As operators grapple with rising fulfillment costs, savvy leaders will take note of the benefits of warehouse robotics and automation as they look to increase the productivity of their operations. From best-in-class WMS solutions to cutting-edge robotics, these technologies not only streamline operations but also unlock new levels of efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings.
In this post, we’ll dive into the key benefits and advantages of adopting robotics and automation in your warehouse, including:
- Reduce training time
- Improve space utilization
- Optimize available labor
When is the Right Time to Adopt Warehouse Robotics and Automation?
Everyone is talking about warehouse robotics and automation, but adoption in the supply chain is still in the early stages. What signs suggest that the time is right to bring automation and robotics into your distribution network?
“There are several indicators that it’s the right time to bring automation into warehouses,” explains John Moretti, Head of Product at Robust.AI. “There are a couple more obvious ones, like having difficulty getting new labor, rising costs, and then especially if there are any jobs that are dirty, dangerous that your employees are doing.”
Key Benefits of Warehouse Robotics and Automation
As you start to see the signs that it’s time to adopt robotics and automation, keep in mind these benefits to make sure you’re choosing the right type of technology for your needs and business objectives.
Warehouse Robotics Benefit #1: Reduce Training Time
“One of the things that we look for is something a little bit under the radar. It’s the training time that it takes for new employees and temporary employees to ramp up until they’re productive,” shares John.
He continues, “We found that at some places it’s a minimum of two weeks, but sometimes a lot longer before any temporary employee can actually be doing productive work after the training they have to complete. Then, once they get familiar with the technology, they actually get on the floor and be productive.
“What we’re looking to do [with warehouse robotics and automation] is shorten that time. So a new employee comes in, they get a quick introduction, and then they’re actually productive by the end of that first shift. The more comfortable they are, the easier it is just to get them ramped up.”
Warehouse Robotics Benefit #2: Improve Space Utilization
“The first thing that comes to mind [regarding benefits of warehouse robotics] is space utilization and, as companies grow, increasing their volumes,” says Randy Marble, Senior Software Sales Consultant at Advanced Intralogistics.
“Instead of having to go to more space, bump out a wall, or actually build a new building, go to warehouse automation that can do dense storage,” he continues. “What comes to mind is vertical lift modules for small parts where you can actually save almost 90% of your footprint by going to a vertical lift. And, that’s where small products are presented to the person rather than them having to go get it.”
Warehouse Robotics Benefit #3: Optimize Available Labor
“It’s just hard to find people these days. People that want to work in a distribution environment are tough [to find],” explains Randy. “I just think it’s the natural thing that’s going to make [warehouse robotics and automation] so pervasive as we move on.”
Steve Simmerman, Head of Global Alliances at Locus Robotics, continues, “Well, you’re absolutely right about being early in adoption in terms of robotics and automation in distribution centers. And it’s really a result of a couple of major factors #1 being labor.”
“It’s just very difficult to find available labor in the marketplace today. It’s really not the labor cost, although that’s an important consideration,” Steve continues. “It’s really just the lack of available labor to work in a distribution center.”
Conclusion
As warehouse operators face mounting challenges, from rising fulfillment costs to a scarcity of labor, the adoption of robotics and automation is quickly becoming not just an advantage, but a necessity.
By integrating these advanced technologies into your operations, you can significantly improve productivity, reduce training time, maximize space utilization, and better optimize available labor. Now is the time for forward-thinking businesses to take the leap and harness the power of warehouse robotics and automation to stay competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace.
