PostNord Denmark – TRECO Solitaire Robot
Automating the Sequencing of Non-Machinable Mail with the TRECO Solitaire Robot
PostNord Denmark, were searching for a machine capable of efficiently sequencing the “non-machinable mail” that their existing systems couldn’t handle – specifically BASIS mail (delivery target 0–5 days) and Quick mail (day-to-day delivery). Given that the number of distribution routes is dynamically adjusted daily based on forecasted volumes, it was crucial that the software solution could manage this level of operational flexibility.
Compact Power, Fast Payback: Meeting the Mailroom Challenge in a Digital Denmark
The goal was to find a high-performance machine with a small physical footprint - one they believed could truly meet the challenge. Additionally, it needed to offer a short return on investment, especially considering the strong digitization in Denmark, which has significantly reduced mail volumes.
Key Requirements
Over the years, Postnord Denmark has digitalized all letter items, enabling them to know the exact delivery point on the route (sorting frame and sequence). Based on their requirements, the ideal solution needed to offer:
Brian Lyvill
Chief Consultant, PostNord Denmark
“According to our evaluations, only the TRECO Solitaire Robot was able to meet these demands. The concept is highly innovative - essentially an automation of the physical sorting frame - making it a one-to-one replacement that directly solves the problem”
The Solution
To meet these requirements – and with a clear focus on ergonomics – the TRECO Solitaire Robot was adapted to feature individually height-adjustable workstations, ensuring a comfortable and efficient working position for every operator. The solution also includes an integrated offline Video Coding system, providing flexibility and maintaining a smooth workflow even during peak volumes.
Quality, Flexibility and reduced time
One key aspect is that the machines must sort accurately - and internal analysis at PostNord Denmark showed improved quality over manual sorting at an early stage after implementation. Another major advantage is the ease of scaling the number of routes up or down according to actual volumes. The interaction between PostNord’s data systems and the Solitaire Robot’s software MasterMind is smooth and delivers the flexibility needed to remain efficient every day.
A particular strength of the Solitaire Robot is how it reduces setup time. In manual operations, declining letter volumes make changeovers disproportionately time-consuming, whereas the automated process minimizes that effort.
Brian Lyvill
Chief Consultant, PostNord Denmark
“TRECO Postal is a small organization that has evolved significantly from our first contact to today. Compared to traditional suppliers in the postal sector, TRECO has shown a deep understanding of physical letter mail in relation to machine-based processing. As a newer player in this field, their approach has been shaped by a learning mindset and a pioneering spirit. It’s clear that TRECO’s willingness to engage and solve challenges has been a valuable asset in our collaboration - and that dedication continues to drive success.”
Ahead together – for mutual success
Since the implementation of the TRECO Solitaire Robot, PostNord Denmark and TRECO Postal have worked closely together to further develop and enhance both the software and mechanical features of the system. At TRECO Postal, we highly value the close collaboration and ongoing feedback from operators, supervisors, and everyone involved at PostNord Denmark. It’s this shared commitment and open dialogue that allow us to continuously improve.
