Does Automating The Manifesting System For Your Shipping Department Make Sense?
By Dan Ross/ScanScale.com
In today’s market there is a big push for dimensioning systems. With UPS, FedEx and the USPS all mandating that the dimensions of a parcel be included in the manifesting process- it is no wonder that some companies are feeling the pressure, and a little intimidated. Dimensioning systems can cost from $6,000-$80,000 depending on the amount of automation to your facility.
Now before you choke on the costs - lets take a look at the different processes that these systems tackle.
In-motion barcode reading
Unattended scanning systems provide a good place to start in the automated system. Typically a packer or shipper hand scans the package to populate a specific form for the manifesting system. This person may be very good at this operation but it is hardly a function you could consider an efficient one.
The entire system rate is dependent on this person. Automating this process removes that inefficiency and allows this person to do more demanding tasks. (Like filling more orders)
In-Motion weighing
The in-motion scale is typically placed right after the unattended scanner. This is one of the quickest ways to increase efficiency and increase throughput. More time and motion is lost to the manual weighing process than any other in a typical manual manifesting operation. The process of picking a box up (off a conveyor or cart) to place on a scale to capture weight is a waste of time, resources and money. At the very least a small system with an unattended scanner and in-motion scale will increase throughput 20-30%. Not to mention the repetitive motion injury savings.
Now, if your throughput or ship rate is low (400 packages a day or less) than a manual scale and scanning process may make sense. However, it should be noted that even in a manual process, the objective should always be to handle the box the fewest times possible. Apply the touch it twice theory, and never handle the box more than twice before it goes on the truck.
Dimensioning the box
Typically, in an automated system the box would be dimensioned just before or just after the weighing process. In a manual process, the box would be dimensioned and weighed at the same time. So, at the very least you could combine two processes into one. Many companies are using tape measures and yard sticks. These “tools” could be eliminated, and so would the precious time it takes to use them. If your company is using “predetermined” box sizes to automate the dimensioning task- you might want to consider the extra cost of the packing materials or dunnage used to fill an oversized box. These costs can quickly surpass the perceived savings of those standard boxes.
Applying the shipping label
The labeling process is one of the most widely talked about areas. Having a person stand next to a printer and manually apply a shipping label wastes a great deal of time. Your shipping rate may determine the best approach for you in this process. Automated label applicators are one of the best ways to increase your shipping efficiency and your bottom line.
Do the Math
How many people do you have in your warehouses that perform these tasks manually? What is a fair dollar amount that you can associate with these employees? Don’t forget to take into consideration the entire benefits package and the “lost time” that occurs each year. Than, simply ask yourself “Does that figure equal more than the amount stated at the head of this article”?
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