National Drug Chain Leverages Automation for Track and Trace

Robotic Picking Solution Including End-To-End Order Verification

The Challenge

When it comes to prescription medication, order accuracy is of the utmost importance. Even the slightest of errors are not tolerable. This was the case with a leading North American retail pharmacy where SSI SCHAEFER implemented a solution that ensures 100 % accuracy in prescription drugs and order processing. Not only did the retail pharmacy need an error free picking solution, but the company also needed an automated process to perform even during peak volumes with limited labor.

The Solution

Based on a long-standing partnership, SSI SCHAEFER collaborated to develop a highly innovative material handling solution that complies with strict quality requirements as well as legal standards. The stringent requirements were optimized and implemented with a combination of proven storage and picking systems. Futuristic robotics picking and data capture technology along with high-speed A-Frame picking provided the heart of an error-free picking solution. This ensures 100% verification of products while allowing high throughput rates and efficient handling during order peaks.

A Holistic Automated Warehouse Solution with Complete Order Verification

Warehouse automation can solve order accuracy and implement for tracking processes. However, a warehouse automation can also lower costs by saving on labor. Automated picking can be used to either supplement labor during peak season volume or replace it with solutions like robotic picking or A-Frame picking for fast movers.

Prescription drugs are manufactured using raw materials that are found throughout the world. These ingredients must be tracked throughout the supply chain, manufacturing process, and finally, the distribution and fulfillment of products. The later, has now seen new regulatory procedures within the United States and certain countries within the E.U. also follow strict guidelines. Given the fact that pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution happen at a global level, these regulatory guidelines must be implemented.

Take a look at our case study to view the picking solutions, order verification, and automated storage solutions that were designed into this project. To learn more, download the case study or reach out to one of our pharmaceutical fulfillment experts. We’d be happy to help with your automated warehouse project too.