Driving Innovation Together: Schaeffler and SSI SCHAEFER Expand Partnership with New Logistics Hub
SSI SCHAEFER to build high-tech distribution center for Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions in Katowice, Poland
Automation powered by Autonomous Mobile Robots, AGVs, and Robotics
Seamless material flow through integrated hardware and intelligent software
Schaeffler, a global leader in automotive and industrial supply, has been shaping mobility and motion for over 75 years. This dedication to quality is also reflected in the company’s Vehicle Lifetime Solutions division, which provides tailored repair and service solutions for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and tractors. To deliver faster, more flexible and more reliable service to customers around the world, a highly automated logistics center is now being built by SSI SCHAEFER in Katowice, Poland. The project is being executed in close cooperation with three SSI SCHAEFER Group companies: RO-BER, a robotics specialist; SWAN, an expert in SAP-based warehouse management; and DS AUTOMOTION, a leader in robotics and AGV technology.
Schaeffler and SSI SCHAEFER share a long-standing partnership and previously developed one of the most advanced distribution centers in Europe, located in Kitzingen. This established trust forms the foundation for the new project, which brings together future-ready technologies in a thoughtfully integrated design.
Integrated solutions for high demands
The Katowice facility will feature Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), intelligent robotics, and advanced conveyor systems, all working in harmony to ensure smooth material flows. The challenge? The installation is taking place in a building with a height of just 12 meters. SSI SCHAEFER’s engineering expertise shines here: the system is designed to maximize available space and can be easily scaled by adding more AMR or AGV units.
This ensures Schaeffler remains agile and responsive. “Our goal was to combine maximum efficiency with maximum flexibility,” says Dr. Jörg Zellerhoff, Warehouse Engineering Logistics Techn. at Schaeffler Group. “This new distribution center allows us to respond quickly to changing market demands.”
Smart technologies for efficient storage
At the heart of the facility is an automated small parts warehouse with over 120,000 storage locations. It’s powered by 55 RackBots and 116 RunBots. RackBots autonomously store and retrieve containers across all levels, while RunBots connect the system to the conveyor technology. Directly linked is the destacking area, where an intelligent robotic cell automatically separates small load carriers and prepares empty pallets for further processing. The portal robot used for this task is implemented by RO-BER. Key advantages of this robotic approach include gentle product handling, consistent performance regardless of item size or weight and reduced physical strain for employees.
AGVs transporting small parts supply ergonomic workstations with full flexibility, while pallet AGVs handle the transport of larger load carriers. These driverless systems, supplied by DS AUTOMOTION, form a crucial part of the value chain. The AGVs can be adapted to various applications and operating environments, ensuring seamless integration into warehouse operations.
Orchestrated by intelligent software
With the new highly automated warehouse, Schaeffler is relying on state-of-the-art control technology through SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM). The implementation is being carried out in close collaboration between expert teams from Schaeffler and SWAN GmbH. Schaeffler develops the tailored business logic within the Warehouse Management System, the heart of SAP EWM, while SWAN provides the intelligent material flow control, within SAP. This includes the seamless integration of all technical subsystems, such as the conveying system, the automated small-parts warehouse and the AGV fleets. The entire installation is operated and monitored via a central information platform: the WAMAS Control Center ensures full transparency, coordinates material flows and delivers essential KPIs for optimization and maintenance. The result is a seamlessly orchestrated intralogistics solution that combines efficiency, precision and future viability.
Accelerating toward a smarter future
Dr. Zellerhoff sees the Katowice facility as a benchmark for modern logistics: “This project demonstrates how state-of-the-art technologies can be integrated into a cohesive, high-performance system.” With shared experience and a strong spirit of innovation, both Schaeffler and SSI SCHAEFER are confident: the Katowice distribution center will be a key element of Schaeffler’s global logistics strategy, and another milestone in a powerful partnership.
Autonomous Mobile Robots, Automated Guided Vehicles, and intelligent robotics work seamlessly together in Katowice – for maximum space utilization and flexibly expandable material flows.