In the manufacturing and production industry, including food and bagged or pouched types of products, working with existing automated packaging equipment is typically considered the most effective option when it comes to staying on budget.
This can create a false sense of cost effectiveness and efficiency and little issues with an older system may actually be adding to the cost of packaging. Old scales and machines that are not easy to calibrate and are no longer accurate can easily be packing extra into each bag, pouch or box, resulting in a steady but invisible profit loss.
Putting Systems Online
Additionally, with automated packaging that is old or obsolete, it may not be possible to bring the packaging equipment online with the current supply chain system in place. New inventory and process management software may not be able to read and recognize old equipment, which means having to try to integrate the system in some way or simply running two systems.
This creates problems if there is a problem with one or both systems. Troubleshooting, making adjustments and even learning how to control the system or operate the equipment becomes a cost factor that is hard to assign a dollar value.
Increased Risk of Component Failure
The technology used in new automated packaging systems is leaps and bounds ahead of what was on the market even a decade ago. This includes the more effective use of different types of components and different technologies in today’s equipment.
Equipment that can self-calibrate, runs continual tests on the system and provides instant notification of any irregularities on the line or in the equipment is an essential factor to consider. With the old equipment, even if it had the ability to run tests and diagnostics, there is still an increased risk of component failure as the system ages.
Making a Change
Deciding to upgrade to new packing equipment that will more completely automate your system and integrate with your process management and supply chain software is a good decision.
It is important to review the specific lines and features offered by different manufacturers. Remember not only to consider the price and features, but also the customer support and assistance with the equipment well into the future. The top companies will offer lifetime support with the equipment. They may also have a network of technicians that can respond to issues to get your line back up and running quickly.
