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The robot effect: UPS taps Geek+ for faster sorting

The robot effect: UPS taps Geek+ for faster sorting
The robot effect: UPS taps Geek+ for faster sorting
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UPS and Geek+ are teaming up to help the booming e-commerce sector with a solution on returns. 

In a recent white paper, logistics giant UPS and Geek+ detailed its partnership. Earlier this year, UPS partnered with the robotics company to create its first automated return hub in Pennsylvania with 150 robots. 

“By integrating advanced robotics into reverse logistics, we’re unlocking new levels of speed, precision, and cost efficiency,” says Happy Returns COO Tim Fehr. 

The white paper highlights that despite the strides made with automation in forward logistics, the potential of automation in reverse, particularly in streamlining e-commerce returns, has yet to gain traction in the US. 

How it works: Automated returns with Happy Returns

Here’s the automated process in action: 

  • Arrival and packing: Returns arrive at the hub and are consolidated into bags, ready for scanning.
  • Induction and scanning: Each bag is scanned and loaded onto a robot for efficient handling.
  • Automated transport: Robots transport the labeled return bags seamlessly through the warehouse.
  • Sorting to retailers: Robots deliver each bag to one of nearly 200 chutes designated for individual retailers, streamlining the sorting process.

How has Geek+ automation helped with returns? 

  • Happy Returns’ process accuracy has surged to 65% within one month of automation. 
  • 50% increase in item processing. 
  • Median time to ship items to retailers has decreased by 35%

Kristen Hennessey, Happy Returns’ senior manager for automation engineering, says: “The Geek+ robots provide us with significant efficiency and flexibility, which directly benefits the brands we serve while reducing the burdens on warehouse personnel.” 

Geek+ has a smart logistics solution for UPS

Geek+ is a global leader in smart logistics automation, specializing in robotics for warehousing and supply chain operations. Its solutions include automated picking, sorting, moving, and forklift robots, all designed to improve warehouse efficiency, accuracy, and flexibility. 

Its robots use advanced AI, laser-guided navigation, and smart collaboration features to reduce labor costs and optimize processes, meeting the demands of various industries like e-commerce, retail, and manufacturing. 

The company’s executive vice president of sales and solutions says with the growth of e-commerce sales worldwide, reverse logistics will become an important role in the retail supply chain. 

Happy returns blazing a trail 

Happy Returns was founded by David Sobie and Mark Geller in July 2015. The business offers a range of software returns solutions. Users can access a returns portal and make a box-free return at a location. The item is shipped, sorted, and returned to a merchant. 

The reverse logistics firm was acquired by PayPal in 2021. In October 2023, UPS acquired the Happy Returns. 

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Photo Credit: Geek+

About the author

Sharl Els

Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.

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