January 2006: Packing and Shipping Details

Your choice of packing solutions is pretty simple at the grocery store. When it comes to determining the packing and shipping details of your printed materials, your options are much broader – and more important to a project’s success. While a torn grocery sack may put some dents in your canned goods, the liability is far greater when it comes to your important projects.

Packing and shipping details should be determined before production begins in the bindery, preferably at the estimating stage. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when considering your packing choices:

Destination and Distribution

The final destination and distribution details of your finished products are the two most important factors in determining the proper packing methods. For example, if all finished pieces will be shipped to a single destination, a cost-effective packing method such as skidded cartons or gaylords (a single skid-size carton) will likely be sufficient.

On the other hand, products with complex distribution needs and varying delivered quantities will benefit from packing processes such as shrink-wrapping and drop shipping. This is particularly important if your products will require additional production once they leave our facility. Projects heading to a mailhouse will almost never be placed into cartons, which raises your cost and may delay production downstream.

Not All Cartons Are Alike

Most binderies stock a handful of standard carton sizes, and will pack finished products according to best fit. If you choose to specify a quantity per carton, there’s a good chance that you’ll require custom-size cartons, which will increase your costs. Regardless of whether your products are packed in standard or custom cartons, you should verify with those receiving cartons (such as retail stores) if there are weight or size restrictions.

The Riverside Advantage

As with all aspects of post press production, you save time and money when you have many options at your disposal. Packing and distribution at The Riverside Group is no exception. We offer a complete range of packing and shipping solutions, including shrink wrapping, custom carton packing, drop shipping and more. Don’t shy away from projects with complex distribution requirements; partner with The Riverside Group and win more business!