intralogistics

From the perspective of a warehouse CEO or executive, the importance of streamlining operations via intralogistics automation to create an efficient distribution centre cannot be overstated. Warehousing firms are always looking for ways to improve productivity and meet customer demand using means such as business process integration. Automation is one tool that can help to achieve those goals, but it may be unclear exactly how the intralogistics process can be improved by adding automated solutions. Intralogistics automation refers to the use of automated systems and technologies within a warehouse or distribution centre to improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety of processes like pipe fabrication. In this blog post, we will look at why intralogistics automation matters to warehouses, and steps to get started with facility automation.

Benefits of Intralogistics Automation

One of the main benefits of intralogistics automation is increased productivity. Automated systems can work faster and more accurately than human workers, which can lead to a significant increase in the amount of goods that can be processed in each time period. Additionally, automated systems can also reduce the number of errors that occur during the picking and packing process, which can lead to a reduction in the number of returns or customer complaints. Another benefit of intralogistics automation is improved protection from safety hazards in metal fabrication. Automated systems can reduce the need for human workers to perform dangerous tasks, such as climbing ladders or operating heavy machinery. Additionally, the use of automated systems can also reduce the risk of injuries caused by repetitive motions, such as picking and packing. Automated systems can also improve the accuracy of inventory tracking. It can help to ensure that the correct products are picked and packed, and that inventory levels are accurate. This can help to reduce the number of stockouts and overstocking of items such as pressure vessels, which can lead to cost savings.

Steps To Get Started

1. Evaluate facility’s suitability for automation

Before jumping into automating material handling equipment, assessing the facility’s readiness is essential. Intralogistics automation works best in multi-shift workplaces because the schedule leads to a faster return on investment. Facilities larger than 200,000 square feet will see a more rapid payback than smaller installations. Because the distances are longer in a larger plant, the time-savings of decentralised automation are more significant. The optimal performance of automated forklifts, tuggers, and pallet jacks requires Wi-Fi and a Warehouse Management System.

2. Consider material transportation workflows

It is necessary to focus on workflows that have well-established automation practices. Case studies and success stories from similar industries are valuable resources and provide insight into the workflows that are easiest to automate and yield the most rapid results.

3. Reach out to vendors who have relevant experience

Intralogistics automation has many moving parts, and it makes sense to take advantage of other people’s knowledge and experience in this area. Look for vendors that have the specific know-how to help an organization with a proven track record of quantifiable results.

4. Identify the best use cases

Warehouse owners need to look for applications that represent easy gains and that are scalable. It is better to start with an intralogistics solution in one location and let it prove itself. With the concept thus demonstrated, it can be easily implemented in other locations and large rewards can be reaped. Vendors can help to determine areas that represent easy successes and they can also assist with calculating the return on investment.

The Last Word

History has shown repeatedly: technology creates far more jobs than it displaces. Other studies show companies that invest in robotic automation grow faster than companies that do not. Thus the time is ripe for warehouse owners to dive into the world of automation and transform their intralogistics operations!