Navigating the Permit Process to Increase Efficiency When Implementing Material Handling Automation Solutions

Navigating the Permit Process to Increase Efficiency When Implementing Material Handling Automation Solutions

Are you a supply chain professional or warehouse manager looking to implement automation solutions in your facility? Understanding the permit process involved can be overwhelming and time-consuming; fortunately, there are strategies you can use to navigate the logistical maze of permit facilitation. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the permitting process you can expect when considering automation in your warehouse. With these helpful tips, you’ll be able to get your solutions up and running quickly so that your warehouse operations can remain productive!

Research Your Local Building Regulations – Avoid delays and fines by familiarizing yourself with building regulations

If you want to avoid costly delays, or steep fines and fees, the research into your building regulations cannot be stressed enough. At first thought, this can seem an arduous task; however, there are solutions available on the market that make permit facilitation more simple and more efficient. Finishing projects quickly is becoming ever more important for warehouse automation efficiencies. By taking the time to review local regulations early in the process, you can stay ahead of any last-minute headaches – thus freeing up the time for planning focused on the things that truly matter.

Determine What Permits You Need – Don’t start a project until you know exactly what permits you need

Permit facilitation can be a tedious and often confusing process, especially for warehouse automation projects. Unfortunately, failing to identify the necessary permits prior to the start of a project could result in significant delays, additional expenses, and potential legal problems. That’s why it’s imperative that you take the time to determine what permits are required before you begin any automation activities. By avoiding permit-related surprises, you’ll be able to ensure that your project is completed on schedule and within budget. Don’t underestimate the importance of permit research—it could save you a lot of time and money down the road!

Prepare the Necessary Documents  – Gather the paperwork that is required, such as plans and drawings

In order to facilitate the process of obtaining all required permits for a warehouse automation project, it is essential to first prepare the necessary documents. This includes gathering plans and drawings that must be approved by applicable authorities before the project can be given the green light. Not doing so may delay or even derail the entire enterprise and lead to costly overruns on your budget and timeline. Streamline the process now by collecting beforehand all of the paperwork you will need in order to obtain permission for your warehouse automation project.

Submit to Local Government  – Submit all documents to your local government office or online portal, if available

When you submit all of your documents to your local government office or online portal, you are giving yourself the best chance to speed up the process of obtaining permits and other important information. Not only will it save time, but also give you access to new avenues, such as permit facilitation, auto verification, and warehouse automation, that may not be available through other means. This can greatly help small business owners or those who may have difficulty completing the paperwork on their own. By submitting your documents locally or electronically, you gain access to resources that can help get your business off the ground as quickly as possible.

Allow Time for Processing- Don’t expect an immediate response; permit processing may take up to several weeks

When it comes to warehouse automation, permit facilitation should be given ample time for processing. Expecting an immediate response from the company on this matter is not only unrealistic but detrimental to the entire process. Permits are complicated documents with many steps and checks that need to be completed in order for them to be properly and efficiently processed. Unfortunately, it may take up to several weeks before the whole procedure can get underway. That’s why it’s important to understand the timeline of such a project and plan accordingly so you don’t run into any last-minute roadblocks. Allow enough time for processing so that nothing crucial is left unnoticed!

Follow Up on Your Permit Application – If there are any issues or questions, contact officials for help with understanding the process

Applying for a permit can be daunting and time-consuming for businesses, but it doesn’t have to be. Companies who need help understanding the process would be wise to seek out permit facilitation services. Warehouse automation is gaining traction as an industry-leading option, helping customers save time and money. Resources are available to help companies understand the entire process so their permit applications don’t result in frustration or delays. Don’t waste any more time trying to figure it out on your own– take advantage of permit facilitation services today!

Ensuring that building permits are obtained in a timely manner is essential for any project. The process may appear daunting, but following the guidelines provided here can relieve stress and facilitate success. Taking the time to research local building regulations, determine what permits are needed, prepare necessary documents, submit permit applications to the local government, and follow up on any inquiries will save you time, hassle, and money in the long run.  Allowing ample time for processing by local officials will also help ensure your project runs smoothly. Yet while it’s important to meticulously prepare your paperwork and adhere to regulations, sometimes enlisting outside help is more effective.

ABCO Systems understands all aspects of local building regulations and has a plethora of experience in obtaining vital permits for warehouse automation projects. Our permit facilitation expertise is an integral part of all of our warehouse automation solutions. So, instead of dealing with the chaotic permit process yourself, give ABCO a call – you’ll be glad you did!

The Perks of Investing in Warehouse Automation in 2023 for Tax Benefits

The Perks of Investing in Warehouse Automation in 2023 for Tax Benefits

As a supply chain or logistics professional, we know you’re always looking for ways to boost efficiency, cut costs, and stay competitive. Did you know that there are tax benefits to investing in warehouse automation? Warehouse automation refers to using automated systems and software to improve the efficiency and productivity of warehouse operations. This technology includes automated storage and retrieval systems, conveyor systems, sortation systems, and robotics. Thanks to recent tax code changes, 2023 is an ideal time to upgrade your operations with automated solutions. Here’s what you should know about how investing in warehouse automation can streamline your operations, reduce labor costs, increase accuracy, and reduce your tax burden.

What are the benefits of investing in warehouse automation in 2023?

One of the key benefits of investing in warehouse automation in 2023 is the availability of bonus depreciation. First, let’s define bonus depreciation. Essentially, this is a tax incentive for businesses to invest in capital assets like equipment, machinery, and technology. This bonus allows you to deduct a more significant portion of the asset’s cost in the year it is placed in service, thereby reducing your taxable income. Plus, you can claim bonus depreciation in addition to standard depreciation, resulting in even more significant write-offs that can help you realize a faster ROI on your automation investment.

Why is this so important now?

In 2023, bonus depreciation rates will be at their most generous, thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed in 2017. You’ll be able to deduct 100% of the cost of most assets (including automation technology) in the year they are placed in service. The property must be new and utilized in the business to qualify for bonus depreciation. Used property and property that has been previously leased do not qualify for bonus depreciation. In addition, the property must have a recovery period of 20 years or less, including the equipment’s cost in the year it is placed in service, rather than depreciating it over several years.

How significant are these benefits?

The tax benefits of bonus depreciation can be significant. For example, if a business invests $1 million in warehouse automation in 2023, it can deduct the full amount of $1 million in the year it is placed in service. This can result in a substantial reduction in the business’s taxable income for the year, which can, in turn, lower its tax liability. The tax savings can be used to reinvest in the business, pay down debt, or distribute to shareholders. This rate will start to decline in 2024 and then phase out over the next few years. So, timing is key if you want to maximize your tax savings by investing in warehouse automation.

What other benefits are there to warehouse automation?

In addition to the tax benefits, investing in warehouse automation can provide numerous operational benefits for your business. Warehouse automation can increase productivity by streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, reducing manual labor, improving order accuracy, and increasing inventory management capabilities, thereby saving money in areas such as labor costs and inventory management. With advanced technologies like machine learning and AI, you can also gain valuable insights into your operations and make data-driven decisions that improve your overall supply chain performance.

Can you give me an example?

For example, an automated storage and retrieval system can locate and retrieve products more quickly and accurately than a worker can manually, increasing order fulfillment rates and customer satisfaction. A conveyor system can transport products more efficiently and safely than workers, which can reduce the risk of workplace injuries and accidents. By investing in warehouse automation, businesses can also reduce their dependence on human labor, which can be helpful in times of labor scarcity or economic uncertainty.

What about the upfront costs?

Still, you may be wondering about the upfront costs of automation. While it’s true that significant up-front investments are often required, keep in mind that tax incentives and long-term cost savings can make the ROI more attractive than you might think.

So, what do I do now?

Investing in warehouse automation now can provide great bonus depreciation tax benefits for your business, but it’s also important to consider other factors. Whether you’re looking to cut labor costs, reduce errors, or gain valuable insights into your operations, automation can be a game-changer for your supply chain. By taking advantage of tax incentives and evaluating your options carefully, you can make the most of your investment and position your business for success in the years ahead.

When considering an investment in warehouse automation, you should carefully evaluate your needs and goals. ABCO Systems can assist you and your team in assessing the current and future production requirements, inventory management needs, and workforce capabilities. We will help you understand the costs and benefits of different types of automation solutions, such as the upfront purchase price, maintenance costs, and potential energy savings. Consider consulting with tax advisors to ensure you take full advantage of available tax incentives. ABCO Systems will ensure you get the best equipment to meet your needs. [wpforms id=”6481″]

Drop us a note for more information on Automation solutions for your Warehouse.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Warehouse with Automation

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Warehouse with Automation

Automation is a powerful tool for streamlining warehouse operations. It can help you save time, money, and labor while improving accuracy and reducing risk. But it’s not without its challenges. Implementing automation requires careful planning, integration with your existing systems, expertise in the technology, and sometimes a significant investment of capital. That’s why it’s so important to work with a systems integrator when implementing any type of automated system.

A systems integrator is a company that specializes in helping organizations plan, design, build, implement, and maintain automated solutions for the warehouse. A good systems integrator will take the time to understand your business needs and goals before designing an integrated solution tailored to your specific requirements. In addition, they can provide ongoing technical and operational support to ensure that your automation is consistently running at its best.

Systems Integrator

Finding the right systems integrator for you may take some time and research. Look into their portfolio of projects they’ve completed in the past and ask for references from other clients. You’ll want to make sure they have the expertise and experience necessary to successfully integrate your chosen automation solutions. Once you’ve found a systems integrator that works for you, they can help you:

Top Automation Systems Integrator

With the help of a systems integrator, you can unlock the potential of automation for your warehouse and gain a competitive edge. That’s why it’s so important to take the time to find the right partner for your project. Invest in a systems integrator now and reap the rewards for years to come.

ABCO Systems offers over 50 years of experience in all areas of material handling and warehouse distribution automation.  As a Systems Integrator, we pride ourselves on being able to match the needs of our customers with the best solution for their workflow and budget. We retain longstanding relationships with partners who offer cutting-edge technology and innovation for all aspects of product movement. Whether you are just getting started with automation or are looking for new ways to increase productivity and efficiency, you can trust the ABCO Team to help you address your challenges and attain your goals in warehouse automation.

Send us a note below and find out how the ABCO Systems Team can help you find the best automation solutions for your business.

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Why Preventive Maintenance is Essential for Your Conveyor System 

Why Preventive Maintenance is Essential for Your Conveyor System 

When it comes to keeping your conveyor system running smoothly, preventive maintenance is the smartest move you can make. Instead of waiting for something to break (and dealing with the chaos that follows), a proactive approach saves you time, money, and headaches. Here’s why preventive maintenance is the gold standard for conveyor care—and how you can get started.

What is Preventive Maintenance? 

Preventive maintenance means regularly checking, cleaning, and servicing your conveyor system before problems arise. It’s the opposite of reactive maintenance, where you only fix things after they break. While reactive maintenance might seem easier in the short term, it often leads to bigger, more expensive issues down the road.

The Benefits: Preventive vs. Reactive Maintenance 

  1. Minimizes Downtime
  • Preventive: Scheduled checks and part replacements reduce the chance of unexpected breakdowns.
  • Reactive: Waits for failures, causing sudden and often lengthy production stoppages.
  1. Cost Efficiency
  • Preventive: Fixes small issues early, saving on labor and expensive repairs.
  • Reactive: Breakdowns can damage other parts, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
  1. Extends Equipment Life
  • Preventive: Regular lubrication, alignment, and cleaning reduce wear and tear.
  • Reactive: Lack of upkeep causes parts to wear out faster and shortens system lifespan.
  1. Safety Improvements
  • Preventive: Ensures belts, rollers, and sensors are always working safely.
  • Reactive: Failures can create safety hazards, especially if equipment fails under load.
  1. Predictability and Planning
  • Preventive: Maintenance can be scheduled during slow periods, avoiding disruption.
  • Reactive: Downtime is unpredictable, causing delays in orders and throughput.

What Should Your Preventive Maintenance Plan Include? 

To get the most out of your conveyor system, your preventive maintenance plan should be tailored to your operation. Here are three key things to consider:

  1. Type of Equipment: Different conveyors have different needs. Know your system’s components and their maintenance requirements.
  2. Usage and Load: Heavily used systems need more frequent checks and servicing.
  3. Operating Environment: Dusty, wet, or extreme environments require extra attention to prevent wear and damage.

Simple Steps to Get Started 

  • Create a Maintenance Schedule: Plan regular inspections and stick to them. Daily, weekly, and monthly checklists help catch issues early.
  • Train Your Team: Make sure only qualified personnel perform maintenance and repairs.
  • Keep Good Records: Track all inspections, repairs, and replacements to spot patterns and improve your plan over time.
  • Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always use the manufacturer’s recommendations for best results.

Why It Matters?

A well-maintained conveyor system means fewer breakdowns, lower costs, safer workplaces, and longer equipment life. It’s a win-win for your business and your team.

Ready to Protect Your Investment? 

Don’t wait for a breakdown to disrupt your operations. Reach out to ABCO Systems today, and let us help you design the best preventive maintenance plan for your conveyor system. Your equipment—and your bottom line—will thank you.

The ROI of Upgrading to Smart Batch Picking Carts: Why It’s Worth the Investment

 

If you run a warehouse or distribution center, you know how tight your margins can be. Every dollar you spend needs to count, especially when it comes to new technology. So, when you’re thinking about investing in something like smart batch picking carts, the big question is: Will it actually pay off?

The good news is, these carts do more than just look fancy—they can deliver real, measurable benefits that boost your efficiency and your bottom line. Let’s break down why upgrading to smart batch picking carts is a smart move financially.

What Are Smart Batch Picking Carts? 

In case you’re not familiar, these are high-tech carts designed to help warehouse workers pick multiple orders at once. They come with features like LED lights, barcode scanners, and digital screens that guide the worker step-by-step, helping reduce mistakes and speed up the process.

How Do They Save You Money?

1. Cutting Labor Costs 

Picking labor is usually the most significant expense in a warehouse. Smart carts help workers pick more orders in less time by batching tasks and optimizing routes. That means:

  • Your team gets more done in the same amount of time.
  • Less walking and searching reduces fatigue and injuries.
  • You might not need to hire as many extra workers during busy times.

All these things add up to lower labor costs over the long run.

2. Fewer Mistakes, Fewer Costs 

Mistakes in order picking can be costly—returns, reshipping, unhappy customers. These carts use scanning and visual prompts to ensure the right items go into each order. That means:

  • Fewer errors and fewer returns.
  • Happier customers who trust your accuracy.
  • Less time spent fixing mistakes and redoing work.

3. Faster Shipping and Fulfillment 

Speed is everything today. With batch picking carts, you can process more orders faster because workers are batching multiple orders and walking less. Faster fulfillment means you can:

  • Meet tight delivery deadlines.
  • Handle more orders without expanding your warehouse.
  • Increase your revenue without adding extra shifts or staff.

4. Ready to Grow? These carts scale with you

As your business expands, your warehouse needs to keep pace. These carts are flexible and adaptable, so you can handle bigger order volumes without a complete overhaul. That kind of scalability protects your investment and keeps your operation efficient as you grow.

Putting the Numbers Together 

Here’s a simple example:

  • If your warehouse can reduce picking time by 0%, that could save thousands of hours over a year.
  • Cutting errors in half could save tens of thousands in returns and rework.
  • Processing 20% more orders daily without increasing labor costs boosts your revenue.

When you add it all up, the initial investment in smart carts often pays for itself within months—or a couple of years at most—depending on your size.

It’s Not Just About the Money 

Beyond the numbers, there are other benefits: 

  • Happier employees—less walking, clearer instructions, less stress.
  • Better data to help you optimize your entire operation.
  • A competitive edge—faster, more accurate orders keep your customers coming back.

Final Thoughts 

Switching to smart batch picking carts isn’t just about upgrading equipment; it’s about making a smart investment in your warehouse’s future. The savings and efficiencies you gain can be huge, and the impact goes far beyond just dollars.

If you’re curious about how FastFetch’s solutions can help your warehouse run smoother and more profitably, reach out today. Let’s talk about how to make your operation smarter, faster, and more profitable.

What Do Tariffs and Rate Hikes Mean for Supply Chain Operations in 2025?

2025 is shaping up to be a challenging year for supply chain professionals. Between tariff changes, interest rate hikes, and rising transportation costs, companies are feeling the pressure from multiple angles. These financial shifts are a lot more than headlines across the news—they directly influence everything from warehouse efficiency to delivery timelines and inventory management.

At ABCO Systems, we work closely with businesses that depend on predictable, scalable distribution networks and supply chain operations. We’re seeing firsthand how disruptions tied to cost fluctuations can affect operations. Here’s a look at what’s happening with tariffs and rates, how they’re likely to impact your business, and what you can do about it.

What’s behind the tariff and rate increases?

Recent changes stem from both geopolitical tensions and domestic fiscal policy.

Tariffs as a political and economic tool

New tariffs have been introduced (or reintroduced, or introduced and paused) on imported goods from several countries, particularly in sectors like electronics, machinery, and raw materials. The ostensible goal? To incentivize local manufacturing and reduce dependency on global suppliers.

Unfortunately, for businesses that rely on imported components or finished goods, the immediate result is higher procurement costs and added complexity in compliance.

The Federal Reserve’s current stance on rate hikes

As of March 2025, the Federal Reserve has maintained the federal funds rate at 4.25%–4.50%, opting to keep rates steady amid economic uncertainties. The Fed’s decision reflects a cautious approach, balancing the need to control inflation with concerns about economic growth.​

Recent inflation data, influenced in part by new tariff policies, has led to increased scrutiny of the Fed’s monetary policy. While the Fed has not raised rates in 2025, it has signaled that future adjustments may be necessary if inflation remains elevated.

This stance highlights the importance for businesses to stay informed and prepared for potential changes in borrowing costs that could impact various aspects of the supply chain.

Ripple effects across supply chain operations

Let’s break down exactly how these changes are likely to hit different parts of your supply chain.

1. Increased transportation and logistics costs

Fuel prices remain volatile, and rate hikes make it more expensive to finance fleets, lease vehicles, or secure credit for transportation contracts. If you’re depending on third-party logistics (3PL) providers, expect cost pass-throughs. If you manage in-house logistics, these pressures can limit flexibility and shrink margins.

2. Inventory management gets more expensive

Higher tariffs make it more costly to import inventory, especially in bulk. Combined with higher financing costs, it’s becoming more expensive to hold excess stock. This pressures companies to shift toward leaner inventory strategies, but with greater exposure to stockouts and lead-time delays.

3. Fulfilment speed may slow down

To cope with increased costs, many businesses are reassessing how and where they fulfil orders. This might mean scaling back multi-warehouse operations or renegotiating service level agreements with carriers. Customers may start to feel the impact in the form of slower deliveries or reduced shipping options.

4. Distribution strategy reassessment

Businesses are reconsidering where to locate warehouses and distribution centres. With uncertainty and unpredictability at all-time highs, large-scale capital investments may be put on hold. That’s a risk in an environment where speed and proximity to the customer have become critical competitive advantages.

Compliance and operational headaches

Tariff adjustments are, on the face of it, about costs. However, along with any governmental edict comes compliance complexity, too. New documentation requirements, customs procedures, and import/export restrictions mean your team has to stay on top of changing rules or risk delays and penalties.

Mistakes in customs classifications or country-of-origin labeling can lead to unexpected fees or even seizure of goods. In other words, it’s not just about paying more—it’s about planning better.

How to stay resilient and competitive

The changes are real—but so are the strategies to manage them.

Re-evaluate your vendor network

This is the time to audit your supply chain partners. Look for suppliers that offer domestic or nearshore options to reduce tariff exposure. Negotiate pricing based on long-term volume or bundled services. Stability and predictability now matter more than ever.

Embrace warehouse automation

Rising labor and operational costs make the business case for automation stronger. Smart picking systems, conveyors, and robotics can increase throughput while reducing reliance on manual processes. At ABCO Systems, we’re helping businesses adapt with scalable solutions that offset rising costs with greater efficiency.

Consolidate shipments and facilities

Where possible, reduce the number of touchpoints in your distribution model. Fewer shipments and fewer warehouses mean fewer opportunities for costs to balloon. A strategically located hub with automated fulfilment capabilities can do more than a network of outdated sites.

Improve forecasting and demand planning

Leaner inventories require better forecasting. Integrate historical data, sales trends, and real-time inventory tracking to anticipate demand more accurately. Accurate planning reduces the need for costly expedited shipping or emergency restocking from tariff-heavy regions.

Build in financial flexibility

Consider restructuring how you finance equipment or expansion. With interest rates likely to rise, alternative financing models (like leasing automation equipment instead of purchasing) can help conserve cash flow.

The importance of support and a backup plan

One thing that doesn’t get enough attention during times of disruption is customer support. Your ability to adapt and maintain service levels during uncertain times is a direct reflection of your internal strength.

Perhaps just as important: have a backup plan. If one region becomes inaccessible due to tariffs or transport delays, make sure you have alternate suppliers, fulfilment locations, or carriers lined up. The businesses that fare best are those that don’t just react—they prepare.

What’s next?

While it’s difficult to predict the exact trajectory of tariffs and interest rates, it’s clear that businesses can no longer afford to be passive. Proactive planning, smart investment in automation, and strategic partnerships will be the defining characteristics of supply chain leaders in 2025 and beyond.

At ABCO Systems, we believe resilience starts with readiness. We’re not just here to sell you automation equipment—we’re here to design and build systems that help you weather any disruption with confidence.

Let’s talk about how we can strengthen your supply chain and make sure you’re equipped to thrive while others struggle to survive.

 

Boost Your Warehouse Efficiency with Put Walls and Zone Picking

Boost Your Warehouse Efficiency with Put Walls and Zone Picking

In today’s competitive warehousing environment, efficient order fulfillment is essential, especially when managing large volumes of diverse SKUs. Integrating put walls with zone picking has proven to be a game-changer for many operations. This powerful combination optimizes processes, reduces travel time, and increases productivity. As a result, you can streamline picking and packing, ensuring that orders are completed quickly and accurately while lowering labor costs.

What is a Put Wall?

A put wall is an innovative system that consolidates picked items from various warehouse zones into individual customer orders. Acting as a central sorting station, it ensures that items from different areas come together efficiently. This setup simplifies the verification and packing of each order.

One key advantage of using a put wall is its ability to significantly reduce the number of scans needed during order fulfillment. Instead of scanning each item, the system requires only the sub-order barcode to be scanned at the put wall. Consequently, this approach saves time, reduces errors, and enhances the overall efficiency of the packing process. With the ability to handle high volumes of orders quickly and precisely, put walls become essential tools for managing complex order fulfillment, especially during peak periods.

Zone Picking: A Game-Changer in Order Fulfillment

Zone picking divides the warehouse into distinct zones, with each picker assigned to a specific area. This method significantly reduces travel time because pickers only move within their designated zone to gather items. When you integrate zone picking with put walls, the efficiency of order fulfillment increases even further. Items picked from different zones are brought to the put wall, where they are consolidated and packed for shipping. Therefore, this method not only speeds up the process but also reduces the chances of errors, ensuring each order is accurate.

Diagram of a Warehouse with zonal picking and a put wall to consolidate orders

AI-Driven Efficiency

At ABCO Systems, we take put wall and zone picking solutions to the next level by incorporating cutting-edge AI technology. Our system optimizes order picking batches and calculates the shortest route between all items on the pick list. With this intelligent approach, you save time and reduce wear and tear on both equipment and employees.

Optimized Picking Route diagram

AI-powered batch optimization ensures that every second counts. This precision and automation boost productivity and lead to a more satisfied workforce. When tasks are completed quickly and accurately, employees experience less physical strain, which ultimately results in higher job satisfaction.

The Benefits of Our Put Wall Solutions

Increased Efficiency: Put walls combined with zone picking streamline order fulfillment, reducing travel time and boosting productivity.

Error Reduction: Consolidating items at the put wall and reducing individual scans minimizes the risk of errors, ensuring every order is accurate.

AI Optimization: Our advanced AI-driven system optimizes picking routes and batch sizes, leading to faster order processing and less equipment wear.

Scalability and Flexibility: The put wall solution easily scales to meet demand surges. Adding more putters to the same wall during peak periods increases throughput without major infrastructure changes.

Improved Employee Satisfaction: The system’s efficiency reduces physical strain on workers, resulting in higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.

Our put walls zonal picking solutions are designed to revolutionize your warehouse operations. By leveraging AI and strategic zone layouts, we help you achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and employee satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions can meet your unique needs or use the calendar below to schedule a meeting with an ABCO Expert.

FastFetch Micro Pick Cells: Revolutionizing High-Volume Order Fulfillment

In today’s fast-paced e-commerce world, efficiency is crucial. Every second matters, and even slight improvements in order fulfillment can lead to significant gains in productivity, cost savings, and customer satisfaction. This is where our FastFetch Micro Pick Cells excel—a compact yet powerful configuration of our award-winning light-directed picking technology.

What is a Micro Pick Cell?

The Micro Pick Cell is a specialized setup designed to deliver high-speed, high-accuracy picking within a minimal footprint. This solution is perfect for operations like kitting services or subscription box assembly. When you need to process a large volume of orders quickly, but handle a limited number of SKUs, typically up to 100, the Micro Pick Cell offers a streamlined approach. It allows you to process large number of orders swiftly and accurately in a compact space.

Warehouse with multiple micro pick cells and conveyors for speedy and accurate order fulfillment

Engineered to boost picking speed and productivity, the Micro Pick Cell minimizes wasted time spent walking and manually searching for items. By consolidating the picking process into a streamlined, light-directed workflow, it virtually eliminates errors. Each order gets fulfilled with speed and precision.

Key Features and Benefits

Light-Directed Picking Technology

At the core of the Micro Pick Cell is our proven light-directed picking technology, known for its speed and accuracy. The system uses LED displays to guide pickers to the correct items, reducing errors and significantly increasing productivity. What makes our pick-to-light systems unique is their “NO TOUCH” technology. Traditional systems rely on mechanical buttons that wear out over time, but our solutions use advanced proximity sensors. This eliminates the need for physical contact, enhancing durability and reliability. Pickers work intuitively with their hands free, speeding up the picking process and creating a more pleasant work experience.

Compact and Cost-Effective Design

The Micro Pick Cell stands out with its small footprint, making it an ideal solution for businesses with limited space and high demand for efficient order processing. Despite its compact size, the Micro Pick Cell delivers powerful performance, ensuring you make the most of your available space.

FastFetch Micro pick cells dense setup

Minimal Infrastructure Requirements

Designed for seamless integration, the Micro Pick Cell requires minimal infrastructure investment. This reduces setup time and costs, allowing you to start benefiting from the system almost immediately.

Scalability to Meet Demand

The modular design of the Micro Pick Cell allows for easy scaling to meet increasing demand. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal order spikes or long-term business growth, you can expand the system to fit your needs without significant additional costs.

Why Choose the FastFetch Micro Pick Cell Solution?

The exceptional flexibility of our Micro Pick Cells sets them apart. They adapt seamlessly to fluctuations in demand, allowing your operation to scale efficiently during peak periods without compromising performance. This adaptability ensures your business maintains high levels of productivity and customer satisfaction, even during the most demanding times.

In the competitive world of order fulfillment, every advantage counts. Our solution offers a unique combination of speed, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness to give your business the edge it needs. With a small upfront investment, quick ROI, and the flexibility to scale as your business grows, the Micro Pick Cell is a smart choice for optimizing your order fulfillment process.

Ready to revolutionize your picking operations?

Contact us today to learn more about how this innovative technology can improve your warehouse operations. Or, simply pick a date and time in the calendar below to schedule a meeting with an ABCO expert.

Maximizing Efficiency and Reliability with Preventative Maintenance

In the world of material handling and logistics, where efficiency and reliability are keys to competitive advantages and happy customers, the importance of preventative maintenance cannot be overstated. At ABCO Systems, we recognize that our commitment to our clients doesn’t end with the sale. We provide comprehensive post-sale servicing and maintenance plans that keep automation equipment in top condition long after the initial purchase.

Why Preventative Maintenance Matters

Preventative maintenance goes beyond simply fixing problems as they arise. It involves proactive steps to prevent issues from occurring in the first place. By conducting regular inspections, lubrication, and adjustments, our skilled technicians can identify potential issues early on and address them before they escalate into costly repairs or downtime. This proactive approach not only extends the lifespan of automation equipment but also enhances its overall reliability and efficiency.

Comprehensive Maintenance and Servicing Programs

ABCO Systems offers a range of preventative maintenance plans tailored to meet the unique needs of each business we serve. Our comprehensive maintenance agreement includes semestral checkups encompassing thorough inspections, cleaning, lubrication of moving parts, electrical and controls checkups, and emergency stops verification. This meticulous approach allows us to identify potential issues early on, mitigating the risk of costly breakdowns and disruptions.

Key Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

  • Maximizing Equipment Reliability: Regular servicing and inspections help businesses identify worn components or potential failures before they escalate into major problems. This minimizes unexpected downtime and ensures that equipment functions at optimal levels.
  • Reducing Long-Term Operating Costs: Addressing minor issues early on can prevent expensive repairs or replacements down the line. Additionally, our maintenance agreement offers discounts on original parts and replacement work expenses, providing further cost savings.
  • Enhancing Workplace Safety: Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can pose serious risks to employees and compromise overall facility safety. Regular inspections and maintenance checks help identify and rectify safety hazards, creating a secure working environment.

Spare Parts Inventory Management

One of the standout features of our maintenance services is our spare parts inventory management plan. We maintain a well-stocked inventory of critical components, ensuring prompt response to any emergency part replacement needs. This readiness minimizes downtime and swiftly addresses unforeseen maintenance requirements, keeping our clients’ operations running smoothly around the clock.

ABCO Servicing and Maintenance

Conclusion

Preventative maintenance is a cornerstone of efficient and reliable material handling operations. By proactively addressing maintenance needs, businesses can minimize downtime, optimize equipment performance, reduce operating costs, and enhance workplace safety. At ABCO Systems, we are dedicated to helping our clients maximize the value of their material handling investments through our comprehensive maintenance services. Contact us today to learn more about how preventative maintenance can benefit your organization or fill in your information HERE and an ABCO Expert will contact you shortly to set up a meeting.

IntelliPack: The Solution to New Jersey’s Packaging Challenges

In today’s fast-paced e-commerce environment, fulfillment companies face a significant challenge: shipping too much “air“. This inefficiency arises when carton boxes used for shipping orders are not filled to their optimal capacity, leading to wasted space, excess packaging materials, and higher shipping costs. This issue has recently gained legislative attention, as evidenced by New Jersey’s new bill aimed at reducing packing waste by limiting the size of shipping boxes. IntelliPack, our innovative packing and shipping optimization technology, offers a comprehensive solution to this problem, providing numerous benefits in the process.

The Legislative Landscape and the Industry Challenge

The state of New Jersey has a history of mandating packaging changes. A New Jersey law signed in 2022 took effect this year banning polystyrene packing peanuts and requiring various levels of recycled content in different packaging materials. A recent report by packagingdive.com has announced that the New Jersey Senate has passed a bill (S226) that prohibits large online and major retailers from shipping products in boxes that exceed two times the volume of the product being shipped. This legislation is part of a broader effort to reduce packaging waste and its environmental impact by the Environment New Jersey (see environmentamerica.org/newjersey). The bill’s passage highlights a common issue in the logistics industry: inefficient packaging that leads to wasted materials and increased shipping costs.

How IntelliPack Solves These Challenges

Our IntelliPack packing and shipping optimization system is designed to address these issues head-on, providing a robust solution for modern fulfillment operations. Here’s how:

AI-Powered Cartonization: IntelliPack uses advanced AI algorithms to calculate the best carton box size for each order. By selecting the optimal box size, IntelliPack ensures that space is utilized efficiently, reducing the amount of “air” shipped. This not only minimizes the use of excess corrugate and dunnage but also cuts down on shipping costs.

Reduced Carbon Footprint: By optimizing box sizes, IntelliPack significantly reduces the environmental impact of shipping. Smaller, more efficiently packed boxes mean fewer trucks on the road, less fuel consumption, and a lower overall carbon footprint. This aligns with the legislative goals of reducing packaging waste and promotes sustainable business practices.

Improved Operational Efficiency: IntelliPack integrates seamlessly with your existing order management system, optimizing the entire packing process. This ensures that every order is packed quickly and efficiently, saving valuable time and resources, and improving the picker work experience. The light-directed picking of the right box further streamlines the process, enhancing productivity and reducing errors.

Enhanced Picker Experience: With IntelliPack, companies can save on multiple fronts—time, corrugate, dunnage, and shipping costs. The AI-powered system minimizes the need for extra filler material, reduces the volume of packaging used, and ensures that each package is as compact and lightweight as possible. This translates to significant savings in shipping costs, as you ship less “air” and more product.

IntelliPack Packing and Shipping Optimization Technology

The Bottom Line

IntelliPack is more than just a packing and shipping solution; it’s a comprehensive approach to modernizing and optimizing your fulfillment operations. By leveraging AI technology, IntelliPack not only complies with new legislative requirements but also drives significant cost savings and sustainability improvements.

For companies looking to stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes, IntelliPack is the answer. Interested in learning more about how IntelliPack can transform your operations? Reach out to us today to schedule a meeting with one of our experts. Or better yet, visit us on July 18th in our showroom in Carlstadt, NJ, for our ABCO Automation Innovation 2024 Trade Show, where you can see live demos of IntelliPack and our entire range of cutting-edge picking technologies. Free registration for the show HERE.

ABCO Systems has been acquired by Element Logic.

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