Sort Methods - Order Fulfillment Solutions

Order Fulfillment Automation 

An Order Fulfillment Automation Sortation System can be designed to expedite the sorting and processing of orders. Products are picked in bulk for each wave as coordinated by the Warehouse Management System (WMS) from the order requirements. Sorter configuration and order distribution requirements are sent (by way of file transfers) to the sorter system by the WMS prior to every batch or wave matching each bulk pick. The sorter receives the product and sorts them accordingly. Product may consist of various sizes, shapes and materials within the design limits of the tray.

Products are placed onto the sorter trays manually, or using automatic feeders, semi-automatic feeders, and/or manual feeders. Once the product is introduced onto a tray, a bar code reader or vision system identifies the product. Each item is then routed to a specific sort destination or "drop",  based on order or customer sort criteria. If products are NOT bar coded the operator scans or keys-in the SKU and quantity using the sorter manual mode.

Upon completing the sort, or upon reaching a preset limit, the sort information is uploaded to the Host system for manifesting and tracking, resulting in near real-time order and parts tracking.

Product for the Order Fulfillment Automation can be sorted to an accumulation chute for removal by an operator, or directly into a carton or container

Order Fulfillment Automation Sortation will give you immediate -

• Cash savings from more efficient use of labor
• Faster order processing and turn-around
• Improved order accuracy
• Real time order tracking
• Labor efficiencies resulting from paper reduction and streamlining of data flow and capture
• Automated processing of routine items such as packing slips and labels
• Improved reporting
• Larger sort window

Issues that an Order Fulfillment Automation Sortation System will help resolve -

• Limited Warehouse Space
• Growth over time issues: More stores, greater overall volume, increased volume per store
• Handling higher volumes during peak periods.
• Disaster recovery and alternate or redundant methods
• Reliability and maintenance issues

Related links:  
•  Internet Order Fulfillment  - Addresses the challenge of sorting various order sizes and sku mixes.
•  Order Distribution System  - Flat Garment & Hanging Garment; sample installations.

GBI can customize the sort criteria based on your specific needs. For more information on this type of "Automated Sortation" system see our Sample Sorters

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GBI Data & Sorting Systems • 1143 West Newport Center Drive • Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 USA
954-596-5000 Ext. 231 • Fax 954-596-5015 • E-mail contact: info@gbisorters.com