The right packaging is critical for efficient operation of warehouse automation. Only proper methods of handling, transport, storage and retail display ensure the highest level of food safety and prevent costly product damage and waste. Key features make IFCO Reusable Packaging Containers (RPCs) the perfect choice for high-volume logistics centers for groceries.
High-tech solutions make the entire food supply chain more efficient and cost-effective, and particularly in high-volume operations, warehouse automation is synonymous with precision and speed. IFCO RPCs are standardized, stackable and robust. They pave the way for robotics and warehouse automation. Particularly during distribution and handling processes for fresh produce, sturdy packaging is essential. Durable IFCO RPCs are optimal for automated processes because they remain stable despite extreme swings in moisture and temperature.
All of our RPC models guarantee the same standardized footprint and have an interlocking design, so even stacks of various produce types don’t tilt. In high-bay shelves, where crates are stacked several meters tall, the last thing you want is for a box to collapse or give way under the weight in the stack. An interlocking design is one of the key characteristics that make IFCO RPCs optimal for warehouse automation:
Durable material: Withstands temperature and moisture extremes
Sturdy construction: Protects products in tall stacks
Securely stackable: Avoids tilting and slippage
Moisture-resistant: Maintains shape and size despite high humidity
Optimal ventilation: Efficient cooling and temperature regulation
Precise dimensions: Essential for scanning and recognition
High compatibility: Minimal deviation between product generations
Standardized footprint: Essential for high volume operations
Base configuration: Provides smooth passage on rollers or conveyors
Large range of models: Transports wide range of products
Taking a closer look at the operations inside the distribution center makes it clear how and why using standardized reusable containers improves efficiency. At every step in the system, from arrival to order picking and dispatch, the characteristics of IFCO RPCs present a range of benefits.
Pallets stacked with IFCO RPCs arrive at a logistics center. This eliminates the need to repackage produce.
As the crates move through the system, scanners read the bar codes, identifying the type of RPC and its content. This ensures seamless track and trace of shipments.
Produce in IFCO RPCs is stored in refrigerated or ambient conditions. Shape and size of IFCO RPCs are maintained despite high humidity, which can reach up to 80%.
The system follows each container throughout the process. Precise dimensions of IFCO RPCs guarantee that the system recognizes sales units.
Robots and conveyors separate the shipment into individual sales units. Standardized dimensions of IFCO RPCs ensure efficient handling.
The configuration of the base of the IFCO RPCs ensures smooth passage over rollers or conveyors.
Sales units in IFCO RPCs are identified by date and their position in the shelves. Crates are stacked securely, and products are protected even in tall stacks.
Picking orders in IFCO RPCs for the outfeed is fast, cost-effective and accurate, as crates are easy to handle and palletize.
As a global market leader in reusable packaging, IFCO offers high levels of product compatibility and standardization. Our technical support cooperates closely with you, along with design engineers and automated systems manufacturers during planning, construction, testing and launch. This ensures that your conveyors and automated warehouse systems are compatible with IFCO RPCs and visa-versa. Following installation, we offer ongoing support to make sure all systems continue to operate smoothly.
As participants in the food supply chain, you know that most fresh products are very delicate, spoil quickly and are easily damaged. Only proper methods of handling, transport, storage and retail display ensure the highest level of food safety and prevent costly product damage and waste.
Through ongoing research and product development, IFCO supports growers and retailers seeking to deliver fresher, healthier food to the world while ensuring their operations are as cost-effective as possible.
Contact us today – we would be happy to work with you to develop packaging solutions for your products that are compatible with warehouse automation.
