Scaling Smart While Maximizing Space and Security with Vertical Lift Modules

Around the world, logistics and supply chain companies are investing more in automation and digitalization to optimize efficiency in the warehouse as part of Logistics 4.0.

This has brought about a consequential change in how internal material flow takes place within a site. Better known as intralogistics, it encompasses the storage, picking, and transport processes.

Although advanced offerings are available in the market, many warehouses in Africa are still predominantly manually operated. This is due to the high initial costs to invest in such technologies, shortage of skilled labor, and inadequate infrastructure to build such facilities. Furthermore, security issues pose a threat to companies on the continent where pilferage remains a widespread concern.

Investing in warehouse automation ensures timely deliveries, reduce costs, and raise productivity levels. Moreover, it minimizes the need for companies to invest in expanding existing physical warehouse structures, saving significant resources. The vertical lift module solution, SSI LOGIMAT®, offers an ideal starting point for businesses of all sizes to embark on their warehouse automation journey.

Think of the typical vertical lift module as an oversized drawer cabinet that stores small parts. It has two stacks of trays at the front and back, with a lift that climbs the entire height to pick an individual tray and deliver it to the user. This makes it versatile in terms of applications and suitable for industries such as retail, e-commerce, and manufacturing.  

Furthermore, vertical lift modules can securely store goods and reduce the risk of unauthorized access as only authorized users can retrieve goods from the machine. Access is strictly monitored and tracked by the system, adding an extra layer of security.  The machine is designed to be user-friendly, with quick training ensuring that users can operate it quickly.     

Vertical lift modules can go up to a height of 24 m, giving companies the possibility to increase their storage capacity by up to 90% while reducing warehouse floor space by 45%. The higher the height, the more cost and space companies can save.

With vertical lift modules, workers no longer need to walk to the storage area to retrieve items by applying the “goods-to-person” principle. Also, picking errors are eliminated, and overall picking times are reduced since the goods are delivered to the workers, which in turn requires fewer personnel on-site.

The machine can be connected to other enterprise resource planning systems, run as part of the WAMAS Lift & Store software solution, or run as a standalone software. The standalone LOGIONE software will allow users search and locate items as well as pick and place storage materials. The SSI LOGIMAT can also be integrated with the comprehensive suite of SSI SCHAEFER solutions for the entire material flow of goods.

Moving towards semi-automated warehouse solutions can lead to improvements in efficiency, security, and productivity. While the initial investment may be substantial, companies can see long term benefits, including improved space utilization, reduced operational inefficiencies, and mitigated risks associated with traditional warehouse solutions in the longer term. Over time, warehouses can manage higher volumes of goods, ultimately generating greater revenue and profit for companies.

Disclaimer:
This article was originally published in Supply Network Africa magazine’s January/ February 2025 issue. Read the original version here.

The SSI LOGIMAT® can reach a height of up to 24 m

Picking efficiency can be optimized by using vertical lift modules

Additional functions, such as the LOGITILT, can be added for higher efficiency

About the Author:

Shelldon Uys is the Country Manager for SSI SCHAEFER South Africa. He leads the team in driving the strategic direction in Southern Africa, strengthening SSI SCHAEFER’s position as an intralogistics leader in the region.