As consumer demand continues to increase and sustainability becomes a greater priority across the supply chain, packaging automation is essential, not just an upgrade. Automated packaging systems are the key driver of operational efficiency, brand credibility, and long-term growth.
Whether you’re just starting to explore automated packaging solutions or looking to optimize your current setup, we’ll highlight various types of automation, key benefits, and how Shorr can help you confidently choose the right solution for your business.
Three Types of Automation Equipment
Semi-automatic machines combine manual labor with automated functions to perform packaging tasks. These machines typically require an operator to initiate or assist with part of the process, while the machine handles the rest.
Benefits
- Fast & easy startup
- Introduction to automate facility
- Simple automation
- Stand alone
- Reduction in waste
- Ergonomic and convenient operation
Examples include:
- Lantech Semi-Automatic Stretch Wrappers: Q300, Q300XT, QL400, QL400XT, S300, S300XT
- Wexxar/BEL: BEL150, BEL151, BEL252, BEL505, BEL505G3, BEL5150
Automatic machines are designed to perform packaging operations autonomously, using programmed controls, sensors, and mechanical components to manage tasks like filling, sealing, labeling, wrapping, and boxing.
Benefits
- Increased throughput
- Production Increase
- Increased Consistency
- Reduction in Labor Costs
- Meets production demand
- Reduction is Material Waste
Examples include:
- Lantech Automatic Stretch Wrappers: Q-Auto, QL-Auto, SL-Auto
- Wexxar: WF20, WF30
A packaging system where several machines or production lines are working in parallel or in sequence, and a conveyor system is used to move products between them efficiently.
Benefits:
- Complete Solution
- One stop shop
- Single source
- Automatic Machine Benefits
Examples include:
Semi-auto machines, automatic machines, and conveyors in one line
What Consumers Want and How Automation Helps Business’s Deliver
Today’s consumers are looking beyond shelf appeal – they care about how a package is made. According to our latest Sustainable Packaging Consumer Report, 54% of respondents reported deliberately choosing products with sustainable packaging in the past six months. Even more compelling, 90% said they are more likely to purchase from a brand or retailer if its packaging is eco-friendly. Additionally, it revealed the reasons as to why some consumers want to purchase sustainable products but don’t:
- 36% Limited Availability
- 16% Lack of Clear Labels
- 9% Greenwashing Concerns
Packaging operations play a key role in building trust with today’s sustainability consumers. Right-sizing, reducing waste, and ensuring consistency begin with smarter systems and streamlined processes. By investing in packaging automation, businesses gain greater control over the materials they use, how they are applied, and over their products, ultimately making your business’s sustainability goals visible and credible to consumers.
Key Benefits of Automating Your Packaging Process
Packaging automation isn’t just about speed; it’s a strategic investment for your business’s long-term success. Here are a few top reasons companies are implementing automated packaging systems:
- Sustainability – Automated packaging systems help reduce void fill usage, reduce the footprint of packages, and reduce space during transit.
- Increased Efficiency—Eliminating bottlenecks and streamlining the overall operation allows businesses to focus on other priorities and goals.
- Consistent Output and Quality – Reliable performance that eliminates rework.
- Material Optimization – Right-size packaging through automation reduces waste, minimizes void fill, and helps support your sustainability goals.
- Improved Throughput – Manages demand without compromising quality or timelines.
- Data & Insights – Gain more visibility into your operation.
Choosing the Right Automated Packaging Equipment
Many businesses wonder whether they are too small, too complex, or simply not ready for automated packaging systems. However, automated packaging is not a one size fits all. Regardless of size or setup, Shorr’s Packaging Automation team and Equipment Specialists partner with customers to transform their packaging operations through collaboration, solution building, project management, and ongoing service support, ensuring our automated packaging solutions grow with your business.
At Shorr, we help clients across various industries become more competitive. Let us help you decide which automated packaging equipment will most benefit your business, whether through increased throughput, more reliable operations, or labeling capabilities that optimize the impact of packaging designs.
Shorr’s Packaging Equipment Repair Service
Shorr’s factory-trained and certified technicians support customers’ needs with a range of repair services, including:
- Local dispatch programs
- Equipment installation and startup
- Operator and maintenance training
- Machine evaluation and performance optimization
- Rebuilds and retrofits
- Parts programs
If you find yourself in a situation where you need one of your packaging machines repaired or a part replaced, Shorr’s highly trained technicians can provide you with on-site service or step-by-step instructions so that your staff can safely complete the parts replacement and installation.