.
Packaging and shipping
Does Patpat alone provide sufficient protection for the cargo?
Depends on the product and transport condition. Patpat is usually an internal protection component; It should be evaluated together with appropriate outer packaging and placement. Fragility, weight and amount of space are important.
Is it safer to use large parcels?
Not always. Unnecessary space may increase product movement and require more padding. Select the size appropriate to the product and the required internal protection.
Is the Desi divisor the same in every cargo company?
Do not assume. Check the account method used by carrier, service and agreement. External dimensions, actual weight and rounding rules may affect pricing.
Are the shipping date and delivery date the same?
No. Shipping means the delivery of the shipment to the carrier; The delivery date refers to its arrival at the recipient. Evaluate these two stages separately in the requirements plan.
Is the fragile label sufficient to prevent damage?
The label provides information; It is not a substitute for proper packaging and internal protection. Appropriate protection is required for the product's weak points, movement and external impacts.
How should an order be tracked if it is divided into several parcels?
Link the number of parcels, the contents of each parcel, and relevant tracking information to the order record. The delivery of one parcel does not mean that the others have also arrived.
Tracking, improvement and communication
Is inventory software mandatory in small businesses?
The decision is made according to the need for the operation. A regular table in a structure with few products can be a start. As the number of products and channels increases, you can consider systems that offer authorization, transaction history and integration.
What does the SSCC barcode identify?
Singularly identifies a logistics unit such as a parcel or pallet in the GS1 system. It has a different function than the product code and order number; Used in conjunction with relevant shipping records.
What information should be kept for reporting damaged or missing products?
Collect the order number, product code, quantity affected, and description of the problem in the same record. Include photos and box information if available; Also record the evaluation result.
Is it always better to use less packaging?
It should be aimed to reduce unnecessary material without reducing the need for protection. If product damage increases due to less material, re-evaluate the design; Don't just look at the amount of packaging.
How to find out the delivery time for wholesale purchases?
Send the product code, quantity, address and date of need and ask for confirmation regarding the order. Discuss stock, preparation and handling times separately; Do not accept a general time as definitive for each order.
Can I discuss my needs plan with Yorulmaz Ambalaj?
You can reach us through our contact page or on 0541 640 00 14. Tell us the product dimensions, intended use, quantity and delivery location so we can explain the available options.
RELATED SOURCES
Guides to complement your packaging selection
YORULMAZ AMBALAJ · BOLU
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