More stability, less packaging – how to protect the environment without compromising on stability

In today’s world, where environmental concerns and cost efficiency are paramount, it’s time to rethink our traditional approach to palletising. Why continue to use excessive amounts of edge protectors, stretch foil, and top covers when smarter solutions can secure loads while reducing waste and CO₂ emissions?

 

Overpackaging is still the norm

Many companies rely on edge protectors (corner posts) to stabilise pallets. However, these are often unnecessary if the load is properly secured between layers. Similarly, large amounts of stretch foil are used to “lock” the load in place – a practice driven by the fear that layers might shift. Top covers may protect against dust and moisture, but how often are they truly needed? Overpackaging not only generates unnecessary waste but also increases transportation costs.

It is time to think differently about packaging processes, resort to new and innovative products and trust these new methods if you want to improve environmental conditions – and, as an added bonus, boost efficiency.

 

The environmental perspective: less packaging, less waste

Imagine that your customer receives a pallet from you. It is wrapped in edge protectors, top covers and several layers of stretch foil. When they cut open the plastic, the products fall out – and they are left with a huge pile of packaging waste that needs to be disposed of.

But what if they could cut down on edge protectors and stretch foil – and at the same time ensure a more stable pallet? In that case the customer would have a much easier time handling the shipment. It is truly a win-win, for both the receiver and the environment. And it’s not about removing stabilisation – it’s about using smarter solutions that secure the load and reduce the environmental impact.

Packaging is not just packaging – the “wrong kind” leaves heavy CO2 footprints

Every time a pallet is wrapped with extra edge protectors, stretch foil, and top covers, materials are used quickly end up as waste. Consider the key points:

• CO₂ Emissions: Stretch foil is primarily produced from fossil fuels, contributing to increased CO₂ emissions.
• Raw Material Consumption: Cardboard edge protectors require energy and raw materials to produce, and many never get recycled.
• Transport Efficiency: Additional packaging increases pallet weight, leading to higher fuel consumption and transport costs.

By eliminating redundant materials and focusing on smarter stabilisation, companies can reduce waste, save money, and lower their environmental footprint. And the truth is, most companies actually want to gain all of these benefits. Everything is just ‘business as usual’, and if no one makes them aware that processes can be done differently, then the situation won’t change.

 

Anti-slip paper is the way to go

The most critical aspect of palletising is ensuring that products remain stationary – whether in storage, transit or upon delivery. This is where anti-slip paper from Palcut comes into play. By increasing the friction between layers, anti-slip paper prevents movement and offers several advantages:

• Reduced need for edge protectors: When layers are naturally stabilised, there’s less need for extra corner posts.
• Lower stretch foil consumption: A stable load requires less plastic to “lock” it in place.
• Cost savings: Using fewer packaging materials translates into lower material costs and less waste.
• Enhanced customer experience: End-users benefit from simplified unpacking and handling with minimal unnecessary packaging.

 

A real-life example

Arla Foods faced challenges with its new mozzarella production, where smooth packaging and plastic pallets increased the risk of load slippage and inefficiencies. Its conventional palletising methods were not sufficient to securely stabilise the heavy, smooth-packed cheese, leading to potential product damage and logistical hurdles.

What they did

After partnering with Palcut, Arla Foods implemented a fully automatic sheet dispenser combined with high-quality Antim anti-slip interlayer sheets. This “sheet-on-demand” solution seamlessly integrates into the production line, automatically adjusting the interlayer size to suit various pallet dimensions. By increasing friction between layers, the anti-slip paper prevents smooth cheese packs from shifting, even when the pallet is heavily loaded. As a result, Arla Foods achieved enhanced pallet stability, minimised handling errors, and reduced product damage – all while cutting costs and lowering its carbon footprint.

This success story demonstrates how investing in innovative palletising solutions can transform operational efficiency and product quality, making a tangible difference in the dairy industry.

Conclusion

Why use more packaging when you can achieve the same – if not better – stability with fewer materials? Integrating anti-slip paper into your palletising process can reduce costs, minimise waste, and protect your products and the environment. This smarter approach not only enhances logistical efficiency but also supports a more responsible, eco-friendly business model.

Ready to optimise your palletising process, cut down on unnecessary materials, and boost load stability? With an innovative approach to palletising, you can transform your packaging strategy for a cleaner, more efficient future.

Take the first step today