Conveyor Networks delivers flagship solution for Yodel

Warrington-based warehouse automation specialists, Conveyor Networks, has helped Yodel reduce its manual handling rates by 75%, after successfully implementing a unique ‘Out of Gauge’ (OOG) sortation system at Yodel’s Sort Centre in Wednesbury in the West Midlands.

The dynamic and bespoke conveyance solution implemented by Conveyor Networks 12 months ago ensures Yodel can handle a wide range of products within a small footprint.

The solution provides gentle and precise sorting of items which historically would go through a manual process.

The independent parcel carrier commissioned Conveyor Networks to undertake the replacement of existing infrastructure with a new automated sortation area. The new solution reduces risk of operator injury, increases efficiency and counteracts potential damages and mis-sorts, which are common when manually handling OOG (out of gauge) products which are bigger than their container.

Steve Trisic, head of sort operations at Yodel, said: “As a leading parcel carrier in the UK we needed a reliable system that would give us more functionality to sort OOG parcels. Conveyor Networks has been able to deliver a solution that enables us to process bulky and delicate parcels more easily and efficiently, increasing our capacity and improving the flow of parcels through the sort.”

The new system also provides ‘real time data’ tracking of parcel distribution to each chute, ensuring effective distribution performance throughout the system.

Marcus Uprichard, sales and marketing director at Conveyor Networks, added: “The need to sort OOG products at Wednesbury Sort Centre meant that Yodel required a system with more functionality.

“Typically, sortation of ‘delicate/fragile and misshaped’ products is a manual process, so the automated solution we have provided is rather unique to the UK post and parcel market, and a flagship project for Conveyor Networks.

“As system integration specialists, our primary aim is to provide a collaborative and impartial environment with the customer, where we collectively look to deliver the right solution for their layout, their volume and their budget. The success of this end product is testament to both companies and the teams working on it.”