8 April 2022 Discover miniload, an automation system that brings advantages both in storage and picking What is the miniload and how does it work? The miniload consists of an automatic storage system for plastic boxes, cardboard boxes, or trays, which integrates shelving, stacker cranes, and the WMS system. It is composed of one or more aisles where the stacker cranes circulate, in addition to two shelves placed on both sides, which store the boxes or trays. At one end or on one side of the shelving, there is an order preparation area consisting of conveyors. Essentially, when a picking wave is generated by the WMS system and communicated to the miniload, the stacker cranes move – vertically or longitudinally – to locate and extract the required products from the shelves. Each action is recorded via a radio frequency device, which scans the product or batch barcode. Subsequently, the stacker cranes bring them to the order preparation area, and the conveyors transport the items. Once the picking operations are completed, the box or tray is returned by the stacker crane to its original position. Advantages of the miniload Miniload is a system suitable for operations with intensive picking, especially of small-sized products, with limits up to 100 kg per box or tray. An advantage, besides precision and agility in separation, is that the operator does not need to move and can remain stationary in one position, waiting for the system to bring the ordered products; in other words, it is a Goods to Person (G2P) solution. This results in a significant increase in productivity in picking and a reduction in costs due to the high speed of the process. Moreover, the miniload allows for better utilization of storage space. With a high storage capacity both in length and height, the miniload can multiply the storage capacity by 10 in conventional warehouses. Other advantages that can be mentioned are: Increased safety both in storage and in work execution; Permanent inventory and consequent optimization of stock control; Elimination of errors, deviations, and malfunctions; Reduction in the need for labor and the use of equipment such as pallet trucks, forklifts, pickers, etc.; Low maintenance. Usage indications Thanks to its great versatility, the miniload can be used in warehouses of different business segments. In e-commerce, it is seen as a potential tool, as it can accelerate separation and bring greater assertiveness, allowing for faster and more assertive deliveries. Additionally, due to the difficulty in finding qualified labor, miniloads prove to be a viable solution. For the various advantages it offers, it is considered a system that brings a high ROI, preparing the warehouse for the future. Note: The HTML tags and structure have been preserved, and the special characters have been replaced with standard quotes. How does the miniload work? Deagor WMS per ecommerce può aiutarti!