Recycled Paperboard Price Increase Hits EMEA Industrial Packaging Buyers
Sourcing teams in Europe face a 60 euro per ton increase for uncoated recycled paperboard starting in September.
Protective Packaging Sourcing
Procurement Strategy
The strategic identification and acquisition of materials designed to prevent damage to goods during transit secures product integrity. Effective protective packaging sourcing balances the need for product security with sustainability goals and cost constraints. This activity involves evaluating materials like bubble wrap, foam inserts and molded pulp to find the best fit for specific shipping requirements.
It covers the entire procurement cycle from initial supplier audit to final delivery.
Material Selection
Choosing the correct transit materials requires a careful analysis of the product’s fragility, weight and shipping method. For example, fragile electronics need foam custom inserts to absorb shocks, while sturdy books only require paperboard mailers. Procurement teams must evaluate the performance and environmental impact of each material.
This evaluation ensures that protective packaging sourcing decisions align with both damage prevention targets and corporate green initiatives.
Supplier Relations
Building long-term relationships with packaging manufacturers ensures a steady supply of customized shielding materials during peak shipping seasons. During high-demand periods, like the holiday shopping season, a shortage of shipping materials can cause severe bottlenecks in distribution centers. Companies that prioritize protective packaging sourcing in their supplier management programs can secure guaranteed volumes and faster turnaround times.
This strategic collaboration reduces the risk of shipping delays and helps logistics managers maintain high customer satisfaction levels even when the broader transportation market faces significant delays. Such relationships also enable co-development of new, sustainable materials that lower carbon footprints while maintaining structural integrity.