Leading Pharmaceutical Manufacturer and Distributor Optimizes Logistics with ULMA Handling Systems

Requirements

The company faced the need to centralize and expand its storage capacity, reduce associated costs, and improve the speed of material reception and dispatch processes. Additionally, it needed to optimize the use of available space within its facilities—despite physical constraints—and automate the supply to cleanrooms and packaging material areas (MACO).

Proposed solution

ULMA Handling Systems designed a customized automated solution for its logistics center located in Spain, which includes an automatic pallet silo 40 meters high with a capacity for 30,000 pallets. The system is complemented by an advanced Shuttle-based Transport System (STV), capable of moving up to 360 pallets per hour. A material receiving and inspection system was also implemented, along with an order preparation and dispatch system for conditioned material.

One of the key differentiating elements of the solution is the integration of mobile robotics through a fleet of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), responsible for transporting materials from peripheral areas to the automated warehouse. These AMRs also manage the supply to weighing cabins, sampling areas, and distribution within the MACO (Material Conditioning) area. The entire solution is centrally managed through ULMA Handling Systems' U-MIND WMS, enabling full coordination and optimization of all logistics processes.

Result

The implementation of this comprehensive solution allowed the manufacturer to centralize its inventory and automate its processes while maximizing operational efficiency and optimizing the available space within existing facilities. Productivity significantly increased without requiring additional staff.

Space utilization was greatly enhanced by leveraging vertical storage, and process errors were substantially reduced. Operational traceability and service quality improved, and workplace ergonomics were enhanced by minimizing physical strain on personnel. Additionally, automation facilitated better data capture and analysis, enabling faster strategic decision-making and more agile, efficient operations.