Shift to integrated and sustainable board packaging with Cross Wrap

The Challenge of Conventional Packaging

Traditional board packaging processes often rely on a combination of materials: bottom and top boards, corner protectors, cardboard layers, multiple types of strapping, labels, and additional protective film for export.  

Managing multiple consumables increases material costs, adds complexity to procurement and storage, and often requires manual handling. Altogether, this creates inefficiencies that impact both productivity and profitability, resulting in a significant cost per package.  

Rethinking packaging – shift to automation and sustainability

In recent discussions with plant managers across the board packaging industry, several recurring challenges have emerged. Rising packaging material and logistics costs continue to put pressure on margins, while end-of-line bottlenecks remain a persistent operational issue. At the same time, the pressure to use more sustainable packaging, especially for export, is no longer just a suggestion – it’s a requirement. These factors are driving a shift toward more integrated and sustainable board packaging. 

An increasing number of companies in the industry are adopting fully automated, end-of-line packaging systems, such as Cross Wrap’s Packaging Lines. This solution is designed to replace multiple packaging materials with a single, streamlined approach. The system uses six-sided wrapping technology with fully recyclable film, creating a sealed package that protects the product throughout the logistics chain. By using recyclable film, companies can also strengthen their sustainability performance and support their environmental responsibility goals. 

“Here’s what we do: we install an automated packaging line right at the end of your production process that eliminates all your current packaging materials in one go.” – says Bernardino Vazquez, Business lead of packaging solutions.

Key Benefits for Board Producers 

Cost efficiency 
Reducing the number of packaging materials can have a direct impact on overall packaging costs per unit. Fewer consumables also mean less handling and lower operational overhead. 

Improved product protection 
Sealed packaging helps safeguard boards against moisture, handling damage, and environmental exposure -particularly important for export shipments where long transit times and varying conditions are common. 

Simplifying sustainability 
Managing a single packaging material instead of multiple components reduces complexity across procurement, storage, and production. This can streamline workflows and free up resources. 

Better experience for the end-user 
A fully enclosed package not only arrives intact but also remains easy to handle after opening. The absence of loose straps, damaged corners, or excess debris contributes to a cleaner and more professional end result. 

The role of automation in packaging performance 

Behind every modern board packaging line is a carefully engineered automation system. From control logic and sensor calibration to conveyor integration and wrapping sequences, each component must function seamlessly to ensure reliable performance.

“Before the machine is delivered, it is built according to the planned layout and tested under real production conditions. During this phase, adjustments are made to ensure the system meets specific process requirements and that commissioning on site runs smoothly.”- Anton Rönkkö, automation engineer 

A growing focus on specialized expertise 

As board packaging projects increase in scale and complexity, including major industrial deliveries in Chile and the Baltics, the need for dedicated expertise has become more pronounced. 

To support this, Cross Wrap has strengthened its focus with a specialized team for the wood industry. Bernardino Vazquez leads the Industrial Board Packaging business, ensuring expert project coordination, technical support, and advanced packaging solutions for plywood, veneer, MDF, particleboard, gypsum board, and other wood-based products.