A recent survey conducted by DS Smith, a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, revealed that 62% of European online shoppers received at least one damaged package in the past year. This statistic highlights the urgent need to improve packaging practices in e-commerce to ensure product integrity during transportation.

The most commonly affected items include clothing (24%), footwear (18%), personal technology (15%), home appliances (14%), and beauty products (14%). These figures show that a wide range of product categories are prone to damage, emphasizing the importance of tailored packaging solutions to protect diverse goods.

With Black Friday approaching, a significant surge in online shopping volumes is expected. The study notes that 54% of respondents plan to participate in Black Friday promotions, focusing on categories like clothing (51%), technology (38%), and footwear (31%). DS Smith estimates that around 358 million packages will be returned during this period across Europe, underscoring the need for effective packaging solutions to reduce damages and returns.

Diogo Mendonça Tavares, Head of Commercial Operations Iberia at DS Smith, stated that “every damaged package carries an environmental and economic cost,” highlighting the importance of suitable packaging to ensure products arrive in optimal condition. To address these challenges, DS Smith has developed packaging solutions focused on safety, protection, and sustainability, using advanced technology to simulate drops and vibrations during transport. The company has introduced innovative products such as Tape Back, Safe Sender, and paper and cardboard alternatives that reduce environmental impact.

Recently, DS Smith launched Easy Trace Laser Printing, a new technique that enhances traceability and printing quality while eliminating the need for adhesive labels. With these innovations, DS Smith aims to prioritize shipping safety and sustainability, aligning with the expectations of businesses and consumers in e-commerce.

Implementing more robust and sustainable packaging solutions is critical to reducing the occurrence of damaged products, improving customer experience, and minimizing costs associated with returns and replacements. As e-commerce continues to grow, the packaging industry plays a vital role in ensuring product integrity and customer satisfaction.