XPO Logistics has deployed an automated solution to manage high-volume reverse logistics for a fashion e-commerce customer in France. The solution integrates multiple technologies, including a mechanised sortation system to handle throughput of up to 12m returned products per year.
Returns management is a fast-growing area of outsourced logistics in the e-commerce and omnichannel sectors. XPO states it customises solutions to each customer’s requirements; in this instance, eight automated sorting lines for apparel and one line for shoes are integrated with touchless scanner technology. The computerised scanners use machine vision to read colour codes instead of bar codes, accelerating the routing of sorted products on conveyors according to condition: ready for inspection, damaged or return to retail.
To manage cardboard waste, XPO has deployed an industrial baling press to compact used cartons, reducing environmental impacts and increasing the recycling value.
Malcolm Wilson, CEO of XPO Logistics Europe, said the following, “By automating logistics processes to achieve specific results, our engineering teams make supply chains more efficient and create supportive work environments for our employees. Automation also improves the all-important consumer experience for our e-commerce customers.”
Source: XPO Logistics
