Packaging waste is one of the most visible — and frustrating — problems on jobsites today. Contractors are demanding solutions that help them reduce trash, lower disposal costs, and meet sustainability goals.
As a distributor, you can stand out by educating your customers on waste-reduction strategies, offering smarter packaging options, and using your ERP system to track, manage, and report progress.
🗑️ WHY PACKAGING WASTE IS A GROWING CONCERN
Builders are being asked to submit jobsite waste reduction plans
LEED v4.1 includes points for waste management practices
Public projects often prohibit non-recyclable materials
Landfill and haul-off fees are rising fast
📦 Customers want vendors who help them build and clean up smarter.
✅ STRATEGIES TO REDUCE PACKAGING WASTE
- Offer Reusable Packaging
Returnable crates, bins, and pallet collars
Durable containers for high-turn items like fasteners, sealants
ERP-linked asset tracking and return scheduling
- Use Biodegradable or Recyclable Materials
Molded fiber corner protectors
Compostable wraps and pallet pads
Recyclable shrink film or straps
- Consolidate & Bundle Deliveries
Reduce over-packaging by grouping SKUs into jobsite kits
Fewer boxes, less padding, optimized shipping
- Educate on Disposal Best Practices
Add recycling instructions to packaging and invoices
Share drop-off site info or provide QR codes for return logistics
📚 HOW TO EDUCATE THROUGH YOUR ERP
Auto-Include Instructions With:
Packing slips
Invoices
Delivery emails
Build “Green Delivery” Preferences:
Offer customers the option to select reduced or recyclable packaging
Track participation in ERP for future reporting
Create Dashboards To Report:
Packaging material saved (lbs/month)
Return participation by customer
CO₂ savings from fewer trips or reused containers
📣 ENGAGE CUSTOMERS WITH CONTENT
Blog posts: “5 Ways to Reduce Jobsite Packaging Waste”
Email campaigns: “Did you know we offer compostable packaging?”
Run a quarterly “Green Partner” leaderboard based on ERP data
🏁 FINAL THOUGHTS
Helping your customers reduce packaging waste builds trust, loyalty, and operational efficiency. When you use your ERP system to manage, document, and educate, your green strategy becomes a service — not just a policy.
📞 Want help tagging reusable packaging SKUs, automating education workflows, or building customer impact dashboards? Let’s make your ERP packaging-smart.
