Slip Robotics Revolutionizes Warehousing with Innovative Robotic Solution

Slip Robotics, a startup based in Atlanta, has developed a robotic solution that significantly reduces the time it takes to load and unload truck trailers. The company's innovative robot, known as SlipBots, can fill a trailer in just five minutes, a process that typically takes up to an hour. Founded in 2020 by Chris Smith, Dennis Siedlak, and John Jakomin.

Slip Robotics offers a robot-as-a-service business that utilizes automation software and large floor-like robotic platforms capable of holding 10 palettes and carrying up to 12,000 pounds. The SlipBots are designed to handle uneven ground and navigate routes from warehouse floors into truck trailers, with three SlipBots fitting into one truck trailer. 

The startup's inspiration came from Smith's experience at companies such as Cummins, Tesla, and Volley Automation, leading to the concept of creating floor-like platforms that move freight all at once. After three years of development and testing, Slip Robotics launched its commercial service in 2023 and has since deployed hundreds of SlipBots across more than 25 sites, serving customers such as John Deere, GE Appliances, Valeo, and Nissan.

The company operates on a subscription license model, offering ongoing software updates, hardware service, maintenance, and repairs to its customers. Slip Robotics recently secured $28 million in Series B funding, led by DCVC and with participation from investors including Eve Atlas, Tech Square Ventures, Hyde Park Venture Partners, Overline, and Pathbreaker Ventures. The funding will be used to expand the team, increase deployments, and enhance product offerings.

Chief Commercial Officer Jordan Sanders emphasized the company's deliberate approach to scaling, focusing on developing its robotics platform before expanding, which has led to significant success. Slip Robotics, which started with less than a dozen employees, has now grown to about 50 employees and has 10 commercial customers with hundreds of bots in the field.

Source: Tech Crunch