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Oct 18 2023

Amazon’s new automated packaging machines create paper bags that are made to measure every time

New machines pack individual items – such as video games, sports equipment and office supplies – in made-to-measure paper bags which are durable and flexible.

We’re trialling new packaging machines in Europe and the US that build made-to-fit paper bags around individual items on demand, reducing the volume of packaging for thousands of everyday items.

 

Using an in-built sensor, the machines scan items such as video games, kitchen gadgets, sports equipment, and office supplies – each of which were previously sent in boxes and cardboard folders – and cut a paper bag from rolls of paper in real time, in order to pack the items securely. Each bag is secured using heat-sealing technology, enabling the machines to pack quickly and accurately, while minimising empty space around the contents. No glue is needed to seal the packaging, which further reduces resource usage.

 

By packing items in 100% recyclable light paper packaging, which is made-to-fit without the need for padding, the machines help to avoid more than 26 grams of packaging per shipment, on average. Lightweight paper bags used by Amazon are up to 90% lighter than similar-sized cardboard boxes.

Amazon’s packaging engineers came up with this technology by redesigning machines that previously made plastic packages. The original machines were decommissioned when Amazon stopped packing items in single-use plastic delivery bags at our fulfilment centres across Europe.

 

“We are constantly innovating, testing and learning when it comes to packaging solutions for our customers”, said Thais Blumer, Head of Sustainable Packaging for Amazon, Europe. “Our trials already show that this technology is efficient, secure and reliable.” Read more

 

Source: AMAZON