Fig. 20 shows a product ready for packaging and dispatch to a retail store. The item shown is commonly used in design and technology projects. It has been d...
Question 1 Report
Fig. 20 shows a product ready for packaging and dispatch to a retail store. The item shown is commonly used in design and technology projects. It has been designed and manufactured to meet specific requirements. The choice of materials and construction methods affects the quality of the finished product.
The sides are smooth. It can be used on its own. It is safe to use. The top is flat.
(a) Explain the purpose of the foam insert inside the packaging. [1]
(b) State two items of printed information that should appear on the outside of the packaging. [2]
(c) Explain why the manufacturer uses a barcode label on the packaging. [2]
Answer Details
(a) Purpose of the foam insert: [1]
The foam insert protects the product from damage during transit by absorbing shocks, impacts, and vibrations. It is shaped to match the contours of the product, holding it securely in place and preventing it from moving around inside the box. Without the insert, the product could collide with the sides of the box during handling and transportation, causing scratches, dents, or breakage.
(b) Two items of printed information on the outside of the packaging: [2]
- Product name and brand name: Identifies the contents for retailers and customers, supporting point-of-sale display and brand recognition. [1]
- Handling instructions such as "Fragile", "This way up", or "Keep dry": Informs handlers how to treat the package during transit and storage to prevent damage. [1]
Other acceptable answers include: weight or dimensions; recycling symbols or material identification codes; country of origin; manufacturer contact details; contents list or product image; safety warnings; CE marking or other compliance symbols.
(c) Why the manufacturer uses a barcode label: [2]
A barcode allows the product to be scanned electronically for stock control and tracking through the supply chain. Each scan records the product's location, movement, and quantity in a database, enabling the manufacturer, distributor, and retailer to monitor inventory levels, reorder stock when needed, and trace individual items. [1]
At the point of sale, scanning the barcode speeds up the checkout process and reduces human error. The price and product details are retrieved automatically from the system, eliminating the need for manual entry and reducing the risk of incorrect pricing or misidentification. [1]
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
