AI-powered robotic sorting arm
FEDEX HAS introduced an AI-powered sorting robot at its air network location in Cologne.
The robot is the first of its kind in the European FedEx network and highlights the company’s commitment to digitising operations and developing a smart logistics network.
The Cologne air network location is the largest of seven FedEx air network facilities in Germany, employing over 900 team members. The robotic arm, manufactured by Hellebrekers B.V., is mounted inside a protective cage on the small package sort where incoming parcels are inducted. It assists team members in the sorting process, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. It primarily sorts documents and smaller parcels up to 4kg, processing up to 1,000 pieces per hour and managing around 90 destinations simultaneously.
“AI-supported technologies like this help us manage shipments more effectively, enhance customer experience, and boost our competitive edge as ecommerce continues to drive growth in the market,” says Boris Stoffer, managing director network operations Germany at FedEx. “These technologies are also supporting our employees by reducing physical strain by taking over repetitive, high-volume tasks.”
FedEx focus on automation in its Cologne air network location echoes broader industry trends. Logistics players are optimising operational efficiencies, from warehouse management to last-mile delivery. According to Statista, the global warehouse automation market is projected to exceed USD 51 billion by 2030.
In 2020, FedEx started with the installation of four robotic arms at its Memphis Hub in Tennessee to automate its small package sorting. In 2022, FedEx deployed further sorting robots at its South China eCommerce shipment sorting centre in Guangzhou and its Singapore Hub. Furthermore the company makes use of robotic product sortation and Identification systems at 17 US sorting facilities including New York, Las Vegas, and Ohio.
