Adapting to Evolving Material Handling Needs in Intralogistics

The landscape of intralogistics is rapidly changing, driven by shifts in consumer behaviors and the growing trend of purchasing larger, heavier, and irregularly shaped items online. Handling these unconventional items—known as non-conveyables—presents unique challenges in sorting and distribution processes.

The primary challenges include the necessity for manual handling due to the size and weight of these items, which increases labor costs and elevates the risk of workplace injuries. This manual intervention often leads to higher incidences of strains and accidents, impacting productivity and adding to costs related to health and safety measures.

The inefficiency of traditional automated systems in handling non-standard items leads to bottlenecks and delays, further complicating the overall flow of operations. These larger items not only demand more storage space but also necessitate a reevaluation of warehouse layouts and organizational practices to ensure efficient space utilization and operational continuity.

Another significant hurdle is the increased risk of damage to these irregular packages. During the handling and transit of these non-standard items, there are challenges in maintaining the integrity of both the packages and the infrastructure used to move them, such as conveyors and sorting equipment.

In response, advancements in automation technology have been transformative. Systems like the GENI-Flex? Modular Solution Irregular Sorter have been introduced to accommodate various package sizes and shapes, significantly reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing operational efficiency. These systems feature modular designs for quick adjustments, dynamic routing, and sorting capabilities, and incorporate sensor integration and data analytics to optimize handling processes and prevent jams.

The modular scalability of these systems allows facilities to expand as their needs grow without significant downtime or reconfiguration, ensuring a future-proof approach to handling the demands of modern logistics operations.

For facilities transitioning from manual handling to automated systems, a phased implementation approach is recommended to minimize disruption and allow staff to adapt incrementally. Running pilot programs to refine processes before full-scale implementation, engaging with experienced vendors for tailored solutions, and ensuring comprehensive staff training are crucial steps in fostering a supportive transition environment.

As intralogistics operations continue to evolve, tracking metrics such as throughput, accuracy rates, labor costs, and return on investment (ROI) will be crucial in measuring the success of automation investments.

Looking ahead, future trends in intralogistics automation are expected to include increased integration of AI and machine learning, more widespread use of collaborative robots (cobots), enhanced real-time monitoring through IoT devices, and a focus on sustainability and AR technologies to improve training and operational efficiency. These developments promise to revolutionize the field further, making it essential for companies to stay informed and adaptable to maintain competitive advantage.

?About us:

Fives is a leading Intralogistics solutions provider dedicated to optimizing warehouse and supply chain operations. With years of experience and a passion for innovation, we help businesses streamline their processes, boost efficiency, and enhance their overall performance. Welcome to our newsletter, where we delve into the dynamic world of warehouse management, supply chain optimization, and cutting-edge technology that powers seamless operations.

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