INDIANAPOLIS, IN and WASHINGTON, DC - Recent field and laboratory trials sponsored jointly by the Corrugated Packaging Alliance (CPA) and the Reusable Pallet and Container Coalition (RPCC) show that Corrugated Common Footprint (CCF) containers and compatible Returnable Plastic Containers (RPCs) offer similar performance, when mixed together on a pallet in the redistribution of produce. The trials showed that mixed loads performed as well as those loads shipped as 100-percent CCF or 100-percent RPC loads.
Compatible RPCs include those which meet the International Corrugated Case Associations (ICCA) guidelines. The RPCs share common footprint and tab/receptacle locations so they fit together with the CCF.
The tests were conducted utilizing both field shipping trials and laboratory simulation by Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, (Virginia Tech.) The goal was to assess the shipping integrity of mixed unit loads containing both CCFs and RPCs with compatible tabs and receptacles, as well as a common footprint, in the transport of produce from distribution centers to retail stores.
Founded in 1999, the Reusable Pallet & Container Coalition is a non-profit association that advocates the growth of reusable packaging and systems in North America, regardless of material (wood, plastic, steel or other reusable material). The Coalition embraces this position because of the economic, environmental and safety benefits created by reuse. The Coalition advocates this growth through legislative and regulatory actions; strategic alliances; standards, guidelines and best practices; education and public awareness. The RPCC membership believes that the lack of reusable transport packaging and systems is a national concern that leads to millions of dollars in waste each year.For more information, visit the Coalition's Web site at www. rpcc.us or call 202-625-4899.
