HUB logistics’ development director Anssi Tura spoke at Logy ry’s internal logistics day, where he presented HUB’s investment in forklift automation. In his speech, Tura considered whether the integration of warehouse automation and forklift automation in a 3PL multi-customer warehouse would be successful. WMS & AGV – will it work?
The Finnish Purchasing and Logistics Association Logy ry organizes an annual Internal Logistics Day, which this year was held on October 31, 2024 in Vantaa. The event brings together logistics professionals to share ideas and discuss current topics in the logistics industry. The theme for 2024 was “Sustainability and efficiency in internal logistics: Practical solutions for tomorrow’s challenges”.
HUB’s Development Director, Anssi Tura, explained to the listeners the integration of the warehouse management system and forklift automation through HUB logistics’ own project. Tura said that HUB’s decision to invest in forklift automation was based on the strategy of investing in digital and technology, the desire to explore new methods for developing logistics, and active development, which is one of HUB’s values.
The procurement of forklift automation as a project started already a couple of years ago. The goal of the project was to make the shelving of standard pallets more efficient, reduce traffic in the shipping area, and increase expertise in utilizing automation. The goal was to automate up to 93 transfers every day, so that straightforward, time-consuming tasks can be transferred to automation.
Not everything goes right
HUB implemented the project together with Toyota Material Handling Finland Oy and Consafe Logistics Oy. Initial specifications and a clear process description proved to be important for success. Despite careful advance preparation, challenges were encountered during the project, which were actively resolved. For example, operational control turned out to be greater than expected, which highlights the staff training, management and accurate metrics that automation requires.
In his speech, Tura emphasized that in the planning phase of the AGV process, special attention was paid to exceptional situations where, for example, a human error can affect the safe use of AGV vehicles. It was important to develop operating models that allow the AGV to react to these deviations, such as when the size of the pallet is incorrectly defined.
Exception management and the effects of manual errors require additional attention. For example, the quality of incoming pallet units has been a challenge, as not all pallets meet the EUR and FIN pallet standards, which limits the use of automated AGV vehicles. In the future, the importance of this challenge will increase as the level of automation increases.
Looking ahead to broader utilization of automation
Experiences gathered by HUB logistics demonstrate that combining warehouse automation, warehouse management systems, and forklift automation can be highly effective, with initial project specifications playing a crucial role in the project’s success. While thorough planning is essential, it is also important to prepare for unexpected situations that may arise during implementation.
A year of operational experience has provided valuable insights into managing challenges and the advantages of automation. Forklift automation currently handles an average of 75 transfers per day, and it has delivered significant safety benefits. Future plans include expanding its use for transfers to automated storage and high-level shelving directly to reserve locations.
We extend our thanks to the Finnish Association of Purchasing and Logistics (Logy ry) for organizing the Internal Logistics Day and for the opportunity to present at the event. The event was a success, with active discussions that advanced the field. The diverse program offered a wide range of perspectives and new ideas for internal logistics.
Read our article about the forklift automation.
Information about the Finnish Purchasing and Logistics Association Logy ry
