XPO Logistics: the benefits of robotics
Supply Chain Digital takes a closer look at XPO Logistics' plans to utilise more intelligent robotics.
In 2018, XPO Logistics deployed 5,000 collaborative warehouse robots in North America and Europe. This week the company has released its plans to increase its use of intelligent robotics leading up to the festive period.
What does this mean for XPO Logistics?
The autonomous robots have been designed to work collaboratively alongside employees, as opposed to removing the need for humans. The robots have been designed to adapt quickly to fulfillment changes, guide employees to the correct inventory area, as well as validate and transport the items.
With the use of robotics and machine learning technology, XPO Logistics has seen productivity doubled and rates on average improve by as much as 40%. In addition XPO Logistics has seen enhanced safety as a result of reduced repetition and reduced time walking.
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“Our successful collaboration with 6 River Systems in the US has led to a seamless roll-out of the robots at our UK sites. Based on our pilots with retail apparel, the system handles peaks in consumer demand with near-perfect accuracy by complementing the work performed by our employees. The synergies are ideal for retail and e-commerce fulfillment this holiday season,” commented Mario Harik, chief information officer of XPO Logistics.
Others utilising innovative technology in logistics include, FedEx who has been utilising robotics for small parcel deliveries to residential homes as well as trialing drone technology for urgent healthcare product deliveries in rural areas. In addition to FedEx, UPS has also been trialing drone deliveries for urgent healthcare products with successful residential and care home deliveries achieved.
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Image source: XPO Logistics
