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The state of shock: Avoiding electrostatic dangers with bulk bags

Bulk bags stacked in a warehouse. Have electrostatic dangers been minimised?

Bulk bags are commonly used to transport and store granulated and fine powdered materials. However, if risks are not properly assessed and mitigated, this practice can cause the build-up of an electrostatic charge – with shocking and sometimes explosive results.

There are five main types of static shock (or electrical discharge that can occur in bulk bag packaging – sparks, brush discharge (energy discharged from nonconductive surfaces), propagating brush discharge (a charge builds up on an insulated surface), bulking brush discharge (a charge from the surface of charged dust or powders), and corona discharge (when the air is ionised around an electrical conductor).

The risk for many of these shock types is compounded when there are solvents, gas or fine powder in the atmosphere. Any spark from an electrostatic discharge in the bag can ignite these elements, with catastrophic consequences.

“There’s an energy build-up that occurs anywhere there is powder and friction against a surface,” says Smart Pack’s Leon Currie. “Everyone who has worked in a feed mill will know about risk mitigation plans for static build-up in silos – the same process can be just as important on a smaller scale too.”

What bulk bag is right for my operation?

For many companies the occurrence of static discharges poses a very low risk – but it’s still a risk all the same. Australasian businesses need to therefore be certain they are using the right type of bulk bag for their specific materials. 

Optimising your Bulk Bags for Export

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs), most commonly known as bulk bags, come in four types:

Type A FIBCs are non-conductive and usually made from plain woven polypropylene. When powdered materials move or rub against the bag, especially when they are being filled or emptied, electrostatic discharges can be ignited. For this reason, Type A bags should not be used for moving combustible loads, or in situations where flammable gases are present.

Type B FIBCs are also non-conductive and made from plain-woven polypropylene. However, Type B bags can prevent propagating brush discharges. These types of bags can still cause annoying shocks to workers (which can lead to other serious accidents). Contaminants can also be attracted to the bag’s surface, causing problems with emptying the bag. These bags shouldn’t be used when flammable solvents or gases are present.

Type C FIBCs are made from non-conductive polypropylene fabrics interwoven with conducting threads, which must be grounded when being filled or emptied. These threads are usually sewn in a grid pattern and must also be electrically interconnected when grounded. If properly used these bags can safely transport flammable powders even when gases, dust and vapours are present in the atmosphere.

Type D FIBCs are made from fabrics containing quasi-conductive threads, which means they safely dissipate static electricity through low-energy corona discharge. These threads don’t need to be interconnected or grounded, reducing the risks posed by human error. This means that like Type C bags, they can be used to transport flammable powders even when gases, dust and vapours are present in the atmosphere. Workers should watch out for any contamination or coating of conductive material such as grease on the bags, which could prevent safe discharge from occurring.

Bulk bag liners can further reduce electrostatic discharges. These come in three types: L1 (conductive), L2 (static dissipative), and L3 (insulating). The choice of liner will again depend on the material being transported as well as the atmosphere surrounding it. Risk profiling will help determine the best choice for a particular product.

custom printed bulk bag

Health and safety precautions

Risk profiling should be carried out before any work is done, to ensure the right types of bags and equipment are in place. If assessments show a minimum ignition energy from your loads of more than 50mJ, grounded bulk bags should be used and staff should also be provided with grounding wrist straps and footwear to prevent shocks. Anti-static flooring or conductive mats will further reduce the risk of injury.

“Occasionally we still come across a ‘she’ll be right’ mindset,” says Leon. “It doesn’t matter what you’re bagging – proper risk profiling still needs to occur. Thankfully, health and safety management processes are now driving decision-making, which means peace of mind for everyone.”

Smart Pack can supply anti-static bulk bags both with and without a liner. Get in touch with our team to help determine what bags are right for your operation,

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A 360º packaging perspective – How boots on the ground insights prevent up in the air decisions

A 360º packaging perspective – How boots on the ground insights prevent up in the air decisions
A 360º packaging perspective – How boots on the ground insights prevent up in the air decisions

We have developed and refined our Smart360 process to where we can now quickly assess and action improvements for clients. However, this process works best if we can get up close to the coalface. Only with this careful on-site analysis can companies know with certainty their packaging is 100% fit for purpose.

Packaging peace of mind is a beautiful thing. That’s when companies know every product is contained in as efficient, sustainable, and effective way as possible given the unique circumstances and environment they operate in.

But how often is this peace of mind possible, given that most companies work within a ‘business as usual’ approach?

Confidence can only come through the type of in-depth knowledge possible from a thorough on-site assessment. Our Smart360 system provides precise data around a wide range of measurables, clarity that ensures businesses can make well-considered decisions for enduring results.

“Reports that say that something hasn’t happened are always interesting to me, because as we know, there are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns—the ones we don’t know we don’t know.”

Donald Rumsfeld, Former US Secretary of Defence.

So, how does it work? We follow a three-step, results-orientated approach to ensure packaging aligns with a business’s strategic and economic development plans.

Step 1: Analyse

Packaging fills many roles, from safe containment, through to marketing, and on to providing a robust vessel for the end user to access the product. With every movement, there is an opportunity to make changes, which can result in cumulative savings.

“The initial in-house assessment focused on the bags being the issue. However, closer analysis from our team found the root cause was in new bagging technology…”

Our analysts look closely at entire life cycle of the bag or sack. From manufacturing through to filling orders we’ll check each point to see where packaging processes and products can be improved.

This means looking at waste numbers for any issues, as well as checking sales cycles and operational processes. We’ll assess how your inventory is managed and how each product is placed in the market. Often, small additions or alterations have been made to meet the needs of the moment. However, without regular analysis, it can be hard to see whether these changes are still serving the right purpose.

One such example occurred with a company that was struggling with valve bags blowing up. The initial in-house assessment focused on the bags being the issue. However, closer analysis from our team found the root cause was in new bagging technology that had been recently implemented.

Our on-site diagnosis quickly established the best way forward – establishing the correct pressure and filling speed settings of the equipment. This didn’t just save ongoing costs associated with replacement bags. It also prevented a costly change in packaging.

Step 2: Optimise

A detailed analysis of the status quo will generally unearth opportunities for further optimisation.

A recent on-site assessment for one customer uncovered that bags were overhanging on pallets, which was causing several issues during storage and shipping. The packaging was over-specified for what was needed, and our subsequent recommendation reduced the size and, in doing so, reduced plastic use while increasing stability during transit.

By adding something like a gusset to a packaging product, more products may be able to be fitted onto a pallet, for example, reducing shipping costs. Of course, for some companies, a complete overhaul of product or packaging design may be suggested. This could be in line with new technologies in packaging, which might better serve the needs of your business and help you meet sustainability goals. Or a new Environmental Management System might be recommended.

Step 3: Implement

Once you have the data on hand, we can help you to embed pragmatic, effective changes that will optimise systems and increase savings. Sometimes it’s just a small tweak here and there that is needed for a positive result.

This might look like new product packaging created by our design team to better suit your needs, or a simple adjustment to existing packaging, through to a more efficient layout of your distribution centre. As we provide full in-house service for packaging design and supply, it can be simple and quick to implement changes.

This follow-through means your Smart360 analysis is always far more than a box ticking exercise. It allows companies throughout Australasia to remove the unknowns and pack, store, send, and sell with confidence.

To book a Smart360 site audit, click here.

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How to stay sustainably accountable – why EcoVadis accreditation matters

How to stay sustainably accountable – why EcoVadis accreditation matters
How to stay sustainably accountable – why EcoVadis accreditation matters
As the pace and the pressure increase to both lessen our impact and protect the environment it has never been more important to be sustainably accountable. Yet, it can be difficult to see both the small details and big picture of this impact. 

The business community has become increasingly cynical of empty promises. Many have grown wise to (and tired of) ‘greenwashing’, and expect brands to step up and be sustainably accountable for their actions. But how does a company prove that its dedication to positive change is more than just beguiling words?

Setting goals and measuring success against Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors is an effective framework for ensuring sustainability practices are meaningful and effective. At Smart Pack, being transparent about our ESG practices, targets, and performance is essential to being accountable. It’s how we can show that we’re doing far more than pushing an empty slogan.

Many of our customers, particularly larger companies, need this information too. Ensuring they meet their own ESG reporting needs and fully understand their supply chains is vital.

Our clients don’t just want sustainable packaging options, they need to be able to prove that the packaging supplier they’ve chosen is a truly better option.

We knew we needed to increase our reporting capabilities so clients could be confident every part of our supply chain was covered and accountable – and that this information was backed-up with solid data.

Stepping up our sustainable accountability

In 2022, we began to consider our options for improved and more transparent sustainability reporting. There are plenty of options, but one stood out from the rest.

EcoVadis is considered the gold standard for measuring the sustainability performance of a company. This internationally recognized standard also matched the global scale of our network. EcoVadis was the right fit for our ambition.

To become EcoVadis rated we’ve had to complete a rigorous assessment process. This included measuring and sharing data on 21 different ESG indicators, including:

  • Environment – Evaluating our environmental impact, from energy consumption and emissions, to waste management
  • Labour and human rights –  We’ve looked closely at our health and safety practices, working conditions, and diversity across Smart Pack’s operations and supply chain
  • Ethics – Ensuring we stay true to strong ethical business practices and do not participate in corruption or anti-competitive practices
  • Sustainable procurement –  Looking at the sustainability of how Smart Pack sources our goods and services.

EcoVadis’ experts then spent months assessing the information and data and reviewed our performance and practices based on the Global Reporting Index (GRI), ISO 26000, the United Nations Global Compact and other international standards.

We’re proud to say that we achieved a Platinum rating, scoring particularly highly on environmental and ethical factors. This rating is in the top 1% of EcoVadis rated companies

The importance of accreditation

Good accreditation is all about delivering credible accountability. It’s easy enough to look at your own ESG factors and environmental initiatives and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. What is harder is to put your framework and processes under someone else’s microscope.

Engaging an internationally recognised auditing firm to conduct an assessment has enabled us to look deeper at our practices and our targets. By measuring our progress against international standards it has revealed areas for improvement and helped us to define our targets more clearly.

Our clients and contacts operate on a global scale, and we understand how important it is to reassure them that we’re doing everything we can so that our supply chain is absolutely transparent and entirely accountable. Everything is that much easier when we’re using frameworks and data to demonstrate the results.

Accreditation is reassessed annually and we’ll need to continue to perform at a high level to keep our rating. Of course, we can’t afford to take our foot off the accelerator. Consistently striving to do better, to keep measuring and assessing all that we do, helps us to grow and improve.

Accountability is a powerful tool to help companies do better by their customers, their communities and the environment. At Smart Pack we’ve found EcoVadis is perfect for first setting the standard and then inspiring our team to surpass it.

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Credible, usable, continual – Setting up an Environmental Management System that works for you

Credible, usable, continual Setting up an Environmental Management System that works for you
Credible, usable, continual Setting up an Environmental Management System that works for you

We are helping more and more companies throughout New Zealand and Australia as they negotiate both public demand and regulatory requirements for higher environmental standards. Meeting these standards and improving everyday efficiency often involves the formation of an Environmental Management System (EMS).

A good EMS should help reduce the environmental impact of your operation while maintaining efficiency and cutting waste. It will help your business set and then work towards environmental targets and, in doing so, ensure the operation achieves greater medium and long-term cost savings.

However, some companies see an EMS as a box-ticking exercise, while others see it as a valuable tool. They’re leaning into the work here and, as a result, are maximising opportunities today and future-proofing their operations for the changes of tomorrow.

For such businesses this means taking a closer look at packaging. Our R&D team is constantly assessing new packaging and processes that meet the changing needs of our clients. A strong, useable EMS can be of huge value when it comes to scoping improvements and tracking changes.

Here are a few quick tips for EMS enhancement:

1. Measure once. Measure twice.

Before you go about making changes, it’s important to know where you stand. It could be that your company’s environmental performance in some areas is already great, while in others it needs serious help. Analysing the current state of things is your first step, along with reviewing your company’s existing environmental goals and seeing how they measure up both in the present and for the future.

2. Think big (and small).

Once you have your data on hand look at where impact is being made here and now – and where further impact can be made in the future when recommended steps are followed. This involves an understanding of how both the legislative landscape and the natural environment are changing, and how effective your changes can be.

3. Set your goals.

To keep a clear picture of what you hope to achieve, look to create high level environmental objectives and targets within your EMS. This then gives you a starting point from which to establish practices and protocols to help achieve your goals. Many hands make light work. Keeping all employees aware of the wider picture here will help with compliance and ultimately make your targets easier to reach.

4. Get help from others.

Once you’ve got an effective plan, it’s important that data is regularly inputted. This doesn’t need to be a big job. In fact, it doesn’t even need to be done in-house. Good packaging and logistics companies should be able to supply clear records of what is being used. Not getting the data you need from suppliers? Then demand it. At Smart Pack we can provide this information to clients – and we’re always ready to discuss the requirements of your EMS and how we can help you meet the targets.

5. Assess, refine, evolve.

No EMS can live in a vacuum – it should be a malleable system built to react to a changing world. Through careful analysis and auditing, it should be possible not only to keep up with the standards but to surpass goals and targets. Doing so generally results in greater cost savings, waste minimisation, and community goodwill.

At Smart Pack we are committed to meeting ISO 14001 for Environmental Management through our own rigorous EMS. We see such a system as an essential asset for future focused businesses – and so we are dedicated to helping our clients to meet their commitments.

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Multi-use vs. Single-use Bulk Bags: Key Factors to Consider

Multi-use-vs.-Single-use-Bulk-Bags
Multi-use-vs.-Single-use-Bulk-Bags

Bulk bags, also known as flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs), are large bags designed for carrying and storing large quantities of materials. They are available in different types, including multi-use and single-use bulk bags. While both types of bags serve the same purpose, there are significant differences between them that buyers need to know before making a decision.

Single-use bulk bags, also known as disposable bags, are made of materials such as polypropylene and are intended for one-time use only. They are designed to carry and store bulk materials such as powders, granules, and grains. Once they have been used, they are disposed of and replaced with new ones.

On the other hand, multi-use bulk bags are designed to be used multiple times before they need to be replaced. They are made of durable materials such as woven polypropylene and have a higher capacity to withstand heavy loads and rough handling. Multi-use bulk bags are also referred to as reusable bags, as they can be used several times before they reach the end of their service life.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding between multi-use and single-use bulk bags:

Cost:

Single-use bulk bags are generally less expensive than multi-use bulk bags. However, the cost of using single-use bags can add up quickly if they are used frequently. In contrast, multi-use bulk bags require a higher upfront investment but can be cost-effective in the long run due to their durability and reusability.

Environmental Impact:

Single-use bulk bags have a significant environmental impact as they contribute to the growing amount of waste generated globally. In contrast, multi-use bulk bags are eco-friendly as they reduce waste and help conserve resources. They also help reduce carbon emissions as fewer bags are required overall.

Hygiene:

Single-use bulk bags are recommended in situations where hygiene is a top priority. For example, in the food industry, where contamination can pose a significant risk to public health. Single-use bags can be easily disposed of after use, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Multi-use bags require regular cleaning and inspection to ensure they remain hygienic and safe to use.

Storage Space:

Single-use bags take up less storage space than multi-use bags, making them a better option for companies with limited storage space. Multi-use bags require more space for storage as they need to be stored properly to prevent damage and maintain their quality.

Conclusion:

Both multi-use and single-use bulk bags have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two depends on the needs of the user. Single-use bags are a cost-effective option for those who require bulk storage occasionally and need to conserve storage space. Multi-use bags are a more sustainable option for those who require frequent bulk storage and handling of materials. Ultimately, choosing the right type of bulk bag comes down to a careful consideration of the specific needs of the user.

Still unsure which type of bulk bag is best for your business? Get in touch with our team to discuss your specific needs and receive personalised recommendations.
06 356 9835 | hello@smartpackgroup.com
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How to get more out of your Onion Bags

Smart Pack Onion Bags
Smart Pack Onion Bags

Each year, it’s a given that you’ll use bags to deliver fresh produce to your customers. What you may not realise, is that there are potential gains to be made when it comes to your packaging.

Upgrading your bags doesn’t always mean spending more money, often, it’s about finding efficiencies that save on cost. Below we have a few tweaks you can make, that could be the difference between having less or more in the bank at the end of the day.
  1. Optimise your machinery & bags to achieve higher production output:

Many pack-houses in the industry have invested in high-quality automatic wicket onion bagging presenters. Although there is capital expenditure, your return on investment will be quickly realised by increases in productivity and decreases reliance on labor. To ensure you get the production output you are after on your automated wicket machines, it is important to have high quality wicket bags. Smart Pack’s wicket bags come very well packed in bales to ensure the bags present seamlessly to the machine, maximizing production outputs.

  1. Utilise Full-Graphic Custom Branding (Our design & print service)

Marketing is no doubt a great way to get your bags to stand out. We’ve developed a new design with full-graphic print to help with this and to bring something new and fresh to the industry for your generic bag requirements.

If you are looking to perosnalise your onion bags with branding, contact Smart Packs Graphic Design team who can support you in achieving the desired look and feel. Sometimes it just takes a small tweak, like using high-quality print and the same amount of effort to maximise on this area of your packaging. And at little to no extra cost to growers, it’s a win, win in our books!

  1. Analyze your weave quality:

Are your onion bags under or over specified?

If your bags are under specified, you may see the leno mesh stretching too much. This will cause issues with stacking the bags as the bags will fail to hold their shape. It may also result in damaged onions, decreasing customer satisfaction.

If your bags are over specified, there may be some cost benefits that Smart Pack can assist you with, whilst still ensuring the bag is still fit for purpose. Smart Pack can identify this by analysing both the weight and weave pattern of your current bags.

  1. Consider using non-baffle bulk bags instead of baffle bulk bags:

Are you exporting or packing bags for export to Europe? Many of these are transported in ventilated bulk bags, predominantly with internal baffles. Baffle bulk bags are ideal for this as they hold their form well, however they are considerably more expensive than un-baffled bulk bags.

Smart Pack have developed a new option for un-baffled onion bulk bags. The superior weave on our un-baffled onion bulk bags ensures the bag holds it’s structure and shape when being transported, fits well in the containers and will save you considerably on cost.

unbaffled vs baffled onion bulk bag
unbaffled vs baffled onion bulk bag

 

If you are looking for support on any of the above or if you would like to request samples of our onion bags, talk to the team today – 06 356 9835 | hello@smartpackgroup.com

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5 ways to be Packaging Prepared for Spring

5 ways to be packaging prepared
5 ways to be packaging prepared

With a lot of the primary sector forecasting and planning for the Spring rush, having your packaging prepared will reduce the risk of unwanted surprises.

Here are 5 important points to consider this season:

  1. No bags – No business – we get this.

With 100’s of customers having to manage seasonal requirements, it’s safe to say we understand the impact it has on your business if you run out of bags. Even if accurate forecasting is a challenge for you, Smart Pack have the systems, capabilities and infrastructure to navigate variances, remove the risk and ensure you’re in safe hands.

Here’s a few things we’re doing to ensure we never run our customers out of bags:

  • Forecasting – Robust analysis of previous seasons actual numbers and collaboration on upcoming trends.
  • Reporting – Detailed real-time reporting.
  • Inventory Management – We’ll customize a plan just for your business to ensure it fits with your cashflow requirements and physical capacity to store and handle the stock.
  • NZ Printing – In-house printing/overprinting service with low MOQ’s and fast turnaround – perfect for those times when you need to launch a new product at the 11th
  • Warehousing/Logistics – We have warehousing right across NZ and Australia to ensure you bags are there when and where you need them.

 

  1. Compliance & Recyclability

With the priority products identified for regulated product stewardship, the recyclability of your on farm-plastics has become more of a priority. Being ahead of the game and knowing the types of bags that are best for these recycling/collection schemes is a sure-fire way to not get caught out. We have been working with Agrecovery to identify the packaging materials and specifications that are most ideal to align with the schemes in place.

Talk to our team today about how your bags may be affected and what you can do to be working towards the future.

 

  1. Packaging Design and Marketing

Design is a crucial part of your packaging, so try to make sure you have covered the following:

  • Labelling – ensure you have the correct labelling of products so that you are compliant with any warnings/regularity requirements.
  • Visual Impact – ensure you’ve maximized on marketing potential – making sure your bags stand out next to competitors in retail situations.
  • Product Differentiation – maximize design elements such as color as product differentiation, so your staff and customers can work quickly and efficiently with your bags.

Our in-house Design team can offer expert recommendations based on your branding and operation to boost your brand through packaging design.

 

  1. Integration with your packing equipment

When was the last time you reviewed your packing/filling processes? We’ve found that even the smallest of tweaks can make a world of difference in creating efficiencies to your operations.

Whether it’s switching a measurement or reducing the specifications, there’s usually a way to improve efficiency. Our SMART360 framework is used by our team to identify opportunities within your packaging processes where we can boost productivity and in turn profitability.

Contact one of the team today for a no obligation SMART360 appraisal.

 

  1. Supply Chain Sustainability

A packaging partner that understands the bigger picture of your business, industry and operation is a huge advantage. Even though you can’t see what’s around the corner, you can have confidence that there will be no risks or surprises with your supply.

Smart Pack has created a well-oiled supply chain network to ensure delivery lead times, quality and reliability never let you down. All our suppliers are taken through a rigorous validation process to ensure we are delivering you the best.

For support on all of the above, contact our team today – hello@smartpackgroup.com | +64 6 356 9835

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How optimising your Bulk Bags can save you time and money when exporting

Optimising your Bulk Bags for Export
Optimising your Bulk Bags for Export

Feeling the strain of current freight delays and rising costs? Here’s how you can maximise container space and reduce loading times through optimizing your Bulk Bags.

1. Make sure your Bulk Bags are the right size to maximize on space in the container.

As we all know, the cost of international freight prices are rising therefore it’s important that we utilise any and every space within containers – no one likes paying for air to be transported across the ocean!

For exporting, we recommend a baffle constructed bulk bag as they hold their square shape for maximum utilisation of space and stability when transporting.

When selecting your Bulk Bag size, consider the following points:
  • What is the internal width, length & height of the container being used? A common 20ft container is 5.89m long x 2.35m wide x 2.39m high.
  • Baffle bulk bags will bulge a little bit between the baffles so ensure you run trials or add an additional 20mm on each side for each bag in your calculations.
  • Within the container, make sure the bags are not rubbing against each other as this can result in difficulty loading into the container and material damage caused by friction between the bags.
Circular vs Baffle Bulk Bags
Circular vs Baffle Bulk Bags

Baffle Bulk Bags have a more square look and hold their form well which is why they stack better than Circular Bulk Bags.

2. Ensure your Bulk Bags are manufactured to a high quality to optimize loading and space efficiency.

Not all Bulk Bags are made the same! The quality can make a significant difference to the loading speed and the amount of space it needs within the container.

It’s important to partner with a supplier who you know can supply high quality Bulk Bags that hold their form, to ensure you are receiving bags that meet your specific requirements, every time.

Below are some key points to ensure your bulk bag is fit for purpose:
  • Weave type – Bulk Bags stack, load and transport the best when you have a quality, tight weave pattern.
  • Baffle Specification – The baffles need to be constructed in a way that ensures efficient loading, holds square with a flat bottom and doesn’t grin or open at the seams.
  • Cross Corner Loops that hold their shape – The better quality cross corner loops you have,  the easier it is to pick up and load your Bulk Bags. This reduces people power you need for the job and in turn, reduces the Health and Safety risks of having multiple people involved in the process.
  • Certification – If you are transporting food products, your bags are required to meet the NZ food grade standards. Having supplier that offers Quality Control and Certified Packaging Processes minimizes any risk of thread & material contamination and supply chain mishaps.

Whatever industry you may be in, if you’re exporting product in Bulk Bags, having a packaging partner that understands every part of the process from manufacturing to export, can save you time, money, and stress now and down the line.

Want to explore how you can export your product more efficiently? Get in touch with the team today!

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Every 24 days (or less)

We are pretty aligned with one thing here at Smart Pack… (this time it’s not only our commitment to our customers) but we as a team, believe that true kindness comes through helping other Kiwis in need, and that’s why we created our giving initiative.

We kicked this off last month and thought we’d keep you in the loop because we’re more than just a company that buys and sells things…

So, here’s how it works… every Smart Pack employee selects a NZ charity of their choice that they’d like to give to, and Smart Pack will donate to that awesome cause. *that’s one every 24 days!

If you’re you’d like to see how this unfolds and see who gives to who – follow us here: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram.

In the future, we want to include our customers in this initiative – so keep following our charity drive to see how you can be part of our story, giving back to fellow Kiwis and helping those in need.

Contact us if you’d like to find out more.
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Then… Now… The Future

new zealand bag and sack supplier

Can you believe it has been six years down the line since we started Smart Pack? We can hardly comprehend it ourselves!

While we spend a vast amount of our time projecting forward, working on business strategies, and all the stuff that comes with it, we often reminisce back to the days when it all started. It is important to maintain the core roots of the business and not forget those truly humble beginnings.

Nothing in principle has really changed since we started. In essence it is all about genuinely helping clients who want seriously good packaging. The advantage with time, comes experience, and we can now back our principals with on-ground knowledge and a seriously loyal and committed team. Everyone here goes the extra mile to help our clients be their best and get the results they want. Bags and sacks might be our business, but it is really about people and performance, energy, and attitude. Every day.

We wanted to share our latest company video, as it is an opportunity to meet the people who bring the vision together, to benefit every client we have.

Contact us if you’d like to find out more.
Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram to see more of what we do.
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Could the functionality of your bags be improved?

smart release™ drawing

So often when visiting various clients, we find them using Bulk Bags that are not ‘fit for purpose’. Most of the time they do not even realise this. The question is what do I need to understand to choose the right bulk bag? Below are some key points to consider to ensure your bulk bag is fit for purpose.

Is the current size/dimensions of your bags correct?

A few centimeters can make all the difference with a bag.

To ensure your bulk bag is the optimal size/dimensions you need to consider the following:

  • What is the cubic density of your product?
  • How are the bags being stored?
  • How are they being transported?
  • What sized pallets are you transporting them on?

Consideration of the above points will help you work out the ideal bag size/dimensions for ease of storage, transportation, best use of container space (if your product goes into containers) etc.

What type and weight of fabric do you actually need?

Often overlooked is the material type and strength required for your requirements. We have found a lot of customers using an over specified or underspecified bags resulting in unnecessary extra cost or poor bag performance.

To ensure your bag has the correct material type and strength, consider the following points:

  • What is the weight of the product going into the bag? – you may require a heavier or lighter duty fabric.
  • Is your product combustible and therefore requires anti-static material to avoid combustion?
  • Is a laminated material or an internal liner necessary to avoid product seepage and/or for moisture protection?
  • Is the weave pattern in the material holding as form stable as you require?
  • Are your lifting loops holding form for ease of use?

Bag Filling & Emptying

Filling

Filling bags can be a pain point if you haven’t got the correct bag top option for your product or bag filling system.

There are two common filling options to choose from:
1. a ‘spout top’ – which is usually sized to fit your bag filling head.
2. a ‘duffle/skirt top’ – this is more of a general top option as it gives scope for a wider range of filling methods.

Ask yourself:

  • Is your current bag filling system working as well as it could be?
  • Do I have the best filling equipment for my requirements?
  • Do my current bags have the correct top construction for your bag filling system?
Emptying

Is it safe and easy for the end-user to empty your bags?

There are multiple options when it comes to bag emptying systems but its a question of what works best for the person who has to empty your bags.

Some points to consider include:

  • Are your workers or customers at any risk when emptying your bags?
  • Do you need a discharge spout on the bottom of your bags? If so, what size does it need to be to allow your product to flow easy?
  • Are the bags being re-used?
  • Could the Smart Release option be best for you?

With health & safety and ease of use in mind, having a safer, smarter and easier to use bag emptying system on your bags could result in an increased demand for your products from your customers.

Think about the end-user, make it easy and make it safe.

Not to be overlooked….

• Do your bags need to be multi-trip (re-usable) or single-trip (one use)?
• Do you need a plastic liner in your bag (particularly for food-grade products, or a product with a high moisture content)?
• Is your product very fine and would, therefore, benefit from having an anti-sift filler cord sewn into the bags seems to stop product seepage?
• Are your lifting loops user friendly – for both the end-user and you?
• Do you require food grade certified bags? – Maybe you think and have been told your current bags are food grade when actually they aren’t. This happens all too often.
• Do the bags need to handle high temperatures without failing?

The team at Smart Pack has a wealth of knowledge about the in’s and outs of bulk bags and packaging in general – in fact, we live and breathe it! So, if you’re looking to reassess your packaging requirements, feel free to contact us and tap into this knowledge because we’re here to help provide packing solutions that are “fit for purpose” for you!

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Thinking about packaging automation? 5 key things to consider.

automated packing machine

You’d be amazed at the number of conversations we had with people about packaging automation at Foodtech Packtech 2018. It was a hot topic, that’s for sure. Which makes sense given current problems with labour shortages in some sectors and, certainly at the moment, food contamination scares.

With the growing implementation of robotics and automation into production lines, there is the opportunity to reduce costs, provide more consistent quality products and improve profit margins. But just how much automation do you really need on your packaging line? How do you ensure you don’t impact your current operation and customer experience? And how do you know whether it’s time to take the plunge?

We work with businesses all the time who are taking that step. We have found there are some key points that need considering prior to committing to the capital equipment. Here are 5 simple questions worth asking.

1. Could you be selling more product?

Are you struggling to keep up with demand for your product? Or if you could make more product can you secure more sales?

2. Would you benefit from reduced labour costs?

The obvious answer to this question is ‘yes’. The real question is the Return On Investment (ROI)? Sometimes the capital expense is daunting however often once the ROI has been penned on paper it stacks up surprisingly well.

3. What is the cost of the ongoing consumable that is required for the level of automation you are considering?

More often than not, changes in automation require a change to the packaging. With the consumable being the ongoing cost we encourage anyone considering a change to ensure marriage between the machinery and the consumable is considered for the most economic outcome long term. Once the capital equipment has been committed to there is no reverse!

4. Do you have any risks?

With people in the mix, does your product pose any H&S risks? What is the risk of intentional or unintentional product contamination? Could this be mitigated through automation? The answer is yes, more often than not.

5. Are you prepared for the upfront investment?

Packaging automation doesn’t come for free. But your initial investment is only part of the picture. You need to take into account the total cost of ownership. Do some forecasting and calculate how much you will spend if you maintain the status quo versus your estimated future spend if you automate. You’ll soon work out how much time it will take to get a return on your investment (or not).

Always start with your product

Perhaps most importantly, when you’re weighing up your packaging automation options, you need to start with your product. What are the important factors in terms of your product’s shelf life, transport/handling, point-of-sale etc. You need to get the packaging right and match it to the automation process. And that’s where we come in here at Smart Pack.

Our 360-degree service looks at how your packaging fits into the big picture of your business. We are able to customise the design of your packaging to suit the requirements of your product from the production line to the consumer. We work closely with packaging machinery suppliers to ensure you get a product that is right for your customers and your business.

With the increased throughput that packaging automation can provide, storage space, cash flow and lead times can be tricky for any business. To help we offer a tailored inventory management service, where we can hold your product in stock for you and make things run a little bit smoother.

So if you’re thinking about packaging automation, contact us. We will work with you from start to finish to make sure you get the best product for your needs.

Contact us if you’d like to find out more.
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