Yours is the massive building that has people in awe as they drive by on the highway. Today’s supply chains across the world can’t function without warehouses like yours that serve as halfway points for everything consumers and businesses require. But you know how tricky it is to manage everything going in and out of your warehouse or distribution centre. Can it be done better?
It’s worth reviewing your processes and workflows from time to time. You want to keep impressing your clients and have fewer challenges and less chaos on busy days, right? Is it a pallet wrapping machine you need? Should you reorganise your racking or have a sit down with your team? Here’s the to-do list all warehouse managers should follow.
Step 1: Review Your Use of Space
In warehouse management use of space is one of the most important factors to consider, learn about and review from time to time. If you have more product or types of products to store than a few months ago, what’s the best way to manage it now? Adding smaller or larger items to your product list may require you to install different racking meant for these products, or you’ll be wasting valuable shelf space.
Originally you may have a dynamic system by only using horizontal space where everything is within reach of pickers. But you can’t necessarily carry on that way when the products become more. Instead of acquiring more floor space you need to learn to use vertical space efficiently, even if it requires new equipment to reach products now.
Also, rethink how you use the space. Do you have products that get picked, packed and shipped more often than others? A small but dynamic change is to place these where it’s more accessible near the front, within easy reach of the workers. Workers won’t waste valuable time walking down the racking aisles each day. That’s much more efficient use of space AND time even if it means rearranging the entire warehouse.
Step 2: Get Some Order
You can also save some time with small details that help keep order. For example, new workers will follow the company habits much faster if you use floor tape to clearly identify pedestrian and vehicle zones. You’re also improving visitor and worker safety, which is another factor that makes you ‘better’ in this industry.
Also create a culture of order so you waste less time looking for items. All workstations should be kept orderly at all times, with consequences for workers who violate the rule or inhibit the culture. Whether it’s a pen, pallet wrap stock or keys for the vehicles, each minute lost effectively costs the company money. So, rather keep everything in its place.
Step 3: Invest in Your Employees
Your workers are some of your most important assets, so re-evaluating your methodology with them could present you with many areas to improve:
- Better training could mean fewer safety violations.
- By offering incentives you can improve productivity.
- Create a more comfortable work environment to show concern for workers. Employees that feel looked after are bound to work harder and faster. Whether it’s a new HVAC unit, a canteen or some music in the background, you’re investing in the company in the long run.
Step 4: Upgrade Your Equipment
Your team members won’t be able to perform their duties if you don’t empower them, so prevent having disgruntled employees by getting the right equipment. This industry also benefits from software and RFID technology, such as programs that guide picking processes. Let technology help you create better workflows that save time and once again you’re saving money.
This could feel like unnecessary expenses since you’ll only see the results in the long run but don’t feel prompted to buy low quality products. Whether it’s a software program, a pallet wrapping unit or a forklift, your team needs the best possible products. Low quality items will break often, resulting in downtime and repair costs.
Step 5: Track ALL Freight
Modern technology also helps you to track freight and merchandise more effectively. And we’re talking about products coming in AND those going out. Using RTLS (real time locations systems) you’ll know when to expect items, so you know when you can move them onto the next destination again. Such an easy way to keep your clients informed and turnaround times impressive!
Step 6: Make it Safe
It goes without saying that safety should be a top priority. You’re operating in a space where vehicles, working at height and heavy loads could hurt someone in a split second. Go the extra mile and make safety signage more prominent, helping your team and visitors to abide by the rules you created.
Conclusion
A few wise decisions can make a massive impact on how you operate and keep team members and clients smiling. But probably best of all, your days can feel a little less chaotic, which is very valuable in the world of warehouse management, right?
What other challenges do you face in your current work scenario? Share and let’s talk about it.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
