In this Q&A, Logistics Manager speaks to Robert Brand-Smith, managing director of BS Handling Systems, about the future of conveyors and sortation systems in the logistics sector.
Here’s what he had to say:
What are the most significant trends you’re seeing in conveyor and sortation technology today?
The industry is certainly seeing a shift towards more automation, with WCS/WMS driven sortation systems improving efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, modular and scalable conveyor solutions are becoming popular, allowing businesses to adapt to fluctuating demands, particularly in e-commerce and high-speed fulfilment environments.
How does BS Handling Systems approach designing customised materials handling solutions for different industries?
BS Handling Systems takes an initial consultative approach, assessing each client’s unique operational needs before designing tailored solutions. By leveraging industry-specific expertise and advanced technologies, and working intimately with our clients, we ensure optimal efficiency, space utilisation, and seamless integration with existing processes.
What challenges do businesses typically face when upgrading their conveyor systems, and how do you help them overcome these obstacles?
Can you share a recent project where your team implemented an innovative sortation solution? What impact did it have on efficiency?
We have implemented several innovative systems in recent years for our clients, utilising high-speed sortation units, usually complimented with hi-spec DWS systems, which assist in maintaining increased throughputs and reducing sorting errors.
How is the rise of e-commerce influencing demand for conveyor and sortation technology, and how is BS Handling Systems adapting to these changes?
The surge in e-commerce has driven demand for high-speed, high-capacity conveyor systems that can handle diverse product sizes and rapid order fulfilment. BS Handling Systems is adapting by developing more flexible and automated solutions, including our new cross-belt sortation partner, EAE Solutions, robotic sortation and seeking new conveyor technology to integrate with our systems.
We have been incorporating energy-efficient motors and smart control software to reduce power consumption into all our projects for a few years. Additionally, designing conveyors with variable speed drives (VSDs) and optimising layouts to minimise unnecessary movement and energy waste. Auto ‘sleep-mode’ and automatic start up also assist are also standard features.
Could you elaborate on the technologies involved in your sortation systems, e.g., computerisation, AI programming, etc.?
We integrate specialist algorithms for intelligent sorting, RFID and barcode scanning for real-time tracking.
How do your systems handle the challenges of operating in specialised environments like cold storage or high-speed fulfilment centres?
For cold storage, we use specially designed materials and lubricants that withstand low temperatures without compromising performance. In high-speed fulfilment centres, we deploy high-speed sorters, advanced sensors, and real-time monitoring to ensure continuous, precise operation under high-volume conditions.
What role do robotics and automation play in your current conveyor solutions, and do you see full automation replacing traditional conveyor systems?
Robotics and automation play a significant role in reducing manual handling, increasing efficiency, and improving accuracy in sorting and packaging. While full automation is growing, I think that hybrid systems which combine human observation/management with robotic precision are likely to remain prevalent for flexibility and adaptability, we like to call it a “balanced warehouse”.
What health and safety measures do you integrate into your systems to ensure worker safety in high-speed, high-volume operations?
BS Handling Systems prioritises safety by incorporating emergency stop mechanisms, guarding systems, ergonomic designs, and automated hazard detection.
Looking ahead, what emerging technologies or innovations do you believe will shape the future of materials handling and sortation systems?
For more on this, check out the conveyors and sortation feature in the March 2025 issue of Logistics Manager, and to find out more about BS Handling Systems, visit www.bshandlingsystems.com.
Plus, if you want to see this technology up close and speak to someone from BS Handling Systems face-to-face, make sure to visit Stand 800 at Robotics and Automation, the UK’s largest dedicated robotics and automation exhibition, on 25-26 March 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham. Click here to register for your free pass.
