Jersey Post invests in parcel automation system
Jersey Post has completed the latest phase of its plan to modernise its operations, with the recent investment in bespoke automated parcel sorting equipment at its Rue des Pres headquarters in Jersey. The project was delivered by Bowe Systec UK, which previously worked with the company in the delivery of the Bowe Systec – Simex Letter Sorter in 2014.
For the new project, Jersey Post selected the Bowe Systec – Simex Packet Sorter to handle the projected growth in packet and parcel volumes fuelled by the increase in internet shopping.
In a statement sent to Post&Parcel today (26 May), Jersey Post said the primary function of the Simex Packet Sorter is to process parcels up to 20kg, but the system has a “broad processing capability” which means it can also be use to process packets and large letters.
According to Jersey Post: “Key features of the Simex Packet Sorter is the system’s ability to sort all mail formats up to parcel size and 20kg in weight, in line weighing, volumising of items, barcode and OCR reading including hand writing recognition, split chute design enabling items to be sorted to Walks and Van Rounds simultaneously based on specified criteria at speeds of up to 5,500 per hour and a noise level of less than <70db.”
The order was placed in February 2015 and final installation took place in November ahead of the busy Christmas period, which saw an 8.7% increase in volumes handled over 2014. The sorter can provide 148 sort selections, split between parcel chutes outer and drop bag selections inner, with a dog leg design to fit the footprint available (a length of 48 metres).
Jersey Post Chief Executive Tim Brown commented: “The investment in the parcel sorter is an important part of our business development plan and takes into account the shifting trend towards an increase in three dimensional mail as traditional letter mail continues to decline. The new equipment enables us to more efficiently handle existing volumes and attract new business from off-Island businesses that are looking for a fully integrated solution on-Island.”
