CEVA Logistics Implements Reusable Packaging Management System for the Automotive Supply Chain  

One of the key environmental challenges facing the logistics industry today is the traditional use of single-use cardboard packaging in transport. This results in excessive waste generation and high resource consumption. A leading automotive manufacturer, operating a large network of factories supplied by hundreds of vendors across Europe, also faced this issue. CEVA’s task was to design and implement a sustainable reusable packaging solution while ensuring operational efficiency and supply chain security.

No More Cardboard in Deliveries to Production Plants

In response, the CEVA Logistics team designed and launched a closed-loop reusable packaging management system, completely eliminating the need for disposable cardboard boxes. The solution relies on standardized, reusable plastic containers to transport components and small assembly parts from suppliers to production facilities.

By optimizing transport processes, CEVA was able to implement efficient load space utilization plans and deploy modern pooling and redistribution methods. Once the containers are emptied at the production sites, they are collected, prepared for reuse, and sent to the next suppliers.

CEVA’s innovative solution covers the full lifecycle management of reusable packaging, including operational flow planning, multi-site inventory management in cooperation with suppliers, container maintenance and cleaning, and transportation of the plastic boxes.

As a result, CEVA now handles millions of operations within this standardized packaging loop, significantly improving the efficiency and fluidity of the supply chain.

Tangible Environmental Benefits

The implementation of the reusable packaging system and the use of pooling in the delivery of components to factories has brought measurable environmental benefits.

These include the elimination of 22,000 tons of cardboard waste and a reduction in CO₂e emissions by 18,000 tons - a 59% decrease compared to single-use cardboard packaging. Moreover, once the plastic containers reach the end of their life cycle, CEVA ensures 100% recycling of the materials.

Thanks to these solutions, the automotive manufacturer has significantly reduced its environmental footprint while maintaining operational efficiency across a complex European supply chain.

35 Years of Expertise

CEVA Logistics has over 35 years of experience working with major global manufacturers - not only in the automotive sector - implementing innovative reusable packaging solutions. Their goal is to support sustainable and cost-effective supply chains.

CEVA teams are responsible for designing and planning comprehensive solutions, including financing, and managing operations such as distribution and redistribution, pooling, container cleaning and repair, as well as monitoring flows in a full 360° model. This is supported by advanced IT systems that provide complete control over every stage - from order management and inventory tracking to invoicing and change management.

Currently, CEVA operates 28 dedicated reusable packaging service centers across Europe, managing a fleet of 8 million standardized packaging units.

Source: CEVA Logistics