Optimization of the overseas packaging process in the automotive sector. The FCA case

The packaging process is a relevant point within a supply chain as it is influenced many activities like the saturation of the transport, the protection of the items and the handling of the objects. This work of thesis, it was developed at the FCA company and a description of the packaging process used by the company was provided. The purpose of research it was to analyse the use of returnable packaging (metal or plastic) for the overseas transport in substitution of disposable packaging (wooden and cardboard) both for standard dimension packaging also for a specific item packaging. Another objective of the thesis is to describe the advantages and the problems that arise in implementing a returnable packaging for overseas customers with long distances and lead times.