E-Commerce

What Is eCommerce Automation?

eCommerce automation refers to the use of automated systems, software and warehouse technologies to optimise fulfilment, order picking and high-volume distribution operations in retail and eCommerce environments.

Automated warehouse systems help businesses streamline material flow, improve order accuracy and increase operational efficiency across receiving, storage, picking, packing and shipping processes. Technologies such as conveyor systems, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), picking systems and warehouse software support scalable fulfilment operations while reducing manual handling and operational costs.

In fast-moving eCommerce and retail environments, automation helps companies manage fluctuating order volumes, meet rising customer expectations and maintain reliable delivery performance.

ecommerce automation online shopping

Technologies Used in E-commerce Automation

Automation comes in many different forms and can suit a variety of internal processes. With bespoke solution design, these technologies can be tailored to suit any building space.

ecommerce conveyor systems

Conveyor Systems

Conveyor systems are a tried and tested solution for moving goods. They can be installed in any work area to transport units quickly and securely. There are many different types of conveyor sections available to create the ideal, streamlined workflow. These include turntables, transfer units, vertical conveyors and stackers. Conveyors can carry various units such as totes, trays, cartons, euro pallets and mesh pallets.

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Sortation Systems

Sortation systems are solutions that can convey and sort goods at high speeds. They use barcode scanners to identify items, an ejection mechanism (such as a cross-belt) to redirect them, and chutes to gather goods. Sorters take away the need to check and cross-reference every item, instead grouping them automatically. Goods can be sorted by any criteria stored in order notes, commonly delivery destination or by the courier provider assigned to handle the delivery.

ecommerce automated storage and retrieval system

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems

Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) are solutions that consist of a storage and retrieval device (shuttles, cranes), high-density racking, connecting conveyor system and warehouse management system (WMS). Some ASRS may utilise a shuttle or unit lift. They can optimise the storage of goods (e.g. prioritising fast movers) and support inventory management by tracking available locations.

warehouse software for ecommerce wms wcs

Warehouse Management Systems

A warehouse management system (WMS) is software that integrates with other warehouse automation technologies to optimise the movement of goods. It uses real-time data to guide operations, track inventory, and provide valuable insights that can be used to improve efficiency.

Case Study: INTERSPORT’s Omnichannel Fulfilment Upgrade

In this case study, discover how INTERSPORT overcame major omnichannel fulfilment challenges using GEBHARDT solutions.

INTERSPORT faced classic omnichannel challenges: fast ecommerce fulfilment, large store orders, limited space and outdated systems. GEBHARDT delivered a fully automated solution with a high-speed miniload warehouse, 4.3 km of conveyors and pick-by-light workstations. The result: up to 1,800 containers/hour, faster multi-SKU picking, higher accuracy and increased capacity - all without expanding the building.

Watch the video to see our omnichannel automation in action or read on below.

View INTERSPORT Case Study

Key Benefits of Automating Your E-commerce Processes

Increased Throughput

One of the most immediate benefits of automation is the significant boost in throughput. Automated systems can process more units per hour compared to manual labour. With increased throughput, businesses can meet the growing demand for fast, accurate deliveries without the need to expand warehouse space.

Improved Order Accuracy

Human error is a significant issue in warehouse management. Automation eliminates mistakes, ensuring that the correct items are picked, packed, and shipped every time. This leads to fewer returns and higher customer satisfaction.

Greater Process Visibility

With automated systems, every stage of the fulfilment process is tracked in real time. From the moment goods arrive at the warehouse to the moment they are dispatched, businesses can monitor and optimise every movement, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.

Cost Efficiency

Automation significantly reduces the need for manual labour, which directly impacts labour costs. By increasing efficiency and reducing errors, automation also minimises costly downtime and the need for warehouse expansion, delivering higher productivity with lower operational expenses.

Scalability and Flexibility

Automated systems are modular, which means they can grow with your business. As order volumes increase, businesses can easily scale their operations without investing in entirely new systems. This cost-effective approach ensures businesses remain adaptable to future needs.

Case Study: Fully Automated Shuttle Solution at 11teamsports

Together with GEBHARDT Fördertechnik from Sinsheim, the football outfitter and sporting goods retailer 11teamsports completely reorganised their logistics at the new headquarters in Satteldorf in February. With the installation of a high-performance shuttle warehouse and the implementation of the “goods-to-man” principle, the company is well equipped for the growing challenges of the omni-channel business. As a result, 11teamsports is ideally equipped for the growing dynamics of the multi-channel business and can process both B2B / branch orders from the automatic mini-load warehouse, as well as B2C and individual orders from the online shop.

View 11teamsports Case Study

Common E-commerce Fulfilment Challenges Solved by Automation

E-commerce businesses face several challenges in their fulfilment processes, including managing order spikes during peak seasons, handling complex orders, and maintaining inventory accuracy. Automation helps solve these problems by providing the tools necessary to handle high volumes of orders with minimal errors and downtime.

Managing Complex Orders

As product ranges expand and orders become more complex, e-commerce businesses face challenges with multiple destinations, small order sizes, and managing a wider range of SKUs. Automated systems streamline the entire process, efficiently handling large volumes of small orders and organising goods based on demand.

Meeting High Customer Expectations

Consumers expect fast deliveries, often within the same day or next day. Automated warehouses can meet these expectations by improving order picking speed, reducing errors, and streamlining the shipping process, leading to timely and accurate deliveries.

Handling Peak Seasons

During peak shopping seasons like Black Friday or holiday sales, demand can surge, overwhelming manual processes. Automation ensures businesses can efficiently process large volumes of orders, even during these busy periods.

Managing Returns

E-commerce businesses face the challenge of processing returns efficiently. Automated systems streamline the return process, enabling quicker restocking, reducing handling time, and ensuring accurate inventory updates. This helps businesses maintain customer satisfaction by processing returns swiftly and accurately.

Tracking Inventory

Automation provides real-time inventory tracking, allowing businesses to monitor stock levels and ensure that online listings accurately reflect available inventory. This helps reduce out-of-stock situations and improves customer satisfaction.

Case Study: Ultra-modern Logistics Centre at REISSER

The GEBHARDT Intralogistics Group established a state-of-the-art central warehouse for REISSER, a renowned specialist retailer for bathroom equipment, installation and heating technology at its Böblingen head office location to enhance the delivery capability of all its branches and the various warehouses. The goal was to implement a sustainable intralogistics solution that would provide optimum support to the company in its further growth, especially as a partner between industry and trade.

View REISSER Case Study

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