FAQ on reusable packaging
Here we have compiled the questions we are frequently asked about reusable packaging. If you still have questions that are not answered here, please do not hesitate to send us a message at rhinopaq. We will get back to you with answers as soon as possible.
General questions
How sustainable is reusable packaging?
The data situation is very confusing due to numerous factors. How high is the proportion of recycled waste paper per packaging, do the trees come from local forests or illegal logging, where was the cardboard produced, what percentage of the cardboard later ends up in the recycling cycle, etc.?
According to a study by Ökopol published in March 2020, the ratio of CO2 emissions to weight for cardboard is approximately 1. This means that the production of a 150-gram cardboard box generates the same amount of CO2. We are aiming for a CO2 factor of 2.5 for the same weight of packaging and thus a CO2 footprint of 375 grams during production. In addition, we conservatively assume only 10 usage cycles per package and 36 grams of CO2 emissions per return of the reusable packaging. This results in a saving of approximately 51% CO2. You can find more information in our Whitepaper.
How is the reusable packaging returned?
In our pay-per-use package, you only pay for the one-time use of the reusable packaging. When the folded packaging is thrown into our collection containers, it is returned to rhinopaq . We will cover the return costs and the preparation of the packaging. If the packaging is returned to you, you can of course use the reusable packaging again. The costs of multiple use will be agreed with us in advance.
What will my contribution to climate protection cost me?
A very clear "it depends". You have to ask yourself the following questions: How high is the returns rate, how much money are you already spending on your disposable packaging, etc. To shed some light on this for you, we have created a parcel calculator. This will help you to calculate the costs you are likely to incur based on your individual circumstances. You'll be surprised, it's even possible to generate savings with great climate protection concepts!
How many sizes are offered by rhinopaq ?
We currently offer 7 different standard sizes ranging from 18 x 15 x 9 cm to 50 x 50 x 25 cm. We regularly expand our standard portfolio. For larger quantities, we can also produce custom sizes. Please contact us for details at rhinopaq.
What material is the reusable packaging made of?
In order to achieve many shipping cycles and thus significantly increase CO2 savings compared to conventional disposable packaging, we need a durable and non-degradable material. We therefore use recycled polypropylene for our reusable packaging. Further advantages of polypropylene are its relatively good environmental compatibility compared to other plastics and the very good recycling rate thanks to the latest sorting technologies.
Why is the reusable packaging so dark?
Color plays an important role in the recycling process of our reusable packaging. We opted for a dark gray because this is where we achieve the best recycling rate. If we had opted for colored packaging, we would not be able to achieve up to 60%. The 60% is material that has already been recycled and is used to produce our reusable packaging. Our packaging itself is ground at the end of its useful life and almost 100% of it is fed back into the production process. In addition, the dark packaging makes a wonderful visual impression even after several uses.
Why does rhinopaq not offer mailing bags?
In a highly automated handling process with state-of-the-art conveyor technology, the quality of the packaging plays a key role in logistics. A lack of protection against transportation stresses can lead to delays in delivery or complaints from buyers. In addition, rigid packaging offers significant advantages during delivery due to its stackability (delivery on the "last mile", for example with a sack or stacking trolley). The shipping costs for a shipping bag do not differ from a parcel (assuming the same dimensions and weight class). As the lower packaging costs for the shipping bag compared to the cardboard box are relativized by our packaging cycle, we rely on rigid reusable packaging (at least as the first product variant).