Why transport damage is still a packaging problem

Core Insights - Transport damage remains a significant issue for businesses across various sectors, leading to increased costs and environmental impact [1] - The ability of packaging to protect products during transit has become crucial for operational performance, especially as supply chains become more complex and e-commerce grows [2] Packaging Design Challenges - Many packaging designs are based on idealized conditions, failing to account for the harsh realities of transport, such as vibration, compression, and humidity changes [3] - Optimizing packaging primarily for material reduction or aesthetic appeal can compromise protective performance, resulting in packaging that fails under real-world conditions [4] Testing and Validation Issues - Standardized testing protocols do not always reflect the complexities of modern logistics, leading to packaging designs that may not be suitable for current supply chain demands [5] - The gap between packaging design and actual transport conditions manifests as damaged stock and increased returns, affecting customer relationships [6] Supply Chain Complexity - Global supply chains have become longer and more fragmented, increasing the risk of transport damage as products pass through multiple handlers [7] - Packaging that performs well in one segment of the supply chain may fail in another, particularly during long-distance shipping and last-mile delivery [8]