When goods are manufactured, they are stored in a warehouse where they are released when needed. A warehouse is essential in every organisation for the storage of accumulating goods and ensuring continuous production in anticipation for future demand. Warehousing should be undertaken effectively to ensure the smooth running of the organisation.
Space Maximisation
Making use of vertical space in a warehouse is better than expanding its floor space. Space for expansion may not even be available. Adopting one of the available warehouse mezzanine systems is one way of space maximisation for storage. A mezzanine setting involves a raised floor between the ground and the roof. It utilises the unused vertical space, allowing for more products to be stored on the mezzanine and also within the space beneath it.
Also, investing in taller storage units and machinery to get products into and out of them is a good way of achieving space maximisation. Space maximisation can also be achieved by the use of different types of shelves for different types of materials. Shelving mostly helps in the storage of products that are in small quantities and can be misplaced easily when stored in pallets. Storing small items on pallets wastes on a lot of space causing space underutilisation.
Warehouse Management Systems
A warehouse management system is a software application system that guides on the pickup and put-away of inventory, optimises picking and shipping of orders, and advises on the replenishment of inventory. Such systems make the tracking of inventory easy, increases profitability, and streamlines warehousing operations. The software minimises a lot of paperwork and decreases the chances of making errors. It also improves the ability to deliver on time because the ordered products can be instantaneously picked from within the warehouse. Such software is necessary because it guides the daily running and control of the warehouse, making the operations therein efficient.
Lean Inventory Practices
Lean inventory means that what is needed is kept around and nothing more. It is a way of ensuring that the entity does not have a lot of inventory that is not currently needed. It can be achieved by trying to reduce safety stock levels where possible and seeing if your supplier can supply in smaller loads, more frequently at the right cost.
Organised Workstations
An organised workstation saves on time and increases productivity because workers do not waste time looking for items. Properly labeled inventory, tools, and equipment are easier to find. An organised workstation can be achieved by decluttering the work area. It refers to removing unnecessary items from the work station. Those items that are needed should be well arranged so that they are accessible.
Proper organisation of the workstation is important for the safety of the employees because accidents are greatly reduced. Another key thing in organising is keeping the workstation clean. A clean workstation means that the employees can move around very quickly and get things done easily. It also saves on the lead time of getting products delivered because they are already dusted and cleaned when needed.
The efficiency of a warehouse is of great value to a company considering that warehouse workers and managers are the last people to handle a product before it reaches the consumers. It is, therefore, important that they do their work efficiently without delays or missing or misplaced orders. They are a key determinant of customer satisfaction when they deliver what is needed in terms of the right item and quantity ordered.
