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Understanding Robotics in the Warehouse

Challenges like labor shortages, shifting stock levels, and increasing demands for same-day shipping have pressured warehouses to quickly automate vital tasks in order to remain competitive. Without enterprise-ready automation, warehouses could suffer from inaccurate inventory counts and slow productivity. However, despite hindrances, studies show only 20% of warehouses successfully deploy automated solutions within their planned timeframes. In other words, while distribution centers understand the importance of automation, seamless solution execution is often challenging. Fearing complex implementation and high costs, many warehouses can miss the opportunities that come with today’s top modernized technologies such as warehouse robotics.

 

Studies show that robotics can reduce costs by 30% as they help improve accuracy and free up warehouse workers to focus on non-repetitive tasks. Existing operations that implement warehouse robotics pick up to  more orders and see a 90% reduction in onboarding and training time. As warehouses evaluate the need for robotics, experts recommend searching for the following signs of inefficiency:

  • Long picking time
  • Incomplete inventory visibility
  • Pen-and-paper processes
  • Sudden stockouts
  • Missed delivery times

 

4 Ways Robotics Help Alleviate Warehousing Challenges

As warehouses continue to navigate through persistent labor shortages, robotic technologies such as Zebra’s autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) give facilities a chance to redirect their human workforce towards more important tasks while AMRs focus on repetitive tasks or simple, value-added workflows like removing recycling or waste from a DC. When acting as part of a comprehensive modernization plan, warehouse robotics can:

 

  1. Boost order accuracy – Mis-picks and general order errors lead to lower profitability and slower warehouse workflows. AMRs help increase productivity up to three times by pairing workers with robots that are 50% faster and carry larger payloads than the competition. Working alongside your employees, AMRs increase precision picking to ensure the highest levels of accuracy and speed.
  2. Increase individual and team productivity – With an autonomous, smart-picking solution, warehouse workers can remain in specific zones to reduce excessive movement and maintain productivity. The AMRs travel between pick and put operations to reduce the distance and time that employees spend traveling between operations. When warehouses reduce the time it takes to complete repetitive tasks, employees can spend more time focusing on other, more complex workflows.
  3. Improve employee satisfaction – Robotic automation in warehouses sounds like it could replace employees, but robotics can actually work alongside your human workforce. Robotics can provide a sense of worker empowerment to take their focus away from repetitive tasks to do their jobs more effectively. Moreover, because they are built to handle heavy lifting and prevent collisions, AMRs also maximize worker safety, further boosting employee satisfaction.
  4. Amplify throughput with less labor – AMRs establish an effective goods-to-person picking system to provide a foundation that meets and adapts to market demands with accelerated fulfillment.

 

In the end. warehouse robotics reduce costs, orchestrate workers, increase picking efficiency and reduce the impact of labor shortages. Discover how you can redefine fulfillment with warehouse AMRs from Avalon.

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Think Warehouse Robots are too Expensive? See How They Actually Help Reduce Costs.

The new on-demand economy puts pressure on warehouses to complete orders faster and more efficiently than ever before. Smarter approaches and solutions can help prepare warehouses for faster fulfillment, but these solutions aren’t always attainable due to time and cost constraints. Studies show that despite the on-demand economy, only 20% of warehouses worldwide successfully deploy automation solutions. Warehouses unequipped with automation can be less prepared for high consumer expectations that demand in-stock products, or low demands which could lead to overstocking. Therefore, businesses must find cost-effective automation solutions that deliver superior performance for a greater competitive edge.

 

Optimize Material Handling and Order Fulfillment with Robotics

While it may seem too futuristic or extreme, warehouse robotics can actually increase productivity and lower labor costs in the long run. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) reduce downtime by automating vital workflows and freeing up your workforce to focus on more important tasks. Studies show that next-evolution AMRs can achieve up to a 78% improvement in productivity for picking operations, keeping businesses ahead of market demands.

 

  1. Quick fulfillment solutions for different environments – AMRs can help manufacturing, fulfillment and distribution operations adapt to the on-demand economy. Enterprise-ready robotics like Fetch AMRs from Zebra bring immediate benefits by automating repetitive tasks, such as picking and packing, and doing so faster and with fewer errors. By helping workers manage urgent orders and meet faster shipping times, AMRs control costs by making the picking process more efficient and minimizing errors and missed delivery timelines.
  2. Out-of-the-box capabilities that reduce downtime – The on-demand supply chain requires on-demand automation. Out of the box, Fetch robots enable on-demand automation with quick deployment in just hours in any facility. Easy adaptation and operation in a variety of environments reduce training times and downtime costs.
  3. Fully-integrated benefits that deliver high ROI – While AMRs can be deployed in distribution, fulfillment and manufacturing centers, there are numerous areas where they can be fully integrated. For more advanced automation, Fetch AMRs can integrate with WMS, WES, MES or ERP systems to provide optimized picking and enable pull-based workflows. Easy integration quickly creates dynamic picking and replenishment processes to deliver a strong ROI.

 

Warehouse robotics can improve accuracy and boost picking operations when warehouses need innovation the most. Robots deliver fast ROI and reduce errors, which actually helps control costs. Learn how you can find the right warehouse automation solutions for your business with Avalon and Zebra.

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Why Now is the Best Time to Upgrade Your Warehouse Equipment

The challenges of controlling costs and managing high consumer expectations dominate the minds of today’s warehouse professionals. From demands for same-day shipping to ongoing product shortages, distribution centers are navigating a myriad of fulfillment obstacles. It’s no surprise that over 80% of warehouses plan to accelerate modernization plans to keep pace with these increasing demands and challenges. Because next-generation technologies now aim at streamlining critical tasks to reduce learning curves and maximize throughput in less time, automation experts recommend optimizing now to remain competitive in today’s high-demand market.

 

Past studies show that 73% of organizations plan to begin modernization with mobile technology. Handheld devices serve as scanners, computers and communication devices, and quickly empower operators to record and update data in real-time for more visibility and productivity. Without operational visibility, businesses risk increased expenses, stalled workflows, lost products and lost time. Furthermore, outdated mobile computers can also compromise data security if operating systems are not kept current. Therefore, when optimizing warehouse technologies, consider starting with your mobile devices.

 

That’s Where GO Zebra Comes In

To maintain enterprise efficiency, Avalon partners with Zebra to offer a wide range of innovative mobile computers and printers. Designed to help businesses upgrade mobility solutions without high costs, the GO Zebra Trade-In Program provides businesses with:

 

  1. Dependable, purpose-built durability – Front line workers can perform well or poorly based on the technology they use. Traditional legacy devices contribute to more errors and delays, which increase downtime and hurt fulfillment. When you upgrade your equipment through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program, you provide your workers with the latest Zebra hardware to keep up with tough warehouse demands.
  2. More accurate data capture – Outdated devices limit accuracy, while industry-leading scanners can capture any 1D or 2D barcode from near contact to as far as 70 feet away. Zebra’s scanners help your workers maintain high scanning performance even in shifting conditions. Access to higher accuracy devices through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program can help control costs without compromising efficiency.
  3. Flexible enterprise mobility – Intuitive mobile devices from Zebra help your workers stay mobile to maximize productivity and speed-up shipping processes, giving frontline workers the modern mobility they need to adapt to demands faster.

 

Follow these steps to start upgrading your workforce with purpose-built technology:

  • Purchase a qualified product
  • Submit your claim form
  • Trade in your legacy devices from any manufacturer.

 

To learn more about the GO Zebra Trade-In Program, download our brochure or contact an Avalon rep today.

 

Modernization doesn’t have to be complex. Work alongside the experienced automation team at Avalon to outline vulnerable areas within your operation and formulate a plan to replace outdated technology with devices that bring measurable improvements.

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Why Choose Device Simplicity or Versatility When You Can Have Both?

As supply chains strive to meet increasing customer demands, mobility solutions continue to set the foundation for superior modernization. From push-to-talk communication to safe data sharing, handheld devices now play a major role in virtually every industry. Studies show that the global enterprise mobility market was valued at $19.65 billion before the pandemic, and is projected to reach $151.51 billion by 2027.

 

A jump like this indicates that mobility is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29.3% from 2020 to 2027, illustrating the importance today’s supply chain places on adaptive mobility. To stay in step with demands, warehouses now must plan to adapt and implement the best technology that accelerates workflows while remaining simple enough for future scalability. Without upgraded technology, businesses could risk increased operational expenses and slower productivity, ultimately damaging brand reliability, worker satisfaction, and profitability. Consequently, new devices like Zebra’s TC58 mobile computer now combine ease of use with flexible functionality to enable uninterrupted productivity anywhere in and out of the four walls.

 

More than an Enterprise Smartphone

To stay ahead of rising mobility rates, Zebra’s newly-reengineered TC58 gives workers reliable features and adaptive technologies that accelerate tasks without compromising accuracy. Designed for Android 11 and upgradeable to Android 15, the TC58 brings businesses the following improvements:

 

  1. Durability built from the inside out – A class-leading 6-inch screen that lets workers see more, do more, and scroll less helps make the TC58 Zebra’s most advanced enterprise mobile computer yet. It’s also equipped with a next-generation octa-core processor and is the only device in its class to offer support for WiFi 6E. Advanced processing power and enhanced connectivity enable blazing speed in the most demanding applications.
  2. Enhanced features that improve flexibility and accuracy – Provide your workers with advanced features that enable flexible operation. Calculate accurate parcel dimensions with the integrated Time of Flight sensor. Drop the TC58 into a Workstation cradle to connect a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and more to create a mobile-driven workstation. Also, add an impressive 1,300 tags per second with the optional RFD40 sleds.
  3. A new level of workforce productivity and value with Mobility DNA – Simplify device integration, increase device security, and make device management easier with Mobility DNA’s advanced tools. Easy management and security come with the TC58’s Enterprise Mobility Management and LifeGuard for Android to insure your devices.
  4. Versatile customization to maintain productivity in any industry – The TC58 helps workforces stay versatile across multiple industries. Provide your retail associates with enhanced price and inventory checks, item locationing, line busting, and back-of-store management. Warehouses can benefit from the TC58’s help in increasing inventory management, picking and receiving, and asset management with reliable data capture. Field service technicians benefit from high asset management in challenging conditions with the TC58’s durable design and mobile point of sale.

 

Warehouse automation should simplify enterprise efficiency. Contact an Avalon representative to learn more about how Zebra’s TC58 brings simple and versatile efficiency to your operation.

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Top 3 Reasons to Move to Android 11

Businesses can no longer overlook cybersecurity. Regardless of company size, virtually every business can be a target for today’s cybercriminals. As automation continues to dominate warehouses and distribution centers, businesses can no longer afford to compromise on data security when integrating intelligent mobile devices. Studies indicate that nearly 71.1 million people are victims of cybercrimes every year, and 97% of companies have faced cyberattacks involving mobile threats. In the end, researchers estimate that cybercrimes will cost $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, illustrating the crucial importance of dependable data security—currently absent in consumer-grade devices and outdated operating systems.

 

That’s Where Android Comes In

To prioritize security and enterprise efficiency, more businesses are moving to highly-secure operating systems and mobility solutions like Android 11. Innovative operating systems like this can avoid cyberattacks and manage downtime to control costs; however, the benefits of Android extend beyond cybersecurity. As the preferred OS of leading manufacturers like Zebra Technologies, Android 11 opens the doors to a new level of dependable automation on best-in-class devices. For example, the new TC58 mobile computer leverages Android 11 OS to deliver the operating system’s top benefits within one enterprise platform.

 

  1. Secure device protection with consistent updates – Increase device security with an updated operating system to prevent leaks and attacks. Equipped with LifeGuard for Android, Zebra’s empowered mobile computer provides security patches to keep devices secure every day they are in service. Android 11 helps enhance mobile computer processing power, so businesses can get secure, powerful enterprise mobility updated every 90 days with government-grade encryption.
  2. Streamlined ease of use for better mobility – Since Android is extremely popular in the consumer space, employees are more likely to adapt to it, thus minimizing training times. Additionally, Zebra’s Mobility DNA offers the broadest and most mature set of solutions for simpler management and easier integration, empowering workers to use their device’s full functionality right out of the box.
  3. Versatility with an open app ecosystem – Businesses can customize their mobility solution with an intuitive platform that enables seamless app integration, unlike iOS. Moreover, Android devices like the TC58 enable quick app migration, converting TE green screens into a touchscreen interface without extensive application rewriting.

 

When you protect your mobile devices with a flexible operating system like Android,  you protect enterprise efficiency and supply chain operations. Talk to an expert at Avalon today to evaluate a mobility solution that protects your enterprise.

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How the ET45 Maximizes Features at the Right Price

If you are considering purchasing consumer-grade tablets, there are hidden costs that you should first understand. While consumer tablets can be enticing due to their low cost, their features, durability, and barcode scanning capabilities could be less than ideal. Reasons like these are making associates prefer rugged enterprise tablets that deliver more and can still be cost-effective. Studies show that nearly two-thirds of associates believe rugged tablets can help them deliver a better customer experience and increase worker satisfaction over consumer tablets. As the global market share of tablets is estimated to grow at 8% to $1,468.4 million by 2027, more supply chain decision-makers are switching to enterprise tablets because they can help improve the efficiency and performance of their workforce.

 

Businesses that don’t adapt to associate needs and supply chain trends could ultimately suffer from outdated operations, which leads to lost customers and diminished productivity. Here are some questions to consider when thinking about purchasing a tablet solution for your enterprise:

  • Can the tablet reduce operational costs and downtime that stem from lost productivity and broken devices?
  • Does the tablet empower your workers to work faster and smarter?
  • Is it equipped to handle heavy data capture needs?

 

Redefine enterprise operations with the right features.

Finding an enterprise tablet that addresses these concerns can help improve operations and reduce errors. Fortunately, enterprise tablets like Zebra’s ET45 help deliver the functionality and versatility your business needs to adapt to trends. The ET45 redefines enterprise operations because it:

 

  1. Delivers dependable durability at a lower price – Built for business environments, the ET45 delivers dependable performance in tough environments. Its design withstands drops, indoor and outdoor environments, and extreme temperatures for improved performance. Additional tablet accessories also enhance portability and durability in more demanding environments. All at a cost that rivals consumer tablets.
  2. Enhances data capture capabilities for scan-intensive environments – Your mission-critical workers should have access to world-class integrated scanning. Zebra’s ET45 tablet delivers split-second, first-time data capture of virtually every barcode, in practically any condition. For dependable, simple scanning or advanced range scanning, the ET45 is equipped to empower your workers to scan in virtually any environment. With the ability to simultaneously capture up to 100 barcodes, even on multiple labels with a single scan, this enterprise tablet helps create higher accuracy.
  3. Empowers workers to work faster and smarter with the right options – Get the fastest wireless connectivity to keep you connected anywhere with WiFi 6e and 5G speeds. Better connectivity gives workers access to the fastest networks which help them collaborate on important tasks when demands are high.
  4. Expand versatility with complimentary tools – Improve every aspect of the device lifecycle with features that deliver a built-in advantage. Features like Mobility Extensions and StageNow offer improved security and staging for easier device management.

 

A rugged enterprise tablet can redefine operations with advanced features that support higher performance. Talk to an expert at Avalon today to evaluate a tablet solution that meets your business needs.

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5 Enterprise Benefits You Won’t Find in Consumer-Grade Tablets

When facing shifting customer expectations and labor shortages, it can be tempting to choose easier technologies that are familiar to incoming workers to accelerate onboarding. Consumer-grade technologies tend to find favor in the supply chain since they break high adoption curves and are easily embraced by new workers. However, studies show that consumer devices cost up to 50% more than rugged devices over five years, so while they diminish upfront costs and training, they end up costing more with long downtime periods and acquisition costs. The IDC estimates that after adding up annual repair costs, out-of-pocket costs, and lost productivity, the average cost associated with a non-rugged tablet is $2,462, while those who purchase rugged tablets give businesses an ROI only after the first year. Purchasing a consumer device can cause unnecessary expenses and a loss in productivity, while choosing rugged enterprise devices can help save time and money to improve operational efficiency, whether it’s in your store, field, manufacturing plant, or warehouse.

 

Empower Your Enterprise with Versatile and Dependable Performance.

To equip their enterprise with the right durability and versatility, more decision-makers are implementing enterprise tablets that help expand industry capabilities. Built to support several supply chain industries, Zebra’s new ET40 enterprise  tablets increase staff productivity, reduce total cost of ownership, and simplify management. Unlike consumer tablets, they empower teams with:

 

  1. Rugged durability that secures efficiency – Implementing Zebra’s ET40 tablet empowers business with a rugged design right out of the box and a business class lifestyle with guaranteed device availability for three years. This delivers a strong ROI that makes great business sense and withstands tough environments such as those in warehousing, manufacturing, and field service environments.
  2. Streamlined data capture and accuracy with embedded scanning capabilities – No matter what type of scanning your workers do, there should be a scan engine that’s right for the job. Enterprise tablets like Zebra’s ET40 can provide warehouse workers and retail associates with the specific scanning capabilities they need. From standard range scanning to advanced range scanning, deliver split-second first time capture of virtually every barcode, in practically any condition.
  3. Maximum security – Protecting the devices that ensure productivity and efficiency in your business should be built into your devices. Android’s security in the Zebra ET40 maximizes device availability and can be improved with Mobility Extensions to offer over a hundred features to improve Android security, manageability and more.
  4. Maximize capabilities with Android productivity apps – Equip your workers with an easy-to-carry 8-inch design for easy viewing of information rich apps and the ability to control those apps. This gives your store associates, warehouse workers, and field technicians more control over task management and fulfillment.
  5. Versatile capabilities that expand operations – A wide range of what your devices can do can give your workers the ability to easily complete tasks. Zebra’s ET40 tablet can also turn into a two-way and the multi-slot and desktop charging cradles simplify backroom device management. Additionally, you can create a workstation on demand with the Workstation cradle and create a kiosk and more with the Presentation stand. More versatile manufacturing, warehousing, store operations, or field service allows your business to adapt to demands and maintain consistency.

 

In other words, consumer-grade tablets cannot deliver the performance your business needs to adapt to consumer expectations. In place of fragile devices, consider evaluating your systems with an experienced automation partner to deploy solutions designed for increased productivity and ease of use.

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Find and plug the profit leaks in your warehouse

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The demand for maximum efficiency and accuracy in your warehouse forces businesses to look closely at every task. Excess motion, inventory, production, and downtime can reduce an already-squeezed profit margin. If you haven’t already examined your operation, it’s time to find and plug the profitability leaks in your warehouse.

Unnecessary motion presents a huge yet overlooked waste in the warehouse and affects Profitability

Man Lifting box in Warehouse wearing Zebra Scanners

This space a vast area to cover. Requiring workers to wander back and forth to workstations—to fetch orders, check inventory location, and gather shipping labels—is time that could be better spent doing revenue-generating tasks. Keep them in the aisles, or wherever they need to be, by equipping the workforce with enterprise-grade mobile devices. A handheld computer or enterprise tablet with a built-in scanner and voice communication and a mobile printer gives them the ability to access orders, locate inventory, communicate with other workers as needed, and stay focused on their work—not distractions and delays. Use a mobile-powered workstation with a built-in battery to keep the devices ready to go.

Manual processes contribute to slow and error-ridden results. 

Manual Profitability - Avalon Integration

Shuffling paper forms and orders, searching for items (inventory, equipment, tools), and conducting cycle counts by hand present a gaping hole in your profitability. Every manual count, notation, and task allows an opportunity for errors and delays. The wrong item or quantity is picked. An order is misplaced. Inventory is miscounted. Products are misplaced. A barcode system shrinks the time-consuming tasks and eliminates human error. Your workforce spends more time with productive results than fixing mistakes.

Downtime is another preventable profitability leak.

Downtime Profitability - Avalon Integration

With more visibility over the state of your equipment and workforce schedules, you can make changes to positively impact your bottom line. Downtime caused by equipment failures, which can be avoided through preventive maintenance. Downtime that results from waiting for someone or something (e.g., replenishment) is a glitch in the process. Improve communication with mobile devices, like a handheld computer that allows for multitasking, like voice and messaging. Work proactively and plug this profitability leak as well.

Excess inventory results from inaccurate information and projections.

Excess Inventory Profitability - Avalon Integration

Your inventory numbers should be automatically updated as products are received, returned, and shipped. At any time, management would have clear visibility of inventory counts. Using automated data collection systems (barcode scanning, RFID) enables every transaction to be recorded in real-time.

Talk to Avalon Integration about your operational efficiency—or inefficiency. We specialize in warehouses and manufacturing, so we can guide you to the solutions that deliver the best results.

Contact us today to learn more.

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