How does a cross-belt sorter work?
A cross-belt sorter combines moving carriers with short belts mounted across the direction of travel. Each carrier transports a parcel along the main track, then activates its belt to discharge it into the assigned chute.
Follow one parcel.
See the whole process.
Choose a destination and watch the carrier, belt and chute work together. Select any step to take a closer look.
The main line keeps moving during lateral discharge. Timing accounts for both directions of travel.
About this demonstration
This drawing shows a straight working section, not the complete return loop. Structure, dimensions, speed and timing are simplified for explanation and are not rated equipment specifications. The parcel is shown discharging to one side; other layouts and drive systems depend on the project.
What makes it
a cross-belt?
The two directions of motion are perpendicular: carriers travel along the main track, while their short belts move parcels across it.
Main-track travel
Carries the parcel through the destination layout.
Cross-belt discharge
Transfers the parcel off the carrier at the right moment.
Does cross-belt sorting
fit your operation?
Consider the complete flow: parcel mix, peak demand, destination count and the space around the line.
From principle
to configuration.
Induction stations, carrier dimensions, chute layouts and control interfaces must be planned together. Explore the MANZUN cross-belt system to discuss the configuration around your operation.
View cross-belt equipment & configurationQuestions before
you plan a line.
Mechanism, parcel handling and system capacity.
Why is it called a cross-belt sorter?
The belt on each carrier runs across the direction of main-track travel. These perpendicular movements let the system transport a parcel along the line and discharge it to the side.
Does the carrier stop to discharge a parcel?
Carriers normally continue moving during discharge. The control system coordinates belt activation with carrier position and the available chute window.
Can parcels be discharged to both sides?
Left- and right-side discharge can be configured to suit the carrier and system design. Chutes and collection equipment must be planned with it.
How does a cross-belt sorter differ from a tilt-tray sorter?
A cross-belt sorter uses a powered belt to move the parcel off its carrier. A tilt-tray or flap system tilts or opens a tray so gravity transfers the item. Representative parcel trials help determine the appropriate mechanism.
What determines system throughput?
Induction capacity, carrier pitch and speed, loading efficiency, destination distribution and chute availability all matter. A demonstration speed alone cannot define the throughput of a complete line.
Plan a cross-belt system
around your parcels and site.
Share your parcel range, peak flow, destination count and floor plan. We can then discuss induction, routing and system interfaces.