Industry News and Trends

Demystifying Cartoning: Clarifying Common Misconceptions in Secondary Packaging

24 May 2024
Jason Chevalier
No comments
Categories: Expert Advice and Tips, Sustainability

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Read More

Automation doesn’t mean eliminating human labor

6 March 2024
Clare Blodgett
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Read More

Food Packaging Trends for 2024: Innovation Meets Consumer Expectations

24 January 2024
Clare Blodgett
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends, Expert Advice and Tips, Sustainability

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Read More

Enhancing Packaging Efficiency with ADCO’s Versatile Top Load Cartoning Systems

19 December 2023
Clare Blodgett
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends, Expert Advice and Tips

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Read More

Maximizing Packaging Efficiency: ADCO’s Aftermarket Service

10 November 2023
Clare Blodgett
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends, Maintenance and Troubleshooting, Expert Advice and Tips, Aftermarket Service

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Read More

Sustainable Advantage: Cardboard and Chipboard vs. Plastic in Packaging

18 April 2023
ADCO
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Read More

3 Things to Evaluate Before Purchasing an Automated Packaging Solution

13 March 2023
ADCO
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024

Three Top Food Packaging Trends for 2023

15 February 2023
T12 Titans
No comments
Categories: Industry News and Trends

At ADCO, we understand that clarity leads to efficiency, especially in the complex world of secondary packaging. Cartoning, a critical aspect of this process, is often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to inefficiencies or incorrect packaging choices. In this blog, we aim to dispel these myths and provide a clear understanding of cartoning, enhancing your packaging operations.

Misconception 1:
Cartoning is the same as case packing.

One of the most common errors is confusing cartoning with case packing. While Both processes use “boxes” and they are integral to secondary packaging, they serve distinct purposes:

  • Cartoning involves placing products into rigid boxes called cartons, which are generally made from paperboard that features branded graphics and are intended to be sold directly to consumers. paperboard boxes that may directly reach consumers.
  • Case Packing groups these cartons or other primary packages into larger boxes called cases. A case is typically made of corrugated fiberboard with little to no branding and is used for shipping and bulk handling purposes.

Recognizing the difference helps in selecting the appropriate equipment and materials, ensuring that both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your products are maintained from production to point-of-sale.

Misconception 2:
Any cartoner can handle any product.

It’s crucial to understand that not all cartoners are suitable for all products. Product-specific requirements often necessitate different types of cartoning equipment:

  • End Load Cartoners:
    • Are perfect for uniformly shaped products like cereal bags.Are better for running large products like 12” frozen pizzas.Are more versatile/adjustable than top load cartoners.Are more affordable machine-wise than top load cartoners.
    • Are more compact than top load cartoners.
  • Top Load Cartoners:
    • Are better suited for items that require stacking, such as protein bars. Are easier to load than end load cartoners (they have a larger opening).Use more affordable packaging than end load cartons (in the long run, top load cartoning has a better ROI than end load cartoning due to the use of flat cartons rather than pre-folded/glued cartons).Use packaging that can be transported and stored more densely than end load cartons.
    • Require a carton former, packing conveyor, and a carton closer.

Selecting the right cartoner involves considering product dimensions, shape, and handling requirements. ADCO’s range of cartoning solutions ensures that you find a machine that’s precisely tailored to your needs.

Misconception 3:
Cartoning only involves enclosing products.

Beyond simply enclosing products, effective cartoning also focuses on:

  • Product Protection: Ensuring the carton is robust enough to protect its contents during transportation and while on display at the store.
  • Consumer Convenience: Features like easy-open zipper and re-closeable flaps enhance user experience.
  • Brand Representation: The carton’s design is a key marketing tool, influencing consumer decisions at the point of sale.

Misconception 4:
Cartoning does not affect sustainability.

In today’s market, sustainability is a significant concern. Cartons are one of the most sustainable packaging solutions available today.

  • Renewable Resources: Paperboard is made from fast growing trees like pine and bamboo.
  • Recyclability: Paperboard can be recycled many times.
  • Material Efficiency: Using recyclable materials or optimizing design to use less material without compromising protection.
  • Waste Reduction: Effective design and machine accuracy can minimize wasted cartons and products.

Automation would have the same concerns for almost any packaging type

Misconception 5:
Automation middle ground, there is no in-between.

Some believe that using cartons requires a completely manual packaging process where operators physically open, load, and close cartons. While others believe that cartons can only be used on expensive fully automatic packaging machines. The truth is there is a wide variety of machinery solutions available to meet your automation needs and budget. When starting a new packaging project, reach out to a machinery builder so they can help you select a carton design that can scale with your current and future automation needs.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of cartoning is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your operational needs and strategic goals. At ADCO, we are committed to debunking myths and providing our clients with the knowledge and tools to excel in their packaging operations. Explore our advanced cartoning solutions and discover how we can enhance your secondary packaging process.

For more information or to discuss your specific packaging needs, reach out to our team at ADCO today.

Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Colin Warnes – ADCO Manufacturing

Published:
May 24, 2024