DHL launches automated pharma DC

THE NEW warehouse (with a storage capacity of 25,000 sq m and several temperature zones) has now been put into use for storing and delivering medicines to more than 45 Belgian hospitals, doctors, pharmacists, and wholesalers.

DHL was looking for higher efficiency through more automation to handle their order profile (delivery within 24 hours with higher numbers per order line) quickly and without errors. In addition, from a sustainability point of view, DHL wanted to be able to combine different orders from an end customer in one box. The complete and hybrid solution therefore consists of multiple elements.

For example, a shuttle aisle with 27 levels is used, of which 17 will be taken into use in the first period (± 6,500 stock totes). The shuttles have been equipped with Inther's DTS software for better coupling and integration with all other hardware. 635 metres of Inther conveyor equipment lead to, among other things, four Goods to Person workstations with pointer lights for up to eight compartments per tote and Pick to Light solutions. An Inther ADI (Automated Document Inserter) ensures the correct documents in every shipment. A box erector and closer, three Print & Apply machines and weighing scales complete the system.

The system was successfully taken into use by DHL in November 2021. In the aftersales phase, Inther Group will further analyse the process in real-life in order to continue to optimise the system.

For more information, visit www.inthergroup.com