Using Automation to Solve Warehousing’s Biggest Labor Challenges
A white paper exploring how manufacturers and warehouses are using automation, such as vertical lift modules (VLMs) to offset the current labor challenges
A persistent problem that’s been exacerbated by the global pandemic is the current labor shortage. This challenge is having a major impact on the nation’s warehouse operators. Known for having high employee turnover rates, the sector is particularly vulnerable to labor challenges. This is primarily due to the massive uptick in e-commerce orders, the remote work trend, and constant supply chain disruptions.
The idea that warehouse work is laborious, unrewarding, and time-intensive doesn’t help its cause.
As companies work to keep pace with demand and maintain their workforces, more of them are turning to automation for help with this increasingly difficult balancing act. By incorporating automation into their warehouse and distribution center (DC) operations, organizations are experiencing significant benefits. These include higher throughput levels, improved safety, higher efficiencies, and the ability to redeploy human labor to more important projects, not to mention freeing up valuable floor space for new customers.
This white paper explores the new labor reality in the U.S., explains the role that automation is playing in helping companies overcome their most pressing labor challenges. In addition, it describes how GF Machining Solutions, one of the leading providers of machines, automation solutions to the tool and mold making industry, uses automated vertical lift modules (VLMs) in their operations. Thanks to VLMs, GF Machining Solutions are able to offset the current labor challenges, reduce its order picking time from 30 minutes down to 5 and maintain 99.99% equipment uptime.
“Companies have long been interested in automation, but the fragility of human labor in the pandemic highlighted its value. As the pandemic spurred reductions in human interactions, interest grew in robotics and other automated processes.”
CSCMP – Annual State of Logistics Report.
Read more in the Modern Materials Handling White Paper ⬇
