Does Automated volume measuring help in warehouse logistics?
Regardless of the size of your warehouse, recording the volume of your stock can be a cumbersome task that can also impact on productivity. With the right kind of volume measuring in place, companies can benefit from improved efficiency as well as reduced costs.
How does automated volume measuring work in a warehouse?
Generally, a volume-measuring system will emit a laser beam in the shape of a fan that will scan packages. The information will then be sent back to the device so it can record the height of the parcel, as well as the width and length. Different systems may also scan the packages from different directions to determine an accurate reading. Certified systems can be used by companies to produce invoices that are legally binding, and are fast becoming a standard fixture in today’s logistics market.
Some within the logistics industry who are new to an automated volume-measuring system may be confused as to how the system is compatible with conveyers and cross belt sorters. Fortunately, most of the automated volume measuring systems in place are compatible with most conveyers, tilt tray sorters and cross belt sorters. The automated volume-measuring system is able to ascertain what kind of conveyer system is being used before measuring the package itself, so users can be confident that accurate measurements are being recorded.
Another question raised is can automated volume-measuring be used to record the dimensions of flat objects? Most of today’s systems are highly accurate and in most cases can determine the volume of near-flat packages. It is worth noting that regulatory authorities require the dimensions be ten times the measuring accuracy. Certified systems are also able to discover any defects of a parcel and ensure that the parcel in question is sent for repair, or disposed off if the parcel is beyond repair.
Things to consider for your warehouse logistics
Should you decide to opt for an automated volume-measuring system, then there are few things to consider. For example, how much room will you need for the system to be installed, will you be doing it yourself or will you have the supplier of the device install it for you? If you are working within a warehouse where space is very sparse, then you may be best speaking to the company you are considering purchasing the automated volume-measuring system from. They will have in-depth knowledge of how best to make use of the space available as well as tailoring the product to meet your specifications. It will also free up more of your time so you can focus on other pressing issues within the warehouse.
Regardless of how you decide to have the automated volume-measuring system installed, it will need to be tested on site. This test is normally undertaken by an official of the gauging office so the volume-measuring system can be certified.
Overall, there are many benefits in having automated volume-measuring as part of your warehouse strategy. It can free up productivity as well as getting deliveries out much more quickly. It can even help with deciding how much of your product can be transported before you start loading your packages. When you consider all the benefits such a system promotes, you know it can only benefit you and your customers moving forward.