How is Exotec revolutionising order packaging?

Optimising logistics flows and processes is essential if we are to remain competitive. The problem of packing orders is an integral part of these optimisations. That’s why the Skypod Next Gen radically transforms the way your warehouse can manage the packaging of orders before they are dispatched.

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One of the major challenges facing a warehouse is the preparation of packaging, in order to optimise the filling of parcels and to transport as little air as possible in the lorries, thereby reducing the operational costs associated with transport.

Carton erectors of the right size exist, but integrating them into the order flow of a traditional ASRS system remains a challenge in the majority of warehouses that have chosen to use them.

Traditionally, picking items into cartons of the correct size is an operation that hinders the flexibility of the ASRS, or adds extra steps.

A common way of doing this is to prepare the orders in uniform intermediate bins, and then pair them with the made-to-measure carton at a later stage.

Otherwise, order-picking times can become much longer when operators have to wait for boxes and products to arrive, creating potential bottlenecks that reduce the overall efficiency of the system.

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The buffer integrated into our new-generation Skypod system plays a central role in providing you with the perfect pack. It enables empty cartons to be temporarily stored until the robots bring the corresponding products to the operators at the same time as the appropriate packaging.

This simple but powerful principle optimises the workflow: the pre-prepared cartons wait for the right moment to arrive at the picking stations, and the operator concentrates solely on the contents of the order.

In this way, the various preparation stages can each be carried out at their own pace, in complete independence. An order can therefore remain in the system and be processed in several stages, depending on product availability and current constraints, such as a more urgent peak in orders.

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Optimizing packaging for an order generates economic benefits. It reduces transport costs as less unnecessary volume allows more products to be loaded per truck.

It’s also an environmental advantage, using less material for packaging orders.

It also helps to reduce the carbon footprint by reducing the number of lorries on the road for the same volume of goods. Significant operational savings!

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By integrating picking and packing into an all-in-one system, with flexibility, we eliminate the need for additional equipments for order preparation.

Our integrated buffer, capable of storing multiple types and sizes of packaging, perfectly adapts to the specific needs of each order. This not only delivers significant operational savings but also reduces the carbon footprint of your operations by optimizing transportation.