Columbia – Okura :: Custom-Engineered Robotic Palletizing Systems

Columbia/Okura is a leading North American provider of custom-engineered robotic palletizing systems. Operating as a joint venture between Columbia Machine, Inc. (founded in 1934) and Okura Yusoki Co., Ltd. (founded in 1927), the company was established in 1996. Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, Columbia/Okura specializes in end-of-line automation solutions that help manufacturers improve productivity, reduce labor costs, and achieve reliable palletizing performance across a wide range of industries.

The company designs and integrates both industrial robots and collaborative robots (cobots) for palletizing bags, cases, pails, bundles, trays, and custom products. Their industrial robotic palletizers handle heavy loads with speed and precision, while their collaborative robot solutions allow safe multi-picking and palletizing of loads up to 66 lbs alongside human workers. In addition to core robotic systems, Columbia/Okura offers fully integrated end-of-line solutions that can include pallet dispensers, sheet dispensers, custom end-effectors, safety equipment, and automatic open-mouth bagging machines (as the exclusive North American provider of STATEC BINDER equipment).

Columbia/Okura serves diverse sectors including food, beverages, agriculture, animal nutrition, pet care, building materials, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Every system is custom-engineered for the customer’s current needs while remaining flexible for future expansion. With more than 1,200 robotic palletizing systems installed and a strong emphasis on 24/7 service, training, and OEM parts support, the company has built a reputation for durable equipment and long-term customer partnerships.