DISCS™

An industry leading testing process for packaging that creates high-performing e-commerce packaging solutions

An industry first, DISCS™ tests whether your packaging can survive the average e-commerce supply chain. Online orders sometimes need to survive up to 50 touch points, so packaging must be durable but also sustainable.

Named after the types of testing (Drop, Impact, Shock, Crush, Shake), the patented system consists of five pieces of equipment, each replicating a part of the product journey and therefore providing real world testing.

DS Smith has been pioneering and refining DISCS™ confidentially over the last year in the UK. The engineers used insight from customers and the logistics industry to design tests which accurately replicate the stresses and strains of the ecommerce supply chain.

Finding the balance between protecting packaging and limiting the amount of materials used is a constant source of concern for retailers. Likewise, shoppers do not want to receive broken goods or have to deal with excess packaging. Our new DISCS™ technology enables us to scientifically assess our customers’ requirements and get this balance right. — Isabel Rocher, Head of e-commerce solutions

There are three test levels for customers to choose from, depending on whether a package is delivered straight to customer first time, delivered and returned or delivered with three failed attempts and then returned. This final option can include up to 50 touchpoints, and replicates the most severe damage a pack can receive.

An initial three testing suites are planned, based in the UK, France and Germany.