First In First Out vs. Last In First Out: The Pros and Cons of Each Packing Solution

There are a range of different packing solutions to choose from, most of which can be classified as either FIFO or LIFO. There’s a lot of confusion as to whether a FIFO packing solution or a LIFO packing solution is better, and this largely depends on the type of packing you are doing. Here’s what you need to know:

Should You Choose FIFO or LIFO?

FIFO is an extremely popular packing solution and it’s one that a lot of businesses use. It was originally developed as a way to improve efficiency within the packing line, but there are a number of other benefits that come along with FIFO packing. FIFO stands for ‘first in first out’ and that’s exactly what it does; whatever is added to the packing line first, will be packaged first. It’s a very simple way to keep on top of what is being packed and in what order. This is a great advantage to busy packing lines where it isn’t always easy to organise and plan. With FIFO, everything is well organised and in a sequential order. Another benefit of FIFO is that it shortens production time considerably, something that’s important for any packing line that’s dealing with perishable items.

Though FIFO is popular, other businesses choose to work on a LIFO basis. LIFO stands for ‘last in first’ out and is the opposite of FIFO. Rather than prioritising the first products added into the packing line for packing, it prioritises whatever was added last. Though this doesn’t work well for food and drinks, among other perishable products, it does work well for other items that don’t have a strict use by or sell by date. The main benefit of using a LIFO packing solution is that it allows you to prioritise jobs and fastrack certain orders. For example, if something needed to be packed urgently, a ‘last in first out’ solution would be best; this is because the urgent job can overtake those that are less urgent.

Packing Solutions at Packserve

At Packserve, we are proud to offer a range of different packing solutions. Rather than simply focusing on one main way to package products, we ensure we’re able to cater to all of our customer’s needs. Whether you’re looking for FIFO or LIFO, we can help. All of the packing solutions at Packserve are high quality, state of the art and efficient. A successful packing line is one that works efficiently and productively, so this is never something we’re willing to compromise on. By creating solutions with the best machinery available, all of our customers are able to invest in packing solutions that will last well into the future.

If you’re looking for a FIFO or LIFO packing solution, we can help. Get in touch with Packserve today and speak to a member of the Packserve team; someone will be able to offer assistance with queries, questions and more. Contact us today on 01254 760 123 or via the online contact form.