With businesses reporting up to $890 billion in retail returns in 2024, corporations are seeking ways to reduce returns and strengthen brand trust. Shipping damage — a leading cause of costly returns, lost revenue and negative customer experiences — creates an opportunity to make an impact with customers.
Investing in engineered corner and edge protection is a proactive way to prevent transit damage, reduce returns and build lasting customer trust.
The Role of Corner and Edge Protection in Shipping
Corners and edges are the most vulnerable parts of any package during handling, stacking and transit and are most susceptible to dents and scuffs. Reinforcing these areas with quality protection helps packages withstand stacking pressure. Proper corner and edge protection keeps products secure and aligned on pallets and in transit, reducing shifting and the risk of toppling.
Protecting against cosmetic damage is essential for maintaining a positive brand image. Investing in edge protection is a practical, simple way to reduce the risk of damage and save time and money on returns and other claims.
Key Benefits: Compression, Unitization, Scuff Resistance and Load Stability
Corner and edge protection delivers a range of performance benefits beyond basic packaging:
- Compression strength: Reinforced edges help packages withstand stacking weight, preventing collapse and protecting product integrity.
- Unitization: Edge protection keeps multiple boxes grouped tightly to prevent shifting, sliding or separation during movement. This makes large shipments safer and more efficient.
- Scuff resistance: Protective materials protect package surfaces from abrasion, scratches and scuffs.
- Load stability: Secured edges and corners minimize movement within shipments. Stable loads are less likely to be damaged.
Together, these benefits significantly lower the risk of transit damage, returns and claims, saving your business money and protecting your brand reputation.
Reducing Returns and Claims: The Customer Experience Connection
Businesses that invest in quality edge protection stand out by delivering consistently positive customer experiences. Effective edge and corner protection drastically reduces the risk of damaged shipments, resulting in fewer returns and warranty claims. When customers receive their orders in perfect condition, it builds trust in your brand and encourages repeat purchases. Each avoided return or claim saves money and helps preserve your reputation.
Solutions for Every Application: VBoard®, VChannel®, HydroShield® and More
No two packages are exactly alike, which is why Great Northern Laminations® offers a range of edge and corner reinforcement options:
- VBoard: Versatile edge protection provides strong, lightweight reinforcement to prevent crushing and edge damage
- VChannel: Custom-fit protection with stability and security for irregular or cylindrical items
- HydroShield: Advanced moisture-resistant coating ideal for shipments exposed to humidity or challenging environments
- Print options: Add your logo, brand colors or handling instructions directly to edge protection for enhanced brand visibility and professional presentation
Laminations’ expert guidance allows you to select the right solution for your application.
Strengthening Brand Trust Through Protection and Presentation
Well-protected products that consistently arrive in excellent condition reinforce your brand’s reliability and commitment to quality. Branded edge protection safeguards shipments while creating a polished, professional appearance that customers notice and remember.
A positive delivery experience builds customer confidence, encourages repeat business and sets your brand apart. By investing in quality packaging, you turn every safe, well-presented delivery into an opportunity to enhance brand trust and foster long-term loyalty.
Turn to Laminations for Quality Edge Protection
Laminations combines decades of expertise with innovative engineering to deliver edge and corner protection solutions tailored to your unique needs. Our wide range of products helps you get the right fit for any application or environment. With options for custom branding and advanced coatings, we help you protect your products, reduce returns and elevate your brand’s reputation.
Partner with Laminations for reliable protection that keeps your shipments safe and your customers satisfied every time. Contact Laminations today to find the right edge protection for your products.
