Automated fashion sortation system for DB Schenker
DB Schenker is one of the world's leading third party logistics service providers (3PL). The company works for one of the world's leading sportswear brands. In May 2008 Schenker took a new automated fashion sortation system, built by Vanderlande Industries, into operation at its distribution centre in Mechelen (Belgium). Vanderlande Industries was chosen because of its experience with this type of system and because of their previous experience working with Schenker.
Vanderlande Industries installed a similar system for Schenker in Finland. The activities in Mechelen can be divided into 3 categories: inbound goods which are cross-docked for distribution in Belgium, goods which are transshipped to the Benelux, Austria, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe and storage activities. Vanderlande Industries implemented an automated sortation system with a capacity of 4.000 cartons per hour. The system provides Schenker with several advantages. The work environment has been optimised for the operators. The POSISORTER sliding shoe sorter implemented ensures careful product handling. The layout makes optimum use of available floor space. The system design is flexible and future proof; it can be extended to handle further business growth.
