In modern warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing, pallet conveyors play a critical role in optimizing material handling. These large format conveyors are designed to move heavy, bulk goods quickly (but stable) across a warehouse or distribution facility, reducing manual labor and improving throughput. However, selecting the right type of pallet conveyor depends on the specific needs ..read more

With incredible advancements in technology, consumer behavior, and supply chain methodology – 2025 paints a picture of a diverse logistics ecosystem for DCs of all shapes and sizes. Artificial Intelligence in the Warehouse To no one’s surprise, AI is top of mind for many operators this year. Mostly focused on how to implement it correctly ..read more

Crossdocking (ˈkrȯs-däk-eng) Crossdocking is a logistical operational method of immediately processing, distributing, and shipping received orders. This practice avoids the excess time, cost, and space related to storing inventory – while greatly increasing order throughput. Crossdocking is a method largely used in hub-and-spoke networks and among third-party and final mile distribution centers. The main operation ..read more

Conveyors are often viewed as durable, reliable, and low-impact automation equipment – and for good reason. Constant operation and rapid start and stop movements are just a few of the requirements for the daily life of a conveyor. Distribution center and warehouse operators rely on the mechanical ability of their processing equipment to fulfill orders ..read more

Century Conveyor and Lafayette Engineering Inc. is proud to announce that we are expanding our office territory to Atlanta! This is  an exciting opportunity for us to gain a larger reach with our customers and we’ve been impressed with the immense amount of positive feedback we’ve received so far!   ..read more

Play Video about case study 3pl distributor video link element Background In early 2021, Century Conveyor and Lafayette Engineering was approached by an upcoming industry leader with the request of providing a new system for meet their expanding east coast growth. The goal was to enable the facility to be capable of processing up to 260K cartons per day, including polybags. Century and LEI designed and fulfilled this request. We partnered with Eurosort for Polybags and Hytrol Conveyor for Cartons. Together with our partners, we implemented and created a seamless flow of products f ..read more

The current state of the supply chain industry In a December 2023 issue of DC Velocity, leading executives from Old Dominion, C.H. Robinson, and others indicated that a multitude of factors have contributed to decreases across the board for the entirety of the logistics industry. While not overly shocking, since the pandemic propelled supply chain services and operators to unforeseen heights, the adjustment isn’t as simple as the market returning to nominal levels. While 2024 isn’t expected to be a slump – a few factors currently in play have led analysts and operators to believe it won’t b ..read more

Background The client is a packaging company that provides a multitude of services for a variety of industries that redefines supply chains with innovative tote handling to creative container design and e-commerce fulfillment; the client offers specialized supply chain solutions for any packaging operation. Century Conveyor Systems was selected by the client to engineer a corrugate takeaway system for a co-packing plant in New Jersey after identifying areas of improvement in its facility. Challenge The client experienced increased co-packing demand and the number of empty cartons being ..read more

Auto-mate In the dynamic world of the automotive product and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts distribution industry, efficiency and precision are critical to success. Conveyors and material handling systems have revolutionized these sectors by optimizing processes, reducing operational costs, and ensuring seamless supply chain management. By far, the most important factor Century has encountered pertaining to automating an auto parts and products distribution center is the ability to handle product of extensively variable sizes. It should come as no surprise that auto part & ..read more

Conveyors, while simplistic in function, are constituted of a multitude of mechanical parts that enable durable, stable, and efficient movement. Much like a car, in its most basic form, a material-handling conveyor uses a motor (engine) and gearbox (transmission) to provide power in a continuous motion. If you’re considering a conveyor unit or system in your facility, understanding its critical components and operations can assist in routine maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and future system integrations. Each part plays an important role, and grasping the mechanical basics can help you iden ..read more