Vanderlande is finalising new deals for automating warehouses with its FASTPICK goods-to-person and ADAPTO solutions, as detailed by Sales Director Roald de Groot and Sales Manager Katie Budd.
Since arriving in Australia in 2012, Vanderlande has brought its specialist knowledge in logistics process automation across warehousing, airports, and parcel sectors to the fore.
The Netherlands-based company’s portfolio including innovative systems, intelligent software, and life-cycle services ensures fast, reliable, and efficient automation technology for numerous Australian customers.
Its warehousing solutions are used by many top global e-commerce and retail brands in food, fashion, and general merchandise, supporting same-day delivery for billions of orders, with nine of the 15 largest global food retailers depending on its solutions.
HELPING WITH FIRST- TIME AUTOMATION
When a business grows above a certain threshold, there are various benefits to introducing automation and moving away from a wholly manual operation – increasing efficiency being among the most notable.
“It’s a big step to introduce complex automation into a warehouse for the first time. This is particularly true when you operate in a segment that is not familiar with automated solutions,” says Roald de Groot, Sales Director of Vanderlande Australia.
“From the cost of the investment through to selecting and installing the right solution, there are many factors to consider. By forging solid relationships, we provide support throughout the entire decision-making process and beyond.”
So, what’s involved in making that initial step? Good planning and setting realistic goals are important when introducing any automated process. According to the company’s Sales Manager Katie Budd, the following question should also be considered – “What is the dot on the horizon that I want to reach?”
It’s a challenge to think about tomorrow’s needs based on what is happening in a warehouse today, according to Katie. However, it’s important to assess the size and scope of the automated solution required.
“This may seem daunting, but at Vanderlande we have the experience and expertise to start the journey towards logistic automation,” says Roald.
“Over the years, we have dealt with many different companies. These range from those presenting us with all the relevant information as a sound base for automation to those with no idea of how to begin the process.”
Beyond supplying technology, Vanderlande supports customers from the outset of the automation process by collecting and analysing data to help make informed decisions based on current and future needs. Additionally, the company provides workshops that evaluate all aspects of automation, including layout,
IT software and hardware, project management, and service.
A SOLUTION BASED ON NEEDS, NOT TECHNOLOGY
When selecting warehouse equipment, the best choice may not always align with a customer’s initial preferences. While a piece of equipment might excel in its specific function, its integration into the overall operational design is crucial.
A more cost-efficient sorter, for instance, can often meet needs as effectively as a more expensive
option. Vanderlande’s warehousing team emphasises the importance of thoroughly evaluating options and carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages of different technologies.
“We listen closely to what each customer needs when they choose our technology to help realise their expansion plans,” says Roald.
“For the highest throughput and storage density, we usually recommend FASTPICK, our goods-to-person (GtP) order fulfilment system. This solution is designed to achieve greater speed and efficiency and support continuous operations with less dependency on labour.”
SMART AS/RS FOR DEMANDING OPERATIONS
FASTPICK integrates with the ADAPTO automated storage and retrieval system – AS/RS, which features shuttles capable of accessing thousands of product locations across multiple levels and aisles.
This system efficiently handles thousands of orders daily. Additionally, its manual GtP workstations, including those for decanting, are height- adjustable to minimise lifting duties for operators.
“FASTPICK offers the flexibility and sophistication required to handle an extensive range of products and deliver orders as quickly as possible,” says Katie.
FASTPICK offers the flexibility and sophistication required to handle an extensive range of products
“Our intelligent AS/RS possesses sorting and sequencing capabilities, routing individual items straight to picking. That way, our customers can get the most out of their integrated warehouse operations. And thanks
to its modular construction, ADAPTO can be easily expanded to add more shuttles and robots for even higher throughput rates.”
Vanderlande’s digital suite of software services powers FASTPICK, ensuring gentle handling of items throughout the process, making it ideal for warehouses with fragile and high-value products, like bottles of perfume.
FASTPICK is an effective and scalable solution for those new to warehouse automation. For instance, Vanderlande recently implemented the system
for a company specialising in beauty products and has a strong track record with businesses that sell parts and components.
CROSSDOCK SORT SOLUTIONS
XDOCK is a solution for warehouse operators transitioning from manual to automated logistics, optimising stockless operations and seamlessly integrating with Vanderlande’s ergonomically designed infeed stations. Vanderlande also offers
a range of sorter types within its product portfolio.
“Our customers enjoy reduced delivery times as they ship directly products to stores on demand unlocking unprecedented efficiency and customer satisfaction”, says Katie.
A RANGE OF LIFE- CYCLE SERVICES
Vanderlande is prepared to support throughout the operational phase, offering services such as on-site maintenance teams and training for in-house engineers. Additionally,
its life-cycle services include a 24/7 service desk, a spare parts webshop, and IT monitoring to ensure systems operate at peak performance.
“Beyond installation, our goal is always to look forward and forge long- term partnerships with companies that select our solutions,” says Roald.
“That’s why support doesn’t end when a system is handed over.”
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