Packaging Corner: Automated dimensioning goes beyond dim weight compliance

Now that dimensional weight (dim weight) shipping charges assessed by UPS and FedEx for all packages have become reality, small parcel shippers have expanded their use of dimensioning equipment to capture the length, width and height of their packages—in addition to weights.

There are a number of ways to measure items upon receipt and prior to shipment, including manually with tape measures or by placing an item on a dimensioning machine (either static or portable).

More recently, however, there’s been an evolution in the implementation of automated, in-motion dimensioning equipment within shippers’ distribution centers, says John Ashodian, marketing manager for intralogistics at SICK. The automated equipment uses sensors to capture item measurements as products and parcels travel past on conveyors.

“Previously we saw most of these implementations at carrier hubs. Now, we’re seeing them move inside the walls of retailers’ and e-tailers’ facilities,” Ashodian explains.

The advantage of capturing item volume measurements goes beyond avoiding carrier chargebacks for inaccurate shipment information, Ashodian says. “Internally, the information that’s gathered can be used to provide more value than just calculating shipping costs more accurately,” he says. “It can also be used to make internal processes more efficient.”

From a functional perspective, integrating a dimensioner, weigh scale and bar code scanners with a conveyor, which can transport items at speeds of 500 feet per minute (or faster), captures and transmits the data in real time for better transparency and visibility into the supply chain, he says.

Data collected from the automated capture of inbound product dimensions can be used to improve product identification and storing processes; help identify damaged cartons; match items to the optimum outbound shipping carton size; and even load trailers for maximum transportation density.

“These sensors capture a lot of information that can not only be used to realize cost savings from streamlining operations and minimizing waste, but also to improve customer satisfaction,” adds Ashodian. “Ultimately, retailers are looking to leverage technologies to ensure that every single customer’s experience is the best it can be.”

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