The logistics sector isn't just keeping pace, it's setting the speedometer on fire with its advances in automation. 

NPSG Australia is embracing the technological developments in automation as it meets growing client demand. The NPSG leadership team knows automation isn't a luxury, it's the rocket fuel propelling warehouse operations into hyperdrive.

NPSG Australia National Project Manager Jesse Palmer says when it comes to the company’s clients, automation will play a big part in future business.

“Clients are trying to compensate for lack of labour in Australia,” says Jesse. “That coupled with the high cost of labour is driving demand.” The speed and accuracy automation affords is another key driver.  “Automation doesn’t get fatigued,” he says. 

Assistant Project Manager Chris Coote agrees.  “Our clients are enthusiastic about this technology so we are increasingly including systems such as conveyors in our designs.” 

Wit Limsintaropas is one of NPSG Australia’s clients. He is Operations Engineer, Project Manager at Amazon and agrees labour cost is the main motivator behind his company’s push towards automation. “In the long run, it’s cheaper and more efficient,” he says. 

Wit points out key areas of automation being used to good effect are label applicators, automated picking (of packages), automatic gates, barriers, bollards or doors (AGB), recycling conveyance, and goods to person (GTP) automation. He says modern automation processes are largely robotics driven.  

Indeed, technological advances are happening at pace, and are being driven by the ever increasing demands of e-commerce across the world.  That brings with it lifting expectations for swift deliveries and cost effective operations and because of this automation has become integral to modern warehouse systems. 

Technologies like automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and advanced conveyor belt systems have become staples in streamlining warehouse processes.

Key Benefits of Automation

Increased Efficiency and Speed
Automation turbocharges order processing by leveraging robots and automated systems to pick, sort, and dispatch products with lightning speed. Robots operating round the clock slashes turnaround times, elevating productivity to unprecedented levels.

Enhanced Accuracy
Programmed for precision, automated systems virtually eliminate human errors in inventory management, order fulfillment, and packaging. This not only enhances customer service but also brings about cost efficiencies throughout the supply chain. 

Scalability and Flexibility
Automation equips warehouses with the agility to scale operations in response to real-time demand fluctuations. During peak periods, automated systems effortlessly accommodate increased volumes without the need to hire temporary staff.

Challenges and Considerations
The rapid development in automation is not without its challenges. High initial investments in technology and the need for skilled personnel to manage and maintain these systems are significant considerations. The impact of automation on employment in the logistics sector remains a subject of ongoing debate.

The Future of Automated Warehouses
As technology evolves, the future of logistics promises even more sophisticated automation solutions. Innovations such as drone deliveries and advanced AI for logistics management hold the potential to revolutionise warehouse operations, pushing the boundaries of efficiency and effectiveness.

NPSG’s Jesse Palmer and Chris Coote are clear - clients are excited about the future of automation. The pair agree decreased reliance on human labour and increased efficiencies afforded by automated operations make its inclusion a no-brainer.