Australia Post has improved the automation and efficiency of its international inbound parcel processing operations with the opening of a new International Commercial Facility at Sky Road, Melbourne Airport.
The 2,500m2 facility features advanced automation technology to sort up to 6,000 parcels per hour and is the post’s first facility in Victoria designed specifically to expedite the clearance process for international parcels coming into Australia.
According to Australia Post, the facility has been designed with sustainability in mind, and features optimized linehaul and transportation routing to reduce carbon emissions, as well as enhanced waste management systems to improve recycling efficiency for materials like cardboard and plastic.
Gary Starr, Australia Post‘s executive general manager of parcel, post and e-commerce services, said the new infrastructure highlights the post’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its large international customers.
“This upgrade is a key investment in our future operations and how we serve our international customers,” he explained. “With brand new automated sorting machines processing up to 6,000 parcels per hour, we’re able to handle more parcels, reduce touch points and manual handling, improve safety, increase customer package visibility and get packages to customers faster,” he said. “This facility positions us well to support the future of global e-commerce and continue to deliver a reliable, high standard of service for our customers.”
The Sky Road facility is the second to implement a fully automated system for the international commercial delivery service, following the installation at Sydney Gateway Facility in October 2023.
The facility will also have a dedicated area for parcel inspection by Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture Fisheries & Forestry teams.