No matter how efficiently your warehouse is run, there is always room to increase productivity and reduce costs. If you’re looking to streamline processes in your warehouse and increase your bottom line, follow our top 5 tips to improve warehouse productivity.
1) Optimise Warehouse Layout
The key to maximising productivity is warehouse layout. If your warehouse equipment is arranged in a way that streamlines warehouse processes and maximises storage, your warehouse will be able to operate much more efficiently.
When planning or rearranging your warehouse layout, consider your warehouse processes. Ensure that the aisle space between racks is optimised (not so narrow that it inhibits picking processes, and not so wide that floor space is being wasted). Additionally, ensure that high-selling products are stored near the front of the warehouse to reduce travel time.
2) Streamline Warehouse Processes
By streamlining your warehouse processes you will reduce the time that it takes to complete each task. Not only does this equate to increased productivity, you will also be saving money on labour costs.
As mentioned above, it is important to store high-selling products as close to the front of the warehouse as possible as this will reduce travel time and streamline operations. Additionally, rather than just storing similar products together, store products that are often sold together in the same locations to reduce picking times.
It is also important to assess and simplify your warehouse processes by cutting out any unnecessary steps, as having less contact points will save you time and money.
3) Choose The Right Storage System
Improving warehouse productivity and maximising storage starts with choosing the right storage system. It’s important that you make use of all of the space available, including any vertical space, and even outdoor areas.
Rather than using the same racks throughout your warehouse, you can optimise warehouse operations by choosing the storage system based on the product and space. For example, in a cold room or freezer it is best to use a high density storage system that will maximise storage in the temperature controlled space. If you have a high differentiation in products, using a selective racking system will ensure that each pallet stored is individually accessible from the aisle. Or, if your warehouse has unused space above your racking system, you could install a mezzanine floor to dramatically increase floor and storage space.
If you’re not sure which type of storage system is best for your products and space, consult a professional. Macrack – Australia’s leading pallet racking manufacturer – is offering a free quote and warehouse design service that will help you to choose the right storage system for your needs and visualise how the racks will work in your space.
For more information call 1800 048 821 or click here to visit their website.
4) Install A Freight Lift
If you’re looking to boost productivity in a multi level warehouse, consider installing a freight lift. Not only will a freight lift increase worker safety when transporting items between floors, it can also be used to improve picking processes by transporting bulk amounts of goods between floors rather than just palletized products.
If you think that a freight lift could be right for your warehouse contact Axis Lifts today on 1300 002 947.
5) Continue To Assess & Make Changes
Our final tip for increasing productivity in your warehouse is to continually assess and make changes aimed at increasing productivity. There is always room for improvement and it is important to regularly evaluate your warehouse layout and processes for opportunities to improve.
