Pallets are a necessity for the proper operation of a warehouse. So it is paramount that these tools are protected from damage. Various forms of pallet racks achieve this. Racks are usually columns that are structurally supported by beams and include multiple levels of shelves and a wire mesh deck that supports the pallets that … Read more
It is beyond essential that warehouse personnel know exactly where products are so that they can be picked efficiently. Obviously, you should not locate the most popular products in extreme locations and the least popular in spaces with the best access. It should be the other way around. To set up the inventory it is … Read more
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
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
One of the most important duties of a warehouse worker is picking orders. That’s because a warehouse spends more time on the outbound transactions than the inbound. Moreover, the labor in performing the task is extensive and could be the largest portion of a warehouse’s labor budget. There is another element that makes picking orders … Read more
The leader in eCommerce is making a wave in warehouse efficiency. Amazon.com has been opening up new fulfillment centers at a brisk pace and introducing robots and other high technology features to make their operations more efficient. One example is the warehouse center in Tracy, California. There are about 1,500 full-time laborers working in 1.2 … Read more
Business majors learn early on that an efficient operation leads to greater revenue and higher profits. This is true for any business including the warehouse trade. Everyone knows that efficiency of operation cannot be achieved by accident. You need a plan. Here are some ideas. · Prioritize SKUs. The popularity of an SKU may depend … Read more
