Inside Amazon India’s Fulfilment Center: How the e-comm giant makes online shopping seamless

Summary

This video takes viewers behind the scenes at Amazon India's massive fulfillment center in Haryana, revealing the intricate operations behind every online purchase. From inventory management and automated picking systems to smart packaging and sustainability efforts, the video highlights Amazon’s use of technology like machine learning, automation, and intelligent conveyors. The focus is on how large-scale operations ensure smooth delivery from click to doorstep while prioritizing sustainability and efficient logistics. It also touches on the strategic importance of location and the workforce involved in the process.

Takeaways

• 😀 Amazon India's Fulfillment Center (FC) in Bhorakalan, Haryana, is one of the largest in India, with over one million cubic feet of storage space.
• 😀 The FC is part of Amazon's vast network, which spans 15 states and offers 43 million cubic feet of storage across India.
• 😀 More than 1.2 million sellers supply inventory to Amazon's FCs, which is then stored for fast delivery to customers.
• 😀 The process begins with a 'pick command' sent to Picker associates, directing them to locate items using an RF scanner, where each item’s location is identified by a barcode.
• 😀 Once picked, items are placed in totes that are automatically sent to the packing area via an intelligent conveyor system, ensuring efficiency.
• 😀 Automation plays a key role throughout the process: from item picking and tote transportation to packing and shipment, using algorithms to optimize each step.
• 😀 In the packing stage, associates are guided by an algorithm that helps them select the appropriate box for each item, minimizing errors and saving time.
• 😀 Sustainability is a priority, with Amazon eliminating single-use plastics in its buildings and implementing packaging-free shipping initiatives.
• 😀 The FC in Haryana was chosen for its size, proximity to customers, and cost considerations, such as electricity and land availability.
• 😀 Amazon uses advanced machine learning to enhance efficiency, with systems that ensure correct packaging, weight checking, and the optimal transportation method for each item.

Q & A

What is the size of the Amazon fulfillment center in Bhorakalan, Haryana?

The Amazon fulfillment center in Bhorakalan, Haryana, has a storage space of more than one million cubic feet.

How many fulfillment centers does Amazon have in the Delhi NCR region?

Amazon has around 10 fulfillment centers in the Delhi NCR region, covering a total storage space of approximately 3 million cubic feet.

What role do barcodes play in Amazon's fulfillment process?

Barcodes are used to identify and track items within the fulfillment center. Each item has a specific barcode that helps associates know where the item is stored and aids in the picking process when an order is placed.

How does Amazon's picking system work?

When an order is placed, a complex backend algorithm sends a pick command to the picker, directing them to the correct location. The picker scans the item and the location barcode using an RF scanner, then places the item in a tote for further processing.

What happens after the items are picked and placed in totes?

After the items are picked, the totes are transported via an intelligent conveyor system to the packing area, where the items are prepared for shipping.

How does Amazon's packaging system utilize automation?

Amazon uses automated systems to streamline the packing process. The packing associate is prompted by the system to choose the correct box for the item, reducing time and minimizing trial and error.

What sustainability initiatives has Amazon implemented in its fulfillment centers?

Amazon has eliminated the use of single-use plastic in its buildings since 2020. Additionally, the company uses paper-based packaging and promotes packaging-free shipping to reduce waste and carbon footprint.

How does Amazon ensure its sellers comply with sustainability practices?

Amazon works closely with its sellers to raise awareness about climate change and sustainability. The company continues to encourage sellers to avoid single-use plastics and adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Why is Haryana chosen for the location of Amazon's fulfillment centers?

Haryana is chosen for its large available land space, proximity to major transport routes, and cost-effectiveness. The location also allows Amazon to service a wide range of PIN codes and be close to customers and sellers.

What is the role of machine learning in Amazon's fulfillment process?

Machine learning is integral to various stages of fulfillment. It powers the picking system, guiding pickers to the right items, and the conveyor system, which automatically directs totes to the correct packing line. Additionally, algorithms are used to determine the appropriate box size for each order.