Reusable packaging are transport items designed to be used multiple times for the same transport purpose, also known as returnable transport items. These items are widely used in many different industries. Working with reusable packaging therefore has several advantages. In this blog we discuss different types of packaging within different sectors and we also look at the risks that play within these sectors. Which types are used, how do the processes work and what is the value of packaging?
RTI’s for flowers
The flower and plant sector often works with Danish trolleys, or stacking wagons, with plates, Floratinos, flower buckets (Fc588) and cage trolleys/roll containers. These are used for the transport of flowers and plants and can often be seen at the flower auction of Royal FloraHolland. These packaging items are also issued via Royal FloraHolland, this means they set the standard for the packaging in circulation within the sector.
When exchanging packaging, a deposit is charged by the auction. Compensation must also be paid in the event of loss or theft. At first glance, this seems like a good system for registration. However, problems arise when switching the perspective to the growers. Many companies within the sector work together on the basis of trust. Problems that arise are that items are not always counted and the system is based on paper receipts. Packaging within the sector is therefore very sensitive to loss. In the event of loss, it is not always clear who is responsible and who should therefore bear the costs.
RTI’s for bread
The bakery industry works with different types of packaging, namely with plate trolleys, also known as rack trolleys, Broban crates and stacking bins. These are expensive items, Broban crates alone cost €15 and rack trolleys can cost as much as €170. It can therefore also happen that the items are worth more than the bread that is transported with them.
Within the industry, packaging is also exchanged on the basis of trust, so registration is not very common. When things go wrong, it is again unclear who should be blamed. Problems that occur within the sector include:
- Crates are used for other purposes
- Employees are not aware of the value of packaging
- Unloading is done at night, there is no ‘proof’ of the transaction so no one is liable for loss
- Items are returned to the wrong supplier
RTI’s for beer
It will come as no surprise that beer is mainly transported in kegs. Other types of packaging that are used are beer tanks, pallets, crates and roll containers. These items are also very pricey, for example roll containers cost an average of €100 per item, but above all very long-lasting and sturdy. It would therefore be a shame to use a large keg only a handful of times. This means it’s important that the items continue to be returned to the correct party.
The processes and agreements are quite complicated within the industry, due to the difference in the type of counterparties and the large numbers of them. In most cases, a deposit is charged, but the wholesalers, retailers and catering industry do not work with concrete numbers. In that case, packaging is returned when it is available, which can take a lot of time. Reusable packaging is also of great importance to this industry, so there is a lot in circulation. Keeping clear what belongs to whom can quickly become a maze.
Register RTI’s using TellApe
TellApe is the #1 packaging app that helps solve the above issues and more. During packaging transfers, TellApe users can enter the issued or returned items directly into the app. The transaction can also be signed off immediately. After delivery, the items are visible in the TellApe online portal within seconds. In this portal, users can see an overview of all packaging in circulation, the balances and the locations. Want to learn more? Feel free to get in touch.
