The Material Handling Blog

3 Key Factors in Goods to Person Throughput Design

Brent Davis

January 10, 2024

From a mechanical standpoint, a goods-to-person system certainly can attain the tote delivery rate advertised on a vendor’s website. However, these advertised rates do not consider the primary determinant for the throughput rate that is actually realized at a goods-to-person work station – the pick cycle time.

Tackling Returns: An Online Clothing Retailer Changes the Game

Kyle McCarty

December 14, 2022

Dealing with returns and reverse logistics can be a struggle for ecommerce order fulfillment - especially in the retail and consumer goods industries. Here's how we helped one client improve their returns process.

4 Questions to Ask Before Selecting Goods-to-Person Solutions

Linda Grady

August 17, 2022

Over the past few years, the phrase “goods to person” has become mainstream. As distribution facilities look to service customers more quickly, optimize warehouse space, and improve accuracy of order fulfillment, goods-to-person technologies have become a realistic option to accomplish these goals.

Smarter Robotic Each Picking, Now Powered by AI

Clay Britton

March 10, 2021

Robots have been around for a while now and some may now consider them a commodity. They take inputs – product dimensions, pick and place locations – and produce outputs – finished pallets, unloaded or loaded machines. The inputs and outputs are controlled and consistent. What happens when the inputs and outputs can’t be controlled? Are you out of luck? Not anymore! Bastian Solutions has implemented robotic systems that allow robots to see, reason, and act to unknown inputs and produce desired outputs.

3 Lessons on Navigating Complex Multi-Site Automation Projects

Luke Sutton

March 03, 2021

The word “complexity” usually garners feelings of fear or hesitation. At Bastian Solutions however, when customers inquire about complex multi-site projects, we view these as exciting and engaging opportunities. Amidst the pandemic, there has been a sudden rise in ecommerce. It is estimated that U.S. ecommerce sales in the third quarter of 2020 was $209 billion, which was an increase of 37% from sales over the same time period in 2019. With this rise in consumer demand, there has been an increased demand for quick, complex supply chain solutions.

Retrofits and Cutovers: What to Know Before Modernizing Your Automation System

Ahmed Arif

February 10, 2021

At Bastian Solutions, we see a lot of live operation projects every year – enhancements or modernizations of existing operations. These kinds of projects are considerably more difficult than projects that are performed in a greenfield (brand new building) or brownfield (existing building) site that aren’t operational today.

Supply Chain Returns: Strategically Handling the Post-Holiday Rush

Ryan Borgerding

January 13, 2021

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season now over, many would think that retailers and manufacturers could catch their breath and start to focus on the next season. However, all retailers and online businesses know that there is one more hurdle to cross before closing out this season and that means processing returns! Here are 3 Key Thoughts for Strategically Managing Returns.

Drones en la Cadena de Suministro

Carlos Candia

December 09, 2020

Era sólo cuestión de tiempo para que los proveedores logísticos, los integradores y las diferentes empresas multinacionales empezaran a buscar maneras de aprovechar esta tecnología.

Multi-Site Project Implementations: Consistency Drives Efficiency

Kyle McCarty

November 18, 2020

As the global effects of COVID-19 continue to play out, demand for contactless shopping via eCommerce is increasing putting pressure on fulfillment. Businesses are scrambling to identify opportunities to increase supply across their distribution networks. Many are seeking support from automation systems integrators (conveyor, robotics, software, controls) across several fulfillment sites at once. While multi-site implementations can be challenging, when executed successfully they can achieve greater results than single-site implementations.

Pandemic Accelerated Growth: 5 Ways AGVs and AMRs are an Asset to Your Operations

Chris Morgan

November 12, 2020

Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are transforming the way manufacturing and distribution centers operate. They are easier than ever to integrate into your operations and are currently seeing a significant boost in adoption.

Black Friday Prep: Peak Season Trends

Matt Kuper

November 06, 2020

Although 2020 has been an unpredictable year with unprecedented commerce demands, this year worldwide ecommerce sales have already increased by 18% more than last year. That’s $3.5 trillion USD, according to Shopify. And, it’s expected to nearly double by 2023 to more than $6.5 trillion. Chances are that planning was already underway to shift processes to accommodate for the expected growth in ecommerce before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. However, the state of the world during the pandemic greatly shortened the time frame in which updates and changes needed to be made. Companies everywhere scrambled to quickly pivot based on their unique situations.

Microfulfillment Part 2: Pros and Cons

Greg Conner

July 29, 2020

The term “microfulfillment center” has quickly become one of the top buzzwords in material handling. But what is it and is investing in it the right decision for your supply chain?

How Automation is Helping During a Pandemic

David Musch

May 14, 2020

Because of COVID-19, many manufacturing companies are finding themselves needing to change operating procedures. Here's how automation is helping one company make much-needed PPE.

Automation in Software Development

Ryan Ristau

April 23, 2020

Automation in software can be a very powerful thing, when done correctly. Here are some tips on how to analyze whether automating a process is the right decision.

Robot EoAT Tool Changers: How & Where They Are Used

Mitch Stevens

April 07, 2020

On any given production line, workers pick up different specialized tools to complete different tasks. End of arm tool changers allow robots to do the same.

Building the Business Case for Distribution Center Automation

Dustin Crandall

February 06, 2020

While there is often a compelling ROI for automating your DC operations, there are several other key factors that should also be considered when building your business case.

Automation is Here to Stay (and Improve Your Life)

Blake Bearden

November 21, 2019

I often get asked about automation’s effects on employment. Here are some lessons from history that show how the implementation of automation improved the quality of our lives by changing the kinds of jobs available.

Finding the Right Solution: Supercapacitors vs. Batteries

Tiffany Greyson

August 28, 2019

When making a decision, it’s important to fully consider the benefits and disadvantages of each available option. Here's how we decided between supercapacitors and batteries when developing our warehouse robots.

Automation's Effect on Flexibility

Joe McGrath

July 31, 2019

When exploring automated solutions, it’s important to consider not just the benefits, but the overall impact each will have on your operations - including their effects on flexibility.

Drones in Supply Chain

Carlos Candia

July 09, 2019

Drones are becoming increasingly popular in multiple industries, but will they ever become an essential tool for warehouse management and logistics?

4 Signs It's Time to Replace That Outdated Conveyor System

Sky Hernandez

April 30, 2019

Conveyor systems can last a long time, but even the best maintained systems only last so long. Here are 4 signs that it's time to replace your outdated conveyor system.

Technological Advancements Enabling the Growth of Robotic Picking

Jason Tenorio

April 04, 2019

In the very near future, robotic picking will become mainstream, facilitating a 24/7 picking and order fulfillment environment. Improvements in a few existing technologies have helped pave the way.

3 Advanced Features of the Bastian Solutions Conveyor Shoe Sorter

Andy Eckerle

April 02, 2019

From day one, the main design criteria for our Bastian Solutions conveyor shoe sorter was maximum uptime with industry-leading crash avoidance. That’s why we developed the best slat, shoe, and end offload in the industry.

Palletizing and Depalletizing with Cobots

Geoff Schreiber

March 28, 2019

Palletizing and depalletizing with collaborative robots just made a huge step forward. These easy-to-integrate solutions can handle a range of product sizes and styles while eliminating the need for safety fencing and requiring minimal floor space.

7 Energy Considerations for Material Handling Automation

Kyle Dorge

March 11, 2019

Automation can provide a wealth of benefits with the right system. Don't overlook these 7 energy-related questions when selecting which automation technologies are best for your operation.

Labor Management’s Role in Automation

Justin Willbanks

February 21, 2019

While effective labor management is vital in any operation, it’s critical to not lose sight of its importance as the supply chain and material handling industry moves further down the path of automation.

Trends Driving the Case for Distribution Center Automation

Mike Senuta

January 31, 2019

An overview of the economic and technological trends that are increasing demand (and ROI) for distribution center automation.

Integrating Conveyor into a Part Press Operation

David Musch

January 25, 2019

When trying to determine the best automated solution for a manufacturing application, it’s important to ask the right questions.

AutoStore Black Line: Your Questions Answered

Derek Cribley

January 15, 2019

What's different about the new AutoStore Black Line? We've put together a Q&A so you can learn what's new and if it's right for you. Read: AutoStore Black Line: Your Questions Answered

AutoStore Black Line : Reponses a vos questions (French)

January 15, 2019

Qu'est-ce qui différencie le nouvel AutoStore Black Line? Nous avons préparé un Q&R pour que vous puissiez découvrir les nouveautés et savoir si cela vous convient.

Which Products Should Go into a Goods-To-Person System?

Ahmed Arif

January 03, 2019

Considering a goods-to-person system, but not sure which one to choose or what to put inside? Start by analyzing your data.

Lessons From the Amazon Effect

John Knudsen

December 19, 2018

How the retail and material handling industries have evolved to service increasing e

5 Questions to Ask When Considering AGVs

Mason Cole

November 30, 2018

Wondering whether automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are the right solution for your material handling problem? These 5 questions will help.

5 Advantages of a Cobot from Universal Robots

Adam Kulon

October 30, 2018

Do you want to automate a process in your facility without breaking the bank? Here are 5 advantages of cobots.

A Guide to Testing Your Warehouse Execution System (WES)

Alex Haines

October 16, 2018

A WES is a powerful tool that can help a wide range of warehouse DCs. Here’s what’s required to properly test and implement a warehouse execution system..

Automated Picking Technologies for Omni-Channel Fulfillment

Mike Clemens

October 11, 2018

There are many automation technologies available to improve omni-channel fulfillment – but which are right for your operation?

How Industrial Automation Helped Detroit Recover

Sean Struve

October 04, 2018

With the perseverance of its manufacturing industry and the help of innovations like industrial automation, Detroit has made an impressive comeback.

5 Cobot Applications for Distribution Centers

Christopher Dyjak, Greg Conner

August 22, 2018

From picking, packing, palletizing and beyond, here are some distribution center applications that can benefit from using cobots, or collaborative robots.

Increase Revenue with Automatic Stretch Wrapping

Bastian Solutions

July 26, 2018

You spend millions of dollars to get your product to the customer as fast as possible. So why let outdated wrapping procedures slow you down?

5 Key Steps to Your Next Material Handling System Modification

Ahmed Arif

June 20, 2018

In today's fast-paced, demand-driven world, material handling system modifications are almost guaranteed and required to keep up with competition. To ensure a smooth project and successful go-live, whether a brand new system or modification, follow these five steps.

Adopting Automation and Change Management: What to Expect and How to be Prepared

JD Stumpf

May 23, 2018

Whether its automating the picking process with goods-to-person (GTP) technology or the pack-and-ship process with tapers and print and apply, the path to a successful automation implementation can be seamless and smooth for some organizations, but also, prolonged and strenuous for others.

New Brew of Software for Beverage Distribution

Chris Bratten

May 16, 2018

Consumers are getting more tech savvy when it comes to purchasing goods. The common trend is to be faster, more accurate, and provide decision-making information on-demand. The wine and spirits industry is no different, which is why smart distributors are investing in new hardware and software.

Understanding OSHA Safety Standards for Conveyor

Greg Conner

May 09, 2018

Conveyor equipment can be dangerous if not used in the proper manner and with necessary safety precautions in place. To prevent injuries and accidents, OSHA has outlined several conveyor safety standards, which we'll review and expand upon. Read: Understanding OSHA Safety Standards for Conveyor

The Highway to Success – Enhancing the Value of the Workforce through Automation

Chris Graver

February 28, 2018

Last year, MHI published its “Material Handling & Logistics US Roadmap 2.0”. The Roadmap explains how changing trends in the workforce, technology, consumers and logistics infrastructure will impact material handling and logistics through 2030. One of the biggest changes we see occurring is the relationship between the workforce and technology.

Industrial Real Estate Considerations for Goods-to-Person Technologies

Blake Bearden

February 21, 2018

Just as the internet has been an enabler for e-commerce, today’s modern goods-to-person (GTP) automation technologies have been an enabler for e-commerce order fulfillment, especially when those orders are delivered on the promise of next-day or same-day delivery.

Mini-Load ASRS: What is it & why does Australia need it?

Bastian Solutions

January 24, 2018

ASRS is the short way of saying “Automated Storage and Retrieval System.” Although these systems have been around for several years, many in warehousing facilities have not heard of it, and those who have might not exactly understand what it is or how it could benefit their operations.

6 Considerations when Integrating Cold Room Conveyor

Gina Labou

December 21, 2017

Many of us think about winterizing our car or home, but your conveyor system also needs protection from cold temperatures. In this article, we will discuss six areas to consider when installing conveyor and other material handling equipment in cold rooms or freezers.

Collaborative Robots Part 2: Benefits and Expanding Capabilities

Nathan Busch

November 16, 2017

Industrial robots play a large part in the automation of industrial environments, but collaborative robots are expanding the realm of possibility. In part two of our series, we’re discussing the benefits of collaborative robots, and why that makes them a growing piece of today's modern manufacturing and distribution puzzle.

Beyond Conveyor: The Evolution of Material Handling Technology

Mike Czernik

August 24, 2017

Whenever asked about my job, most questions revolve around conveyor and racking, but I can’t help but wonder why the scope of the industry ends there, or at least the perception of it. Today's material handling technology is impressive and more advanced than ever before.

Is Your Warehouse Traffic Resembling a Busy Interstate?

Jake Ethridge

June 22, 2017

Self-driving cars are the future of our roads, but manufacturing and distribution centers have been using autonomous vehicles for years. Are AGVs right for you?

A Review of the Distribution Automation Landscape in Mexico

Carlos Minjares

June 16, 2017

We all know and believe that automation is the future (and in some cases, the present), but what’s different for Mexico and LATAM (Latin America) in general? Why is it so difficult to take that first step to automate material handling processes in those countries?

Augmented Reality (AR): The Future of Supply Chains?

Mark Curtis

March 24, 2017

Augmented reality and virtual reality are new technologies being applied to the ever evolving supply chain. Integrating these devices with warehouse software, picking processes, and robotics could be the future of distribution and manufacturing operations.

Project Management: A Tool for a Successful Automation Implementation

Alejandro Gracia

February 09, 2017

Project management is a critical piece to any successful automation system implementation. From the development stage to go live, the project manager must ensure all is going as planned and as the customer needs it. Here is an overview of what a good project manager should cover.

Taking Ownership of Your New Automation System

Sheila Dooley

December 07, 2016

A customer who is ready and willing to take ownership of their new automation system is more likely to be successful

Ergonomic Benefits of Industrial Robotics

Matt Kohler

November 05, 2015

Hundreds of thousands of people have to deal with risky work environments, dodging workplace injuries, and making it home to their families every day. There are industry shifts, however, that are seeking to reduce the need for utilizing human labor in these inherently risky operations and shifting them to safer tasks in the facility.

3 Steps to a Great Turnkey Material Handling System

Jonathan Syrett

August 20, 2015

A turn-key material handling solution is the complete design, build, and installation of material handling equipment. This type of solution allows you to work with one company to ensure your project exceeds expectations from start to finish. Here's what you should expect during the three phases of your turnkey project...

ROI Factors in a Material Handling Automation Project

Danny Watson

April 08, 2015

Introducing automation into a business can be a large and intimidating project. A good deal of time and money are generally invested up front in order make the project successful. However, there are several benefits automation can bring about that help justify these expenses.

Unforeseen Benefits of Adding Robot Labor to the Workplace

Geoff Schreiber

December 17, 2014

Robotic automation is becoming more commonplace in the manufacturing realm, with general industry and automotive parts suppliers leading the way. Modernizing factories throughout the Americas, the expected benefits have contributed to an increased number of robot installations, but the unexpected benefits have rapidly accelerated the pace of those installs.

Introduction to Industrial Robots: What You Need to Know

Colin Shipley

October 10, 2014

If you work with robots every day like I do, it feels almost second nature when selecting the right one for any given application. There are plenty of people, though, who when they hear robot think of Terminator or I-Robot. Industrial robots are a little different than the aforementioned Hollywood versions, so if you are interested in using robots to improve your business, it helps to understand your options.

The Top 3 PC-Based Software Features for Industrial Controls Programming

Kevin Alexander

September 18, 2014

When programming controllers for an industrial automation project, I base my platform (PLC, PAC, or PC) on a variety of project details, one of which is the software that drives the platform. Here is a review of the 3 top features I look for on the software side of a platform decision..

Choosing Between a Robotics Integrator or Manufacturer

Jason Nowak

June 13, 2011

I've had the opportunity to work for both integrators and for a manufacturer of industrial robotic arms. One of the questions that I've had many clients ask me over the years is whether they should buy a robotic solution directly from the manufacturer or from an integrator.

The Impact of Material Handling Automation on McDougall & Sons' Cherry Production

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