The Praxisdienst Logistics Centre

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The Praxisdienst Logistics Centre has been gradually expanded over recent years and now offers over 7,000 m² of warehouse space. Thanks to the large main warehouse with around 40,000 storage locations, 35,000 of which are fully automated, we are able to keep almost all offered products in stock at all times.

The main warehouse in Longuich is supplemented by nearby replenishment warehouses, allowing frequently ordered items to be stored in large quantities and retrieved quickly. Our experienced logistics team is further supported by the fully automated AutoStore system, optimising processing times and ensuring that errors or “mis-picks” are practically eliminated.

Behind the Scenes of Praxisdienst

Over the last 10 years, Praxisdienst has become one of the leading online retailers for medical products in Europe. Due to the tenfold increase in shipped goods, the storage areas needed to be expanded and modernised. Between 2013 and 2019, the old buildings were demolished in several phases and a total of 3 new warehouses were put into operation.

In the main warehouse in Longuich, which now covers a total area of 7,000m², approx. 35,000 products are stored in 40,000 storage spaces, 35,000 of which are fully automated. The main warehouse is supplemented by external warehouses with additional storage spaces in the surrounding area. These warehouses allow frequently ordered products to be stored temporarily on a larger scale to be retrieved if needed.

Sustainable Logistics

In 2019 the photovoltaic system on the roof of the new logistics building was put into operation. Under perfect conditions, this system generates enough energy to supply the entire logistics infrastructure. Technical preparations to expand the system have already been made and can be carried out if required.

To keep our ecological footprint as low as possible, we rely on solar power, air heat pumps, energy-efficient LED illumination and CO2-neutral shipping by the shipping service provider DPD.

Amazingly, despite the enormous expansion of our storage areas, the energy consumption of our logistics centre is now lower than 10 years ago.

Mehr Kapazität und Effizienz

Um die Kapazität unseres Logistikzentrums an die rasch wachsende Nachfrage anzupassen, haben wir im Sommer 2020 unseren AutoStore in Betrieb genommen. Das auf 21 fahrenden Robotern aufbauende, vollautomatische System schöpft die Höhe unseres Logistikgebäudes optimal aus und schafft seit 2022 nicht weniger als 35.000 zusätzliche Lagerplätze.

Das mehrfach ausgezeichnete AutoStore-System bietet eine unübertroffene Betriebszuverlässigkeit und verhilft uns zu einem erheblichen Effizienzvorteil im Vergleich zur üblichen manuellen Lagertätigkeit. Der Stromverbrauch für den Betrieb des AutoStore wird vollständig durch die Photovoltaikanlage auf dem Dach des Logistikgebäudes gedeckt.

Minimised Errors & Maximum Efficiency

Since early 2023, our logistics operations have used barcode scanners. Every item entering our warehouse is scanned, and critical data—including expiry dates, batch and LOT numbers—is not only printed on the package documentation but also automatically uploaded to the corresponding customer account. In the event of manufacturer recalls, we can notify all affected recipients immediately and automatically. For shipments comprising multiple packages, customers receive a detailed contents overview for each parcel, simplifying the stocking process in veterinary clinics and hospitals.

Additionally, items are checked against their dimensions and weight to ensure accuracy. Products with special storage or shipping requirements—such as refrigerated items—are automatically identified and handled accordingly. Human errors are therefore virtually eliminated, ensuring precise and reliable order fulfilment.

Excellent Reliability & Transparency

The AutoStore supports the members of our logistics team, who operate the system in two shifts. Manual order picking is no longer necessary, as the smart robots carry the storage boxes directly to the operator’s workstation.

Due to the complete automation, errors and mistakes have become virtually impossible. In addition, the AutoStore allows the consistent implementation of the legal requirements for batch management as well as the principle “First In, First Out”. The first practical experiences have convinced us: an extension of the fully automated logistics system is already being planned.

Working Around the Clock

Due to the corona pandemic, and the resulting, significantly increased order volume, the workers in our shipping department have been working day and night shifts since the beginning of March 2020. This allows us to dispatch several thousand parcels a day. The two shifts also ensure that the warehouse keeps operating if an employee is infected with SARS-CoV-2 and the contact persons have to quarantine. This way, we can ensure a smooth shipping process and maintain our ability to deliver.