Many business owners and managers are considering using warehouse automation solutions today. These tools have some wonderful benefits, and they are more affordable than ever. Consider the top reasons to choose automation and learn more about the different options available in this guide.
Top Benefits of Using Warehouse Automation Solutions
What makes using warehouse automation solutions a good idea? These tools and technologies can provide an array of benefits for businesses of all sizes. Users find that their warehouse throughput is increased, and they are better able to utilize the resources they have available. It will reduce labor and operational costs.
The use of machines also helps to reduce the amount of human error that takes place. Even though the employees are working hard and doing their best, sorting, labeling, and shipping tend to require speed. There is always the chance of making a mistake. When using automation solutions in the warehouse, it helps to reduce the risk of these errors.
Employees and customers tend to be happier, as well. It makes things easier for employees, and customers will find that service is faster, and there aren’t any errors with the products they order, as mentioned.
Warehouse automation solutions will help to make many aspects of running this part of the business easier. They can improve inventory control, help staff know when to order more items, make better use of warehouse space, and increase overall efficiency.
When to Choose Automation
One of the most difficult decisions that companies will make is determining when it’s the right time for them to get set up with automation systems. Most companies will find that examining some of the issues that may be happening in their company helps them to get a better idea of whether it’s the right time or not.
For example, if customer orders are being delayed because products can’t move through the warehouse quickly enough, it might be time to automate. The same would be true if there are a lot of mistakes being made that could be avoided by automating. Consider whether the inventory counts are accurate, whether the customers are happy with the service they are receiving, and evaluate whether the current tools just aren’t cutting it.
For more companies, regardless of their size, it’s a good idea to consider automating sooner rather than later. Often, the systems are scalable. This means they can work for the business now and can be expanded upon as the needs of the company grow. It’s often easier to start early than it is to bring in an automation system to a large company that already has a lot of processes and is set in its ways.
When automation is being implemented, it’s important to get everyone on board. Make sure people know how to use the system and that they know the new roles they will be taking on in the company if their job is being automated.
Automation Options to Consider
Today, there are many options available for automation. Different companies may find that they only need one or two of the tools discussed below. Others might want to have all of them integrated. Let’s get a closer look at each of these.
Automated Sortation
These machines will make sorting products that are being received and shelved or sent to customers faster, easier, and more accurate. It will reduce the amount of time that manual sortation takes, and there is no risk of human error.
Label Print and Apply
Printing and applying labels tends to take a lot of time and is a tedious process. There is also the chance that the labels could be applied incorrectly. This means that a product could be misrepresented when a customer receives it. The wrong product could ship to a customer, as well. Having machines that take care of this eliminates errors and speeds up the process.
Automated Scanning
An automated scanning system could be useful for warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing centers, and fulfillment centers. The system makes it possible to quickly and accurately identify packages on the conveyor. This reduces errors and helps to speed up processes.
Dimension Weigh and Scan
Dimension weigh and scan systems will help companies to reduce transportation costs because items will be weighed correctly. The data from the weigh and scan system can be sent to analytical systems that can help reduce the truck loading time.
Automated Receiving
A quality automated receiving system will typically include barcode scanning, label printers, applicators, and conveyors to help improve efficiency and accuracy for materials being received. It could help to decrease truck unload times, eliminate human error, and save on labor costs.
Automated Manifest Systems
Using an automated manifest system will help to make the processing of manifests from sea, ground, rail, and air easier. It can speed up the process of reviewing the manifest and identifying risk levels, helping to improve customs operations.
Automation Software
Automation software tools are perfect for controlling all of the various automation tools being used. They can all be integrated and controlled through the software, providing users with a single interface. It may also be capable of offering real-time monitoring and reporting, which can make optimizing the operation easier.
Automated Guided Vehicles
Although these might not be necessary for all companies, they can help those who have larger warehouses. The automated guided vehicles will make it faster and simpler to get items to and from the shelves in the warehouse. They can take the products to wherever they are needed in the company.
Getting Started with Warehouse Automation Solutions
Those who feel that warehouse automation solutions are right for their business will want to get in touch with a company that can provide those tools and technologies. When choosing options, it is important to find systems that can be customized. After all, every business is slightly different and will have differing needs. Choose a system that can work for the specific needs of the business. Additionally, check to make sure that the systems and tools are scalable. Can they grow along with the business? If not, find other solutions.
