Careers & Job Openings

Join our team!

Location

1900 Finishing Mill Road
Suite 100
Sparrows Point, MD 21219

Get Directions

Profitability Through Productivity

Packaging Automation| Arnold Automation

What is Packaging Automation?

Packaging automation is what happens when you give your packaging process a serious tech upgrade.

When Mick Arnold took over Arnold Packaging at the tender age of 24, he was determined to follow the family tradition of innovation. And for him, the future was all about automation. So in 2017, he launched Arnold Automation, but more on that in a moment. 

Automated systems handle everything from filling bags to stacking boxes, making packaging faster, more precise, and way less stressful for humans. And the best part? You get consistency and fewer mistakes, which keeps customers happy and costs low.

The first example of packaging automation dates back to 1841 when Isaac Singer developed a machine to automate sewing bags for flour and grain.

Image courtesy of the National Museum of American History. Read more about Isaac Singer and his invention on their website right here.

This revolutionary idea paved the way for today’s advanced packaging systems. Whether it’s robots assembling perfectly stacked pallets or machines wrapping products with laser precision, automation keeps businesses buzzing. Plus, it frees up employees for more creative or complex tasks.

From food and pharmaceuticals to e-commerce, packaging automation is the secret sauce for staying competitive in a fast-paced world. It’s efficient, reliable, and even eco-friendly.

Arnold Automation has helped countless companies in a variety of industries across the Mid-Atlantic region integrate these systems. Here’s why… 

The Advantages of Automated Packaging

1. Speed That Leaves Snails in the Dust

Say goodbye to the slow days of manual packaging. Automated systems crank up the speed, ensuring your products zoom through the process and get to customers faster than ever.

2. Bye-Bye to Oops Moments

Automation doesn’t “accidentally” slap a label upside down or forget to seal a bag. It’s all about precision and consistency, reducing those human-made hiccups.

3. Cost Savings That Make You Smile

Sure, automation requires an upfront investment, but over time, it cuts labor costs, reduces waste, and boosts productivity. In fact, you can read how we helped one company increase their productivity by 300% with automation right here.

4. Safety First, Always

Automated systems don’t need coffee breaks or risk getting injured. They keep your workplace safer while handling the heavy lifting (literally).

5. Sustainability with a Bow On Top

Modern packaging automation minimizes waste and maximizes efficiency, making it a greener choice. Your eco-conscious customers will appreciate the effort.

6. Scalability That Grows with You

Whether you’re a small startup or a global giant, automation scales easily to meet demand, so you’re always ready for the next big order.

Automated packaging isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about making your life easier, your customers happier, and your business stronger. Why settle for less when you can have it all?

Seems the market would agree – look at this projection…

How Packaging Automation Increases Productivity and Reduces Costs 

Implementing packaging automation is one of the most effective ways to boost productivity while cutting costs. Automated systems streamline repetitive tasks like filling, sealing, labeling, and palletizing, allowing businesses to package products faster and with greater accuracy. This reduces bottlenecks and minimizes human error, leading to a more efficient workflow.

“Even before President-elect Donald Trump said he would pursue mass deportations, the U.S. had a labor problem. Baby Boomers are retiring and there just aren’t enough people to take their place. Many companies are turning to automation—a solution long feared by some workers—in an effort to thrive in this economic environment.”

– Alana Semuels, Time, December 3, 2024

By increasing output and reducing downtime, automation helps businesses meet higher demand without increasing labor costs. Machines can run longer hours with minimal supervision, ensuring consistent production levels while freeing up employees for more strategic tasks. Plus, with smart sensors and AI-driven technology, modern automation systems can self-adjust to optimize performance and reduce material waste.

Cost savings go beyond labor efficiency—automated systems also help reduce material waste and product damage. Precision in packaging means fewer errors, less rework, and lower expenses on packaging supplies. Additionally, energy-efficient designs and predictive maintenance features help cut operational costs over time.

Whether you’re a small business looking to scale or a large manufacturer aiming to refine processes, investing in packaging automation is a smart way to enhance productivity and profitability. Ready to optimize your packaging line? Contact us to find the right automation solution for your business!

How to Find the Right Automation to Meet Your Needs 

The key to finding the right automation is understanding your specific business needs and matching them with the perfect technology.

Start by assessing your current packaging processes, identifying bottlenecks, and determining the level of automation required—whether it’s semi-automated or fully automated systems.

Consider factors such as production volume, packaging materials, product type, and scalability.

High-speed packaging lines may require robotic automation, while small-to-medium businesses might benefit from modular or semi-automated solutions that allow for future upgrades. Look for flexibility and customization options to ensure the system adapts to your evolving business demands.

Another critical factor is integration with existing systems. The right packaging automation should seamlessly connect with your production line, reducing downtime and improving workflow efficiency. Work with reputable vendors who provide installation support, training, and ongoing maintenance services to ensure long-term success.

Lastly, prioritize cost-effectiveness and return on investment (ROI). While initial costs may seem high, choosing an efficient and reliable packaging automation system can lead to significant savings in labor and material waste. 

Conduct a cost-benefit analysis and seek industry-specific recommendations to ensure you’re making a well-informed decision. By selecting the right packaging automation, you can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and scale your business efficiently.

Best Packing Automation Solutions by Industry

When selecting a packing solution, it’s important to consider industry needs, scalability, and integration. For example…

E-commerce and Retail: Speed and Accuracy

Automation is essential for handling high order volumes efficiently. Solutions include:

  • Automated Bagging Systems – Speeds up order fulfillment for small items
  • Robotic Picking and Sorting – Enhances accuracy in warehouse operations
  • Automated Box Sizing and Packing – Reduces shipping costs and material waste
  • Automated Shipping Label Printing – Streamlines labeling for faster dispatch

Food and Beverage: Hygiene and Compliance

Precision and sanitation are key in food packaging. Popular solutions include:

  • Vacuum Packaging Machines – Preserve freshness and extend shelf life
  • Liquid Filling Systems – Ensure accurate, contamination-free filling
  • X-ray Inspection and Quality Control – Detect contaminants and ensure product integrity

Sealing and Wrapping Machines – Securely package products for retail and distribution

By selecting the right packaging automation, you can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and scale your business efficiently.

Pharmaceuticals: Precision and Regulation 

Packing automation ensures accuracy and compliance. Key technologies include:

  • Blister Packaging Machines – Protect unit-dose medications from contamination
  • Bottle Filling and Capping Systems – Ensure precise dosing and secure packaging
  • Serialization and Track-and-Trace Solutions – Maintain regulatory compliance and product security
  • Tamper-Evident Sealing Machines – Prevent unauthorized access and enhance safety

Manufacturing and Industrial Goods: Strength and Versatility 

Heavy-duty packaging solutions improve durability and efficiency:

  • Robotic Palletizing Systems – Automate stacking and pallet preparation
  • Stretch Wrapping Machines – Secure shipments for transport and storage
  • Case Packing Systems – Improve efficiency for bulk and fragile items

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) – Optimize material handling and logistics

The 10 Most Popular Packaging Equipment and Automation Solutions 

To help businesses optimize their packaging operations, here are ten of the most widely used packaging and automation solutions:

1. Form-Fill-Seal Machines – Automate forming, filling, and sealing, ideal for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

2. Labeling Machines – Ensure accurate and high-speed labeling for branding and regulatory compliance. Learn more about Print and Apply Label Machines here.

3. Case Erectors  – Assemble flat-packed corrugated boxes into upright cases, preparing them for product packing. More information here.

4. Case Packers – Streamline the process of packing products into cases for distribution. Read more about this automation here.

5. Case Sealers – Automatically apply adhesive tape or glue to securely seal the top and/or bottom flaps of a packed case. More on case sealers here.

6. Palletizers – Automate stacking and arranging products onto pallets for shipping. Learn more about robotic palletizers right here.

7. Shrink Wrapping Machines – Provide secure, protective packaging for a wide range of products. More on these useful machines here.

8. Robotic Pick-and-Place Systems – Enhance precision and speed in product handling and packaging lines.

9. Automated Conveyor Systems – Improve workflow efficiency by transporting products seamlessly. Get more information here.

10. Vision Inspection Systems – Detect product defects and inconsistencies, improving quality assurance. Want to learn more? Go right here.

“Embracing automation is vital for industrial firms to remain competitive and retain talent.”
– Aamir Paul, Harvard Business Review, December 3, 2024

Ask the Packaging Experts…

Is Packaging Automation Customizable?  

Absolutely! Modern packaging automation is highly customizable to meet the unique needs of different industries, products, and production scales. Whether you’re handling fragile items, food products, pharmaceuticals, or e-commerce shipments, automation systems can be tailored to ensure efficiency, consistency, and cost savings.

From adjustable conveyor speeds to product-specific robotic arms, today’s packaging solutions allow for modular designs and flexible programming. Businesses can integrate labeling, sealing, wrapping, and inspection systems that adapt to various packaging sizes and materials. Plus, with advancements in AI and IoT, automated systems can now learn and optimize processes in real time, improving productivity.

Customization doesn’t just apply to large-scale operations—small and mid-sized businesses can also benefit from scalable solutions. Whether you’re looking for a semi-automated system to streamline labor or a fully integrated packaging line, there’s a solution that fits your needs. Investing in custom packaging automation helps improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure a high-quality, consistent output.

Want to explore the right automation setup for your business? Contact Arnold Automation RIGHT HERE to discover a packaging solution designed just for you!

Are There Clear Benefits to Using Packaging Automation?

There’s no doubt about it.

By integrating automated systems into packaging operations, companies can significantly increase production speed while minimizing human errors. This leads to consistent packaging quality, which is crucial for brand reputation and customer satisfaction.

Additionally, automation reduces labor costs by decreasing the need for manual intervention, allowing businesses to reallocate human resources to more strategic tasks.

With precise material usage and waste reduction, companies can also achieve greater sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious consumers and regulatory bodies.

Another key benefit is that advanced automation technologies, such as robotic arms and AI-driven quality control, ensure optimal accuracy and speed in packaging processes.

Furthermore, by integrating automation with data analytics, businesses can gain real-time insights into production efficiency and identify areas for improvement.

Overall, investing in packaging automation not only streamlines operations but also strengthens a company’s competitive edge in an increasingly demanding market.

We’re waiting and ready to assist you with your packaging needs right now. Submit this quick form or give us a call at 1-855-ARNOLDS today.

We look forward to working with you!

Kevin McHenry

Kevin McHenry

Vice President of Automation

kmchenry@arnoldautomation.com

A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Kevin launched our Automation Division back in 2018. He and his team help our customers dramatically increase productivity and efficiency by designing custom equipment, systems and robotic solutions.

Packaging Automation News

case packer
Feb 12 2025
Automation, News

Why Your Business Needs a Case Packer

More than ever, efficiency is the name of the game - investing in a case...
warehouse and logistics packaging solutions
Feb 07 2025
News, Packaging

Solve Your Custom Container Challenges with Arnold Packaging

Custom Containers Designed for Quality and Efficiency When it comes to...
warehouse and logistics packaging solutions
Feb 05 2025
News, Packaging

Optimized Packaging Solutions for Warehouse and Logistics Companies

In the fast-paced world of warehouse and logistics operations, packaging...
packaging supplies
Jan 29 2025
News, Packaging

Why February Is the Time to Stock Up on Packaging Supplies

If you’re in retail or consumer goods, you know one thing for sure:...
pack station
Jan 23 2025
Automation, News

The Advantages of Pack Station Automation: Revolutionizing Efficiency and Accuracy

As businesses scale and customer expectations rise, automation is...
case erector
Jan 07 2025
Automation, News, Video News

Small Business Automation 101

End-of-line automation can greatly enhance efficiency, reduce labor...
Packaging Trends for 2025
Jan 07 2025
News, Packaging

Hot Packaging Trends for 2025

Packaging trends are evolving rapidly, driven by consumer preferences,...
Dec 30 2024
News, Packaging

Arnold Packaging: Your Go-To Source for Disaster Restoration Packaging Supplies

From fire and flood damage to mold remediation, disaster restoration...
stretch film
Dec 17 2024
News, Packaging

Essential Packaging Supplies for Construction

Construction projects come with a unique set of challenges, including...
arnold automation service and repair
Dec 10 2024
Automation, News

Stretch Wrap Machines: The Maintenance Schedule You Need Now

Your stretch wrap machine is the unsung hero of your operation,...