How Automation Improves Material Handling | ProStack
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How Automation Improves Warehousing and Material Handling

As a business owner, making selective investments in new technology is key to growth. Automated material handling systems have been around for some time — so why make the switch now?

Today’s automated systems are more sophisticated than ever before. In this article, we look at some of the ways they can streamline your business, lower your costs and boost your overall productivity.

Automation and Efficiency

Improved efficiency is one of the most obvious benefits of warehouse/material handling automation. Automated material handling systems can operate at up to six times the speed of conventional equipment.

They also reduce the potential for human error, which means less time is spent correcting mistakes. And, perhaps most importantly, they can be run around the clock with no extra expense.

Automation and Safety

Another benefit of automated material handling is that it reduces the possibility of an on-the-job accident. Automation keeps your crew out of harm’s way and takes the risk of injury out of lifting heavy or oddly shaped items.

Additionally, automation means fewer team members on your warehouse floor, making it easier to prevent collisions and other accidents that occur when too many workers are present in a crowded space.

Automation and Space Savings

Automated material handling systems make better use of your existing warehouse space. They are smaller than forklifts and require less room to maneuver than human workers. They also aren’t limited by heights and many safety features are built into the systems from the start.

As a result, some companies have been able to increase their capacity by up to 400% by installing an automated system. This can make it easier to grow your business without the expense of moving to a larger facility.

Automation and Availability

One often overlooked benefit of warehouse automation is that it makes your operation more data-driven. Warehouse automation systems can connect with inventory management software and other sophisticated tools that allow you to refine your processes, maximize stock availability and reduce the risk of spoilage when storing sensitive products.

Automation and Customer Satisfaction

Ultimately, automated material handling solutions help you meet customer requirements with greater consistency. Though it can be challenging to let go of the idea of human labor, a machine is far less likely to pick an incorrect item or damage it during transport. This translates to improved quality control and more satisfied stakeholders.

How Soon Will I See a Return on My Investment?

As with any big business decision, smart managers need to see the numbers when buying an automated material handling or warehousing solution. The type of system you purchase and the nature of your organization will determine how soon you see a return on your investment. Automation systems regularly surpass corporate requirements for ROI, adding to their growing acceptance.

How Future-Proof Are Automated Material Handling Systems?

Beyond the bottom line, when choosing an automated material handling system, you need to know your purchase won’t be obsolete in a few years. Look for a modular system that can accommodate future growth as well as any new technology introduced in the years to come.

To learn how Polymer Solutions International, Inc. plastic pallets can fit into an automated warehouse, visit our product pages to start a Live Chat session with us online or call us directly at 610-325-7500.

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