By: Gerbrand van Schooneveld
Transfer Multisort Elektronik (TME), founded in 1990, has grown into one of Europe’s fastest-expanding global distributors of electronic, electromechanical, and industrial automation components, as well as workplace equipment. Serving tens of thousands of companies across 150 countries and shipping approximately 5,000 packages daily, TME offers a catalog of over one million products from leading manufacturers worldwide.
In today’s fast-moving logistics environment, efficiency, flexibility, and accuracy are no longer optional; they are essential. In this interview, TME shares how advanced automation, powered by the EuroSort Cross Tray Sorter, has transformed its warehouse operations and prepared the company for future growth.
We spoke with Kornel Betkowski, Head of Warehouse Technology Implementation and Development at TME.
Q: Can you describe your warehouse operations before implementing the Cross Tray Sorter?
A: Before introducing the sorting system, our order fulfillment process was based on single-order picking. Each tote contained products for just one order, which limited efficiency and scalability. With the implementation of the sorter, we completely transformed our picking logic. We moved to batch picking, where multiple orders are picked simultaneously and then sorted per customer using the Cross Tray Sorter. This change significantly improved productivity and streamlined the entire workflow.
Q: How does the current picking and induction process work?
A: After batch picking, products are directed to either robotic or manual induction stations. Currently, we operate four robotic induction stations. We initially started with two and have gradually expanded, with the fourth station now in testing. The decision between robotic and manual induction depends on the product’s size and weight. Smaller and lighter items are typically handled by robots, while larger or heavier items are processed manually. At the induction stations, products are placed onto trays. We use contact camera systems to detect items on the trays, which is especially important given the small size of many of our products. This technology provides a very high detection accuracy.
Q: What happens once products are on the sorter?
A: Once inducted, the trays transport the products to their designated destinations. Upon arrival, items are automatically discharged into chutes. We use two types of chutes:
- Manual chutes, operated by staff, for large, long, or heavy items
- Automatic chutes, designed in collaboration with EuroSort, for the majority of our products
In the automatic system, totes circulate on a conveyor loop beneath the sorter. When an order is complete, an empty tote is positioned under the chute. A flap opens, and all items are automatically dropped into the tote without manual intervention. The tote is then sent to further processing, such as packaging or order consolidation.
Q: Why did TME choose the EuroSort Cross Tray Sorter?
A: We selected EuroSort because their Cross Tray Sorter was the best fit for our specific needs. One key factor was the tray design. Since we handle many small and lightweight items, the fully enclosed trays minimize the risk of product loss during transport. Additionally, the ability to discharge products on both sides of the sorter allows us to save valuable warehouse space. Although the Cross Tray Sorter was a relatively new solution at the time, it was built on proven technologies that EuroSort had successfully used for years. This gave us confidence in its reliability.
Q: How would you describe your collaboration with EuroSort?
A:The cooperation with the EuroSort team was highly professional and efficient throughout all stages—from initial discussions and contract negotiations to implementation, testing, and final acceptance. If I had to describe the Cross Tray Sorter in three words, they would be: efficient, reliable, and well-designed.
Q: What performance results have you achieved with the system?
A: The system operates at an efficiency of up to 8,800 trays per hour, which is a significant throughput for our operations. In terms of reliability, we have been using the sorter for more than five years without any major issues. It has proven to be a stable and dependable solution.
Q: When did you first encounter this technology, and how quickly was it implemented?
A: We first saw the Cross Tray Sorter at LogiMAT 2019, where it was introduced as a world premiere. By the summer of that same year, we had already signed the contract with EuroSort. The system was implemented in 2020, making our installation the first Cross Tray Sorter of its kind in the world.
Q: How does the Cross Tray Sorter fit into TME’s broader warehouse strategy?
A: Our warehouse is highly modern, and we aim to automate as many processes as possible. The Cross Tray Sorter fits perfectly within this strategy. It meets our highest technical requirements and integrates seamlessly into our operations. Most importantly, it enables us to scale efficiently while maintaining accuracy and reliability.
TME’s investment in the EuroSort Cross Tray Sorter demonstrates how advanced automation can fundamentally transform warehouse operations. By shifting from single-order picking to a highly efficient batch picking and automated sorting process, TME has significantly increased throughput, improved accuracy, and positioned itself for continued global growth.
As logistics demands continue to rise, solutions like the Cross Tray Sorter prove essential in building future-ready fulfillment systems. Thank you to TME for this great cooperation.
Watch the video here: Watch Videos Focusing on Sorter Technology | Eurosort