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Reusable value for parcel logistics

The project relies on reusable transport containers instead of (disposable) cardboard packaging for affordable, effective and versatile use in the CEP sector (courier, express, parcel).

Digitally supported processes and services are developed to improve the sustainability of the overall system in the economic, ecological and social dimensions.

Funding: FFG – Circular economy
Project period: 01.11.2022 to 31.10.2024
Project duration: 24 months
Project coordination: AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH

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Project Description

ReKEP relies on reusable transport containers instead of (disposable) cardboard packaging. These should be affordable, effective and versatile for use in the CEP sector (courier, express, parcel). The basic technology is a plug-in system of mutually compatible transport boxes that fit into a predefined grid and can be efficiently bundled and unbundled. The delivery process is accelerated by the bundling on the one hand and simplified by the pick-by-light technology on the other.

The project focuses on economic, ecological and social sustainability. The logistics processes involved will be examined and adjustments suggested. The transformation from the status quo to the vision is considered and the sustainability of the new system is ensured throughout the entire transformation.

Project Goal

Digitally supported processes and services are developed to improve the sustainability of the overall system in the economic, ecological and social dimensions.

ReKEP contributes to making e-commerce sustainable from a transport and packaging perspective and to significantly reducing the resources consumed in this area.

Publications/Presentations

Replacing Cardboard-Based Boxes with a Circular Economy Solution in Austria

A Framework for Stakeholder Assessment and Impact Evaluation of Social, Ecological and Economic Factors
Authors: Kruse, N., Riegler, M., Schneikart, G., Mayrhofer, W.
Year of publication: 2025

Chapter in “Circular Economy in Sustainable Supply Chains”
Publisher:  Fröhlich, E., Steinbiß, K., Schmiedeknecht, M. H., Loza Adaui, C. R.
Contribution in anthology/conference proceedings (full paper)

Requirements for the Transformation towards Returnable Transport Item-Enabled Circular Economies in the Austrian Parcel Industry

Authors: Schneikart, G., Löffler, C., Brandner, M., Pfoser, S., Mayrhofer, W.,
Year of publication: 2024

Tehnicki glasnik/Technical Journal
Article in scientific journal (peer reviewed)

MOTSP 2024 – 15th International Scientific Conference Management of Technology – Step to Sustainable Production
Speaker: Schneikart, G.
Presentation at scientific conference

Verpackungen & Kunststoffe - Kreislaufwirtschaftssysteme mittels digitaler Mehrwegboxenlösungen

Speaker: Schneikart, G.
Year of publication: 2024

Expert Talks 2024 Circular Economy
Presentation at practice oriented event

Project Partner

This project is funded by FFG. The FFG is the central national funding organization and strengthens Austria’s innovative power.

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AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH FH ÖO F&E GmbH – Logistikum Steyr BOOXit OG
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CompUnity GmbH Afreshed GmbH i-LOG Integrated Logistics GmbH