Automation in logistics: How it is revolutionizing the industry
How is automation used in logistics?
The logistics industry has undergone enormous change in recent years. Digitalization has changed the market and companies have to adapt to stay competitive. One of the biggest changes we are currently seeing is automation in logistics. Automation offers a variety of benefits to businesses, from increased efficiency to cost savings. In this article, we will take a closer look at automation in logistics and how it is revolutionizing the industry.
Automation in logistics refers to the use of machines and robots to automate processes within the supply chain. The goal is to reduce manual processes and increase efficiency. Automation can be used in various areas of logistics, from warehousing and picking to packaging and shipping processing.
One example of automation in logistics is automated warehouses. Here, special racking systems are used that are operated fully automatically. The racks are connected to conveyor belts and robots, which ensure that the goods can be stored and retrieved automatically. Picking can also be automated. Picking robots are used for this, which automatically assemble the orders and prepare them for shipping.
The advantages of automation in logistics
Automation in logistics offers a wide range of benefits and opportunities for companies. One of the most important benefits is increased efficiency. By using robots and automated systems, processes can be handled faster and more efficiently. This allows companies to optimize their supply chains and deliver their goods faster and more reliably.
Another advantage is cost savings. By using robots and automated systems, companies can save on personnel costs and increase productivity. The costs for maintenance and repair of the machines are usually lower compared to the personnel costs.
Automation in logistics also offers the opportunity to reduce the error rate. Automated systems are generally more precise than manual processes and thus minimize the risk of errors. This allows companies to improve their service quality and satisfy customers.
In addition, automated systems are usually more flexible and sustainable. Appropriate systems can be adapted as needed. When the company grows, more machines can be added to increase capacity. Conversely, if the company is shrinking, machines can be removed to reduce capacity. This allows companies to respond more flexibly to market changes. This flexibility and the use of resources precisely matched to demand also generally ensure much more sustainable processes. This in turn ensures savings in the future.
KATMA CleanControl is another good example of benefits of automation in logistics. The fully automated truckload cleaning replaces the high-pressure cleaner as standard by cleaning faster, cleaner and more sustainably (75% less water, 90% less chemicals, 60% less energy). A certificate is automatically issued for this, for example for HACCP documentation. The pay-per-wash model means that there are no investment or fixed costs. The entire maintenance and chemical replenishment is also taken over by KATMA CleanControl in advance thanks to the cloud connection.
The challenges of automation in logistics
Although automation in logistics offers many opportunities, there are also challenges that need to be overcome. One of the biggest challenges is investment costs. The purchase and installation of automated systems usually requires significant investment. Small and medium-sized companies may not be able to afford these investment costs, which puts them at a competitive disadvantage. Solutions without fixed costs, or initial investments like KATMA CleanControl are still very rare.
Another issue with automation in logistics is safety. Automated systems usually do not require human intervention, which can minimize the risk of errors and accidents. At the same time, however, errors or system failures can lead to significant impacts on the supply chain; a super-GAU in logistics in particular. Companies must therefore ensure that their automated systems are safe and meet regulatory requirements.
The future of automation in logistics
One of the most important developments in automation in logistics is the use of artificial intelligence (AI). AI can help to further automate and optimize processes. For example, AI-powered systems can be used to monitor inventory levels and trigger reorders automatically. AI can also be used to predict demand and requirements in order to adjust capacity accordingly.
Another trend in automation in logistics is the use of drones and autonomous vehicles. These can be used to deliver goods and enable faster and more efficient delivery. For example, drones could be used to deliver goods in hard-to-reach areas, or autonomous trucks could transport goods over long distances.
Whether it's AI, robots, or KATMA CleanControl: automation doesn't stop at logistics; and those who sleep through it risk being left behind.
