CJ Logistics "Eliminated Labels on 35 Million Boxes with Inkjet Barcode Printing"

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] CJ Logistics is enhancing its eco-friendly impact by using inkjet barcodes instead of attaching labels on the sides of boxes.

CJ Logistics announced on the 3rd that it has eliminated 35 million coated labels over the past three years by using inkjet barcodes on delivery boxes. Although it is not actual ink, the ink is sprayed like a squid squirting ink, earning the nickname "Ojingeo Ink Barcode" (Squid Ink Barcode) in logistics sites.

Due to the nature of e-commerce logistics, where various types of products are packed together, it is essential to display barcodes on the sides of boxes. Workers at logistics centers need to scan the barcode on the box to verify the type and quantity of products to be packed. Many logistics companies print barcodes on separate labels and attach them to boxes because workers transfer customer-ordered products from plastic containers to delivery boxes.

In contrast, CJ Logistics has eliminated the label attachment process by combining automatic box forming, barcode printing technology, and big data capabilities. When the automatic box former folds the bottom of the box, the inkjet printer automatically prints the barcode on the corrugated surface of the box side. Then, based on big data analyzed by CJ Logistics, the optimal box for the consumer's order is introduced into the logistics site. Unlike other companies, since the delivery box is used from the beginning of the logistics process, there is no need to transfer products to another box or print and attach barcodes on separate labels. CJ Logistics has implemented and operates this process in centers handling e-commerce logistics.

Based on labels measuring 7 cm by 5 cm, the 35 million labels eliminated by CJ Logistics cover a total area equivalent to 34.3 times that of a soccer field. Considering that one A4 sheet is similar in size to 16 labels and that producing 10,000 A4 sheets requires one 30-year-old tree, this equates to saving 438 30-year-old trees. When factoring in carbon emissions from plastic film coating, adhesives, and other materials used in label production, the eco-friendly effect is estimated to be two to three times greater.

Additionally, CJ Logistics optimizes cushioning material usage by deploying customized boxes per order, preventing excessive packaging. All packaging materials such as cushioning, individual packaging, and tape are replaced with paper, making them recyclable.

CJ Logistics plans to further expand its "ESG Packaging" approach, including inkjet barcode printing, order-specific optimal box deployment, and the use of paper packaging materials.

Kim Kyung-hoon, head of CJ Logistics TES Logistics Technology Research Institute, said, "We are eliminating unnecessary materials and preventing excessive packaging through advanced and automated technologies," adding, "Based on innovative technology, we will actively practice ESG management by introducing environmentally friendly work methods throughout the logistics process."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.