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WAREHOUSING, HANDLING & STORAGE A
utomation in the factory is no longer a futuristic concept. Automating processes such as picking, packing, and handling of raw materials has demonstrated sizeable gains in efficiency and
accuracy, which companies are now looking to achieve at every stage of their supply chain as part of one seamless workflow. End-of-line is no exception. Automating end-of-line processes ensures finished products are delivered into the distribution channel efficiently and cost- effectively. Yet, one crucial stage of this is often overlooked: the loading process. Efficiently loading and unloading goods from
trailers can lead to faster, safer, and more reliable transportation between factories and warehouses or distribution centres. However, while a range of loading solutions exist to complete end-of-line automation, many companies have yet to implement them. Loading areas represent a convergence point between production, warehouse, and transportation: a greater focus on cross- functional collaboration would help companies – and their employees – identify and maximise the benefits of supply chain automation.
END-TO-END AUTOMATION One of the main reasons for supply chain automation is to achieve a more interconnected operation. The warehouse must be connected to the factory, and this integrated system must extend to seamless loading of products onto the trailers. This requires not only physical automation but also the digitalisation of the entire factory and warehouse to ensure comprehensive monitoring. Extending automation to the loading process is an integral part of this, as it is the touch point between the factory, trailer, and warehouse. Introducing automation to the loading and/
or unloading process significantly reduces loading times, allowing for quicker turnaround and increased throughput. Automated loading systems minimise human error, ensuring that products are loaded correctly and efficiently while improving overall workplace safety, all of which can translate into significant cost and resource savings. However, realising these benefits requires
multiple functions to collaborate on implementing shared processes and technologies. For example, production and warehouse teams must work together to integrate automated solutions throughout the supply chain. After all, a company undermines the benefits of an automated factory if a fleet of forklift trucks is still needed to load products onto trailers manually. The trouble is that creating cross-functional
teams can be met with resistance, perpetuating stubborn silos that can hinder growth.
INTEGRATING THE LOADING PROCESS FOR 100 PER CENT END-OF-LINE AUTOMATION
Despite acknowledging the need for end-of-line automation, many manufacturers are yet to unlock its full potential. Stubborn organisational silos – both within the company and in partnerships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers – can prevent the automation of important cross-functional processes, such as the loading and unloading of trailers. The challenge lies in creating a seamless operation that maximises the return on technology investments while leveraging the valuable (and scarce) specialist expertise of employees. Wouter Satijn, sales director, Joloda Hydraroll, says companies can overcome silos in the loading bay while ‘keeping their aces in the right places’.
18 OCTOBER 2024 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS
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