One of the most common questions in a dimensioning system evaluation is also one of the most variable to answer: how long will this take to implement? The honest answer is that it depends on the system type, the integration complexity, and how ready the facility is. A static workstation dimensioner in a receiving application with a simple WMS connection can be live in a matter of weeks. A full SLAM line integration with multiple connected systems takes longer. This post breaks down what drives the timeline at each phase.

Phase 1: Site assessment and system selection (2–4 weeks)

Before any hardware is ordered, the right system needs to be identified. That means understanding your outbound volume, packaging mix, measurement requirements, and integration environment. For static systems in straightforward applications, this phase is brief. For in-motion conveyor systems, the site assessment includes conveyor specifications, trigger locations, and infrastructure requirements that have to be resolved before hardware can be configured.

The dimensioning system overview covers the product range to use as a starting point for system selection. A conversation with Cubiscan’s technical team during this phase saves time later by identifying integration requirements and infrastructure needs before the hardware order is placed.

Phase 2: Hardware procurement and lead time (2–8 weeks)

Lead times vary by system type and current inventory levels. Standard workstation systems often have shorter lead times than in-motion conveyor systems, which may involve custom conveyor configuration or specific mounting requirements. If your implementation has a firm go-live target, understanding lead time at the beginning of the evaluation is important. Ask the vendor for lead time at the point of system selection, not after the purchase order is signed.

Phase 3: Integration development and testing (1–6 weeks)

Integration timeline is often the most variable part of the project. A static workstation dimensioner connecting to a WMS through an existing API integration may involve minimal development work. A SLAM line dimensioner connecting to a TMS, print and apply system, sortation controller, and manifest platform requires more touchpoints and more testing.

The integration scope should be defined and scoped before the hardware order is placed, not after. Changes to integration scope mid-project are the most common cause of timeline extensions. Cubiscan cubing software provides the data management layer that simplifies integration by serving as a central hub for dimensional data routing to connected systems.

Phase 4: Physical installation (1–5 days)

Physical installation of a static workstation dimensioner is typically a day or less. The unit is placed at the measurement station, connected to power and network, and positioned for the workflow. In-motion conveyor dimensioners require mounting on the conveyor line, encoder installation, trigger setup, and physical alignment, which may take several days depending on line complexity and whether conveyor modifications are needed.

Phase 5: Software configuration and calibration (1–3 days)

After hardware installation, the system is calibrated, configured for your specific measurement parameters, and connected to the WMS or cubing software. For in-motion systems, this phase includes trigger timing calibration, throughput testing at operational speeds, and exception handling validation.

Phase 6: Operator training and go-live (1–2 days)

Dimensioning systems are generally straightforward for operators to use. Training covers how to place packages for measurement, how to interpret the system’s output, and what to do when a measurement fails or an exception is flagged. For static systems, training is typically done on the day of installation. For in-motion systems, training may involve more participants and more scenarios.

Total timeline summary

For a static workstation dimensioner with a standard WMS integration: 4 to 8 weeks from evaluation to go-live is a reasonable range. For an in-motion SLAM line dimensioner with multiple system integrations: 8 to 16 weeks is more realistic, with variation depending on integration complexity and infrastructure readiness. To get a timeline estimate specific to your configuration, contact Cubiscan.

Frequently asked questions