What specific picking operation did early AS/RS implementations often fail to solve?

Answer

High-SKU-count, piece-picking operations requiring individual items

While early AS/RS machines excelled at high-density storage and retrieving bulk items like full pallets, they did not immediately resolve the logistical challenge posed by high-SKU-count environments, such as those found in e-commerce or retail distribution. These environments demanded access to smaller, individual items for piece-picking, meaning the G2P mechanism needed to adapt its delivery method—specifically regarding unitization—to match the granular requirements of these orders.

What specific picking operation did early AS/RS implementations often fail to solve?
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