Gas stations and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are natural rivals, given their conflicting energy sources and the impact EVs have had on the automotive and oil industries. Ironically, the process of packaging and shipping them is nearly identical.
Both are intricate, weighty, and cumbersome pieces of technology. They are both transported for permanent installation and public use. Both have various components, some of which are considered hazardous and must adhere to federal transportation regulations.
Despite their substantial weight and size, both units are surprisingly delicate. Improper handling or inadequate packaging during transport can lead to significant damage. That’s why manufacturers of EV charging stations should carefully reconsider their packaging strategies.
Shipping gas stations and EV charging stations is expensive and their many components can complicate the supply chain. In both cases, their differing shapes can present challenges when optimizing for space and cubing out. This can be addressed through effective packaging design, however, most of our clients in the EV industry fail to consider packaging’s impact.
Ineffective packaging is not only a costly misuse of truck space, but clients who ship this way face astronomical repair costs, warehousing expenses and lost revenue as instances of damage are quite high.
Many EV charging manufacturers also fail to consider unloading and loading best practices. With the right packaging solution, the features and tools needed for unloading and offloading can be incorporated into the packaging design itself. This is especially important as companies want to install the stations as soon as possible to start seeing a return on their significant investment.
The movement of export and inbound parts within the supply chain is also an important but often neglected consideration. An ideal packaging solution should unify all components into one streamlined process. This is key to having a cost-effective supply chain.
While there isn’t one single packaging solution for every gas station or EV charging station, customized packaging that accommodates their unique shapes as well as a company’s supply chain loop will improve every aspect of a business and its bottom line. Packaging design is the last thing companies consider but it should always be the first.
We have extensive experience designing packaging that meets our clients’ unique products and transforms their supply chain. If you would like to learn more about how we can help your complex supply chain, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
For enhanced packaging efficiency, PCD is here to help. We specialize in innovative, custom packaging design and have experience working with EV charger manufacturers. Our North American footprint means we’re able to assist you wherever you are… Mexico, Canada or the United States. Feel free to reach out with any questions – we’re here to help. contact us!