Robert J If you simply work in a warehouse, then you know that there are a number of common issues that seem to pop up now and again. You think that the actions the managers take will solve the problem forever. However, deep down in your mind you know that’s not true. Those problems will continue to … Read more
For a warehouse to succeed its employees need to know what they have and where they have it. Good inventory management is essential. There are five things that could adversely affect the condition of a warehouse’s inventory and could make it nearly impossible for employees to know what they have and where they have it. … Read more
During the last few posts I have been discussing loading dock design. In the first article titled Loading Dock, I covered safety considerations and the layout and creation of the area known as the apron space. This is the space in front of the loading dock where trucks can maneuver safely for proper positioning in … Read more
In previous articles I have discussed the different elements of a loading dock design including safety, apron space, truck bays, and the various styles of docks and dock approaches. In this article I will discuss dock height and door sizes. It should be obvious that proper dock height is an essential part of a well-designed … Read more
In the first story on Loading Docks, I discussed the loading dock design of apron space and truck bays. In this installment I will cover Types of Docks and Dock Approaches. There are five types of docks –- Cantilever, Enclosed, Flush, Open, and Saw Tooth. Cantilever Loading Dock Design This particular style of loading dock … Read more
A major section of a warehouse that calls out for the execution of safety practices is the loading dock. Not adequately considered, a loading dock can be the center of major accidents and needless expenses. Risks and expenditures can be minimized as long as proper safety features are incorporated into the design. Careful planning can … Read more
Let’s face it. It is not easy managing a warehouse. All sorts of problems from systemic to outside factors can adversely affect the smooth operation of a warehouse. Systemic problems can include poorly planning slot allocation, bottleneck issues, and over packing. Outside influences can include globalization and eCommerce. Whatever the problem and from wherever it … Read more
In my last two blogs I discussed the general topic of picking and went into some detail about piece picking. In Part III of the series on Picking I will go into detail about the method of Case Picking. Case Picking is collecting full cartons or boxes of product on to a pallet. So if … Read more
If you are working within the distribution supply chain, then you probably know about the Internet of Things (IoT). It is an ecosystem in which computer networks allow communication to and from connected devices and equipment. It is this technology that allows people to control a security system and electric products in their homes with … Read more
Warehouses are used to store all sorts of products. That can include massive equipment used by manufacturing plants; small items like nuts and bolts usually sold by hardware stores; clothes, generally sold by retail stores; and more. The product sold is going to influence the way a warehouse is operated and what methods are used … Read more
