Trundling of plastic crates and reused corrugated boxes for carabao mangoes as transport packaging in RORO vessels from Guimaras to Iloilo and Passi City

Abstract

This study aimed to compare and evaluate the more appropriate container between plastic crates and reused corrugated boxes to investigate the deterioration of carabao mangoes during sea and land-based transport handling after experiencing impact damage, compression, and abrasion present in the distribution environment. It also intended to conduct a cost analysis to determine which of the two packaging options is the more economical to use. In order to carry out this study, engineering development tests including compression tests, vibration tests, and drop tests were conducted. The results of compression and drop tests were in favor of plastic crates, and with the vibration test there was no visible damage to the two packaging materials. For the trundling test, the conduct resulted in plastic crates being a better choice compared to reused corrugated boxes. Viewing the results, it would seem that plastic crates would be the better packaging to transport mangoes via land and sea. According to the cost analysis, the reused corrugated boxes are far more inexpensive in comparison to plastic crates. However, plastic crates were the most cost-effective packaging material for mango transportation in the long run. After the conduct of the engineering development test and trundling test, as well as the cost analysis, reused corrugated boxes proved to be a great alternative for economical and short-term uses.