The Unique Advantage of Bastian Solutions: A Complete Material Handling Systems Integrator

Aaron Jones | 14 February 2024

In warehouse automation and material handling systems, companies typically fall into two categories: manufacturers (OEMs) or integrators. Manufacturers are known for creating the hardware and technologies that power warehouse automation, while integrators specialize in bringing these diverse components together into a cohesive, functioning material handling system. At Bastian Solutions, we often encounter the question, 'Are you an integrator or a manufacturer?'

As a company, we are committed to system integration and known across the industry to bring the most innovative and cutting-edge systems into the market - this will not change. However, by directly manufacturing certain parts, we’ve enhanced the overall value we bring to our customers, becoming a complete system integrator.

A Leader in System Integration: Bastian Solutions' Approach

At Bastian Solutions, we pride ourselves on being an independent integrator of material handling solutions. This independence is key to our approach, allowing us to offer a comprehensive range of products, from conveyors and robots to racks, controls and installation services. But what truly sets us apart is our ability to tailor these solutions to each unique project we undertake.

• Best Fit Recommendations: Unbound to specific brands, we can choose the right products for each situation, focusing on the best price, quality and suitability for the project.
• Wide Range of Options: Our model is akin to a large auto dealer offering various top brands under one roof. We don't push one brand over another; instead, we provide a selection that spans the market, ensuring a perfect match for every client's needs.
• Expert Guidance: Leveraging our extensive experience, we assist in decision-making, considering factors like delivery timings, price and quality. Our insights into supplier reliability and performance help us navigate away from potential issues.
• Problem-Solving and Liaison: As integrators, we are adept at resolving on-site issues that arise. Whether it's finding the right contact at the factory or addressing challenges ourselves, we ensure smooth project execution. There are 23 Bastian Solutions offices across the globe, providing clients with the experience and resources of a global company, with the quality, service and regional expertise of a local provider.

This approach allows us to offer diverse solutions but also ensures that each solution is perfectly aligned with our client's specific needs and challenges.

Manufacturing Specific Warehouse Automation Components

Bastian Solutions' manufacturing of specific components has enhanced our material handling system integrator capabilities. We recognized the potential in producing particular products like Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), industrial robotics, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and specialized conveyor solutions. This decision was driven by a desire to fill gaps we observed in the market and to have greater control over the quality and availability of critical components in our systems.

• Enhanced Capabilities: By manufacturing these products ourselves, we've developed and incorporated advanced features and capabilities.
• Improved Product Availability: An immediate benefit of manufacturing our components is availability. This is especially crucial in times of high demand or market fluctuations. Control over our supply chain means we can better meet our client's timelines and project requirements.
• Quality Control: Manufacturing our products gives us a direct hand in ensuring quality. This control over the manufacturing process means we can set and maintain high standards, leading to more reliable and effective systems for our clients.

Manufacturing components of material handling systems positions us as innovators in our field but also allows us to offer our clients more reliable and high-quality solutions.

Client-Centric Solutions: Combining OEM and In-House Manufacturing

Bastian Solutions excels in integrating solutions by strategically combining the strengths of diverse OEM components with our innovative manufacturing capabilities. This customer-centric approach enables us to tailor solutions precisely for each client's needs – a win-win.

• Flexibility with Multiple OEMs: We excel in selecting optimal components from various OEMs. This flexibility allows us to pick the best-in-class parts for specific functions, such as conveyor systems or robotics.
• Synergy with Our Manufactured Products: Our self-manufactured products, like ASRS and AMRs, complement the external components. These in-house products are designed to innovate and fill market gaps.
• Tailored Solutions for Each Client: We focus on creating personalized systems that address individual project requirements, considering operational needs, budget and scalability.
• Quality and Reliability: The combination of OEM components with our products ensures high standards of quality and reliability in the systems we deliver.
• Expertise and Support: Our team's system integration and manufacturing expertise ensures comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle.

Case Study: Best Buy E-Commerce Fulfillment Center Warehouse Automation

A prime example of our client-centric approach in action is the Best Buy e-commerce fulfillment center project. In this case, various parts came together seamlessly to create an efficient solution:

• Bastian Solutions Conveyor & Software: Our in-house conveyor solutions and the Exacta Warehouse Execution System (WES) played crucial roles in streamlining operations.
• AutoStore Goods-to-Person System: This system was integrated to enhance order fulfillment efficiency, demonstrating our ability to incorporate cutting-edge technology from other manufacturers.
• Bastian Consulting: Our consulting services provided vital insights and strategies, ensuring the system was optimized for Best Buy's specific operational needs.

This integration enabled Best Buy to offer free next-day delivery to 50 million people and optimized store replenishment, showcasing the effectiveness of combining multiple solutions for a comprehensive and efficient system.

Shaping the Future of Material Handling: Our Commitment

While we’ll always stick to our system integrator roots, by combining the strengths of diverse OEM components with our manufacturing capabilities, we offer warehouse automation solutions that are efficient, reliable and perfectly aligned with each client's specific operational goals.

Your journey towards optimized operations starts with us. We look forward to discussing how we can help shape the future of your business.

Author: Aaron Jones