Falcon Autotech shares what it has done to transform Aramex, the global logistics company’s Sydney-based facility, and how the partnership has helped deliver optimal results.
In an era where logistics and parcel delivery services are the backbone of e-commerce, the efficiency and accuracy of sorting systems can make or break a business.
Aramex, a global logistics powerhouse, understood this necessity and turned to an old partner with a proven track record: Falcon Autotech.
Their latest collaboration at Aramex’s Sydney facility showcases the remarkable strides that can be achieved when innovation meets operational excellence.
A strategic partnership
The relationship between Aramex and Falcon Autotech is not new. Their partnership spans several successful installations of warehouse automation systems across various regions. However, the Sydney project was different.
As Sawyer from Aramex explains, “Although Falcon didn’t have a presence in Australia at the time, it was opportunistic that we were able to work with a familiar partner. Their proven success, competitive pricing, and post-implementation support were the determining factors for selecting Falcon.”
This collaboration was particularly significant because the Sydney branch is the largest in the Aramex network globally.
Designing the future
The Sydney facility required a more extensive and complex system than Falcon had previously provided for Aramex.
Chris from Falcon Autotech recalls, “Throughout the design and development stages, it was evident the relationship was going from strength to strength as Aramex requirements were unique and the system far larger and much more complex than what Falcon had been required to deliver for Aramex in the past.”
The design and planning phases were meticulous. Falcon Autotech’s commitment to efficiency was evident in the detailed planning of the international freight task and installation program.
They developed a comprehensive plan for container and crate unloads, as well as storage locations within the facility to minimise movement and maximise optimisation.
Technical marvel
The heart of the system is Falcon Autotech’s advanced sortation technology, featuring the FOCR (Fixed Optical Character Recognition) technology, a first for Australia. The sorter operates in two modes: normal and peak. In normal mode, it handles the daily flow of parcels with high precision, ensuring accurate and efficient sorting. During peak periods, the sorter ramps up its capabilities to manage increased volumes without compromising on accuracy or speed.
The technical specifications of the sorter are impressive. It can handle a wide variety of parcels, from small packages to large boxes, ensuring that Aramex can efficiently process the diverse range of items it handles daily. The FOCR technology enhances data accuracy, reducing parcel rejections due to inferior data labels and improving overall efficiency.
Seamless implementation
The implementation phase was a testament to the collaborative spirit between Aramex and Falcon Autotech. “Throughout the installation, daily and weekly planning and progress meetings were conducted,” says Sawyer. Despite the inevitable challenges that arise in such a massive project, both teams met these hurdles with decisiveness and a collaborative gusto to ensure they met the Go Live date.
When the system was first activated, it was a moment of immense relief and satisfaction. The hard work and dedication had paid off. Sawyer reflects, “Starting and operating the system for the first time brought a big sigh of relief. My team worked tirelessly to ensure our master data was accurate and validated, ensuring our Go Live was not only successful on the implementation but also that the operation and efficiency would be attained immediately. It was!”
Operational excellence
Seven months into operation, the impact of the new system on Aramex’s business has surpassed expectations. Labour costs have been lower than anticipated, and parcel rejections have decreased significantly thanks to the FOCR technology.
The accuracy of sorting has improved, benefiting the 200 Courier Franchisees who can now spend 30-45 minutes less in the depot each afternoon. This efficiency allows them to reverse right up to the automation system and unload their parcels directly, rather than manually sorting them.
Sawyer highlights the ongoing success, “To date, the project has been a great success, and we continue to work closely with Chris and the team at Falcon Autotech on further enhancements and other opportunities within Aramex Australia.”
Looking ahead
The success of the Sydney facility is a testament to what can be achieved when two innovative companies collaborate with a shared vision.
Falcon Autotech’s cutting-edge technology, combined with Aramex’s commitment to operational excellence, has resulted in a state-of-the-art facility that sets new standards in the logistics industry.
As both companies continue to explore new opportunities, their partnership promises to deliver even greater innovations in the future.
To read more about Falcon Autotech, click here