The Loadhog Solution Behind MEKO’s State-of-the-Art Automated Distribution Hub

MEKO, a leading distributor of automotive spare parts in Norway, required a packaging solution to support a high-performance, automated warehouse environment powered by Element Logic’s AutoStore system.

MEKO's goals were to improve operational efficiency, reduce dependency on one-way packaging, and ensure seamless integration between manual picking, conveyor transport, and outbound distribution, all while maintaining reliability across a complex supply chain.

To support MEKO’s operation, we supplied:
• 15,000 Omnimax 64 totes
• 2,000 Omnimax 64 lids
• 1,250 Euro pallet lids

Our returnable packaging solution was designed to integrate directly with MEKO’s AutoStore workflow:

• Spare parts are picked manually from AutoStore bins and placed into Omnimax 64 totes
• Omnimax 64 totes travel via conveyor systems to the loading area
• At dispatch, totes are consolidated onto pallets and secured using Euro Pallet Lids
• Pallets are delivered efficiently to workshops, dealerships, and wholesalers
• Empty totes and lids are returned to MEKO’s distribution centre for reuse

This closed-loop system has enabled MEKO to significantly reduce one-way packaging while improving both operational and transport efficiency.

Reliable Performance in Automation

Our Omnimax 64 totes perform seamlessly within MEKO’s automated environment. Their conveyor compatibility ensures smooth throughput with minimal interruptions, helping maintain consistent operational flow and reducing downtime.

Exceptional Durability

After a full year in circulation, the totes have demonstrated extremely low attrition rates, with virtually no need for replacement purchases. This durability delivers clear long-term cost benefits and reinforces the value of switching to returnable packaging. 

Improved Handling Efficiency

The integrated bail arm design on the Omnimax 64 allows for secure stacking and easy handling in both warehouse and transport environments. This improves workflow efficiency and makes daily operations simpler for warehouse teams.

Optimised Transport and Sustainability

The Omnimax 64’s nestable design is optimised for space, delivering maximum usable volume. The +7% average volume increase enables excellent vehicle fill, maximising space utilisation and reducing the number of trips required. This improves logistics efficiency while lowering transport costs and environmental impact.

Truls Feilberg-Jacobsen Karlsøen, Warehouse Manager at MEKO, commented:
“The quality of the totes has been excellent. After around a year in use, the level of attrition is exceptionally low, so much so that there’s been very little need for replacement purchases.”

Operationally, they perform very well on conveyors, with minimal issues reported. This reliability helps maintain smooth throughput and reduces downtime.

The bail arm design is another strong point, providing stability and ease of handling in both storage and transit.

From a transport perspective, the nesting capability allows for excellent vehicle fill, reducing the number of trips required and improving efficiency and sustainability.

Overall, the solution delivers strong value. From our perspective, it’s a case of ‘no news is good news’, the totes and lids simply perform without issue.”

By implementing Loadhog’s returnable packaging solution alongside Element Logic’s AutoStore system, MEKO has achieved:

• Significant reduction in one-way packaging waste and associated costs
• Near-zero replacement requirements after one year of use
• Improved throughput and operational reliability
• Reduced transport demand through better space utilisation

Tina Meffert, Project Manager at Element Logic Norway, commented:
“This project is about setting a new standard for MEKO’s quality and service, where customers will notice the difference in delivery precision, product availability, and assortment.”

At Loadhog, we deliver solutions that integrate seamlessly into automated environments, providing durability, efficiency, and reliability at every stage of the supply chain.

For MEKO, the result is simple: a packaging solution that performs consistently, allowing their team to focus on operations rather than packaging concerns.

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