What is Sortation?
Sortation systems are used to improve the efficiency of the pick-and-pack process, reducing labor costs and increasing accuracy and speed. Sorting organizes products into batches or orders for more accessible and efficient handling. The sorting process typically involves a combination of manual and automated operations, such as scanning products, sorting them into bins, packaging them, and labeling them for shipment.
Significance of Sortation in Logistics and E-commerce
Sortation is an essential component of logistics and E-commerce, as it ensures that orders are quickly sorted, packaged, and shipped to the correct destination promptly. Here is the significance of sortation.
- Improved efficiency: Sortation helps streamline the process of managing and distributing products, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency.
- Greater accuracy: Automated sortation systems can significantly reduce human errors and offer accurate product distribution.
- Increased productivity: With automated sortation, businesses can process more orders in a shorter amount of time, resulting in increased productivity.
- Improved scalability: Sortation systems can be scaled to meet the needs of growing businesses.
- Reduced damage: These systems can reduce the risk of product damage, leading to lower costs and improved customer satisfaction.
Prerequisites of Sortation and How It Works
Prerequisites of sortation as follows:
- Accurate item information such as item weight, size, and dimensions.
- Productivity goals and throughput rates.
- Warehouse layout, including conveyor system, sorters, and other equipment.
- Automated systems such as barcode scanners, RFID tags, and computer systems.
- Operational policies and procedures for selecting, packing, and shipping orders.
Sortation can be done manually or with automated technology. Manual sortation involves sorting items by hand. Items are placed into specific containers or orders based on the sorting criteria. Automated sortation systems can also provide real-time updates on order status and inventory levels.
Use Cases of Sortation
When a customer orders items from an online store, the items must be sorted and packaged for shipping. Businesses can use sortation systems to scan the items, group them, and then sort them into the appropriate shipping containers. It helps speed up the delivery process and ensures the delivery of items to the correct address. Additionally, warehouse sortation systems organize and store items, allowing quick and efficient retrieval.
