Material Flow Optimization from K.Hartwall
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Welcome to this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, where Kevin Lawton speaks with Courtney Jackson live from the MODEX 2026 show floor in Atlanta. Courtney shares how K. Hartwall approaches material flow optimization through connected cart systems, tugger trains, and its LiftLiner solution.
From ergonomics and e-commerce picking to AGV integration and ROI analysis, Courtney explains how flexible cart-based systems can help warehouses optimize movement throughout the supply chain.
Material Flow Optimization Starts with Movement
Hartwall’s approach centers on improving the flow of products through a facility. Courtney explains that the company’s solutions are designed to work together rather than function as isolated tools. As she explains, “What we do is really focus on material flow, with our customers.” She also notes that the systems are designed to “improve our customers’ flow, improve safety, improve efficiencies throughout the entire supply chain.”
The discussion also highlighted common warehouse bottlenecks. According to Courtney, many operations are still trying to solve issues related to picking speed, accuracy, and safety. She says customers are often asking, “How can we move more product but still safely in one move?”
Instead of relying solely on traditional pallet and forklift workflows, K. Hartwall positions its carts as a more flexible option. Courtney explains, “Our carts are meant to sometimes serve as an alternative to pallets, to forklifts to move just a little bit more seamlessly in an operation.”
LiftLiner Systems Improve Efficiency and Safety
A major focus of the conversation was K. Hartwall’s LiftLiner tugger train system. The solution allows operators to transport multiple carts or pallets simultaneously while reducing travel time across the warehouse. Courtney describes the LiftLiner as “a wonderful and unique system.” She adds, “This gives you or operators the ability to do more with less.”
The material flow optimization gains become even more significant at scale. Courtney explains, “You’re able to move up to eight pallets or eight row carts in one move.” She continues by saying the system helps operations by “eliminating unnecessary travel and decreasing travel time within your warehouse.”
Courtney explains the flexibility of the cart system to improve workflow efficiency. As she puts it, “That does speed up the picking process when you’re able to go, you pick from both sides.”
Automation and E-Commerce Drive New Use Cases
Courtney confirmed that AGVs and AMRs can work directly with the LifetLiner system. She explains, “For those companies that do have those, AGVs that can connect seamlessly to our lift liner.” She also notes, “You don’t need an operator anymore.”
E-commerce fulfillment operations may see particularly strong benefits from these workflows. Courtney discussed how large facilities often lose time through long travel distances during picking operations. She explains that in major warehouses, workers may travel significant distances during fulfillment. According to Courtney, “This right here decreases the time that you’re picking by, in a significant way.”
Hartwall also works closely with customers to evaluate workflows before recommending a solution. Courtney explains, “I’m getting on-site with the customers. I’m really getting an understanding of their entire process from inbound to outbound, what they’re picking, how they’re picking.” She adds that the company supports decisions with data-driven evaluations and ROI analysis to help optimize future operations.
Key Takeaways on Material Flow Optimization
- K. Hartwall focuses heavily on material flow optimization across the supply chain
- The LiftLiner system can move up to eight pallets or carts in one trip
- Tugger train systems help reduce unnecessary operator travel time
- Cart-based workflows can serve as alternatives to traditional forklift movement
- The LiftLiner supports ergonomic picking from both sides of the cart
- AGVs and AMRs can integrate directly with the LiftLiner system
Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments.
Guest Information
For more information on K. Hartwall, click here.
To connect with Courtney Jackson on LinkedIn, click here.
For more information about material flow optimization, check out the podcasts below.
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