Save on shipping by maximizing parcel shipping efficiency
Why Postal Code Sorting?
This method is used to sort packages by postal/ zip code and with Distribution Centers to save on shipping costs. Sorter sizing and configuration is important and is calculated by the number of postal code sorts required, volume of shipments, and time available to perform the sort.
The highest volume postal codes would be sorted out first while the remaining postal codes would be sorted into subsequent waves. This saves time while maximizing efficiency.
If the universe of items to be sorted is known before the sort, the sorter will pre-calculate the waves according to the sorter size and time window. If not, the WMS can assign the postal codes to individual chutes, rely on incoming data from other processes, or base the configuration on historical data.
How the system operates:
The package arrives with the bar code face up as it leaves the packaging station. Once an item is introduced onto a sorter tray, an omni-directional or vision scanner is used to read the bar code and utilizes the computer files to direct each item to a specific sort destination or “drop”, based on the 3 or 5-digit postal code, or other sort criteria, determined by the customer.
Envelopes and packages may be placed onto the sorter using automatic feeders, semi-automatic feeders, and/or manual feeders. Packages may be received via conveyor from your packaging station then staged and singulated for proper placement onto a segmented induction conveyor. This conveyor has flights at the appropriate intervals capable of transporting packages ranging from ounces up to several pounds. Sorted product may be accumulated into various containers, such as: chutes, totes, mail bags, and gaylords. Different types of collection containers may be simultaneously used on the same sorter. The system tracks the relevant information with each package. This means that individual product handling is optimized. Weigh-in-motion is also available to assign a weight to each package.
Sorted information is communicated directly with the customer’s host computer or manifest system, including sort activity, quantity, ID, and weight, or any information needed, as defined by the customer.
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