CJ Logistics is leading automation initiatives in global logistics by adopting advanced innovative technology including IT and robots.
Robotic automation technology verified through commercial use in Korea currently undergoing testing in the U.S. logistics center as the last step until its deployment on-site
Testing for autonomous truck loaders (ATLs) is in full swing at a logistics center of CJ Logistics America in Texas, U.S. Here, automated mobile robots (AMRs) can be seen crisscrossing inside the center, automatically moving boxes necessary for different tasks. AMRs navigate across the logistics center and guide workers in which way to go to pick up goods or inform them of the location of merchandise, all while moving goods to their destinations. At one corner of the center, electric pallet trucks (EPTs) move around the 112,396m2 center to repeatedly carry logistics pallets stacked with goods to their designated places.
CJ Logistics announced that they are performing tests on advanced robotic automation technology based on the Technology, Engineering, System & Solution (TES) Logistics Technology Research Institute to be introduced to the US integrated corporation CJ Logistics America.
CJ Logistics , which recently released its future vision aimed at reinventing itself as a company of innovative technologies, is spurring on the automation of its logistics centers. CJ Logistics plans to lead logistics automation by testing and applying various forms of robotic technology that are appropriate for the global logistics market and to disseminate TES-based cutting-edge robotic automation technology that has already been proven after being introduced in the domestic market.
A diverse range of testing is being conducted on-site to introduce customized robotic automation technology, such as AMRs, EPTs, and ATLs, at the logistics center of CJ Logistics America located in Texas, US.
EPTs are machines optimized for moving long distances and are capable of carrying up to four pallets at the same time. ATLs are mostly in charge of warehousing and releasing goods. They can stack or bring down pallets just like forklifts, and can automatically move, stack, pick, and carry merchandise placed on pallets to the storage areas.
AMRs to be deployed in logistics centers next year, and are expected to boost productivity by 22%
CJ Logistics America is reviewing plans to deploy AMRs next year positively. They can also provide guidance for picking up products or their location inside the logistics center, and even carry loaded goods to designated areas. Since AMRs can minimize the area of movement of workers, it has been confirmed that they are capable of increasing productivity by more than 22%.
In general, US logistics centers have fewer floors compared to those in Korea, with each floor also having higher ceilings. With this and other various factors in mind, including the physical properties, volume, and the quantity of goods of customers, CJ Logistics will apply robotic technology that allows for the most effective operation of its logistics centers.
Kevin Coleman, Chief Customer officer of CJ Logistics America said, “CJ Logistics is leading with the automation of the entire logistics supply chain not only in Korea, but also across Asia. CJ Logistics America is committed to applying the TES automation technology in logistics sites in North America, including the US, Canada and Mexico, and providing the greatest value and service to our customers.”
CJ Logistics announced the “Master Plan for Key TES Technologies” in October, 2021 and revealed the company’s goals to “strengthen their competitiveness in key businesses based on robotic, AI, and big data technologies” through the “12 Core Technologies and the Master Plan.”