Northern Tool + Equipment, USA: Optimizing fulfillment with AutoStore

AutoStore empowered by Swisslog and Northern Tool's Packsize system streamlines order fulfillment, reduces packing costs, and freed up 50,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space.

Streamlined fulfillment through automation

Northern Tool faced challenges meeting increasing demand with its manual processes, even with a three-level pick mod in place. To streamline operations, Swisslog designed an integrated solution combining AutoStore's high-density storage and picking system with Northern Tool's Packsize custom packaging technology, managed through Swisslog’s SynQ software. This solution enables orders to be picked directly into right-sized boxes, ready for both direct-to-customer and store fulfillment at any workstation. The automation fully replaced Northern Tool’s three-level pick mod, freeing nearly 50,000 square feet of warehouse space and simplifying the fulfillment process.

Enhanced efficiency and scalable growth

By going all-in with AutoStore, Northern Tool transitioned all small parts orders to the new system without a phased launch, immediately benefiting from the efficiencies of Swisslog’s integrated solution. Custom-sized boxes reduced packing requirements and freight costs, while seamless integration with a case sealer and print-and-apply machine streamlined shipping preparation. The IT Managed Services team provided full infrastructure management, enabling Northern Tool’s staff to focus on their core tasks. Designed with scalability in mind, the AutoStore system currently operates at 75-80% capacity, offering ample room for future growth.

Swisslog SynQ software integrates our Packsize system with AutoStore to enable operators to pick directly to custom cartons produced to the requirements of each order. That’s what we wanted to accomplish, and Swisslog made it happen.

Randy Woody, Director of Distribution Engineering