Cape Pack 16 from Esko, the unique industry standard in palletization software, has been redesigned from the ground up to offer cloud-based functionality in a SaaS/subscription model and features an entirely new database structure. Highlights include improved ease of use, cloud-based data storage, enhanced graphically rich reporting capability and brand-new tools supporting deeper collaboration. With Cape Pack 16, users can quickly share critical up-to-the-minute information with colleagues around the corner or around the globe to speed up design and approval processes, cutting cycle times and delivering faster time to market.

Kim Karl, Esko’s Cape Product Manager, explains, “Cape Pack has been helping operations build the most efficient carton and pallet designs since 1994, with more than 10,000 installs serving more than 30,000 users. Now it is even easier to use. We have added functionality based on customer feedback to improve productivity in the palletization process. It is a graphically rich multilingual solution that takes advantage of Esko’s graphics technology and is backed by Esko’s market-leading worldwide sales and support organization for peace of mind.”

Cape Pack users report the solution can save an average of 10% of the packaging, palletizing, storage and shipment costs for each product evaluated or designed. In addition, efficient palletization means fewer trucks on the road, less CO² emissions, and fuel savings with fewer miles driven. As a result of all of this, the solution has paid for itself in days, or even hours, in many companies.

Karl points out that Cape Pack 16 retains the same look and feel as the desktop version of Cape Pack but with a new cloud-capable interface that makes it easy to find what is needed. She adds, “This makes the transition for users simple and delivers a fast learning curve for new users, with minimal training required. Plus, the new database structure gives users access to the latest internal palletization facts and figures.”

In Cape Pack 16, it is easier than ever before to upload designs for folding cartons, cases and pallets. The system supports cartons, cylinders and trapezoids as well as trays and bundles, while new fields and search and sort functions aid usability. New box formatting, multi-stack formatting for pallet loads, the ability to switch between metric and imperial measurements and the ability to share PDFs add significant value to the palletization process.

Karl adds, “In this transition from desktop to cloud, we have paid attention to making it user friendly and easy to learn across the many industries we support. Initial reaction from early users has been enthusiastic. They report it is clean and easy to use, they love it, and they agree that Cape Pack 16 meets all of our goals and makes their job easier.”

Cape Pack 16 is available in a monthly or yearly subscription that moves it from a capital to an operating expense, important for many organizations. Cloud features are also available now and support mobile use on iOS and Android. Trial versions can be found online at store.esko.com.