The Loop tote

Loop, the first-ever global shopping platform that partners with brands and retailers to offer goods in durable packaging, aims to change the way the world shops. Everyday essentials, from ice cream to laundry detergent, are available in refillable containers on the Loop website and delivered in the Loop tote, a reusable, recyclable and returnable shipping container. Loop’s delivery system eliminates disposable, single-use shipping materials such as cardboard boxes, bubble-wrap and ice packs.

Developed by Loop’s in-house design team, the Loop tote transports food, personal care and household items sold on the Loop platform. The tote is made from materials including polyester, nylon, HDPE/EVE and polypropylene which once separated, are recyclable. All parts of the tote can be separated for cleaning, repair or replacement. Loop recycles all totes at their end of life and the recycled material is then used to create future shipping totes.

The compartments of the tote are made of flexible foam that can be reconfigured to cradle any type of item. The tote is collapsible by removing internal compartments, including the inner foam divider and base support panel and pressing and folding the tote at the sides. This allows the tote to easily fold and fit into kitchen cupboards and cabinets. There is a handle on each side of the tote so it can be easily carried even when full.

Loop’s research and development team worked with Häagen-Dazs to develop a cooling chamber with eutectic plates. The chamber can be configured in various ways to keep products frozen for long periods of time in the event the tote is left out on a porch, eliminating the need for dry ice.

Loop worked with UPS to develop the tote, conducting rigorous testing to ensure it can withstand being shipped and returned many times. After three reuses, the Loop tote out-performs a cardboard box of comparable size (internal dimensions 15"x14.5"x18") in environmental impact. The Loop tote is a durable solution that, as Loop scales, will reduce the environmental impact of online retail.