Lucy Pilgrim is an in-house writer for Supply Chain Outlook Magazine, where she is responsible for interviewing corporate executives and crafting original features for the magazine,...
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FedEx Corp. has collaborated with Returnity to launch a new reusable box solution that aims to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and lower environmental impact across business-to-business supply chains.
FedEx Corp. (FedEx) has introduced a reusable packaging solution for business-to-business (B2B) shippers, developed in collaboration with circular logistics company Returnity.
The initiative provides a FedEx-branded box designed to replace traditional corrugated packaging within supply chains. Notably, businesses can adopt the solution without incurring the additional handling fees often associated with non-standard packaging formats.
The reusable boxes have been engineered to integrate smoothly into existing logistics operations. Durable and collapsible, they are compatible with automated systems and suited to closed-loop supply chains.
This makes them particularly effective for predictable shipping routes, including store replenishment, reverse logistics, and internal distribution networks, where packaging can be consistently recovered and reused.
Each unit is capable of completing up to 50 shipping cycles and can carry loads of up to 50 pounds, offering a practical and long-term alternative to single-use materials.
“In collaboration with Returnity, we have created the first scalable, reusable box solution for B2B customers, which is especially useful for our soft-goods shippers,” says Neil Gibson, Senior Vice President of Global Customer Experience for FedEx.
Neil Gibson, Senior Vice President of Global Customer Experience, FedEx.
“By pairing Returnity’s durable, easy-to-integrate packaging with our global network, we’re helping retailers unlock meaningful cost savings while reducing environmental impact, all without sacrificing speed or reliability. This new solution supports our vision to make supply chains smarter for everyone.”
COST AND SUSTAINABILITY BENEFITS
FedEx indicates that the solution can deliver measurable financial and environmental advantages. Packaging costs may be reduced by up to 30 percent per cycle, while carbon emissions could decrease by between 64 percent and 88 percent compared to traditional corrugated boxes under typical conditions.
These efficiencies position the reusable system as a viable option for companies seeking to balance operational performance with sustainability targets.
“FedEx made reuse make sense by building the business case, doing the work, and creating a model for how circular logistics can succeed at scale,” comments Mike Newman, CEO of Returnity.
REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS
The solution has already been piloted with B2B customers across North America, with participants reporting a range of operational improvements.
Benefits include faster unpacking and restocking processes, enhanced labor efficiency, improved organization within storage areas, and a reduction in product damage during transit.
Currently available to customers in the US, FedEx plans to expand the reusable packaging solution into additional international markets, including Australia and Europe, in the future.
This article was produced by the editorial team at Supply Chain Outlook and published as part of the Outlook Publishing global network of B2B industry magazines.
Outlook Publishing delivers industry insights, company stories, and sector coverage across supply chains, manufacturing, mining, construction, healthcare, food production, and sustainability.
Supply Chain Outlook provides ongoing coverage of organisations and developments shaping the global logistics and supply chain sector.
Lucy Pilgrim is an in-house writer for Supply Chain Outlook Magazine, where she is responsible for interviewing corporate executives and crafting original features for the magazine, corporate brochures, and the digital platform.
