Buying a new case packer can be challenging, especially with so many to choose from.
That can be tough for customers, especially with features ranging from wrap-around, side-load, and top-load methods that determine line speed and fulfill different packaging needs.
A solid case packer is an asset that will pay off in the long run. It must be sturdy and adaptable enough to fulfill your packing needs with your schedule in mind.
When selecting a case packer, think about the following features.
A suitable case packer will enhance your production line. It should align with your budget, packaging requirements (sizes, weight), and production volume.
The following features are significant when choosing the best case packer:
Most case packing machines are either top-load, side-load, or wrap-around.
Think about what your production line needs to pick the proper case packing machine.
Sturdy bottles and packaging materials are best paired with a wrap-around case packer, while packaged liquids are better with top-loaders for maximum protection.
Your product requirements will help you determine the kind of case packer you need.
For example, side-loaders will load products into a case lying sideways. Hence, they’re better for products that don’t need to stand upright, like baking products.
However, for more fragile items like glass bottles or any packing material containing liquids, a case packer with a top-loading feature may work the best.
Some case packers can load the product vertically, which may be great for heavier products that are difficult to load onto shelves.
Line speed must be compatible with your production volume.
You may be tempted to buy the fastest case packing machine, but that’s not always the best option and can cost significantly more.
Depending on your production schedule, you can opt for different types of case packing machines. For example, for industry-standard packing requirements (under cases per minute), robotic case packing, side-loading, or bottom-loading works great.
However, faster machines that have continuous motion like wrap-around case packers might be better for higher production volumes.
To increase the lifespan of your case packing machine, think about different parameters your options operate within.
These include weight limits, hours of usage, and how much production cycles cost.
Measure your available space before searching for a case packer.
Make sure your case packing machine will fit in your floor plan in such a way that it’ll increase efficiency without causing a disruption.
Saving time during changeovers is a great way to speed up your production line.
For example, robotic case packers are your best bet for quick changeovers. They can also save packing patterns, helping you quickly switch settings during a changeover.
Keep in mind that wrap-around case packers might be less flexible during changeover than drop-packers. So if changeover speed is what you need, opt for a case packing machine with the right features by conducting your research online.
Line tracking features in case packing machines often have time and cost-cutting benefits. That’s because they’ll select items from the infeed to place on moving trays in the outfeed.
That’ll also reduce your need for manual labor and provide better allocation opportunities for your workforce.
Line tracking is also excellent in case of packers as they increase their return on investment.
That’s because they’ll pick out defective products using sensor systems, saving you from potential returns and refunds.
Once you’ve got the basics of a case packer sorted, think about advanced technology.
For example, a safety control mechanism will help enforce safety standards such as sealing or sanitation. That’s relevant, especially for food products that must follow strict safety rules.
Before investing in case packing machinery, you must also analyze what works best for your team, scalability, and budget.
Before investing in a case packing machine, think about your present costs and calculate the return on investment.
That’ll help you know your range and narrow down your search when looking for a case packer.
Think about your team, your long-term plans, and how your factory runs to decide on a case packing machine.
For example, if your factory runs 24 hours a day, you need to opt for case packers with higher durability and lower downtime. That’s also true if you’re planning on increasing production volume anytime soon.
Finding a case packer with similar technology to the machinery already in use is a great way to ease the transition process for your team.
If a significant change is essential, for example, if you’re switching to robotic case packers, you need to invest in workshops to train your team.
You should also look for a case packer with easy-to-use formats that make that change easier and allow your team to focus on other tasks.
Before investing in a case packing machine, you need to think about machine types and how they’re compatible with your production line.
Machine types encompass several features ranging from loading to line tracking technology and line speeds, all of which need to be tailored to your needs.
You also need to invest time analyzing a case packer, ensuring it’s working with the most incredible efficiency, has sufficient maintenance staff, and meets your production goals.
If you’re ready to find out which case packer is best for your factory, talk to us today for a thorough analysis to find the right fit for you!
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