The main function of any warehouse is to store and dispatch goods. The more effectively you can do this, the more profit you will make.
By using the best infrastructure, equipment, and operational processes, you can maximize your warehouse’s order fulfillment efficiency, both now and into the future. We have devised some key tips to help make sure you achieve this.
Motivate Your Employees
Many warehouse positions are not the most glamorous, however. For everything to functioneffectively, every employee must work hard. A great way to motivate staff is to offer incentive pay. This gives them an opportunity to pocket more on payday and lets them know you appreciate their efforts. Another simple, but effective method, is to offer prizes or a free staff lunch if weekly, monthly, or quarterly goals are reached.
All businesses have problems hiring and retaining capable staff. Offering regular pay raises to employees who work hard can save you money over the long-term. The wrong ratio of inexperienced to experienced staff can lower efficiency.
Each new team member will work less productively at first and require training from an experienced team member. This means you will have two people working at less than the optimal rate.
Containers Are Crucial
You want to select the right containers for your products. These should be easy to load your goods into. They should also fit nicely onto the truck without any wasted space.
Different forms of inventory often require dramaticallydifferent containers. Ensure you are using the appropriate container to store food products, for example. You may be required to meet specific regulations based on the product in your warehouse.
With so many container options available, it is in your best interests to assure you are using the most suitable ones. Do some research and assess exactlywhat your needs are.
Use the Right Pallets
If you areusingpallets,make sure they are the right type. Many people do not realize the variety of options available. Selecting the correct type can make the transportation and storage of goods a lot easier.
Different pallets have different strengths and weaknesses. Metal pallets are extremely durable and long lasting. They can withstand high heat and corrosive materials. Thismakes them ideal for pharmaceutical warehouses. Plastic pallets are also a great option. These are light, but also durable. They are also very affordable. Do not forget the traditional wooden pallet. These are highly versatile and come in many shapes and designs and are recyclable.
Make sure you consider how you will be using the pallets. Are they going to be moved by pallet jack or by a forklift? Will they be stored at ground level or up high in the racking? Also, consider the weight and size of the inventory that will be loaded on top of them.
There is a lot to think about. Just remember, to fulfill your orders, you are going to need to safely and effectively store your goods.
Keep Up with Technology
Do not get left behind when it comes to technological developments. The latest equipment can make your warehouse much more efficient. If you do not have the voice-enabled technology yet, consider implementing it. Thiscan be used to optimize a variety of warehouse systems.
For example, your order pickers can wear headgear which tells them where to go, what to pick, and where to deliver it. They do not need to waste time reading an order sheet or taking verbal directions from a manager.
Obviously, there is quite a high upfront cost to install such a system and train staff in how to use it. The important thing is to think long-term. You will have increased order fulfillment efficiently for years to come while also increasing profits.
Optimize Racking for Your Warehouse
Storing your goods in an organized manner allows your staff to locate, package, and dispatch them much quicker. Selecting the right racking is crucial. Size, strength, and accessibility should all be considered. You want your employees to easily access the rack, select the right item, and move it safely.
It is important to understand the different types of racking available. If you have many small items, use flow racks while larger items may require cantilever or pallet racks. Consider what your inventory is and the different options available.
Make sure your racking is scalable. There should be options for enlargements as your warehouse expands its business, therefore requiring more storage space. You do not want to select a racking system that will eventually need to be replaced. Choose one that can be increased incrementally over time.
Last, and perhaps most importantly, make sure you optimize your racking for the space available. A key consideration is racking height. You want to make sure you are taking full advantage of your warehouse’s vertical dimensions.
Always Put Safety First
If an employee gets injured, this can derail your whole operation. They are unable to work, and morale is reduced throughout the whole warehouse.
Always maximize safety. Any incident should be fully investigated, and employees should be encouraged to speak up whenever they notice a hazard.
Make sure you have a quality rehab program for injured employees. Thiscould include regular visits to an on-site or off-site physical therapist. Employees should initially start out on light duties and progressively move to more demanding tasksuntil they are back on their normal workload.
Continuous Improvement
Always strive to make improvements to your warehouse. You may believe you already have the best containers, racking, work procedures, and technology, but there is always room to improve. Involve employees in this process. They can often give good feedback and advice on what could be improved. This will help you continually make progress and never settle for mediocrity.
Final Thoughts
Everything from the racking, pallets, and containers you choose to the technology you use and even employee morale can affect your order fulfillment efficiency. Hiring the right people and taking measures to retain them and choosing the right equipment to store and dispatch your goods will result in a robust operation and greater profits.
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