Want to waste less?
Start with your packaging.
Here’s how to check it — step by step.
Step 1: How Do You List All Packaging You Use?
A clear list is the foundation of any audit—it shows exactly what materials flow through your business.
Write it down. Everything.
- Boxes.
- Tape.
- Labels.
- Mailers.
- Stickers.
- Wraps.
Every item counts.
Step 2: How Do You Measure Packaging Usage?
Tracking usage helps you spot the items that create the most cost and waste.
Look at your sales.
Check how many packages you send.
Also check:
How fast do you run out of each item?
This shows where most of your waste is.
Step 3: How Do You Check If Packaging Is Eco-Friendly?
Not all packaging is created equal, knowing which items are recyclable or compostable reveals where changes matter most.
Ask yourself:
- Can it be recycled?
- Can it be composted?
- Is it made from recycled stuff?
If not, it may need to go.
Step 4: How Do You Cut Packaging You Don’t Need?
Right-sizing and reducing extras cut costs and make your shipments leaner and greener.
Big boxes for small items?
Too much tape or filler?
Unnecessary plastic?
Cut it out.
Use less.
Save more.
Step 5: How Do You Make a Simple Waste-Reduction Plan?
Small, steady changes are easier to track and scale into real savings.
Pick one thing to change.
Try paper tape.
Try smaller boxes.
Try fewer extras.
Start small.
Grow slow.
Track your results.
Why Does a Packaging Waste Audit Matter?
A simple audit turns packaging from a hidden expense into a tool for savings and sustainability.
Audits help you see what’s working, and what’s not.
Use this simple plan to waste less and save more.
Ready to cut waste and costs? Contact Direct Source Procurement today for eco packaging that fits your business.
FAQs
Q1. How often should businesses audit their packaging waste?
At least once a year, or quarterly if you ship high volumes.
Q2. What’s the biggest source of packaging waste?
Oversized boxes, fillers, and non-recyclable plastics are the most common culprits.
Q3. What is the easiest first swap for eco-friendly packaging?
Switching from plastic tape to paper tape or reducing filler is a low-cost, high-impact change.
Q4. How can audits save money as well as waste?
By right-sizing boxes, reducing materials, and cutting extras, you buy less packaging and lower shipping costs.
