Robotic Case Packing for the 2020s: 5 Ways Automation Improves Efficiency

Increased operational costs, energy efficiency regulations, and rising labor costs are driving the demand for robotic solutions. The robotic case-packing industry has been growing steadily in response to these needs. It's estimated that the industry could reach USD 70 billion by the end of next year.

Of course, robotic case packing is a serious investment. One can't just dive in without knowing what robotic case packing is and how it can help efficiency. But that's what we're here for.

We'll discuss the following:
 

• What is robotic case packing
• What it can help you automate
• Ways it can improve your business

Let's examine first what robotic case packing is.

What is Robotic Case Packing? 

Robotic case packing is a robotic process that automates packing goods in boxes, crates, or other containers. Using robotics, case packing can quickly and accurately select products, place them in the desired container, and seal it.

A robotic case packing solution offers enhanced flexibility compared to manual packing, as robots can be programmed to handle a wide variety of products and packaging requirements.

By removing endlessly-intrusive processes within your warehouse, robotic picking, packing, and palletizing can help you reduce costs, increase customer satisfaction and improve overall efficiency. But more on that later.

What Processes Can It Automate? 

Let's say you have a warehouse full of goods that needs to be packaged in boxes and shipped out. You, of course, have a few workers packing these boxes manually. Naturally, robotic case packing seems like it would speed up your entire operation and increase efficiency.

But how? What can it help you automate?

Packing is often an overly complicated procedure with multiple stages. A robotic case packing solution can help you in different aspects during different stages. Here are some of the procedures by which packing robots can add value to your operation:
 

• Primary packaging: Robotic case packing arms can help you with primary packaging. The process starts with inspecting, sorting and loading the raw (un-packaged) products, then proceeding with the robotic secondary packaging and palletization of boxes.
• Secondary packaging: The process includes robotic case packing in trays, bags, and cartons.

Whether you're manufacturing small quantities of large products or massive amounts of small items, robotic case packing can help you with the entire process.

How Robotic Case Packing Improves Efficiency

While there's no denying that a business is only as good as its employees, the fact of the matter is a robotic solution can handle much more weight. In turn, it can significantly reduce the time and money you would otherwise have to invest in manual processes.

Here are the five main ways robotic case packing can improve your business' efficiency:

1. More Speed

Monotonous tasks, while necessary, can be a massive drain on your resources. Your workers might lose track of time, and tedious tasks can end up costing you plenty in terms of efficiency.

It's estimated that time wasted doing monotonous tasks costs the US economy USD 650 billion yearly. Robotic case packing is your best bet if you want to be a part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

Repetitive physical labor also increases the chances of errors. More often than not, these errors lead to workplace injuries, further decreasing efficiency. Automatic case packing can help you avoid obstacles and speed up your production process.

2. Low Maintenance

While having a robotic packaging solution may seem like a hassle, robots require little to no maintenance. Unlike human workers, robotic arms don't need time off, don't require breaks, and can work around the clock with only little maintenance required.

Working with an experienced robotic case packing provider gives you access to preventive maintenance plans and robotic support services. A few times a year, a maintenance crew can inspect and service your robot, ensuring it's working at maximum efficiency.

3. Smaller Carbon Footprint

Is your company looking for ways to reduce its carbon footprint? If not, you better start. If not, you're risking long-term environmental damage, not to mention losing a good chunk of your customer base.

It's estimated that nearly three-quarters of American consumers are willing to stop doing business with a brand that doesn't care about the environment. A single investment in robotic case packing can help you reduce your carbon footprint.

Putting robots to work reduces dependency on fossil fuels and decreases air pollution. It's a great way to ensure your business is doing its part in fighting the environmental crisis.

4. Added Versatility

There's so much a single person can do in a given workday. On the other hand, robots can help you tackle tasks beyond the scope of what any human worker can handle.

For example, in additional to case packing it can help you with palletizing and shrink-wrapping. It's also great for handling large objects or sorting products into specific positions. Robotic case packing offers an added layer of flexibility and versatility that you wouldn't otherwise have.

Your workers will be thankful too. People who engage in strenuous physical labor have a nearly 20% higher risk of early death than those who don't. You can ensure your workplace is safe and healthy by having robotic case packing working in tandem with your human workforce.

5. Packaging Options

Whether your assembly line includes bottles, cartons, trays, or envelopes, robotic case packing can provide you with an array of packaging options. An experienced robotic case-packing provider will help you find the best robotic solution for your specific needs.

Robotic solutions are also flexible enough to adjust to different product sizes and shapes. The robot can be programmed to use different robotic grippers that accommodate various products, allowing you to save time on your packaging process.

Invest in Robotic Case Packing and Win Big

Automating your case packing process is a great way to increase the efficiency of your business. Robotic case packing can save you time, money, and the world by automating and streamlining your production process.