With the rise of eCommerce and customers’ expectations for faster delivery, businesses are under pressure to find ways to speed up their order fulfillment. One solution that has been gaining in popularity is goods-to-person warehouse robotic automation. But what is goods-to-person automation? And is it right for your business? Keep reading to find out.
What Is Goods-To-Person Automation?
Goods-to-person (GTP) automation is a warehouse automation system that uses robots or other automated devices to retrieve items from shelves and bring them to humans for packing and shipping, instead of the employee walking long distances and retrieving each item. This can be done with various types of machinery, including robots, cranes, and shuttles.
3 Common Types of GTP Systems
Shelf GTP systems are perhaps the simplest type of GTP system. As the name implies, these systems use shelves to store and retrieve goods. This usually allows for Warehouse employees and robots to work together in a “cobot” environment, allowing for the most efficient and cost-effective automation available for picking items.
Bin GTP systems also consist of racks with multiple shelves. However, instead of an automated crane, they utilize horizontal carousels that rotate to bring the desired items within reach of an operator. Bin GTP systems are ideal for storing small items requiring additional picking processes.
Robot-based GTP systems are the most complex type of system. These systems use robots to move around the warehouse or distribution center and pick up items from shelving units or bins. The robots then place the items on conveyors or in other containers.
GTP System Drastically Scales Fulfillment Speed
One of the most significant benefits of GTP automation is that it drastically increases fulfillment speed by at least 50%. This time is usually wasted by employees walking around the warehouse to retrieve items, but with Prime Robotics systems, you can expect to achieve up to 350 orders per hour and improve your warehouse productivity by 1,000%.
GTP Systems Is the Solution to Labor Shortage
Another big benefit of GTP automation is that it solves the current labor shortage. With an automated system, owners and managers do not have to rely on a large labor force of human workers to keep the warehouse running efficiently. At the same time, the systems free up employees to focus on other equally important tasks such as warehouse maintenance, inventory restocking, and customer service. Imagine employing 1 person to run 10 robots who retrieve items, instead of 10 humans walking around all day. The cost-savings can be dramatic.
GTP Systems Are More Effective Than Manual Rack Systems
GTP automation systems are more effective than old rack systems. They make it possible to store more inventory in a smaller space and eliminate the need for picking ladders or ride-on platform carts, which can save you time, money, and reduce workplace injuries. These systems can also eliminate employee injuries that often occur in traditional warehouses. With the ability to move 4,400 pounds in one load, Prime Robotics can minimize the use of forklifts, and offer an efficient and versatile solution to your warehouse needs.
Prime Robotics Offers Solutions for Both Greenfield and Brownfield Warehouse Businesses
Whether your company is starting from the ground up or looking to update your existing warehouse operations, Prime Robotics has a solution. Our clientele varies from small size to enterprise-level facilities, and we understand that every business is unique. Our team of experts will work with you to understand your specific needs and develop a system that meets your unique requirements.
As a proud American company, we are committed to helping our clients succeed by providing efficient and cost-effective automation solutions. We offer flexible leasing options to reduce your upfront costs, and our systems are backed by a team of experts who are available 24/7 to help you troubleshoot any problems that may arise. If you’re looking for goods-to-person automation solutions, look no further than Prime Robotics. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business succeed.