Selecting a Case and Tray Packing Machine – Are You a Side Load or Top Load?


Edson offers high performance industrial case and tray packaging systems for a wide range of applications.
Edson offers high performance industrial case and tray packaging systems for a wide range of applications.

When it comes to packing converted paper and tissue products, what style of machine is best: side load or top load? The simplest answer is – it depends.

Selecting the right solution depends on several factors, most notably desired line speeds, the footprint of available space you have for a system, the products to be packaged and how many different SKUs you would like the system to run. There is a general rule when it comes to case and tray packing solutions for converted paper and tissue applications that says if you are looking to run 20 cases or more a minute, a side-load machine is a better fit.

A side-load case and tray packing machine offers several speed-related advantages, namely able to handle the three critical packing functions of erecting, filling and sealing to deliver a fully integrated solution. The act of filling cases from a side-load design is slightly faster than a top-load design where product is picked robotically and dropped into a case.

4000TL-Robotic top load case packer is ideal for small to midsized companies that manufacture a variety of SKUs.
4000TL-Robotic top load case packer is ideal for small to midsized companies that manufacture a variety of SKUs.

Side load is often the preferred design for many larger converted paper and tissue manufacturers that may run the same application 24/7 where they are looking to pack cases as fast as possible.

Yet, when speed is not the primary driver of an application, a top-load case and tray packing machine may be a better fit. The advantages a top-load solution brings to small- to medium-sized converted paper and tissue manufacturers are flexibility, a small footprint and labor savings.

One of Edson’s newer machines that debuted this year – the 4000TL-Robotic Top Load Case Packer – was designed with simplicity in mind as it does not require much adjustability. And, if your hand-packing operation uses a 10ft x 10ft space, a top-load design fits in nicely within those same dimensions.

Speaking of hand-packing operations, moving toward a top-load case and tray packing machine offers customers great savings on labor and a quick ROI. Now, instead of needing several employees to pack, the entire operation can be staffed by just one or two. Those people can now relocate to other areas where they can be more beneficial to the company.

There are case and tray packing solutions that can help you obtain the results you desire. Selecting the right style of machine is a great first step.

Edson Brings Value and Expertise

Tissue converting companies across the globe know Edson for their high-performance and reliable solutions. Edson helps our packaging customers protect and grow the reputation and trust of their consumers. Innovation is always at the front end of Edson’s approach — evolving technologies in robotics, laning product, quick changeovers, and intelligent HMIs keeps customers progressing forward with confidence. Edison delivers as a:

  • Leading manufacturer of case and tray packing solutions for the converted paper, diaper and nonwoven markets, as well as feminine care, wipes, pet training pads and other products;
  • Offers both side loading and top loading solutions to fit specific customer applications;
  • Packaging machinery can be seamlessly integrated into larger, existing end-of-line systems for a true, turnkey experience; and,
  • As part of the ProMach Robotics & End-of-Line business line, Edson helps its packaging customers protect their reputation and grow the trust of their consumers.

This content is sponsored by edson.com; promachbuilt.com