Packaging
ROI Time
2 Months
Price from

3 things to consider when automating packaging processes

Packaging is more than just the final step in production – it is a decisive factor for quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction. Whether in the food industry, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals or consumer goods, automated packaging solutions help to speed up processes, avoid errors and conserve resources.

With the modular and cost-effective solutions on the RBTX marketplace from igus, companies of all sizes can automate their packaging processes – individually customisable, ready for immediate use and scalable.

3 things to consider when automating packaging processes

Analyse packaging type and product requirements

Different products require different packaging solutions: cardboard, film, trays, bags or blister packs. The shape, weight, sensitivity and stackability of the product also influence the choice of grippers, conveyor technology and robot type.

Consider cycle time and line integration

How many units per minute need to be packaged? Does the packaging solution need to communicate with existing machines (e.g. labellers, scales, palletisers)? Well-thought-out line integration with open interfaces is crucial for a smooth process.

Enable flexibility and format changes

Flexibility is particularly important when there is a wide variety of products or frequent batch changes. Automation solutions with interchangeable grippers, adaptive control or AI-supported image recognition enable quick changeovers – without long downtimes.

How to get started with your packaging automation

Automate packaging - define, select, test, integrate.

1

Define the application

Which products need to be packaged? What type of packaging will be used? What are the requirements in terms of speed, accuracy and flexibility?

2

Select the right components On the RBTX marketplace, you will find:

Robotic arms (e.g. SCARA, Delta, cobots) – Grippers for cartons, bags, trays, etc. – Conveyor technology, labellers, feeding systems – Controls, sensors and vision systems

3

Use tests & consulting

Use the RBTX ‘test before invest’ service to have your application tested or get advice from experts – free of charge and without obligation.

4

Integration & commissioning

Many systems are ‘plug & play’ and can be integrated into existing packaging lines with minimal effort. igus offers support, training and online tools for configuration.

RBTXpert Conclusion

Many focus on the packaging itself when automating – but what’s often overlooked: how do the packaged products move to the next station? Plan infeed and outfeed just as carefully as the packaging process. Whether it’s conveyors, buffer zones, or pallet changers – only a continuous material flow ensures true line efficiency. Especially with high cycle rates or changing formats, modular conveyor systems and flexible robotic arms are key. On the RBTX marketplace, you’ll find exactly the right components – ready to use, scalable, and easy to integrate with existing systems.

Advantages of automated packaging processes

Faster, more accurate, and cost-efficient – automation optimizes packaging while reducing errors and resource use.

Higher speed and cycle rate

Enhances productivity by reducing operation time and increasing throughput

Consistent quality and less waste

Maintains uniform standards across operations and minimizing material waste.

Reduction in personnel costs and errors

Automates repetitive tasks, lowering labor expenses and reducing process variability.

Increased occupational safety and ergonomics

Minimizes physical strain and exposure to hazardous environments, creating safer and more comfortable working conditions.

24/7 operation without fatigue

Enables continuous production without downtime, maximizing availability and throughput.

Get started, find your solution now!

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the automation of packaging processes

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