Optimise warehouse efficiency with semi-automated solutions for enhanced pick and pack operations

Understanding pick and pack

What is it: the process of selecting and packaging products in a warehouse. This entails picking the right type and quantity of items from inventory and packing them for further distribution. To dive deeper into warehouse order picking strategies, check out our guide.

The challenge: pick and pack is typically one of the most time-consuming and costly processes in a warehouse.

The struggle of efficient pick and pack processes

The fast-paced nature of pick and pack tasks can be challenging for employees, often leading to burnout and high turnover rates. To combat this, warehouses are turning to semi-automated solutions like vacuum lifters to boost efficiency and reduce the strain on workers.

Key points:

• E-commerce Surge: The pandemic led to a significant increase in online shopping, necessitating efficient warehouse operations.
• Employee Strain: The fast-paced nature of pick and pack tasks has resulted in employee burnout and high turnover rates.
• Automated Solutions: Warehouses are adopting technologies such as vacuum lifters to improve efficiency and reduce physical strain on workers.

Addressing the physical strain of pick and pack

The manual approach to pick and pack operations presents several challenges, primarily due to the physical demands placed on workers. Employees are required to handle a wide range of packages, from heavy to lightweight, each requiring different handling techniques and exerting various levels of strain.

Ensuring efficient handling of diverse items while catering to their unique requirements poses a significant challenge for warehouse managers.

In light of these challenges, the shift towards automation and the adoption of ergonomic aids in warehouses not only seeks to boost operational efficiency but also aims to create a safer and more sustainable working environment for employees.

The role of automation in warehouse operations

Automation, particularly vacuum lifting technology, has emerged as a key solution to enhance pick and pack operations. While integrating robotics might seem daunting, a semi-automated solution like a mobile vacuum lifter provide long-term benefits.

Vacuum lifters combine machines with human operators. This collaboration brings advantages to pick and pack operations, including:

• Improved efficiency
• Reduced employee turnover
• Lower injury rates

Calculating ROI on warehouse vacuum technology

Efficient automation focuses on user-friendly, adaptable solutions that offer a quick return on investment. For example, companies like Yusen Logistics have successfully integrated TAWI vacuum lifters into their operations. Rob Hamborg, UK Site Manager for Yusen Logistics states;

“TAWI’s vacuum lifting equipment has removed 100% of the lift and has completely streamlined the process. In a timed experiment, the vacuum lifters are 20% more efficient, requiring 30% less labour.”

View the full case study here.

Manual handling may initially seem faster, but over time, machines like high-speed vacuum lifters consistently outperform human efforts. These lifters are designed to mimic manual work, offering ergonomic benefits and maintaining productivity levels throughout the shift.

The importance of speed and ergonomics in pick and pack

Enhancing pick and pack operations in warehouses is essential for meeting the demands of the modern e-commerce landscape. By adopting smart automation solutions, such as mobile vacuum lifters, warehouses can improve efficiency, reduce the risk of injuries, and provide better working conditions for employees.

Looking to make your warehouse not just efficient, but also a great place for your people to work? Discover how TAWI solutions can help your warehouse operations.