Utilizing the AquTrac Software, Aqumix® has developed a proven process for managing returnable-refillable containers in the noncrop/speciality segment of the agrichemical industry. This process is applicable in other liquid handling markets as well. Conventional, one-way packaging supply chain management utilizes 10 steps, versus the Aqumix returnable-refillable packaging system, which uses 6 steps.
		Step 1: Manufacturer • Forecast volume requirements • Forecast volume requirement, in different package sizes • Determine inventory requirement, at different warehouse locations by geography Step 2: Bulk shipping • Bulk shipment from manufacturer to packager. Step 3: Packager • Fills one-way containers based on manufactures forecast • Containers are filled based on anticipated future orders in a particular package size Step 4: Truckload shipping • Truckload shipment of package goods to public warehousing Step 5: Public warehousing • Increases inventory cost Step 6: LTL Shipping • Less than truckload shipment of one-way containers to distributor Step 7: Distribution warehousing • Increased inventory cost to the distributor • Necessity of warehouse space Step 9: End-user • Utilizes one-way container • Must clean container for disposal • Can not close transfer material for reduced exposure for the worker Step 10: Landfill disposal • Increased liability for improper disposal • Implication of adverse environmental impact
		Step 1: Manufacturer • Forecast volume requirements in bulk Step 2: Shipping • Bulk shipment from manufacturer to Aqumix regional bulk facility Step 3: Aqumix Regional packaging facility for returnable-refillable containers • Bulk storage capability for manufacturer • On demand packaging eliminates package size and geographic forecasting for one-way containers. • • Both containers and products are tracked and managed through the • Reduced inventory cost • Reduced packaging cost through reusable containers Step 4: LTL shipping • Less than truckload shipment of returnable-refillable containers to distributor or direct to the end-user Step 5: End-user • Utilizes closed transfer equipment • Manages inventory with AquTrac software • No landfill disposal liability • No container cleaning requirement • Just-in-time inventory reduces inventory cost Step 6: Container is returned to regional facility • Aqumix picks up empty container for reuse • No landfill disposal required and no environmental impact.