ODW Logistics has implemented Zebra Technologies’ Symmetry Fulfillment software in its e-commerce operations, aiming to improve order picking efficiency by an estimated 42 percent. The adoption of this system is part of the company’s efforts to enhance scalability and reduce operational costs across its distribution processes.
The Symmetry Fulfillment platform integrates Zebra’s Connect Fulfillment autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), decoupled baker’s rack carts, and workflow automation to transition ODW Logistics from a pick-to-tote to a pick-to-shipper model. According to the company, this transition is expected to increase units picked per hour and reduce both the cost per unit and parcel shipping expenses.
ODW Logistics stated that the decoupling of AMRs from carts allows for more efficient cart accumulation at induction and drop-off points, keeping robots in active picking zones and minimizing idle time. This configuration also enables the use of lower-cost carts for buffering, optimizing both robot and labor deployment.
The company anticipates a reduction in the number of AMRs required by up to 30 percent compared to payload-integrated solutions, citing gains in pick density and lower shipping costs. The use of baker’s racks is also expected to increase cubic capacity, while the pairing of multiple carts with pickers is designed to streamline workflow execution.
Zebra Technologies indicated that this implementation reflects broader industry trends, referencing its Warehouse Vision Study, which found that 73 percent of global warehouse decision-makers are accelerating modernization initiatives. ODW Logistics plans to apply insights from this deployment to support operations at a new facility scheduled to open in 2026.
