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When you're ready to purchase new machinery for your facility. You've contacted several different manufacturers for more information. But instead of providing direct answers, they bombard you with questions one after another. "What is your budget?" "What type of products do you need to package?" "Tell us about your facility."
Why? Because these questions are crucial for finding the right equipment that suits your needs. Machines aren't one-size-fits-all, and choosing machines incompatible with your products, materials, or facility could prove counterproductive. Here are considerations when purchasing packaging machinery, some questions to ask during procurement.
Some businesses have unlimited budgets. Others operate with low budgets. Some might have to wait months to receive their new machine. Others need it immediately. Before starting to look for new machines, determining some basic details is important.
Your budget is one of these key details. Packaging machinery costs range from thousands to millions of dollars. Turntable stretch wrappers and box openers, carton sealers, case packers, palletizers vary in price. Of course, used machines cost less. However, if your budget allows, buying new is usually better. Compared to new machines, used machines are more prone to failure and have shorter lifespans. Quality is also significantly reduced. Before shopping, determine the average cost of the machines you need and set your budget accordingly.
Another important detail to consider is your timeline. When do you need the new machine up and running? Do you need delivery within a week or can you wait? If you need it quickly, buy from local manufacturers or those who promise quick delivery and assembly.
The size, shape, and weight of your products or pallets will largely influence the type of machine suitable for you. For example, stretch wrapping machines come in various types. Turntable wrappers can handle most regular-shaped and average-sized loads. Rotary arm wrappers are excellent for loads too heavy or light for turntable wrappers. Horizontal stretch wrapping is used for "longer" items than normal, such as lumber, doors, windows, carpets, and textiles. The variety of materials you use (film, containers, etc.) also differs. Machine compatibility with your preferred materials isn't guaranteed.
Choosing machines compatible with your facility is crucial. If a machine is too heavy, tall, or incompatible with your facility's power supply, you won't be able to use it.
The first question you should ask is: "How much weight can the floor support?" Ensure your floor can support the weight of the machine you're purchasing. If the floor bears too much pressure, it might crack.
Another question you should ask is "How much space will this machine occupy?" Each machine occupies a certain footprint. Before purchasing, ensure your facility has sufficient space for the machine.
Another often-overlooked question is machine height. If your plant ceiling is high, height shouldn't be a major issue, but if your ceilings are low, remember to check the height of any machines you're considering. If the machine is too tall, it might not suit you.
Finally, ensure the machine you purchase is compatible with your plant's power and wiring. Many machines from overseas are manufactured using different components than domestically purchased machines.
If the machine you purchase is incompatible with your facility's power supply, you have three options: buy a different machine, purchase expensive adapters, or completely rewire your facility!
Machines are generally reliable as long as you remember to perform routine preventive maintenance. But sometimes, machines can be unpredictable and break down unexpectedly.
When repairs are needed, they must be done quickly to prevent extended downtime and productivity losses. A question to ask when purchasing packaging machinery is whether procuring parts for the machine is simple. How long do they take to manufacture? How long do you need to wait?
Longer delivery times result in extended downtime. Generally, older machines and those from overseas are hardest to find and procure parts for quickly. To minimize downtime, purchase from manufacturers who can quickly produce and ship parts. Your machine manufacturer should also provide:
Warranty
On-site technical support
Maintenance and installation services
Same-day repair for emergencies
Retrofitting and upgrade options. The sooner your machine gets repaired, the sooner you can resume production. Procuring from reliable local manufacturers ensures you get the most out of your machines.
There are many different manufacturers to choose from. Based on the above, you need to look for a manufacturer that provides ample support when your machine fails or malfunctions. Speed Packaging Equipment is a leading domestic secondary packaging equipment company. Our products include: box openers, carton sealers, case packers to help accelerate the packaging process, and other machines that can stretch wrap, palletize, and heat shrink products. Contact us immediately to learn more about our products and services.
