Packaging is not what it used to be. It's faster, smarter, and more efficient. This change comes from new tools and systems. Today, packaging companies rely on technology to stay ahead. They use it to serve clients better, cut costs, and meet new demands.
The packaging market in Canada is growing. Statista reports a steady growth rate of over 4% each year (Statista, 2024). Businesses need strong systems to keep up. Technology is the key.
1. ERP Systems Keep Everything Connected
ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. It’s a software system that connects all parts of the business. Sales, inventory, shipping, and customer service all run through it. One system. One set of data.
With ERP, teams don’t guess. They see stock levels, order history, and delivery status in real time. This helps avoid delays and mistakes.
Popular ERP systems in packaging include:
NetSuite
SAP Business One
Microsoft Dynamics
These tools help packaging companies plan better. They know what to order. They know when to ship. They serve clients on time.
2. CAD Tools Help Design Faster
CAD means computer-aided design. These tools help create boxes, foam inserts, and retail displays. They help teams design faster and with more detail.
One top tool is Esko ArtiosCAD. It helps packaging designers create dielines and 3D samples. No guessing. Just accurate drawings and quick revisions.
CAD tools reduce waste. They help avoid errors in size or layout. This means fewer returns and less cost.
CAD also helps brands. Designers can test how a product looks in a box. They can fix problems before the package is made.
3. Automation Improves Packing Speed
Machines do more now. They fold boxes, seal tape, fill voids, and stack pallets. This reduces labor and speeds up production.
Some examples of packaging automation:
Case sealers and stretch wrappers
Robotic arms for palletizing
On-demand box makers like Packsize
Automation helps small and large companies. Even basic tools like tape dispensers save time. Bigger machines can run full packing lines with less human input.
This means more orders can ship on time. It also improves safety. Machines take on heavy lifting or repeat tasks.
4. Smart Shipping Cuts Waste and Costs
Shipping is not just about boxes. It's about the right box. If it's too big, you waste space. You also pay more.
That’s where carton optimization software comes in. It picks the best box size for every order. Tools like ShipStation and SmartPack help do this.
Smart shipping tools also compare rates. They pick the cheapest or fastest carrier. They print labels and track deliveries. This helps save money and improves service.
Some warehouses also use dimension scanners. These tools scan packages to make sure they are packed right. They also check for overpacking.
5. Warehouse Systems Track Everything
WMS stands for Warehouse Management System. This software tracks all inventory. It shows what’s in stock, where it’s stored, and when to reorder.
Good WMS tools include:
Fishbowl
Zoho Inventory
SkuVault
WMS makes picking and packing faster. Workers use scanners or mobile devices. They scan items as they go. This cuts mistakes and keeps inventory updated in real time.
WMS also connects to ERP systems. Together, they give full control from order to delivery.
6. Eco Tools Help Reduce Waste
Green packaging is no longer a trend. It’s a demand. Consumers and governments want less plastic and more recycling.
In 2023, a Canadian study showed 73% of shoppers will pay more for green packaging (Statista Canada).
Packaging companies now use tools to track this. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tools measure carbon impact. Software like Sphera or GaBi helps compare materials.
This helps clients choose better options. Less plastic. More paper. Less filler. Smaller boxes. All these choices help cut waste.
Some companies also use tools that track recycled content. They know how much plastic or paper comes from reused sources.
7. Smart Packaging Adds Value
Smart packaging uses tech to do more. A simple box becomes a tool.
Examples of smart packaging:
QR codes for tracking
NFC tags for product info
RFID labels for inventory
These features help customers. Scan a code and see where a product came from. Or check if it’s real. Or learn how to recycle it.
For businesses, smart packaging gives data. They see how people use the product. They check stock levels without opening boxes.
This builds trust. It also improves supply chains.
8. Canadian Companies Use These Tools Too
Crownhill Packaging is a great example. It’s a leading packaging company in Canada. It serves businesses across North America.
Crownhill uses custom design tools, fast warehouse systems, and eco-safe materials. They also offer local support in both Canada and the U.S.
With the rise of eCommerce, tools like these are no longer optional. They are needed to compete.
Brands expect faster shipping, better protection, and clear tracking. Technology helps packaging companies meet these needs.
Final Thoughts
Technology is changing packaging. From design to delivery, smart tools now guide each step.
Companies that invest in these tools save time and money. They waste less. They serve better. And they grow.
For packaging buyers, this means better boxes, fewer delays, and cleaner choices.
Smart packaging is not just for big brands. With simple systems and easy tools, any business can pack better.
That’s where packaging is going. And the tools are ready to help.
Sources:
https://www.statista.com/statistics/1196094/canadian-consumers-sustainable-packaging-preference
https://www.statista.com/outlook/cmo/packaging/canada
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