Supply chain logistics is a complicated process. One slight delay can cause a larger backlog further down the line, so every step of the process needs to be efficient and properly managed. Unfortunately, the packaging industry is one such sector where lead times can be thrown out as a result of supply chain inefficiencies.
In a world where people are more impatient and consumers are used to incredibly fast delivery of products, these issues can become highly frustrating for the customer and costly for a brand’s reputation. Packaging companies need to plan and manage their inventories precisely if they are to minimise lead times and offer exceptional customer service.
Custom Bulk Bags is a leading manufacturer of high-quality bulk bags in South Africa. Our products range in capacity from 500kg to two tonnes. They are manufactured from durable polypropylene tapes that are extruded by our sister company, Integrated Polypropylene Products (IPP). All of our bags have a minimum safety factor rating of 5:1.
Local suppliers will reduce lead times
Many businesses order their packaging products and bulk bags from international suppliers. This greatly increases the chances of a supply chain backlog as these products need to travel tens of thousands of kilometres, through various shipping hubs and be handled by thousands of people along the way. This is not to mention adverse weather conditions along the route that cannot be controlled.
One delay at any of these stages and businesses could wait for weeks longer than they expected. However, finding a reputable and efficient supplier locally will drastically reduce the chances of delays and will greatly minimise lead times. African businesses that use bulk bags, such as mines, farms, chemical producers and sugar mills, should consider a South African manufacturer and supplier, such as Custom Bulk Bags.
Natural disasters will severely impact lead times
While many companies have gotten by with their international suppliers through proper planning, there are easier ways to reduce lead times. No matter how much planning you undertake to minimise delays and potential issues within the supply chain, there is always the possibility of an unforeseen event, like the Covid-19 pandemic, which will completely derail your planning.
Having a local bulk bag and packaging supplier will further reduce the effects of another pandemic or natural disaster. Disruptions are kept to a minimum when your packaging products are travelling from within the country or the neighbouring region. The international shipping industry is still trying to recover from the backlog caused by the pandemic.
Maintain an open line of communication
One of the biggest frustrations with delayed deliveries is a lack of knowing what’s going on. It’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your packaging supplier so that you can stay abreast of what’s happening with your orders. Build a solid relationship with your supplier so that they will deliver better customer service and communications.
If your stock is running low, tell your supplier well in advance so that they have time to prepare your orders and have them delivered to you timeously. Custom Bulk Bags works closely with local and international logistics companies to ensure that orders are fulfilled within as little time as possible. We will also keep our customers fully informed of their deliveries.
We have the capacity to manufacture over 3.5-million bulk bags per year, so we maintain high levels of stock. These products can be packed and shipped to our customers when an order comes through. If you are currently experiencing any issues with your supply chain and excessive lead times, then switch to a reliable and efficient South African supplier. For more information about our bulk bags, please contact us today.
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Custom Bulk Bags is a leading South African manufacturer of woven polypropylene bags for various industries, such as mining, chemicals and food. We are able to produce over 3.5-million bulk bags per year, keeping our customers in stock at all times. Our bags adhere to the highest levels of quality as a result of our stringent in-house testing and quality control programmes.
Custom Bulk Bags holds ISO 9001 certification and we currently have a number of UN-certified designs. We are a Level 2 B-BBEE manufacturer and supplier and fall under the ownership structure of Deneb Investments Limited. For more information on our products, contact sales@custombulkbags.co.za. Follow us on Facebook for our latest news and industry insights.
