Category Archives: Packaging Industry News

We’ve moved: How RAJA’s new UK warehouse and offices offer more stock, more choice – and solar powered hot water

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RAJA UK's new packaging warehouse 2020

Growth is risky at any time, but in the current climate expanding to a new premises is more challenging than ever. Yet, despite the tough environment all businesses find themselves in, and with one eye on the future, we decided to go ahead with our move to a new, bigger, warehouse and UK HQ.

And it’s big (and eco-conscious).

The new warehouse takes our inventory space from an already impressive 90,000 sq ft in the old warehouse to 267,000 sq ft – the equivalent of three and a half football pitches. It also increases racking height by a metre and a half to 13.5m – giving the new site an astonishing 40,000 pallet bays, five-times more than we previously had.

And while we are looking at the numbers, the new-build also has 20 HGV docking bays and four level access doors – more than double the number of bays of the old site.

This is a big step up for RAJA UK and not only makes it possible to offer a wider range of stock right now, but also will ensure future growth needs are met in the years ahead.

RAJA UK's new packaging warehouse docking bays

Driving growth

So what is driving that growth? At RAJA, we have always been a distance selling specialist and since the 1970s, we’ve used catalogues as a major way of doing this. Underpinned with the support of telesales, account managed customers and a strong field sales team.

Since 2000 – when the Group launched its first website in France – the business, like many others, is becoming increasingly digital. Web sales now account for a third of our business, email and e-procurement 41% and telephone sales 22%. Digital transformation is well underway.

As a result, we are focussing on becoming the business supplies provider of choice across Europe with hundreds of thousands of products available to core target customers.

With this in mind, the entire RAJA Group’s CMS is being completely updated during 2020 and early 2021, the web is undergoing an extensive top to bottom overhaul and key best-in-class eprocurement services are being implemented to drive long term digital growth.

Catalogues continue to be a central part of our growth strategy, however, with spend here approximately 1/3 of budget to digital marketing’s spend of 2/3.  Seven years ago, this split was the other way around and this continued drive of digital is only likely to continue over the coming years.

The effect of the Coronavirus pandemic

Like most businesses, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and associated lockdown that followed was a cause for concern for us. Lockdown happened at the end of March – the new warehouse was set to open in late June.

However, after some early fears, the RAJA team realigned how we operate during that pandemic – catalogues that were literally hot-off-the-press were parked, while digital spend was switched to bottom of the funnel stuff such as affiliates and PPC.

The RAJA UK team also reacted quickly to the business opportunities in April and focussed our sales teams on the business sectors that were growing quickly.  We also rapidly developed a whole range of COVID-19 products such as distancing floor markers, tapes, masks, plexi-screens etc and launched these products on the website daily.

We also found ourselves well placed to tap into the massive up-tick in ecommerce. As the UK – as well as, the world – went into lockdown, the need for ecommerce packaging from businesses exploded as existing online retailers and those that were new to ecommerce all started to need packaging to ship out their goods.

As a result of this, sales have grown very strongly through April and May and marketing budgets were readjusted to take advantage of this sales growth.

And with the consumer switch to ecommerce set to continue, the new warehouse ideally positions us to continue to service and grow this market.

The new build also provides an extra 14,000 sq ft of office space over the old building. While this 24,000 sq ft was not originally ear-marked to be used straight away, it proved perfect for accommodating existing staff in a socially distanced way during lockdown.

Going green

The move to the new warehouse, a vital part of RAJA UK’s long term growth strategy, was also undertaken to make the business more sustainable. The new site has several features that are expected of a modern sustainable building.

LED lighting is used throughout the warehouse and offices to reduce energy consumption.  The site also has a solar hot water system and rainwater harvesting to ensure efficient heating and use of water – reducing the impact on the environment and helping reduce operating costs as well.

The site also features charging points for four electric cars – which can easily be expanded further as required.  The company is also encouraging car sharing by allocating 12 car parking spaces specifically for employees to do this – although this will have to be something that comes into play once the COVID-19 lock-down is relaxed enough to allow this to safely happen.

The building’s owner, Prologis, also carbon offsets each building it builds and leases.  This new building has been carbon offset through the protection of 351 acres of rainforest at the Orangerie Bay project in Southern Papua New Guinea through the charity Cool Earth.

Water storage tanks at RAJA UK's new packaging warehouse

The future

All this new space has proved useful during the pandemic, but it was originally conceived for growth – and that growth is very much at the forefront of our plans for 2020 and beyond.

We are looking, over the next five to ten years, to grow the size of the in-stock product range by three or four-times current levels. This will provide customers with an even wider and extensive choice of products, which can also be delivered faster.

One area we are looking to expand is into food packaging. With ecommerce providing a massive boost to online grocery – both among the large players and smaller, independent purveyors of produce – the demand for food grade and protective sanitised packaging has also grown. And we are looking to capitilise upon this.

Sustainable packaging is also going to be a growth area across the board, which we will leverage the new warehouse to tap into.

As we are also part of the wider RAJA Group and, with the investment in this new-build, we have been able to create this bigger and better warehouse.  Cementing our position to become not only more established in the UK, but also to maintain our position as the leading distributor of packaging supplies, business supplies and equipment across Europe.

As digital transformation continues, changing shopping habits can be catered for and new lines can be added as the ecommerce and packaging markets grow and change. And it can all be done from an ultra-modern, ultra-sustainable site.

How to make your business COVID secure

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To make your business covid secure a host of safety measures need to be in place to protect staff, customers and anyone else coming into contact with your business.

As restrictions are being lifted to allow most shops to re-open, many other businesses are looking at getting back to work – but only if they can be COVID-secure.

Covid secure businesses

COVID-secure through best practice

Covid secure best practices – the first step. What measures do you need to take, and what safety equipment, systems and procedures do you need to put in place – and how do you make them run effectively?

So, before looking at what equipment you may need, all businesses need to implement the following best practice steps as outlined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and in the UK, you’ll need to follow GOV guidelines on working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19. If your business can carry out these policies, you can then start the preparations to reopen for business.

Making your business covid secure

1. Signs of the times Cleary communicate to employees, customers and those entering buildings to comply with workplace regulations and adhere to policy.
2. Social distancing tools If your business layout allows people to stay at least one metre apart, make sure that you have the signage to clearly show people where they can and can’t be. Putting these things in place is essential for running a safe business.
3. Facemasks and PPE For many customer facing businesses such as in retail and health industry, an on-going supply of facemasks, shields and gloves will be essential.
4. How to keep your workplace clean All surfaces and equipment need to be cleaned regularly, as well as having a deep-clean strategy in place, waste disposal is also critical.
5. And wash your hands Keeping hands clean is the single most effective tool in fighting Coronavirus transmission, so make sure soap, water and paper towels and hand sanitisers are available as widely as possible, not just in bathrooms.

COVID secure equipment

Signs of the times

COVID secure floor markersWhile washing hands, regular sanitising and the use of PPE are all at the forefront of being COVID secure, overtly reminding people to do all these things is also vital.

Signage that encourages handwashing, sanitising and social distancing – as well as marking out clearly where all these things can be done most effectively is a key part of any COVID secure strategy in any business.

If your business layout allows, first plan where you can place social distancing and covid secure signage. You have to move and reposition furniture. Temporarily place the signs in position, and walk around to see If they are noticeably in view, they control traffic flow and allow social distancing. Then you can make these covid secure supplies more permanent by sticking, applying or tying.

The obvious place to start is to implement simple warnings and reminders for people to keep their distance. There are a range of measures, from floor stickers telling people to stop and stay back, warning tape to keep people alert to keeping a distance, cardboard social distancing workspace dividers – that warn and inform – through to social distancing reminder covers to place over bollards and posts. There are even distance warning seat covers for office chairs to get the message across.COVID social distancing floor markers

Signs encouraging staff and customers to wash and sanitise hands are vital and need to be liberally displayed all around workplaces, much as in the ‘old days’ pre-coronavirus, you would only mark-up fire exits and first aid kits. WHO has highlighted its importance with a whole host of technical info about it.

Social distancing tools

While washing hands and cleaning down workplaces and spaces is the frontline of the battle against the spread of coronavirus, keeping people apart – is the second most effective way to lower that R rate or infection.

To do this, there are many pieces of existing and new equipment in play that can help you, your staff and your customers keep apart by the required distance.

Social Distancing Floor Mats

Stickers on the floor that also clearly demonstrate the safe distance needed, make it easier to help people keep apart in doors. Mats that are clearly marked are one way to do it, while warning stickers and markers that specify where exactly people need to stand relative to one another make it easier still – and that all comes in a handy kit. Or you could use, covid security tape – that can be applied to the floor or even tied up at both ends to furniture – acting as a barrier.

Separating staff and customers can also be done with barriers. Crowd control barriers are being repurposed to help keep people and workplace areas apart during the coronavirus pandemic with great effect.

Steel crowd control barriers can be used to create instant segregation and are modular enough to be moved around as needed. High density polyethylene (HDPE) barriers offer a light-weight alternative too.

For situations where you need moveable barriers or where you want to expand or contract what is being shielded, expandable trellis barriers offer a great alternative. Ideal for entrances and exits, these barriers can be deployed or removed instantly, as access needs to change.

Another novel idea that is now coming into its own is the pop-up cardboard desk: essential for creating new socially distanced workspaces from areas not usually used for desks. If you want to thin-out the number of people in your offices, you may have to repurpose some other spaces and these desks are ideal.

For workers there are high-vis social distancing vests, ideal for those that have to interact with customers or who are out and about moving around places where there are other workers or people.

500mm Social Distancing Warning Tape

Facemasks and PPE

Wearing face masks and coverings is becoming the norm in many countries – with scientists suggesting that wearing masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) could well be as effective or more effective than handwashing.

So what kit is available for your staff?

COVID secure PPE

The basics of PPE that everyone should be using whenever they go anywhere outside of their own ‘bubbles’ are face mask and gloves.

Disposable surgical facemasks are made up of 3 layers; blue 30g non-woven, white 25g melt blown fabric and white 25g non-woven fabric. These are suitable for preventing large particles reaching the wearer and will help deflect nasal and oral aerosols being emitted too. Some can even be reused if heated in the tumble dryer for 10+ minutes or blasted repeatedly with steam from a steam iron.

For even greater antibacterial and particulate protection FFP2 face masks add more protection thanks to their high (N95) filtration rate – making them suitable for various industries, such as health, food, construction and agriculture.

Face shields are even more effective. Made from 440 micron clear gloss PVC, these masks protect the air around the nose and mouth and are ideal for full-on customer facing tasks and for the handling of foods, pharma and more.

As well as masks, gloves are also a vital physical barrier that staff can wear for added protection.

White and blue vinyl and latex and vinyl gloves offer essential hand protection and are available powdered (for easy access) or non-powdered. Remember, some people are allergic to Latex – a kind of rubber – so vinyl can be used with these people so they too can be protected.

Nothing exemplifies the strange times in which we now live more than sneeze guards. Wraparound screens that you can place between staff and customers, these clear acrylic screens can be fixed in place or come has handy portable models that allow for much more flexible use.

How to keep your workplace clean

COVID secure PPE cleaning and safety

To help keep your workplace clean from the spread of covid-19. According to WHO, contamination on surfaces touched by employees and customers is one of the main ways that coronavirus is transmitted, so frequent cleaning is essential.

One way to do this is to do regular and thorough cleaning of surfaces and in all the nooks and crannies on machinery, desks, telephones, computers and everything in all communal areas. Also by leaving cleaning supplies out or making them accessible – ready for people to use.

While deep cleaning is essential, so too are quick wipe-downs of equipment and shared surfaces using heavy duty, single-use disinfectant wipes. Wipes have to be effective at killing germs – bacteria and viruses – so must conform to EN1276 bactericidal, EN1650 fungicidal and EN14476 virucidal standards. These Sanisafe ones are great to have to hand to wipe down surfaces, equipment and even hands.

Industrial wipes are essential for on-going cleaning of surfaces around your workplace, especially when you need to instantly clean and there is no water available.

Tork Hand Cleaning Wet Wipes are ideal as they come in a handy grab-bucket and can be used to wipe things down straight away between deep cleans. Fragrance and residue-free, these silicone free cloths ensure rapid cleaning.

While wipes may be great for on-going cleaning, all surface and equipment will need a regular, deeper clean with detergent. To effectively do this, you need to be able to wipe and scrub, but with disposable towels.

Towels such as these simple, centre-feed economy rolls, are embossed so are ultra-absorbent and can be readily pulled out and torn off. This makes them ideal for cleaning up accidental spillages, but as part of your COVID security strategy they are ideal for wiping down. For even more absorbency and strength there are two-ply rolls, ideal for soaking up spillages or drying hands.

If you want a greener alternative, then recycled cotton cellulose rolls are also available, ideal for garages and workshops. These are just as strong and absorbent, but are made from recycled cotton, rather than paper, so you can be COVID secure while protecting the environment.

Collecting up and safely disposing of cleaning waste is always an important task, but even more vital currently. To do this as effectively as possibly, special tools are available, such as cleaning carousel and mopping pail trolleys.

These allow you to bring the bin to the mess as they are on wheels, compact waste and mop the area with the included Bactiguard twist mop.

For larger premises and bigger cleaning jobs, cleaning trucks with space to compact rubbish, as well as storage for cleaning products also offer a flexible way to have cleaning equipment readily to hand.

And don’t forget you need to also dispose safely of all the used paper and wipes when you are done, so you will need some heavy duty plastic refuse sacks too.

And wash your hands

Handwashing is perhaps the single most effective way to combat the spread of coronavirus – in fact, any communicable disease – and there are a vast array of products available to allow you to make this happen in your workplace.

We have all seen the videos of how to effectively wash hands – while singing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice – but to make this worthwhile means using good quality soap, clean water and having disposable, absorbent paper towels to hand.

Wash your hands

The key is to offer touch-free dispensing of gel or foam soaps, that are antibacterial and, ideally since handwashing is going to be very frequent, so is moisturising.

Soap and soap dispensers need to be installed in as many places as practicable – in toilets and at wash stations. Allowing staff and employees to wash their hands after frequent contact; touching items or being in close contact with items from outside the workplace, such as packages or goods.

Touch-free dispensing of anti-bacterial soap – either foam or gel – is the perfect way to ensure clean hands during the regular handwashing that is needed.

While soap and water – and paper towels – used regularly are a key weapon in the battle against coronavirus, it isn’t always possible to stop what you are doing and go wash your hands. That is why it is also very important to regularly use hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes whenever someone has touched something.

Effective against most organisms, these gels are the first line of defence for you, your staff and customers. Developed for the food industry, where hygiene has always been a by-word, these are taint-free and quickly absorbed. Like the gel soaps, they also have built in conditioner to prevent skin drying.

Hand Sanitiser Gel

Effective against a wide range of common organisms this Hand Sanitiser Gel is also suitable for use in medical and care service applications. Approved to BS EN1500 and BS EN 2176.

Many industries outside of food and pharma will be new to using sanitisers at work, so getting the message across is vital. A free standing, easy-to-see hand sanitiser station from which to dispense it make the job of getting people to use it easier still – and something that can be readily retro-fitted to any workplace entrance.

Don’t forget to dry!

Drying of hands is the oft-overlooked part of the process; while washing neutralises viruses and bacteria, drying on paper towels removes them from the hands. Never have paper towels been more vital to business operations.

Paper towels and paper towel dispensers come in a variety of forms. From simple rolls of paper towels, to centre-feed dispensed towels that come from the centre of a roll, through to pull-feed towels. Each has its merits based on where and how they are to be used, but many towel dispensers all allow for touch-free use (the user only touching the towel they are going to use) thus helping prevent cross-contamination. Also keep dirt, dust and germs off the towels while not in use, adding to their hygiene credentials.

Want to know more about our wide range of PPE, social distancing and cleaning supplies?

For additional advice on the best PPE, social distancing and cleaning offerings available to suit your business at this extraordinary time, our Experts are here to help you find the right solutions. Simply call us on 0800 542 44 28 or visit www.rajapack.co.uk.

RAJA UK has moved warehouse

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From 22nd June 2020, RAJA UK has moved to a new location. But not far, only 500 metres away – to a new, bigger and better warehouse!

RAJA UK - New packaging warehouse

After 15 years at DC1 in the PROLOGIS Park at Marston Gate, RAJA had outgrown its home and has now moved to DC10, to premises across the Bedford Road at Junction 13 of the M1. Constructed by PROLOGIS, the new RAJA UK warehouse and office space is sustainable, designed with our employees in mind and last but not least, to support the expanding team to continue developing innovative products and improved quality of service for our customers.

A bigger warehouse means more stock
and more choice for your business!

Here’s to the future, thank you to our customers for your support.

RAJA UK new warehouse and office - June 2020

Our new address:

RAJA UK DC10,

Unit 1, Salford Road

Brogborough, Bedford

MK43 0AR

Spotlight on: 3M Scotch Tape

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When was sellotape invented and what year did Richard Drew invent scotch tape? In 1930 the young engineer Richard Drew invented the first ever Scotch Cellulose Tape which offered an attractive, moisture-proof way for grocers and bakers to securely seal their packages. Sellotape though is a British brand, the non-brand version is otherwise known as cellotape.

Over the next 80 years Scotch became a leading brand for tape and adhesives.  From introducing the first heavy-duty countertop tape dispenser in 1932, to the launch of invisible write-on Magic™ Tape in 1961, through to the release of the hand-held Pop-Up Tape Dispenser in 1997, their focus has always been on resourcefulness and ingenuity.  Today Scotch 3M Tape offer more than 400 different types of tape for packaging, crafting and sealing.

After selecting the right box for your items, using the correct packaging tape to seal it is paramount to ensure it arrives safely.  At RAJA we’re dedicated to offering our customers the best choice of high quality packaging supplies which is why we’ve stocked Scotch 3M Tapes for our customers for many years.

In this post we’ll be focusing on the full range of Scotch 3M Tapes that we offer, giving you an overview of each tape and what it’s best used for so you can ensure you are using the right packaging tape for your parcels.

3M™ adhesive tapes - 3M Scotch Tape

Our range of 3M Scotch Tapes

At RAJA we stock 11 different types of 3M Scotch tape that are all suited for use in packaging RAJA and shipping, each with their own unique properties for a wide range of packaging applications.

Some may ask, can you use Scotch tape on packages? Well yes, you can use Scotch tape on your packages –  all Scotch 3M Tapes feature a number at the end, a simple and easy way to ensure you’re getting the exact tape you need. Tape thickness is measured in microns, the higher the number, the thicker the tape.  We stock a range of suitable dispensers for most of the range, making it easier, faster and safer to apply tape to surfaces.

The tapes that we stock are:

  • Polypropylene Tape 371
  • Industrial Polypropylene Tape 3759
  • Vinyl Packaging Tape
  • Heavy Duty Vinyl Tape
  • Cross Weave Filament Tape 8959
  • Low Noise Polypropylene Tape 309
  • Double Sided Vinyl Tape
  • Adhesive Transfer Tape
  • Machine Tape 371
  • Masking tape 101E and 301E (not advised for packaging parcels)

Types of Tape: Polypropylene Tape 371

One of our most popular tape types of tape from Scotch 3M is the Polypropylene cellophane tape, which offers excellent value for money as a general-purpose packing tape which is ideal for light and medium parcels.

At 28-microns in thickness, it features a good level of tensile and tear strength combined with strong shock resistance.  It’s best used for parcels of up to 20Kg in weight and is light and easy to apply, instantly sticking to all paper and board.

It’s available in a range of colours to best suit your packages; clear, buff (brown), or white and is eco-friendly – it doesn’t use any solvents in its adhesive, unlike many other tapes available.

Polypropylene Tape 371

This tape is perfect as a great all-rounder in the warehouse and as with all packaging tape, is easier, faster and safer to apply from a pistol grip dispenser.

Industrial Polypropylene 3759

If you need a general-purpose packaging tape that’s slightly more robust, then Industrial Polypropylene Tape at 35 microns is ideal.   Offering a stronger hold and greater thickness than 371, it’s recommended for parcels up to 40Kg in weight and is available in a choice of clear of buff. It will give your parcels a strong long-term hold with resistance to splitting if they are handled roughly or subject to the shock from impact.

Industrial Polypropylene 3759

Vinyl Packaging Tape

Vinyl tape is particularly suitable if you need a tape with a long shelf life as it resists turning brittle with age.  It’s got great resistance to moisture, chemicals and works well in all temperatures including deep freeze conditions.  It’s perfectly suited if your parcels are going to be subject to a varied environment or stored for long periods of time.

At 35 microns it provides a good level of strength for medium box sealing tasks, can be teared by hand, is low noise and made from a PVC backing combined with a solvent-based natural rubber adhesive.

Vinyl Packaging Tape

Heavy Duty Vinyl Packaging Tape 60

For heavy duty applications that need an extra strength Scotch 3M Heavy Duty Vinyl Tape will give you a strong, long lasting bond.  Designed for the toughest applications, this 60 micron tape is one of the thickest and strongest that we offer.  It’s ideal for at sealing very heavy duty cartons, boxes, pallets and packages, sticking with an ultra-strong solvent-based natural rubber adhesive.

This tape is also ultra-resistant to chemicals, moisture, temperature and humidity changes including deep freeze conditions, making it one of the most resilient and hardworking tapes that you can buy.

Despite its resistance it’s easy to work with and even tearable by hand – though as with all packaging tapes we recommend using it with a pistol grip dispenser for a fast, safe and efficient application.

Heavy Duty Vinyl Packaging Tape 60

Cross Weave Filament Tape 8959

When you need an extremely tough, industrial quality hold, 3M Scotch Cross Weave Filament Tape is the tape for the task.  At an impressive 145 microns, cross weave possesses an extremely high tensile strength due to its reinforcement with glass fibre filaments in two directions.  It’s where it gets its ‘cross weave’ name.

Featuring a powerful adhesive, it will instantly stick to all paper and board surfaces providing a long lasting, secure hold on your parcels and packages.

It’s perfect for reinforcing cartons and containers that need extra support, giving additional tear and burst resistance to packages.  It can also be used for larger shipments, strapping up heavy goods or securing export consignments

As with most tapes a pistol grip tape dispenser makes application easy. It can simply be pulled over the surface to tape up any seal or join easily, quickly cutting with its sharp cutting blade and built in brake for automatic control.

Cross Weave Filament Tape 8959

Low Noise Polypropylene Tape 309

Where noise is a problem in your packaging operation or if you’re working in a small, confined space Low Noise Tape can be an excellent replacement for general packaging tape to make your working environment more comfortable for staff or customers.

Low noise tape is exactly that – it’s been engineered to make much less noise when being pulled from the roll, making it more comfortable to work with in small or busy spaces.

At 28 microns in thickness it’s suitable for light and medium applications, with good split and tear resistance and the same high quality sticking application you would expect from Scotch 3M Tapes for paper, board, and fibreboard surfaces.

Finally, this tape is well suited to long-term storage in cold and damp environments, in a temperature range of 4-26 degrees centigrade. It won’t spoil or degrade meaning you can always ensure you’re well stocked even if your warehouse suffers from high humidity or a large range of temperatures.

Low Noise Polypropylene Tape 309

Double Sided Tape

If you need to stick materials other than paper or card, such as glass, metal, wood, fabric or plastic, Double Sided Tape is perfect for the job, giving a clean stick with no mess.

This white PVC double sided tape offers a strong a secure bond on both sides, protected by a glossy paper backing that simply peels off to use.  The adhesive is a high tack acrylic which has strong a resistance to high temperatures and UV light.

Suitable for sticking a wide range of materials it excels for use in retail, for things such as point-of-sale displays, indoor and outdoor signs, fixing plastic extrusions, badges or nameplates.  This versatile tape comes in two widths, a thinner 25mm and a wider 50mm for larger applications.

Double Sided Tape

Transfer Tape

When you need to apply glue and stick directly to surfaces but don’t want to use double sided tape then Transfer Tape is what you need.  This is ‘glue on a roll’ and is perfect for sticking a whole range of materials, from paper to plastics, textiles to leather, even wood or glass.

It’s a versatile tape that can be used on everything from framing pictures, boards and posters to small product assembly or graphics and art projects.  It’s designed for almost any art application where you need two surfaces to firmly bond but where double sided tape isn’t suitable.

Fast to dry, as it’s a tape it means you can get your glue perfectly lined up for an accurate stick and is manufactured with a paper backing and a strong and permanent acrylic adhesive.

For simple, quick and clean application Scotch 3M offer a lightweight but strong pistol grip tape dispenser which applies the tape in one simple motion and removes the paper liner at the same time.  It also features a transparent body, so it’s easy to see how much tape you’ve got left.

Transfer Tape

Machine Tape

If you’re using carton sealing machines to close and seal your packages (such as 3M-Matic™ Case Sealers) then you’ll need a tape to go with them that’s strong and quick to grip. Scotch 3M Machine Tape is designed specifically for these machines to seal packages instantly and effectively.  Flexible and split resistant, it’s made from bi-axially orientated polypropylene film that retains its strength even when stretched.

It’s suitable for all carton sealing machines and at 28 microns in thickness it can securely seal packages up to 20Kg in weight, with a tensile strength of over 45N (on steel, this is reduced to 40N).  It comes in a clear finish for white cardboard boxes or coloured cartons, and is supplied on large rolls 990mm in size.   For a standard A4 carton, one roll should be enough to seal in excess of 1,500 boxes.

Machine Tape

Masking Tape

The final tape that we offer is not a packaging tape but is perfect for creative projects or DIY work.  101E and 301E general masking tape is easily tearable by hand and sticks firmly to most metal and plastic surfaces for masking out areas for spray painting or precision decorating.

It’s write on surface also means it’s suitable for bundling, sealing or labelling, and it can easily be removed after use without leaving any residue, markings or damaging to surfaces.  Made from a soft crepe paper with a rubber adhesive it’s also resistant to water or solvents. For more choice, go to our masking tape range.

Masking Tape

If you’re not sure what packaging tape you need, or are looking for advice on selecting and purchasing tape, dispensers or other sealing supplies for your business, then please get in touch with our Packaging Experts.  Call us free on 0800 542 44 28 or email sales@rajapack.co.uk.

COVID kindness: How the Coronavirus Has Changed our World

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The coronavirus has affected our everyday lives and changed the world that we all know, however through this great sadness we are all discovering COVID kindness in humanity. Here are some of the inspiring and touching accounts of how the kindness in human nature has prevailed.

NHS Wellness Boxes

The NHS frontline staff are working long, hard and stressful hours being the barrier protecting the nation from this virus. Seena Chand is the wife of a doctor and has created the NHS Wellness Box. RAJA provided the recycled cardboard boxes to Seena’s cause, these boxes are then packed with mini treats, everyday essentials and decorated with words of appreciation. These boxes are delivered to staff at the hospital, who have in some cases worked back-to-back shifts and they have not been able to go home.

You can find out more about her NHS Wellness Boxes

NHS Wellness Boxes - Seena Chand

Gifts from James

Another nice story that will surely leave you smiling is a good Samaritan simply called ‘James’. James has been leaving gift boxes on cars at the John Radcliffe hospital carpark in Oxford, James also has been known to make trips to Didcot ambulance station. The gift boxes are filled with goodies for the NHS staff and are a “just a little thank you” for all their hard work. It may me a small gesture for James, but this big token has truly touched hearts.

You can read about James’s gift boxes.

NHS Gift Boxes from James - www.oxfordmail.co.uk

NHS Food Boxes

The people of Britain have united to thank all the NHS staff. Communities are recognising NHS neighbours and offering encouraging gestures of support in the form of these food boxes and care packages, either left on doorsteps or delivered to hospitals up and down the country. These care packages of ready made meals, treats, food supplies and toiletries have been received by nurses and doctors – these pictures are just some of the touching stories where they have been thanked –  all to help make their lives a little easier, after a long and tiring shift.

NHS Food Boxes - COVID Kindness

Source: Twitter

Princess Eugenie (although, this is not the only well-known name to have also given aid during the coronavirus outbreak), has also offered her support by delivering essential supplies to NHS heroes. Boxes of fresh fruit and vegetables have been delivered to the Hammersmith Hospital to thank them for ‘everything they do’, she has also applauded all the delivery drivers and the keyworkers that also helped to make this happen.

NHS Food boxes from Princess Eugenie

Source: Instagram

Caring Communities

It is not just the general public that are pulling together, new charities are also emerging, businesses and organisations are contributing, and public health services are offering even more relief for the welfare of the vulnerable. Solihull Council contacted RAJA for donations, they needed boxes and tape for the Adult Social Care & Support service. There are so many touching stories like this, where sports halls are stacked with boxes and bags, and a production line of volunteers filling them with basic food supplies, to then be given to the vulnerable.

Community food boxes from Solihull Council

Communities are also looking after local residents, particularly helping elderly neighbours who are in isolation, shopping for basic necessities. Residents have been leaving food shopping supplies and essentials on their neighbours’ doorstep. Here is a sweet story of a 5-year-old befriending a 93-year-old gentleman who lives by himself. Kiran posted her hand written note with a colourful drawing through his door, and that was the start of this duo becoming wonderful pen pals.

You can read more about Kiran’s letter to her neighbour.

5-year-old's hand written letter to a neighbour - COVID Kindness

Source: Twitter

The nation is working together to recognise and support each other, with every cardboard box or food bag filled with gifts left on a doorstop, or a poster with a message or drawing of thanks. Although it is not just the NHS heroes Brits are praising. COVID Kindness extends to all keyworkers that are keeping the nation and economy turning, from delivery drivers to the postman, to cleaners, to supermarket staff, and the list goes on! And there are countless more selfless stories just like these that are happening throughout the country, and globally – around the world – as a result of the coronavirus.

Here are more acts of hope and happiness from this great nation:

Types of edge and corner protectors

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When it comes to transporting products we all want our goods to arrive in perfect condition. If palletised or stacked, packages can be particularly vulnerable as their square edges and corners are particularly exposed to bruising or crushing. But help is at hand: as part of the wide range of packaging materials available to retailers and shippers are a plethora of edge and corner protectors.

From foam corner protectors to sturdy cardboard edge protectors, there are a vast array of solutions to this problem, both in standard and non-standard size. Here we take a look at what is on offer and how best to use them.

Types of edge and corner protectors

There are a wide range of edge and corner protectors designed to suit the needs of the wide variety of packages stacked and wrapped, palletised and shrink wrapped. Let’s start at the corners, as these are particularly prone to bangs and bashes as boxes are stacked and moved around and loaded against each other for transit purposes.

Foam U profile edge protectorsCorner protectors can be made of either cardboard or foam. Corner foam can be either a simple ‘U’ shape corners protectors or, more elaborately, full corner protectors design to protect in three dimensions, each designed for very specific uses

U shaped foam corner protectors are designed to grip tables, shelving, wooden boards or furniture for added protection during transit or storage. They are strong and absorb small impacts, as well as being temperature resistant between -40 and +100ºC.

3D foam corners, meanwhile, are designed to provide protection and extra support to the corners of boxes and palletised goods. They are simple to pop on the corners and are non-abrasive.

Both these and the ‘U’ shaped foam corner protectors are made from closed cell polyethylene foam, CFC and HFC free. They are also 100% recyclable.

How do edge protectors work?

Edge protectors, meanwhile, have a very different role to play. They are similarly used to protect the edges of boxes and palletised boxes from bumps and bashes, but they can also beused to protect the boxes from the fixings used to hold boxes together and on the pallets themselves.

General purpose edge protectors protect and strengthen stacks of boxes

They are also used to add structure and strength to palletised boxes, especially under shrink and film wrap. Together with the fixings and the wrap, these cardboard or foam edge protectors add structure and stabilise loads, so that not only are the goods protected from knocks and bangs, but won’t collapse under their own weight or puncture the cardboard when being moved.

Also available are edge protectors that are used to help support strapping and fixings. These come in both cardboard and moulded plastic, with the plastic offering able to both protect the package from the force of the strap as well as holding the strap securely in place, preventing potentially dangerous movement of the packages.

White card protectors such as moisture resistant edge protectors, also have their specialist uses. While affording protection to stackable pallet loads and held with fixings, these moisture resistant, poly-coated white paper protectors are ideal for use where the pallets are to be stored in cold and/or damp locations for a period of time, such as in a cold store.

These moisture resistant edge protectors stabilise, protect and reinforce unsteady or variable pallet loads during transport and storage. Keeping their strength in humid conditions they can also be used to add reinforcements to cartons.

How do corner protectors work?

Where edge protectors protect from knocks, fixings and add structure, corner protectors are very specifically designed to protect the corners of items such as tables, worktops, shelves and other ‘flat’ goods that have pronounced and often sharp corners.

Table corner protectors can be either plastic or foam and simply slip over the edges of the corners and prevent bumps. Foam corners grip the surface of the table and protect both the table and those handling it from sharp edges.

One solution for tables, worktops and other furniture corner protection are expanding corner protectors, that can stretch from 20 to 40mm and so can handle non-standard sized items.

Similarly worktop corner protectors are vital to preventing these expensive and often bespoke pieces of wood, stone or metal from getting damaged during routine handling. With worktops costing many hundreds – sometimes thousands – of pounds, preventing them getting bashed or chipped; damage that could write off the whole piece.

Heavy duty pallet racking protectors - corner protectors can also be used for safety

As we have seen, there is also a need for safety corner protectors, where the corner protectors not only protect the goods, but also protect those handling the goods.

While heavy duty pallet racking protectors protect vulnerable pallet racking uprights and end-frames from damage from fork lift trucks, protect corners of buildings and doorways and can be put around machines, more simple foam and plastic protectors popped on the ends of shelves and other goods stop personnel hurting themselves when handling the goods.

Foam corner protectors vs cardboard corner protectors

So where do you use foam corner protectors and where do you use cardboard corner protectors? Foam corner protectors are ideal for use where edges aren’t straight, as they are flexible as well as strong. Their ‘spongey’ consistency also makes them ideal for adsorbing small impacts and are good a gripping the surfaces of things that are made from glass, such as pictures, mirrors and glass table tops.

Foam protectors can also be coloured, offering warnings or indications of the nature of the goods being protected – as well as making sure it is clear they have to be removed for use.

Cardboard edge protection, meanwhile, is used for protection but is often more useful for handling pressure points under fixings and strapping, as well as providing additional structure, strength and stability to packages. It too can be coloured or have warnings printed on it, but typically is used in its natural state.

Some other corner protectors

There are a number of other cardboard and foam protectors available for pallets, packages and non-standard shaped goods.

Cardboard pallet corners are ideal for added protection for the corners of square palletised goods in warehouses and during transit. Solid and shockproof these carton protectors are ready to use, just apply to the corners of your product.

L profile cardboard corner protectors ideal for individual boxes

L-shaped cardboard edges are ideal for protecting individual boxes, both from damage and from fixings. They are also ideal for non-standard sized and non-palletised items.

Standard extruded mesh sleeves ideal for really delicate items for the added protection

Often used in conjunction with other protective materials, extruded mesh sleeves are ideal for protecting very delicate objects before they are boxed up. They are strong, flexible, colourful and ideal for glassware.

Self-adhesive blocks prevent movement in boxes

Self-adhesive foam blocks are protective pads that stick to the inside of cartons and protect the contents from movement or damage. Supplied in sheets one surface has a permanent adhesive protected with a peel off backing. The foam pads are pre-scored; just snap them off the sheet.

Bubble vs foam packaging: Do you know the difference?

Read the guide>>

 

Want to know more about our wide range of cardboard and foam edge and corner protectors?

For additional advice on cardboard and foam edge and corner protectors, mesh, blocks and all kinds of fixings, our Packaging Experts are here to help you find the right solutions and arrange next day delivery. Simply call us on 0800 542 44 28 or visit www.rajapack.co.uk.

Your recycling questions

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We regularly receive calls from our customers interested to learn about eco-friendly alternatives; how they can reduce their environmental footprint by developing their purchasing packaging line to be more sustainable. We are finding more and more businesses are taking control by either choosing a complete eco-responsible packaging range, or by making small improvements where possible.

The most asked questions are “What packaging is recyclable?”, or more specifically “Is bubble wrap recyclable?”. Our customers are interested in environmentally friendly packaging and we are fully committed to help support this change.

If you’re looking to be an eco-responsible business, make the change this year and join our customers.

Global Recycling Day 18th March 2020 >>

Read our most asked recycling questions on packaging

Are gift bags recyclable?

Can you recycle packing paper?

Can all paper bags be recycled?

Can you recycle plastic bags?

Since 2015, RAJA has donated more than 1.6 million euros to help support sustainable initiatives. Money has been raised from customers purchasing selected eco-responsible Partnership Products. From every pack purchased, £1 is donated to our Women and Environment Action Programme.

Women and Environment Action Programme

What are Partnership Products?

Partnership Products are carefully selected eco-responsible packaging products for the Women and Environment Action Programme, every time our customers purchase a pack of these selected products, RAJA donates £1 to charity.

What is the Women and Environment Action Programme?

This charity is one of the many RAJA Foundation projects, the “Women and Environment” Action Programme aims to establish the emancipation of women around the world whilst developing sustainable initiatives.

Women and Environment Action Programme – RAJA donates £1 on your behalf

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What is eco-responsible packaging?

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Being environmentally conscious is not only something we need to do for all humanity, but is also becoming an important business differentiator when customers are choosing who to buy from. And packaging is where they first get a feel for your environmental credentials. So what sustainable and eco-responsible packaging options are there?

Recycled packaging at RAJA

In fact, pretty much all packaging materials and solutions have an eco-responsible alternative option. From packaging materials, storage solutions and even heavy duty storage boxes, all available made from recycled materials to packaging that can be recycled – often into new packaging – and packaging that can be used and composted or biodegraded.

Read on to learn what is available – you may be surprised.

What is eco-responsible packaging?

RAJA eco-friendly packagingEco-responsible packaging are eco-friendly packaging materials that have little or no environmental impact. Made from recycled, recyclable or sustainable materials in processes that too have little or no impact on the environment.

These packaging materials are made to be neutral in terms of what they do to the environment. Being made from recycling other materials or by being easily reused or by being readily composted or biodegrading once finished with.

Eco-responsible packaging is safe and sustainable for both its users and the environment and are ideal for helping brands and businesses meet their corporate social responsibility targets. As well as helping us all do our bit to protect our world.

Such packaging comes in many forms, from eco-responsible wrapping paper to eco-responsible fill to even eco-responsible bubble wrap made from recycled plastics. Offering the same high level of protection as ‘ordinary’ packaging materials, eco-responsible and sustainable packaging offer the advantages of high quality packaging to suit whatever your transport or storage needs are, but minimising the harm to the environment.

Recycled paper packaging at RAJA                     Eco-friendly packaging at RAJA                    Eco-friendly packaging at RAJA

What is sustainable packaging?

Sustainable packaging, on the other hand, is packaging that comes from a sustainable source such as paper packaging and wrapping.  This is packaging made from sources that replenished the trees used to make the paper in the first place.

These sustainable packaging materials may also be reused multiple times, adding to their eco-friendliness. As well as being cyclable – often being made into other eco-responsible packing materials, such as recycled and recyclable mailing bags.

Bringing together the ideas of both sustainability and biodegradability, there are packaging materials such as Eco Flo that offer the best of both worlds. Looking like polystyrene chips, this lightweight and highly versatile packaging option is made from 100% renewable sources, is odourless and offers anti-static properties up to five times better than polystyrene – making it ideal in packaging of delicate electronics.

Like all protective chips, Eco Flo stops items falling to the bottom of the box and offers excellent protection.

Is biodegradable packaging still strong?

Biodegradable packaging is still strong. One of the key worries with switching to eco-responsible and biodegradable packaging is whether it is as strong and effective as ‘non-green’ traditional alternatives. In almost all cases, eco-responsible and biodegradable packaging are just as strong as any others.

Depending on the packaging product and type in question, eco-responsible and sustainable packaging can essentially be made from the same materials as their virgin equivalents. With those made of recycled materials – especially plastics – simply being the same plastic melted down and/or reused. Sustainable packaging can also be made from exactly the same materials and in somewhat the same way as virgin packaging. If you take paper; the original supply (often trees) is replanted and over a year, shows no net loss of raw materials. Also before and during the manufacturing process, the creation of the product itself has considered the negative effects towards the environment, so that it is sustainably produced.

Eco-resposible packaging at RAJABiodegradable packaging is slightly different, however, in that it is often a new material made to biodegrade when placed into landfill, without giving off any harmful by-products or gases. Paper products are naturally biodegradable, being made from organic materials from trees. Biodegradable options to plastic are a different matter.

To biodegrade, these too have to be made not from polythene, but from organic materials such as cellulose – also derived from trees and plants – and can also include corn oil, orange peels, starch, and plants. Traditional plastic is made with chemical fillers that can be harmful to the environment when released once the plastic is melted down. With biodegradable plastic, you get a substance made from natural sources that does not contain these chemical fillers, and does not pose the same risk to the environment.

Corn-starch, which is the basis of most compostable plastics, is in fact very strong, forming long polymer chains. So while they may feel different to ‘normal’ plastic they are in fact just as strong.

Types of recyclable plastic packaging

Recyclable packaging at RAJA

Of course, not all plastic packaging has to be biodegradable, but it is environmentally conscious to use recyclable plastic packaging alternatives. There are many packaging items made from recycled and recyclable plastic.

While using packaging that is recyclable is great, you can also use plastic packaging that is made from cycled materials – often without the consumer noticing any difference.

How to recycle packaging materials

Find out how>>

Alternatives to bubble wrap

Of course, there are alternatives to bubble wrap – such as recycled bubble wrap which is one of the eco-friendly options. There are many benefits to the popular bubble wrap (not even mentioning economical),is ideal for adding extra protection from bumps and thumps in transit, as well as from moisture, dust and dirt. However there are a number of other environmentally responsible packaging solutions available.

One  alternative to bubble wrap is corrugated cardboard rolls, which can be used instead of sheets of bubble wrap. Like bubble, corrugated cardboard can securely protect items in transit or storage. Made from C-shaped shock absorbent corrugated recycled cardboard, the waves allow flexibility, creates padding and is lightweight. This packaging product is an ideal eco-friendly packaging option.

A great alternative to bubble wrap pouches or envelopes are Jiffy Green bags stuffed with cushioning paper fibres, or corrugated Flutelope mailers with absorbing waves, both are ideal for goods that you may usually put in a bubble wrap baggie.

Want to know more about our wide range of eco-responsible packaging materials?

For additional advice on the best eco-responsible packaging materials or to learn about RAJA packaging and the environment you can contact our Packaging Experts. Simply call us on 0800 542 44 28 or visit www.rajapack.co.uk.

 

Beating the Bias – Women in Leadership

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From tech giant IBM appointing its first female CEO in 2011 to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences increasing the share of women on the board, there’s no doubt women are breaking the glass ceiling in the world of business. In fact, the RAJA Group itself was founded as a two-woman company as far back as 1954. But as we move into a new decade, how much further do we have to go before gender equality in the workplace is truly equal?

In 2017, we challenged the notion of gender bias by unpacking the new female industrialists and speaking to a number of women making their mark in traditionally male-dominated industries. This International Women’s Day, we’re going one step further and taking a look at how far women have come in the fight for leadership positions and what work still needs to be done in 2020 and beyond.

Women in leadership: the current situation

In 2018, McKinsey’s Delivering through Diversity report showed the statistical significance of diversity in leadership. When it came to women in executive positions, the study confirmed that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on their executive teams were 21% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the fourth quartile.[1]

Yet according to our research, businesses are still failing to utilise the benefits that women can bring to leadership roles. The Office for National Statistics’ annual population survey shows that in 2010, only 34% of Managerial, Directorial or Senior Official positions within the UK were occupied by women. A decade on (with research up to 2018), this has only increased by a disappointing 1 percentage point to 35%.

This is particularly shocking when stats show us that over 50% of the UK population is comprised of women, making it even more conclusive that the ratio of women to men in leadership roles is not representative of the society that we live in.

A breakdown of women in leadership by sectors

A breakdown of women in leadership by sectors

By looking into the employment sectors stated by the ONS within the UK, we were able to dissect the data in more detail through the following categories: Agriculture and Fishing, Energy and Water, Manufacturing, Construction, Distribution, Hotels & Restaurants; Transport & Communication; Banking, Finance & Insurance etc.; and Public Admin, Education & Health.

The data shows that in half of the given sectors, less than a quarter of leaders are female. The sectors with the poorest performance in terms of female leadership are Construction (16% of leaders are women), Energy & Water (19%), Manufacturing (22%) and Transportation & Communication (24%). In addition, Banking, Finance & Insurance has historically been known for its Wolf of Wall Street-esque setting. And, although this 80’s depiction is a far cry from what it is today, it is troubling to see that still, only 34% of leaders in the sector are women. In fact, the only sector where more women currently hold these roles is within Public Admin, Education & Health at 57%.

Though all but one of the sectors included has seen an incremental increase in women in leadership positions from a holistic view from 2010 onwards, there is sadly still a low representation in traditionally male-dominated sectors, and in fact, most traditionally female-dominated sectors, too.

So, what can we do next?

Despite initiatives to promote equality in the workplace being championed across many businesses in recent times, there is still work to be done. In fact, a recent review of FTSE leaders shows results that are not only disheartening but shocking, too. Within the FTSE 100, around two thirds of all available leadership roles are occupied by men and, as of 2019, only seven of those CEOs were female[2][3]

So, what can all companies – big and small – do to ensure that we are beating the bias and benefitting from women leadership in every workplace? Here are just three ways we can do this:

  1. Transparency: By being transparent about diversity goals, we can show current employees and potential candidates that we are taking steps in the right direction. It means having measurable goals that tie into individuals, teams and groups, rather than just playing a numbers game for the sake of compliance. For example, it is not gender diversity if your workforce is proportionate, but you have an all-male board.
  1. Eliminating unconscious bias: Though we may not mean to be consciously bias towards women, a history of workplace prejudice has embedded a lot of stereotypes that mean we may not even know we are being influenced by. The best way to ensure this is controlled is to have rules in place that make processes subjective, from applications to training, reviews and promotions – particularly for leadership roles. 
  1. Modernity: By being open to reworking policies so they are inclusive – from flexible hours to modified work schedules – we can make certain we have the top pool of talent, rather than ruling certain demographics out. A lot of traditionally male-dominated industries have inflexible timetables but finding common ground which is geared towards a wider group of people will help businesses go a long way.

From striking for equal pay to securing classification as skilled workers, women have taken great strides in the fight for workplace equality. Yet sadly, there is still a perception that certain industries and roles are only suitable for men.

On Sunday 8th March 2020, we will be celebrating how far our society has come in terms of gender equality in the workplace, whilst also thinking about how we can continue to push for progress. To learn more, head over to our interviews with the inspirational women who are packing away stereotypes in corporate culture and showing value in male-dominated industries.

[Methodology: This research was conducted by analysing the Annual Population Workplace Analysis survey from The Office for National Statistics to work out the population of males vs females in Manager, Director and Senior Official positions within the UK. This uses their data ranging from 2010 to 2018.]

[1]https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/McKinsey/Business%20Functions/Organization/Our%20Insights/Delivering%20through%20diversity/Delivering-through-diversity_full-report.ashx

[2]https://ftsewomenleaders.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/HA-Review-Report-2019.pdf

[3]https://www.statista.com/statistics/685208/number-of-female-ceo-positions-in-ftse-companies-uk/

The best shipping boxes to use for certain items

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Increasingly in the ecommerce era the packaging is as important as the goods contained therein. Not only does the box in which goods are shipped protect the items in transit, but also can offer part of the experience of receiving the item itself – especially if it is a gift for someone else.

So join us as we take a look at what kinds of shipping boxes and gift boxes there are for everything from everyday objects to special gifts such as books, mugs, pictures and more.

The best shipping boxes to use for certain items

Ecommerce has seen something of a resurgence in the fortunes of the cardboard box. Getting goods ordered online to where they need to go requires the best shipping boxes, which come in all shapes and sizes, to both protect the goods in transit and, increasingly, to offer a nice ‘unboxing’ experience for the recipient.

From book boxes designed to accommodate the latest in publishing, to mug boxes and picture boxes, packaging for shipping is now spoiled for choice. So how do you choose?

What is available runs from simple flat cardboard boxes for everything from magazines to more delicate items such as electronics right through to specialist boxes for things like computers or keyboards through to bespoke packages designed for much more specific purposes.

These boxes come in a range of sizes, but can also be used with packaging materials to further protect the goods and help them fit snuggly in the box.

But the humble cardboard box is more complex than you may imagine. While they come in standard sizes as seen, they also come in a variety of other forms to make packing – and unpacking– goods slightly easier for both the shipper and the customer.

Double wall, flat telescopic cardboard boxes

Telescopic boxes offer flexible ways to package

For example, there are telescopic boxes which feature a main body with a lid that slides over it. This allows for the packaging of items that are of non-standard sizes and shapes, as well as meaning that package and shippers need only minimal different types of boxes for a wide range of goods.

However, these are just the beginning: for specialist products, or to offer a good fit, there are many other boxes to choose from.

What are the different types and sizes of book boxes? 

Book boxes designed to get tomes delivered in mint condition

Amazon started in Jeff Bezos’ garage back in 1994 – at number 5, Bellevue, Washington on 5 July 1994 to be precise – selling books. And today, books remain a large part of what is send through the mail. To protect these valuable and beautiful things there is a growing range of bespoke book boxes that are specially designed to make sure your rom-coms, classics or reference works arrive in mint condition.

The different types of book boxes available are designed around basic book sizes – as well as accommodating CDs, DVDs and box sets – while offering some flexibility as to the thickness of the book or box set.

As well as this there are a range of ways that the boxes can be sealed shut.

Book boxes are cleverly designed one-piece cardboard contraptions that fold beautifully over the book to make it easy to package up and just as easy to undo when it arrives.

Thanks to its clever design, these boxes can adjust in height to accommodate a single book or multiple books, as well as single or multiple CDs or DVDs, boxsets and more.

Brown book boxes

Book boxes can be glued, taped or strapped together

Sealed closed with an adhesive strip, glue, tape or strapping, book boxes are secure and tough for postal or courier transportation, offering shock protection, especially on the corners. And no one wants a book with bent corners, do they?

Brown book boxes with adhesive strips and red tear strip

Self-adhesive tape on book boxes makes them easy to seal

Some book boxes come with their own adhesive tape built in, making it even easier to assemble them around the goods being shipped and stuck down.

What are the best shipping boxes for pictures?

Shipping pictures comes with its own set of challenges and picking the best box for your pictures depends on their size and shape.

Shipping boxes for pictures are another specialist box that again is designed to protect very fragile items. Flat and often self-sealing, these boxes are designed to protect pictures – which feature delicate glass, wooden frames and often delicate paper prints – on the move.

Wrap it up: How to package unusual items

>> Read more

 

Similar in design to book boxes, shipping boxes for pictures are one-piece cardboard constructions that fold over the goods – again with some flexibility as to thickness of the picture frame – that offer excellent shock and scratch protection.

These packing boxes for framed pictures, too, can be self-sealing or can be sealed using tape or strapping to hold them closed until the recipient is ready to open them up.

What are the different types of cardboard gift boxes?

As said, increasingly the packaging in which things are delivered – especially gifts – is all part of the unboxing experience: not least if it is an actual gift ordered by one person and sent to another.

Cardboard gift boxes come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, colours and styles to suit a wide range of gift giving.

Jewellery gift boxes

Cardboard jewellery boxes add a touch of class

One of the most obvious gifts that finds itself inside a cardboard gift box is jewellery. Cardboard jewellery boxes offer protection, but with tastefully coloured card and lined with linen and padded packing, these boxes are ideal for not only protecting the items in transit, but presenting them beautifully when they arrive where they are heading.

Luxury magnetic wine gift boxes

Wine is also a gift – and there is a box perfect for that

But not all gifts are jewellery shaped. Wine is also being sent as a gift, along with all manner of other things – and there is wide range of gift boxes to suit all these lovely things.

Pillow gift boxes

Pillow gift boxes for small delicate items

But how do you seal these elegant boxes closed? Tape and strapping may be secure, but could spoil the elegant effect you are going for. To solve this problem, many gift boxes now have magnetic seals built in.

Magnetic gift boxes

Gift boxes come with magnetic seals to avoid using tape and straps

These boxes have a flat magnet on their lid flap and a flat metal plate built into the face of the box, so that when the lid is closed it seals shut with enough force to keep it closed in transit, but not so tight that it can’t be popped open by the lucky recipient.

When is the best time to use a mug box?

Easifold, fast assembly mug postal boxes

While we all like to get jewels, wine or other lovely gifts, there is also a roaring trade in mugs and mug boxes have been specially created to make sure these fragile, ceramic items can be transported safely and securely.

The best time to use a mug box is when trying to ship such a mug. Increasingly, with the commoditisation of printing, people can have also sorts of fun things printed on mugs and this roaring trade has been boosted greatly by ecommerce.

But there is a choice to make when looking at which mug box to use for your product.

Deluxe crash-lock postal mug box

Deluxe crash-tested boxes for mug are also available

Like book boxes and shipping boxes for framed pictures, mug boxes are easy to fold around their prized content and have been specially designed and tested with a double thickness base, triple thickness sides to protect fragile handles and rims, and reinforced corners to defend against knocks in the post.

For extra protection there are other specially designed boxes that features a crash-lock base, as well as an inner cardboard fitting that holds the mug in place obviating the need for void filling packaging material.

 

Gifting etiquette: Exploring Brit’s gift-giving habits

>> Read the survey

 

Want to know more about our wide range of shipping boxes for specific items?

For additional advice on the best shipping boxes for specific items, our Packaging Experts are here to help you find the right solutions and arrange next day delivery. Simply call us on 0800 542 44 28 or visit www.rajapack.co.uk.