System and method are provided where parcels or packages are associated or grouped, into logical group or logical containerization of parcels or packages, without need for physical container, such that parcels or packages can be tracked as a group, for example with a unique group ID. Logical group may be tracked within specified logical zone on conveyor, transported, sorted and/or otherwise processed as unique logical group without need to be contained in physical container. System and method for automated sortation can accumulate set number or set volume of packages, and then process the accumulated set number or volume of packages, including automatically closing a container filled with the packages.

A separator assembly for a refuse chute includes a set of separating chutes, each including an inlet for receiving refuse and an outlet for outputting refuse. The assembly also includes a positioning mechanism configured to locate the set of separating chutes relative to the refuse chute to align an inlet from one of the set of separating chutes with an outlet of the refuse chute. Suitably, each of the set of separating chutes is arranged to direct refuse to a different location when the corresponding inlet is aligned with the outlet of the refuse chute. A separator system includes the aforementioned assembly.