Design packaging to reduce environmental impacts

The design of your packaging should take into account how the end products will be transported to their final destinations. As several transport types could be used, you should make sure that the packaging is designed efficiently, but is robust enough to survive what could be multiple journeys.

Packaging and distribution packaging design

You should consider a number of factors when designing new packaging for distribution including:

• how the packaging will contain and protect the contents
• how the packaging will withstand the pressure of stacking
• how the packaging will react to climate changes, vibration and impacts
• ease of handling
• the ability to carry information - such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and barcodes
• how effectively space can be used during storage, transport and handling and point-of-sale at retailers
• customers' requests for any special requirements with their packaging

Packaging and transport packaging design

Good packaging design can also have a major impact on the transportation of goods. It is important to design your packaging so that:

• its weight is kept to a minimum
• it can fit into the transport types that will be used
• it is designed to ensure good use of pallets
• it can survive when transported by sea, where goods have more chance of damage

For more information on considering product wastage, see how to ensure your packaging is effective.