The core concept of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is straightforward: facilitate the automatic exchange of messages between two systems, eliminating the need for manual data entry by employees and the cumbersome handling of paperwork. The objective remains to simplify operational processes within logistics. However, advancements in technology have significantly expanded the scope of what is achievable.
For instance, recent developments such as DataHub have enabled seamless communication between logistic software and warehouse automation systems, such as HAI robotics’ picking robots, revolutionising warehouse operations. Moreover, cutting-edge innovations now allow for automatically determining warehouse storage locations using camera footage. While this may sound futuristic, it is entirely feasible.
One example of this technological innovation is using PKE’s video management system by KLG Europe, a company specialising in advanced video analysis and security systems based in Eersel, the Netherlands.
By integrating this system into their warehouse operations, KLG can precisely locate goods based on scan activities, enabling them to track the movement of items within the warehouse and replay footage as needed.
The integration of EDI with KLG’s warehouse processes further enhances automation. Each scan activity in 3PL Dynamics generates and transmits an EDI message to PKE’s systems, which promptly provide precise location coordinates based on SSCC labels or handling unit numbers.
These coordinates are then relayed to 3PL Dynamics via DataHub, allowing immediate booking of the handling units. This seamless integration eliminates manual intervention and simplifies the warehouse management process.
By scanning SSCC codes to determine floor locations, KLG eliminates the need for physical floor labels and scan signs, reducing costs and increasing flexibility. Changes in the warehouse layout can be easily accommodated by adjusting the X-Y coordinates within 3PL Dynamics, enabling KLG to adapt its cross-dock process efficiently to meet specific requirements.
According to Ben Schellekens, a Logistics Engineer at KLG Europe, this integration offers a winning solution for cross-docking operations, particularly on a single floor where managing locations can be challenging, especially for short-term storage needs. By combining automated location determination with video footage and Boltrics’ Warehouse Management System (WMS), KLG has access to powerful tools for optimising its cross-dock operations.
The possibilities for integration in the logistics industry are vast, with behind-the-scenes solutions offering seamless process optimisation. These advancements can be incorporated into standard solutions by developing specific integrations with partners such as PKE, making it easier for businesses to adopt cutting-edge functionalities in their logistics processes. The question now is: Are you ready to embrace the future?
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