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Warehouse Automation Starts Here | Adopt Automation with AMRs

We’re making warehouse automation simple. Take your first step with a Big Joe AMR and automate without the need for infrastructure or expensive setup costs.

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embrace automation in your warehouse

What is Warehouse Automation?

At its core, warehouse automation reduces reliance on human labour for repetitive tasks such as walking, handling, and sorting. By leveraging advanced robotics, cutting-edge software and AI-driven systems, warehouses can streamline operations with greater speed and precision. This not only improves efficiency but also alleviates workers from mundane, low-value tasks.

Warehouse automation is evolving rapidly. Traditionally, people thought warehouse automation was only referring to fully autonomous facilities using conveyor belts, robotic arms, and extensive infrastructure. However, modern automation is much more flexible and accessible, allowing businesses of all sizes to benefit without massive investments.

There are two key categories of warehouse automation:

  • Physical Automation – This includes automated guided vehicles (AGVs), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and robotic picking systems.
  • Digital Automation – This involves software-driven solutions such as warehouse management systems (WMS) and AI-powered logistics.
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Why is the Adoption of Automation Increasing in Warehouses?

Several key factors are fueling the rapid rise of warehouse automation. Persistent labour shortages have forced many businesses to embrace automation, while advancements in technology have made it more accessible, cost-effective, and scalable for businesses of all sizes. As a result, by 2027, more than a quarter of all warehouses are expected to integrate automation in some capacity—nearly doubling the adoption rate from a decade ago.

Rising Labour Costs & Workforce Challenges

In Australia, the increasing adoption of warehouse automation is largely fuelled by rising labour costs, high employee turnover, and the need for greater efficiency. However, automation isn’t about replacing workers—it’s about eliminating repetitive, low-value tasks, allowing employees to focus on higher-priority operations.

The Rise of E-Commerce and 3PL

The rapid growth of e-commerce and third-party logistics (3PL) services has further accelerated the push towards automation. The increasing need to move goods quickly, repetitively, and over long distances makes solutions like autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) an ideal fit for modern warehouse operations.

Technological Advancements - AMRs Replacing AGVs

Traditional Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) require significant upfront costs, fixed infrastructure, and predetermined routes, making them less adaptable to changing warehouse needs.

However, technological advancements—particularly the development of AMRs—have eliminated many of these barriers.

The Big Joe AMR: Smarter, More Flexible Automation

autonomous forklifts have arrived

BIG JOE - AMR | User Directed Pallet Mover

Developed in partnership with Thoro.ai, the Big Joe AMR leverages artificial intelligence to navigate and perform tasks seamlessly in any warehouse environment. Unlike traditional AGVs:

✅ The Big Joe AMR functions both manually (like a conventional pallet mover) and autonomously.
✅ Users can reassign tasks easily through a simple interface—no complex programming required.
✅ As warehouse needs change, the Big Joe AMR provides unmatched flexibility.

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optimise your workforce with automation

How Automation Can Increase Warehouse Productivity

Warehouse automation isn’t designed to replace human workers—it’s designed to optimise their efficiency. By adopting AI-driven solutions like the AMR, businesses can free up staff to focus on higher-value tasks, such as inventory management and quality control.

At Big Joe Forklifts, they call this boost in productivity the "Force Multiplier." The principle is simple: technology is most effective when it enhances human capabilities, helping teams get more done with less strain.

By reducing repetitive, monotonous manual labour, businesses can:

• Improve order fulfilment speed
• Accelerate delivery times
• Enhance overall customer satisfaction

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The Key Benefits of Warehouse Automation

By integrating solutions like the Big Joe AMR, businesses can significantly improve productivity, employee well-being, cost savings, and overall operational flexibility.

Many businesses worry about the upfront costs of automation, but the reality is that AMRs provide a rapid return on investment (ROI). AMRs are so advanced yet easy to use, it can make an impact to your bottom line immediately upon receipt. In some cases, companies using the Big Joe AMR have seen ROI within 12 months—a significantly faster turnaround than traditional forklifts, which can take years to justify their costs. By automating basic transport tasks, companies can reduce dependency on expensive forklifts and cut down on maintenance and equipment costs.
AMRs create a safer and more efficient workplace by reducing physical strain on staff, minimising noise and pollution, and significantly lowering the risk of human error. With advanced collision avoidance technology and emergency-stop functions, these systems can detect obstacles, prevent accidents, and navigate busy warehouse environments with precision.
The AMR has built-in LiDAR sensing, AI-driven navigation, and real-time route optimisation. By handling repetitive tasks, AMRs can help reduce bottlenecks, minimise errors and improve operational flow. This leads to a more efficient workforce with more time to focus on tasks that require critical thinking whilst Big Joe handles the heavy lifting.
Reducing the physical strain of warehouse work is another major advantage of automation. Manually moving heavy loads over long distances contributes to wear and tear on employees’ bodies, increasing fatigue and the risk of injury. By handling these repetitive transport tasks, automation helps reduce burnout, minimise workplace injuries, and create a safer work environment.
Unlike traditional automation systems like Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)—which require fixed infrastructure and high setup costs—AMRs offer plug-and-play scalability. Businesses can easily add more AMRs during peak seasons, ensuring they keep up with demand without major infrastructure changes. The Big Joe AMR, is designed for seamless deployment, allowing businesses to quickly implement automation without extended downtime.
Human error in manual warehouse operations can lead to misplaced stock, incorrect orders, and delayed shipments—all of which impact customer experience. By integrating automation, businesses can reduce human error, increase order accuracy, and improve overall efficiency. The result? Faster deliveries, fewer mistakes, and higher customer satisfaction.

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Why AMRs Are the Perfect Place to Start Your Automation Journey

For businesses looking to integrate automation, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are the ideal entry point. Unlike traditional Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), which require fixed routes, expensive infrastructure, and lengthy installation times, AMRs offer flexibility, ease of deployment, and rapid scalability—making them a practical first step in warehouse automation.

AMRs use AI-driven mapping to navigate any warehouse environment. They can be up and running in under an hour, even in older warehouses with inconsistent infrastructure.

AMRs also don’t require a dedicated Wi-Fi or mobile network to function. While connectivity can enhance certain features, most warehouses already have sufficient Wi-Fi coverage, allowing AMRs to operate right out of the box.

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Is a Big Joe AMR Right for You?

Get the full breakdown of its features, specifications, and real-world benefits. Click below to explore how it can increase your operational efficiency and boost staff productivity.

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