3PL & Contract Logistics
What Is 3PL Warehouse Automation?
3PL warehouse automation refers to the use of automated systems, software and intralogistics technologies to optimise warehousing, order fulfilment and distribution processes in third-party logistics (3PL) and contract logistics environments.
Automated warehouse systems help 3PL providers and contract logistics companies manage changing customer requirements, fluctuating order volumes and diverse product ranges with greater flexibility, scalability and operational reliability. From incoming goods and storage to picking, consolidation and shipping, automation supports efficient material flow and stable performance across complex fulfilment operations.
Technologies such as conveyor systems, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), picking systems and warehouse software improve throughput, increase inventory transparency and support faster, more accurate fulfilment and distribution processes.
Technologies Used in 3PL Warehouse Automation
Automation solutions in contract logistics must be reusable, scalable and capable of supporting multiple customers within shared infrastructure. With modular system design, these technologies can be adapted to warehouses and distribution centres handling diverse product profiles.
Conveyor Systems
Conveyor systems form the backbone of automated contract logistics operations. They enable reliable internal transport between storage, picking, consolidation and shipping areas, ensuring predictable material flow across multi-client facilities.
With components such as accumulation sections, transfer units and sortation interfaces, conveyor technology supports a wide range of load carriers and order profiles while maintaining consistent throughput during peak periods.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems
Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), including shuttle, miniload and pallet solutions, provide high-density storage and fast access to goods across multiple customer inventories.
These systems enable shared use of storage infrastructure, improve space utilisation and support rapid adaptation to new customer contracts without structural changes to the facility.
Warehouse Management Systems
Warehouse management and control software provides transparency across complex, multi-client contract logistics operations. Real-time data enables tracking of inventory by customer, monitoring of material flow and control of system performance.
Software solutions also support Track & Trace requirements, reporting, KPI monitoring and integration with customer IT systems, creating a reliable digital interface between logistics service provider and client.
Case Study: Automated Logistics Centre at karldischinger
In this case study, discover how karldischinger GmbH optimised its pharmaceutical logistics operations by implementing a highly automated intralogistics solution from GEBHARDT.
The project required a system capable of meeting strict pharmaceutical logistics standards while increasing storage capacity and streamlining material flow. GEBHARDT delivered a purpose-built automated solution featuring a high-bay warehouse with 15,384 storage locations, 136.5 metres of conveyor technology, and six storage and retrieval machines. The entire installation was certified and audited to meet the specific requirements of pharmaceutical logistics environments.
Watch the video to see the system in action, or read on to learn how GEBHARDT supported karldischinger in creating a modern and compliant logistics centre.
Case Study: Conveying and Warehouse Technology at C-Log in France
For many years, the logistics service provider C-Log Solutions, based in Saint Malo, France, has been supporting the fashion and textile retail business of the Beaumanoir Group as well as external partners at home and abroad. Having decided to go with the GEBHARDT product portfolio, the company sees itself ideally equipped for the changing shopping behaviour of consumers and the high demands of the textile mail order business in terms of achieving a continuous increase in performance.
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