The warehouse area is the heart of many companies: This is where products are properly stored, checked and digitally recorded in order to be made available again - often in the shortest possible time - for the subsequent production or sales process. If you neglect to regularly check warehouse performance, you may also be damaging other processes and missing out on valuable optimization potential. The following tips can help you to check warehouse systems and identify opportunities for more productive processes.
Tip 1 - Make the most of storage capacity
What sounds obvious is by no means the standard: in many companies, the available space is not utilized and storage capacity is wasted. Efficient storage and distribution of goods saves money in the long term, and not just in stock-intensive companies. A high degree of space utilization can best be achieved with a compact storage system and high-bay racking, as these make optimum use of the height. Often even more space can be used than operators initially assume. The use of truck shuttle systems, with which goods can be stored and retrieved on all levels - ideally at the same time - is crucial for the flow of goods in the compact storage system. A compact storage system including truck shuttle conveyors is ideal for installation in existing warehouses; new buildings can also be built as roof- or wall-supported racking (for example in a silo).
Tip 2 - Increase the level of automation
Not every company needs a fully automated warehouse. Nevertheless, depending on the storage system, operators should consider upgrading or expanding it: Can a larger quantity of goods be handled with the help of automated processes? Is the conveyor technology still up to date? Can energy costs even be reduced through better networking? In many cases, the productivity of the processes can be increased by modernizing the components. Today's software solutions provide reliable data - and therefore the key to better inventory management and movement analysis. This makes it possible to achieve greater picking accuracy, identify stock shortages and errors and increase control options. For dynamic warehouse systems, end-to-end IT support with corresponding ERP solutions is even essential: the system must work error-free in order to ensure smooth goods movement and an overview of stock levels.
Tip 3 - Create flexibility
Not losing any time is a key challenge for companies in the logistics sector. If you want to keep up with the competition, you have to react quickly to customer requests and fluctuating throughput volumes, adapt quickly to changing product ranges and take special product requirements into account. Flexibility is one of the most important success factors for many companies. Accordingly, the functionality of a storage system should be checked very carefully. The best prerequisite is a precise overview, which operators can achieve, for example, by means of a permanent inventory using control software. Only those who always have an overview of which goods are in which location at what time are able to act in the shortest possible time. 24/7 operation of the warehouse can also be worthwhile for companies.
Tip 4 - Modernize outdated components in good time
The service life of a system can often be extended by modernizing it in good time. This can also involve expansions - for example in the area of conveyor technology. Here, components with faster development cycles (e.g. motors) can be replaced without having to replace entire conveyor lines. An upgrade to increase energy efficiency can also make sense, as it reduces energy costs and increases sustainability. As individual as the modernization concepts are: A precise review of the safety guidelines is part of every conversion and all expansions, as older components in particular may no longer meet current standards and should be adapted.
Tip 5 - Rely on a reliable partner
An experienced and reliable partner company is a prerequisite for long-term success. All steps should be closely coordinated and tailored to the exact requirements. By relying on a provider with many years of experience from completed projects, you benefit from the comprehensive expertise and cross-sector knowledge of an independent observer. In addition, maintenance contracts and staff training can help to ensure smooth warehouse operations. The Quickborn-based company SMB International offers its customers the advantage of a strong in-house production capability, which enables customer requirements to be met precisely and spare parts to be delivered at very short notice. With the recent founding of SMB Service GmbH, the company has even expanded its maintenance and repair services. The service team can respond to potential emergencies in the shortest possible time and offer a round-the-clock on-call service - even at weekends and on public holidays.