Automated sorter systems are used in courier centers, logistics operations and order fulfillment activities in warehouses. Different variations of sorter systems are widely preferred by third party logistics companies (3PL) and in the E-commerce sector, where fast and error-free operation is vital. These systems, which incorporate multiple solutions, can easily take part in all order fulfillment processes from start to finish.

These systems contain different components depending on the type of data intended and parse the packets according to predefined criteria. These are usually packet type, destination, size, weight and transportation priority. It is also an indispensable part of today's modern supply chain operations, making it possible to automate the end-to-end fulfillment and logistics operation, easily meeting the needs of businesses of all sizes.

Components of a Sorter System

Sorter systems consist of various components that can vary depending on the type of system and its application. These are the key components in a Sorter System:

Dimensioning Devices (Cubiscan, Automated Parcel and Pallet Dimensioner)

Automated dimensioning devices are one of the key components of sorter systems. They focus on performing measurements such as volume, weight, real volume and parcel dimensions. However, dimensioners in sorter systems are often equipped with devices that take care of other important stages of the operation, such as barcode readers and label applicators.


Conveyor Systems

Conveyors are an important component in almost all sorter systems. It is the belt path on which the packs are picked up and transported from the drop-off point to feed the sorter.

Sensors

These devices detect the size, weight and orientation of packages. The sensors are used to accurately route and accurately sort the packages.

Control Unit

This is the brain of the whole system and decides the route each packet should follow. The control unit analyzes the data to ensure the correct flow of packages. It is the component responsible for the synchronized operation of the components, ensuring that measurements and physical processes are accurate and error-free.

What are the Types of Sorter System?

Sorter systems can be of various types, depending on the application and needs. Each type has its own unique components and areas of application:

Cross-Belt Sorters

In this type of system, packets are routed along a belt. They are preferred in larger and faster operation requirements. These systems are ideal to avoid manual fulfillment errors.

Roller-Belt Sorters

This sorter provides flexibility in sorting packets of different types and sizes with moderate speed and accuracy. This makes it suitable for both medium and small sorting operations.

Sliding-Shoe Sorter System

This type of sorter uses sliding components to push the parcels from the main conveyor onto designated paths. This allows the sorter to handle the parcels gently, reducing the risk of damage during sorting. It is therefore suitable for sorting fragile or lightweight products in retail facilities and e-commerce warehouses.

Pusher Sorters

Pusher sorters use mechanical arms to push parcels from the conveyor into sorting bins. With its simple design, it is cost-effective for low to medium volume operations. Therefore, they are commonly used in smaller plants or for sorting heavier products.

Applications and Industries Where Sorter Systems are Used

Sorter systems are crucial for high profitability and flawless operations in different logistics processes. The diversity of logistics operations has led to the diversification of sorter systems. For this reason, sorter systems with many different types of capabilities are used in different service areas.
Sorter systems are widely used across various sectors and fields:

E-COMMERCE

With the current state of online shopping, e-commerce processes have significantly increased the importance of speed, error-free operations and order fulfillment. Sorter systems are vital for this cycle to run smoothly. It provides a wide range of action areas to 3PL companies that provide services in the logistics phase and accompanies the end-to-end processing and delivery of a wide variety of packages and products. In doing so, it offers advantages over traditional methods in terms of speed, product safety, data processing and profitability.

Order Accuracy: Sorter systems perform all the measurements of the packages and products processed with its equipment with great speed and record them in the database. Thus, it becomes possible to track the journey of a product throughout the entire delivery period. In addition, with the data obtained, money losses are prevented by ensuring absolute efficiency in stages such as pricing, vehicle loading and delivery.

Scalability: During peak periods when you need to be fast and run uninterrupted fulfillment operations, sorter systems are your most important assistant. Thanks to its expandable modular design, companies can scale up their sorter systems and increase their parcel sorting performance per hour with additional components. Automated sorting differs from manual sorting in this respect.

Inventory Management: Parcel sorting systems can track operations and parcels in real time thanks to integrated warehouse management software. This provides accessible asset management data, clear inventory data, measurable performance and high levels of efficiency. This data is especially important for large-scale and large companies.

3PL (THIRD-PARTY LOGISTICS) SERVICES

3PL logistics companies are locations that serve multiple customers, each requiring packaging and delivery schedules. This diversity needs to be accommodated appropriately for customer satisfaction. Sorter systems are lifesavers in terms of the flexibility and performance they provide in these busy and multi-requirement service areas.

Customization:Sorter systems can be customized to handle a variety of packaging types, from small parcels to large pallets, allowing 3PL providers to offer tailored solutions to their clients.

Efficiency in Multi-Client Operations: In facilities where multiple clients' products are processed, sorter systems ensure that each client's items are accurately sorted and routed, preventing mix-ups and ensuring timely deliveries.

Cost Management: By reducing manual handling errors and increasing the speed of processing, sorter systems help 3PL providers manage operational costs more effectively. They also help in preventing insufficient charges by ensuring that the correct shipping costs are applied based on accurate parcel dimensions.

WAREHOUSE AUTOMATION

Sorter systems in large warehouses play an important role in coping with the volume and variety of packages being handled. The automation systems used in these warehouses ensure that the system operates efficiently by preventing problems such as errors, losses and incorrect pricing through sorters.


High-Throughput: Sorter systems can process thousands of items per hour, making them ideal for warehouses with high throughput requirements. This allows products to be processed and dispatched quickly, meeting tight shipping deadlines.The ability of sorter systems to process thousands of items per hour allows for free scale-up of the business. This is essential for perfect customer satisfaction.

Easy API Integration: Sorter systems are often integrated with other warehouse automation technologies, such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotic pickers, and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). This integration creates a seamless, end-to-end automated solution that reduces the need for human intervention and minimizes errors.

Space Optimization: By accurately measuring and sorting items using devices like dynamic dimensioning systems, sorter systems help warehouses optimize storage space. This efficiency is crucial in maximizing warehouse capacity and reducing the costs associated with space utilization.

Minimizing Fulfilment Errors: Warehouse automation systems equipped with sorter technologies help significantly reduce manual fulfillment errors. These errors can lead to costly issues such as package loss, incorrect shipments, or delays, all of which can negatively impact customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Our aim with BeeVision is to eliminate measurement errors and, as we mentioned above, to get the maximum benefit from both parties. With BeeHive, which facilitates the storage and analysis of data, making the transportation and data interpretation part very simple for you.

To review our products and get detailed information about sorter systems, dimensioners or warehouse automation management software; you can check our product page and you can send an e-mail to info@beevision.ai to reach us.