How to step into automation without worrying about capital investment

As businesses look for ways to stay competitive and optimise their operations, automation is often seen as the key to achieving efficiency, safety and cost savings. One of the most effective automation technologies in recent years has been Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), which are revolutionising industries like warehousing, logistics and manufacturing. However, the thought of high upfront costs can be daunting, and long-term investments can make many hesitant to take the first step into the world of automation. Fortunately, there are ways to explore automation solutions for logistics operations without the need for capital investment. 

Here’s how businesses can step into automation with ease, through flexible and low-risk options such as automation-as-a-service models: 

What is automation-as-a-service? 

Automation-as-a-service is an innovative approach that allows businesses to test automated solutions and systems on a short-term agreement or subscription basis, without the need to make a large initial investment. This model provides a risk-free way to explore automation on a small scale, as it eliminates the need for capital expenditure while still delivering all the benefits of automated operations. 

Why choose a no-capital investment automation solution? 

Low-risk entry into automation 

With no upfront capital, businesses can test automation in real-world scenarios before making a larger investment. It’s a low-risk way to explore automation, especially for newcomers. 

Expand automation to new logistics flows 

Existing automation users can test new logistics flows—whether in production lines, material handling or warehouse processes—without upfront costs. Full support ensures smooth scaling and flexibility. 

Suitable for all business sizes 

Automation-as-a-service offers short-term agreements with an all-inclusive monthly fee, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes, from family businesses to large enterprises.

Flexible terms for easy adoption 

Flexible rental agreements let businesses explore automation without long-term commitments. Adjust terms or scale the solution as needed to adapt to changing needs. 

Opportunity to start small and scale up 

A no-capital investment model gives businesses the ability to start small, ensuring that automation fits within the current scale of operations. You don't need to make a large commitment upfront. If the solution works well, you can gradually expand the system as your business grows, increasing automation capabilities in line with demand. This gradual approach allows for a smoother transition and ensures that businesses aren't overwhelmed by sudden changes. 

Immediate payback with labour cost savings 

One of the key advantages of automation is its ability to significantly reduce labour costs. Automated systems can take over repetitive tasks. This cost-saving benefit begins on day one, and as automation continues to improve efficiency, these savings compound over time, while also eliminating damage costs. 

Seamless integration into operations 

Automation-as-a-service integrates smoothly into existing operations with minimal setup and full support, ideal for businesses without in-house automation expertise. 

Monthly cost with all included – No maintenance or service concerns 

The service includes regular maintenance, technical support and spare parts, so businesses don’t have to worry about extra costs or downtime. 

Conclusion  

Swarm Automation Go: Automation-as-a-Service made simple and risk-free 

Stepping into automation should be a confident and exciting opportunity for growth and efficiency. Toyota Material Handling offers automation-as-a-service to help businesses of all sizes, including SMEs, embrace automation without high upfront costs. Explore automation on your terms, scale as your business grows, and experience immediate benefits—all with no investment risk.  

The straightforward solution is designed for simple point-to-point pallet transport, ideal for multi-shift operations, eliminating repetitive tasks for your drivers. The basis of the concept is a proven product, the Toyota SAE 160 automated pallet stacker. The AGV solution is managed by intelligent automation software, T-ONE, ensuring smooth communication and execution of the orders.    

And most importantly, full on-site installation and complete support from our established European service network are included.   

If you’re looking to increase efficiency, reduce costs and future-proof operations, automation-as-a-service is a simple, flexible and cost-effective way to get started.