An automated storage and retrieval system, or ASRS, is a modern alternative to manually handling all your business’s packages. These systems can be made even more practical by using the best container options available. Here is an overview of what makes Flexcon a leader in helping customers choose the best custom containers for their business.
Understanding ASRS and Container Integration
Automated storage and retrieval systems, or ASRS, can be key to organizing distribution and manufacturing facilities. These systems replace traditional shelving to store items in a more compact space and make it easier to quickly access a particular item by automating the process of locating and selecting a specific package or product when needed. An ASRS typically consists of several components that work together to move each item from storage space to destination as efficiently as possible. These components include:
- Storage and retrieval equipment.
- An input/output system.
- A storage rack.
- A computer management system.
Other important elements that make up most ASRSs include:
- Vertical Carousel Modules (VCMs).
- Horizontal Carousel Modules (HCMs).
- Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs).
- Crane-Based Mini Load AS/RS.
- Vertical Buffer Modules (VBMs).
- Robotic Cube Storage.
- Floor Robots.
Although there are certain situations where some human intervention may be more helpful than relying exclusively on your ASRS system, choosing a quality automated system is an excellent option for nearly any package storage or movement operation. Some of the most notable benefits of choosing an ASRS over a manual alternative include:
- Reducing the floor space needed to store your items. Implementing ASRS can create an extremely compact footprint, up to 85 percent smaller than most manual setups.
- Increasing pick accuracy, which can increase customer satisfaction.
- Reducing labor needs, which can lower overall operating costs.
- Providing a higher degree of control over your inventory, ensuring that you know what you have and where to find it at all times.
- Creating a safer and more ergonomic work environment.
While an ASRS system can be an excellent option for automating your manual storage and picking process, there is no guarantee that it will be a perfect fit for every type and size of package your company may interact with. An automated system may damage items not packaged appropriately. This risk is why it is so important to choose quality packaging if you’re using an ASRS. Flexcon always works with its clients who use ASRS to assess their specific needs and identify appropriate packaging options.
Flexcon’s Expertise
Flexcon’s package storage and picking expertise has led to an in-depth understanding of the benefits of choosing an ASRS system over handling packages manually. We prioritize passing this information on to our customers to help them determine the best packaging and package handling options for their unique needs. Choosing suitable stackable containers reduces product damage, and avoiding unnecessarily large boxes can ensure that your system handles them effectively. Selecting durable materials, such as corrugated plastic and thick corrugated cardboard, can also help to make your packages more capable of sustaining any potential damage your system could cause.
Assessing Client Needs
Understanding how your business works and how you plan to use your ASRS will help us determine the best setup and packaging options to ensure the system works as effectively as possible. We know your specific needs are unique and always prioritize working closely with each customer. From those first consultation calls with our new clients and throughout our long-time business relationships, we use every interaction with our customers to assess all aspects of their system. Flexcon provides a wide range of stock and custom solutions to give us the highest degree of flexibility when we design a system that works for you.
Designing Custom Container Solutions
Our custom design options include container recommendations that our customers use to increase the overall efficiency of their systems and reduce the number of damaged packages. Once we determine how you plan to use your ASRS, we will work with you to create custom containers in sizes and with materials hand-selected by our experts based on the needs of your system and products.
Choose Flexcon for Quality Container Solutions
Flexcon is committed to helping our clients choose the best storage and retrieval options for your ASRS to help you run it as efficiently as possible. Contact us today to start exploring your options!
