One of the best things to happen for businesses is the use of automation. With the right tools, it’s possible to automate many different parts of a business, helping to streamline processes, reduce errors, and improve service to customers. Automated sortation, particularly in the warehouse, can be a wonderful addition to just about any company that has to deal with stock and that needs a solid logistical solution.
Benefits of Using Automation Sortation
One of the reasons that this type of tool is becoming more popular today is that it’s now more affordable than it once was. In the past, it was typically large companies that would be capable of affording the solutions. This was, in part, because the technology used to achieve automation was not as refined or compact as it is today. Companies that might have been waiting to get on board with an option like automated sortation will find that they have great options readily available today.
Automation will also help increase uptime in the facility. Rather than relying on sortation tasks being done by people, it can be handled by the machines. Fewer people will be needed to operate the machines, and the machines can work around the clock. The machines will not need to call out sick or have time off. Whether it’s processing returns or helping to sort inventory that is coming into the facility, it will be far more efficient with automated sortation.
One of the other issues that often happens during sortation is errors. Even though the people employed at the company do their best, they are still human. This means that they can make errors that will slow things down, cause products to be shelved incorrectly, or for items to be sent to the wrong customers. With automated sortation, these types of errors are virtually eliminated.
There are plenty of options today, including customizable options, for automated sortation tools. Options are available that can work with all manner of products regardless of their shape or size. The machines use a small amount of energy, they are not noisy, and there are possibilities available for any type of industry and companies of any size.
How Can Automated Sortation Be Used?
Consider some of the ways that these tools could be used to help a business. One of the best options is to help sort and calculate inventory when sales are made. They will help to make inventory management more efficient and checking and restocking will be far easier. It will ensure that the team always knows what products are available and when new ones need to be ordered or stocked.
Automation can make shipping and receiving much easier. Consider how many times items need to be sorted for picking, packing, and shipping. Automated sortation is one of the best ways for companies to improve their warehousing and logistics performance. Instead of taking all of that time, energy, and money to handle the sorting manually, these tools will help to make sure that the processes are streamlined.
They can work well for more than just warehousing and logistics. The systems are also helpful for retail and e-commerce fulfillment, redistribution, reverse logistics, and more. Everyone will find ways that these tools can help their business.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Automated Sortation Tool
When choosing a tool for automated sortation, it’s important to think about the current and potential future needs of the business. Although a company might be relatively small today, it could be larger in a few years. It’s important to choose a solution that can scale with the company, which can provide a more sustainable solution.
One of the other things that some companies might want to consider is customization. Not all automated logistics solutions will provide customization, though, so it’s important to be careful when making a choice.
The cost of the tools and implementation will be important, as well. However, those who are choosing this technology should look at it as an investment and not just an expense. With all of the benefits that it can provide for the business going forward, it’s well worth adding it to the setup.
Different companies will have different needs, naturally. Therefore, it’s important to work with a provider that can provide solutions that are suited perfectly to those individual needs. Find a provider that offers everything the business needs to elevate its effectiveness and productivity.
Other Types of Automated Tools to Consider
While automated sortation is one of the most important elements to add to improve logistics and the efficiency of the business, there are other tools to consider, as well. They can often integrate with the sortation tools, to help make the process even better. Let’s look at some of these options.
A dimension weigh and scan system can determine the size and dimensions of packages and items, weigh them, read barcodes, and more. This will reduce errors, and ensure accurate weights and shipping costs.
Automated scanning tools will help to ensure packages are quickly and accurately identified, and it can eliminate the need for manual scanning. This improves speed and reduces potential errors that could otherwise occur. This is a modular solution that can be implemented just about anywhere.
One of the other tools to consider is the label print and apply system. Printing is one of the areas where companies often struggle because they may not have the right tools for the job. It can also take a lot of time to do manually. Using an automated solution that’s integrated with the other solutions can help, although it’s also possible to find standalone options if needed. Providers can offer barcode reads, label media management, printer heads, data management software, and applicators. This will ensure that the correct labels are printed and that they are applied properly.
With all of the benefits that automated sortation and other tools can offer, it’s time for businesses to consider making some changes in their company. A little automation can go a long way in efficiency and accuracy, which is essential for any business that wants to thrive in today’s competitive world.
