Warehouse operations are at the heart of each company. Everything must run smoothly for orders to go through without a hitch and an efficient warehouse keeps costs low and customer satisfaction high. Here are some ways you can maximise your warehouse efficiency.
Optimise all available space
When you make the most of your warehouse space, you allow more room for additional stock and an easier way of finding it. Consider making better use of your vertical space – add in shelves and use up the wall space where possible.
Consider a variety of shelving to support the materials you have. You’ll want something strong and durable for heavier items of stock. Make sure it’s easily accessible for your staff to reach and utilise. Designate a space where to set up your warehouse packing station and make sure everything is in order.
Inventory management
Internal warehouse processes must be as efficient as possible to allow orders to go out on time and to keep stock levels accurately managed. Having timely order fulfilment will lead to more satisfied customers and a constant stream of orders coming in. That's why you should definitely consider researching interesting warehouse organization ideas, as you might get inspiration for improving the efficiency of your storage.
Try using warehouse management software that can give you an overview of your inventory levels and alert you when certain items of stock are low and close to running out so that you can get them ordered back in.
Consider temporary solutions
If you find that you have more stock to house during busier months, such as Christmas and during sales periods, but you are struggling to find space for them you could consider using a temporary warehouse for storage. This will allow you to still manage your current warehouse successfully and reduce the risk of it becoming overcrowded which can minimise the efficiency of your picking and packing process.
Ensure floors are clear
Having clear floors with plenty of walk space and no clutter will make your pick and pack staff’s lives so much easier and speed up the process as much as possible. Make sure that all stock is stored away on a shelf or in its own designated area away from walkways and that no other items such as chairs, ladders, or staff belongings are strewn across the warehouse as these can also pose a risk as a trip hazard.
Encourage staff to keep their belongings in a separate staff room and have their lunch elsewhere than on the warehouse floor as this can clog up space, especially if you have an influx of orders come in and you need them out as quickly as possible.
