GXO Logistics, in collaboration with Exotec, has activated a new automated storage and retrieval system within its distribution center located in Venlo, Netherlands. This advanced installation is dedicated to managing the logistics operations for the fashion label Guess. The system, known as Exotec's Skypod, incorporates 127 robots and provides 60,000 storage positions, enabling the facility to process a significant volume of goods, ranging from 40,000 to 70,000 articles each day.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this development signifies a trend towards increased automation in warehousing and fulfillment, particularly for high-volume retail and e-commerce clients. While not directly impacting line-haul rates or capacity, such systems can improve inventory accuracy, reduce order processing times, and enhance overall supply chain efficiency. This can lead to faster turnaround times for inbound and outbound shipments, potentially influencing carrier selection for time-sensitive deliveries. The enhanced throughput capacity at the DC may also allow for better consolidation of shipments, optimizing freight costs for the forwarder's clients.
