Case Study
Thomson Legal and Regulatory’s expansion in e-commerce called for a high-efficiency distribution system to keep up with demand. Managing the distribution of books, manuals, and legal inserts, Thomson needed a solution to speed up order processing, increase accuracy, and reduce order cycle times.
Thomson Legal and Regulatory, a leading legal document publisher, specializes in legal, regulatory, and compliance materials. Their 125,000-square-foot distribution center required an advanced sorting solution to efficiently handle diverse product types while maintaining accuracy across high-volume orders.
As Thomson expanded its e-commerce operations, its existing distribution processes needed rapid scaling to meet rising order volumes. The facility upgrade aimed to optimize productivity, but handling a wide range of legal documents and materials created challenges. Thomson required an integrated system to improve throughput and ensure order accuracy while meeting tight deadlines. LD Systems was brought on to provide expertise in e-commerce focused design and high-efficiency distribution solutions.
LD Systems implemented an advanced sorting system that transformed Thomson’s distribution center. With a dual sided, multi-lane narrow belt sorter, along with optimized layout and high-precision controls, Thomson achieved a 40% boost in productivity and a 99.95% accuracy rate. The new system reduced order cycle times from 2 hours to 30 minutes, providing significant operational gains.
LD Systems conducted an extensive analysis of Thomson’s operations to identify bottlenecks and guide design strategies. This consulting phase helped to align the sorting system and workflows with Thomson’s goals for productivity and accuracy.
Using AutoCAD, LD Systems designed an optimized layout with a dual-sided, multi-lane system for fast and accurate sorting. Strategic placement of conveyors, sorters, and pack zones ensured smooth, efficient order flow and minimized handling times.
Tailored for Thomson’s needs, LD Systems selected and installed equipment, including a narrow belt sorter with dual-sided sorting lanes for increased order processing speed. Additional features, such as Gaylord full sensors and high-precision PLC controls, enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
Overseeing every project phase, LD Systems ensured the timeline and budget were met. Smooth installation and timely execution minimized disruptions and facilitated Thomson’s seamless transition to a high-efficiency system.
To meet Thomson’s demand for rapid, accurate order fulfillment, LD Systems
implemented a multi-lane narrow belt sorter and conveyors across the 125,000-square-foot facility. Each component was selected for high-volume handling, improving productivity and order cycle efficiency.
LD Systems introduced various advanced sorting and storage features:
Narrow Belt Sorter: Dual-sided sorting lanes to process orders quickly, improving order cycle times.
Gaylord Full Sensors: Sensors enhance sorting efficiency by monitoring volume, reducing order processing delays.
Controls and PLC Integration: Ensures seamless operation and communication across equipment, enhancing flow and accuracy.
The system’s conveyor and sorter components drive Thomson’s efficient order
processing:
Transport Conveyors: Move products smoothly across packing and sorting areas, reducing manual handling.
Induction Points: Feed items accurately into sorting lanes, enhancing speed and reducing errors.
Multi-Lane Sorter: Supports high-volume sorting with dual-sided lanes, directing orders accurately to packing zones.
Host Interface Controls: Ensures streamlined item flow, accuracy, and communication between systems.
With LD Systems’ integrated solution, Thomson Legal and Regulatory’s distribution center now achieves high-speed, accurate order fulfillment. The advanced sorting and conveyor system supports high-volume e-commerce operations, positioning Thomson to meet increasing demands with outstanding efficiency
