Corrugated cardboard is an essential material in the supply chain of various sectors, especially in the agricultural export industry. In Brazil, where demand for packaging is high due to the massive production of fruits and other products, the supply of cardboard faces logistical challenges.
Brazil is a large country with a complex logistics infrastructure. One of the main drawbacks facing the cardboard industry is the transportation of raw materials and finished products. "We produce virgin fiber papers in the south of Brazil, and this paper needs to travel all over Brazil. Brazilian logistics are not the best," stated Leonardo Correia de Sousa, representative of Klabin.
Moving cardboard across the country relies heavily on land transport, which is often affected by poor roads, long delivery times, and high costs.
Another setback is the fluctuating demand for cardboard. The agricultural industry is dynamic and variations in production directly affect the need for packaging. "In 2024, there was a very high demand for cardboard for fruit products and the cartonboard factories were not prepared. It takes time to react to market demand," Correia stated.
To counteract the logistical problems, Klabin has implemented an innovative strategy: Inland maritime shipping. "That's why we started shipping the product by sea through Brazil to facilitate shipments. Maritime transport makes it possible to reduce dependence on roads and optimize the distribution of cardboard throughout the country. This solution has not only improved delivery times but also decreased logistics costs and environmental impact."
Developing new materials has been instrumental in addressing the cardboard supply challenges in Brazil. The company has invested in the production of high-strength papers that adapt to the demands of the market, especially for fruit exports.
"You need packaging that can withstand high humidity to export fruits, vegetables, and legumes. This type of cardboard, made with selected wood fibers and state-of-the-art technology, maintains the quality of the packaging even in high humidity conditions, avoiding deformations and protecting the products being transported. In addition, Klabin has developed products such as Fluffy, a cellulose with high absorption power, used in disposable nappies," he stated.
For more information:
Leonardo Correia de Sousa
Klabin
Brazil
Tel: +55 81 9 9998 2031
Email: leonardoc@klabin.com.br
www.klabin.com.br