Efficiency on the Move: Conveyors are Elevating Safety and Productivity in Warehouses

India’s warehousing sector is growing on the back of booming e-commerce and a spurt in manufacturing. According to IMARC, the Indian warehouse market size reached INR 1,378.7 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow significantly, reaching 3,107.5 billion by 2032. But alongside growth, we need to have a plan for critical modern-day concerns like space, efficiency, and safety. To boost capacity utilisation, accelerate order cycles, and increase pick rates, companies are increasingly investing in technology that not only meets these targets but also drives overall efficiency, growth, and safety in warehouses. One such innovative solution is automation via conveyors. These systems not only enhance efficiency and productivity but also significantly improve safety standards within warehouses.

Conveyor systems have transformed how goods are handled, sorted, and transported inside facilities. In some cases, a 50% increase in productivity has been observed by using the right conveyor system. They further contribute to reducing human error and enhancing quality control in warehouse operations.

Understanding conveyor systems

Conveyor systems are not a one-size-fits-all solution and can be tailored to specific operational needs to handle a wide variety of products, such as packages, pallets, plastic bins, totes, bags, pouches, cartons, and trays. A variety of conveyor solutions are available, each suited to different settings and applications.

• Roller Conveyors work best in warehouses and manufacturing plants for heavy-duty transport and sorting
• Flat Belt Conveyors are ideal for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, supporting assembly lines and inspection processes
• Powered Spirals (Vertical Conveyors) optimise space in multi-level facilities, enhancing order picking and vertical transport efficiency

Improving operational efficiency

Conveyor systems are a good investment, potentially bringing a wide range of benefits to businesses and industries and contributing to their success.?

• Automated movement: By automating material flow, conveyor systems reduce manual handling, minimise errors, and boost productivity, enabling workers to focus on higher-value tasks
• Optimised layout and design: Businesses can optimise their warehouse layout to improve operational performance?
• Energy efficiency: Modern conveyor systems can be designed to operate only specific sections as needed, reducing energy consumption and operational costs
• Space utilisation: It can help maximise the use of available space, including overhead areas, allowing for more efficient use of floor space for other tasks

Enhancing overall safety

As the industry expands to meet the demands of e-commerce and manufacturing growth, addressing these safety concerns becomes crucial. Conveyor systems are designed with safety as a top priority. Minimising manual handling and incorporating advanced safety mechanisms make for a safer working environment.?

• Reduced manual handling: Conveyor systems help reduce the need for manual lifting and handling, which are common causes of workplace injuries
• Safety features: Modern conveyor systems come equipped with emergency stop controls, guardrails, and safety sensors preventing health hazards, or safety compromises?
• Ergonomic benefits: Conveyors promote ergonomic working conditions by reducing the physical strain on workers. This decreases the likelihood of mistakes and injuries, leading to a safer and more comfortable work environment

At Godrej, we adhere to all global design codes and hold certifications such as AS, EN, RMI, FEM, and EN/SEMA, ensuring top-tier quality and compliance. Our conveyor solutions and offerings are designed and manufactured to help companies invest in smarter, safer, and more efficient warehouse systems – thereby delivering a more productive business environment for our customers.

As the nation advances toward Industry 4.0, systems like conveyors will play a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and safety, making them indispensable to future growth.