Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your current operation, there are several factors to consider when implementing a new
automated warehouse.
These include:
Space
This refers to the physical constraints of your facility. Should you expand to a new space or find a more efficient use for your current space?
Accuracy
The accuracy of your system affects the reputation of your business. Moving to automation brings higher levels of accuracy through elements such as software guidance, picking interfaces and multiple check points.
Labour
In our current market, good labour is becoming harder and harder to secure. Automating brings consistency in an ever-changing labour landscape by reducing the reliance on manual labour. Furthermore, automation makes it easier to train and provides ergonomic workstations for employees.
Throughput
Are you currently getting enough orders out the door? Is your current system going to keep up with your mid-long term growth ambitions? Keep in mind that throughput is amplified by the end results of space, accuracy, and labour. Also, think about peak season too. Make sure your throughput is working for seasonal variances.
Regardless of what kind of system you currently have, you should approach upgrading your system by establishing
key facts. The experts from SSI SCHAEFER have put together a list of questions you should ask in order to determine the best ASRS solution for your application.
Automating warehouse systems is an important step toward enabling companies to increase the efficiency of their internal material flows and adapt to the demands of the modern market situation. While automation is becoming increasingly popular - companies invest in it for different reasons.
Reduce energy consumption
Sustainability: Automated systems contribute to sustainability by optimising resource usage, reducing energy consumption, and minimising waste through enhanced efficiency and decreased human error.
Business Reasons:
The rising costs of space and personnel driven by high logistical demand create a need for cost reduction. Automated systems can lower labour expenses and reallocate resources to other business areas. Additionally, automation improves inventory management, cutting the costs of holding excess stock and reducing the risk of stockouts.
Increased Efficiency:
Automated systems can enhance process efficiency by shortening task completion times and boosting overall productivity. This results in quicker order fulfilment and improved customer satisfaction.
Increased complexity:
As companies grow they often take on more SKU’s and larger sites. With automated systems being less prone to errors than manual processes they enhance accuracy and reduce mistakes. This leads to fewer returns and therefore lowers costs.
Scalability:
Automated systems can process large volumes of orders swiftly and accurately with little to no manual input required. This capability allows warehouses to effortlessly scale their operations to meet rising demand.
Product Dimensions
What is the size of your product? Are the products large or small? What is the length and width of the product? What is the weight of the product? The dimensions of a product are important. If units will move through your facility as individual pieces without any packaging, that matters. Or if you store your product in a cardboard box within the facility, that also matters to storage planning.
Storage Temperatures
Do your products have to stay within a certain temperature range? If your facility handles everything from over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and CPG products, there could be a range of temperatures to track.
Are your goods fragile or dangerous?
You might be dealing with substances or products derived from hazardous materials that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment when transported. Keep these items separate from other products to ensure their safe handling and storage. Automation requires the same
measures for dangerous goods.
Material Flow
Look at how your products are moving through your current warehouse. If the system relies on full pallets for fulfilment, it may require less processing. If you’re picking “singles” or cases, this might prove to be more of a challenge because each picked order requires packing.
In today's ever changing business environments - numerous businesses need to evaluate the advantages of automating their warehouses. Decision makers should reflect on their objectives for automation and determine if it justifies the expense before making any commitments. The aim of warehouse automation is to lower costs, boost inventory turnover and maximise storage efficiency, while also shortening delivery times through the use of an IT-supported warehouse management system (WMS).
