30 July, 2024

Libiao Robots Deployed at French Hub

Posted on 30 July, 202429 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Kuehne+Nagel has introduced a new robotised order sorting system from Libiao Robotics at its multi-client Châtres warehouse, situated south-west of Paris, France. The new technology is designed to improve productivity, accommodate high volumes during peak times, develop collaborative technologies to support human resources, and reduce repetitive manual tasks.

Logistics provider Kuehne+Nagel is automating its Châtres logistics centre in the Seine-et-Marne region by deploying collaborative autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) supplied by Chinese company Libiao Robotics. Kuehne+Nagel claims it is the first third-party logistics provider (3PL) in France to use automate order sorting in such a way, and the first of its warehouses worldwide to be equipped with the technology.

Dedicated to fulfilling orders for customers in the eCommerce and fashion sectors, the Libiao solution, “enables teams to maintain continuity of operations while remaining flexible and responsive, particularly during seasonal peaks or site changes”, explains Christophe Vandrome, Contract Logistics Director at Kuehne+Nagel France.

The robots – nicknamed ‘mini yellows’ by Libiao Robotics and its customers thanks to their distinctive colour – receive packed and pre-labelled parcels in their tilting platforms from warehouse operatives and transfer the parcels to the correct bin ready to go out for delivery. As well as saving time, the collaborative technology has led to a reduction in error rate, which is now close to zero, according to Kuehne+Nagel.

The integration of collaborative robots in warehouses is necessary, particularly in sectors where seasonal variations in volumes are significant. Robotic technologies are effective solutions for managing these fluctuations, not least because of their ease of use.

These collaborative robotic technologies, “are designed to meet customers’ needs while focusing on the well-being and efficiency of employees”, adds Vandrome. “Our teams are delighted to have these robots, because they enable them to reduce the drudgery of logistics tasks and concentrate on higher added-value operations such as personalising parcels.” The robotisation of the facility is also leading to the creation of new jobs and new skills in areas such as robot maintenance.

With around 50 Libiao AMRs, the Châtres installation was integrated by Körber Supply Chain Software, Libiao’s global partner-integrator for the past three years. The solution is a further building block in a wider project to adopt collaborative, flexible and scalable technologies. In an initial, successful pilot project, Kuehne+Nagel set up a system of nine Libiao robots deployed as part of a Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) approach to help sort parcels, envelopes and goods. Thirty per cent of the orders placed during the last peak season were processed using the sorting robots during this first phase. The company has now gone one step further with a wider deployment of a new generation of robots to consolidate items by order.

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Great Forklift Power Comes with Reliability

Posted on 30 July, 202429 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has launched 6.0–12.0 tonne electric counterbalance truck, the largest electric model in the range. Built for heavy-duty operations including heavy industrial and engineering, oil and gas, timber, and ports, the new FB60-120N(H) Series sets new standards for manoeuvrability and versatility.

Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks models have long been known for their best-in-class ergonomics and legendary reliability. FB60-120N(H) is no exception.

With 4WS the front axle drive motors turn in separate directions, resulting in better grip and precise handling. The rear axle boasts a full 101-degree steering capability, with dual drive motors for instantaneous and smooth turning on the spot, reducing risk of damage to your site and loads. This tighter turning can allow you to cut 1.5 metres off aisle widths, affording you greater storage density potential.

H models feature Four Wheel Steering (4WS) which grants exceptional manoeuvrability, even in narrow spaces, and reduces tyre wear. Low Noise Lift features the quietest hydraulic pump on the market and contributes to an incredibly low overall noise level of only 65 dBA. Each model features a rubber-sealed cabin that minimises microvibrations and reduces noise in the cabin, making for a more comfortable, stress-free environment.

A low overhead guard option is available on all models — even up to 12 tonnes — allowing the truck to be used in container applications. Single-tyre models are also available for a narrower profile, so it’s simple to specify one of these trucks to do heavy work in confined areas.

These are just some of the features which Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks say makes the brand a favourite with owners and operators alike. The spacious, open cabin allows drivers of various sizes to easily find comfortable driving positions while benefitting from an extra-large low step to ensure that entering and exiting the truck is as safe as possible. This all helps to minimise fatigue on the longest of shifts to keep your operators happy, productive, and healthy.

Autonomous Robotic Piece-Picking System

sennder to Acquire C.H. Robinson’s European Surface Transport

Posted on 30 July, 2024 by David Priestman

Today, sennder Technologies GmbH, a digital road freight forwarder in Europe, announces the acquisition of the European Surface Transportation (EST) operations of global logistics provider C.H. Robinson, one of the world’s largest logistics providers with $22 billion in freight under management and 20 million shipments annually. Through this transaction EST will become part of sennder and may deliver significant growth potential, unlock the full power of network density and technology for the European road freight industry, and accelerate decarbonization efforts.

The combined business will become a Top 5 Full Truck Load (FTL) player in Europe, with a combined revenue of EUR 1.4 billion, with 1700 staff and a European footprint that stretches to more than 20 locations. This will further sennder’s mission to create an efficient and sustainable road freight network in Europe, essential for delivering the products and goods that drive the European economy.

David Nothacker, CEO of sennder, says: “This acquisition will be pivotal in advancing sennder’s roadmap. With its vision to accelerate global trade to deliver products and goods that drive the world’s economy, C.H. Robinson aligns strongly with sennder’s mission and values to create an efficient and sustainable road freight network in Europe. sennOS, the technological powerhouse behind sennder, requires scale and volume density to unlock its full potential. This M&A transaction gives us that scale. We are deeply impressed by the EST team from C.H. Robinson, and with our combined business and enhanced talent pool, we can deliver substantial growth and operational scale, accelerating our European expansion in road freight and increasing network density and
digital capabilities for the benefit of carriers, shippers, and the wider industry. We are excited to welcome the EST team, and embark on the next chapter of sennder’s journey.”

David Bozeman, President and CEO of C.H. Robinson says: “I am convinced that sennder will be a great home for the EST business and will provide good continuity of service to EST customers. We are confident in this strategic decision to drive more focus in our organization and pleased to see the potential for growth and opportunity that this transition brings for the EST team. To win, we
need to focus on what sets us apart and build upon our competitive advantages. While we remain committed to our global forwarding and managed services presence in Europe, and continuing to invest in the region, this clarity of investment is important for the long-term success of our business and employees as well as the value and impact we can offer our customers and carriers.”

EST is one of the leading FTL providers in Europe. It provides a highly complementary offering to sennder, integrating 30 years of industry expertise from the C.H. Robinson team with sennder’s
technology capabilities. Through the transaction, a total of over 6,500 shippers and over 15,000 carriers will become part of the sennder network. sennder and C.H. Robinson are working closely with all groups to ensure a smooth transition that maintains the high standards of service that both sennder and C.H. Robinson’s customers and employees have come to expect.

With the acquisition, sennder continues to enhance and broaden its service offering and furthers its mission to create an efficient and sustainable road freight network in Europe. The combined business will unlock a step change in network density and data capabilities: it will expand shipper and carrier propositions through access to efficient network planning, and to competitive capacity as well as to a broader array of freight opportunities via sennder’s proprietary platform, sennOS.

sennOS, tailored specifically to the European road freight market, will be available to EST customers, giving them access to the most technologically advanced platform in Europe. sennOS will facilitate the integration of the new unit by enhancing efficiency in load management. Shippers will have access to sennOS to digitally manage their transports, gaining full control and visibility over their trucking operations, and accessing the largest and greenest digital carrier network in Europe. Carriers will benefit from higher utilization, fewer empty kilometers, faster payments, and technology that reduces their administrative workload. All customers will benefit from a boost in efficiency in load management, increased operational transparency, and superior service quality.

The closing of the transaction remains subject to only to the completion of the corporate structuring of the EST business unit to be acquired, as well as mandatory employee consultations and
applicable merger control proceedings and is expected to close in Q4 2024. sennder was advised by Evercore on the financial side and Taylor Wessing on the legal side. Terms of the transaction are not disclosed.

Sending Freight Together

sennder to Acquire C.H. Robinson’s European Surface Transport

Posted on 30 July, 202431 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Sending Freight Together

Electric Forklift brings ICE-like Performance

Posted on 30 July, 202429 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Hyster has launched new integrated lithium-ion battery powered forklifts that deliver robust performance, comparable to an internal combustion engine (ICE) lift truck. The Hyster® J2.0-3.5XTLG series, capable of lifting up to 3.5 tonnes, can be used in both indoor and outdoor operations, providing a durable, flexible option with zero exhaust emissions.

“Many industrial businesses are looking to drive down emissions and are keen to replace ICE models with electric fleets. But they need to do so cost-effectively, while maintaining high performance and productivity,” says Fraser Brash, Product Manager for Hyster. “The new Hyster lift trucks are a competitively priced, emission free option with tried and tested toughness built in.”

The design features up to 34% better through mast visibility, a spacious weatherproof cabin, large superelastic tyres and high ground clearance, so operators can maintain productivity over uneven surfaces and through challenging weather conditions. The new Hyster electric models can not only be used inside industrial warehouses, but also outside in yards or loading areas in the wood, metals, chemical or construction materials industries.

Lithium-ion battery power also delivers productivity benefits. Opportunity charging trucks during breaks helps maximise uptime across shifts, while the battery itself requires zero maintenance. Eliminating engine servicing and battery changes also helps save valuable operational time.

Lithium-ion charging can be more efficient compared to charging a lead acid battery, providing users with more power, without additional cost. Compared to an ICE counterpart, energy costs can typically be halved with the new Hyster models. The lift trucks also represent value with a long battery life and a 5-year warranty included.

Customers can choose from models with either 154V or 115V batteries to match power requirements with operational intensity. The Hyster J2.0-3.5XTLG also includes a larger battery capacity than many competitors as standard, to power longer run times and reduce downtime.

“When you combine lithium-ion power with Hyster toughness, you get Clean Power that Means Business – a lift truck solution fit for strict emissions regulations, which keeps productivity high, and costs low,” adds Brash.

Hyster Highlights Robotic and Lithium-ion Technology

Electric Forklift brings ICE-like Performance

Posted on 30 July, 202429 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Hyster Highlights Robotic and Lithium-ion Technology

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