It’s no secret your material handling equipment is an inextricable part of your warehouse operation. Then why are so many businesses using the wrong equipment? Or is it that they’re using the right equipment inefficiently?
Whether it’s a push back rack installed in an environment better suited for a cantilever rack or lack of drive-in and drive-thru racking for long shelf life merchandise, the wrong equipment can spell disaster.
When capital and square footage are as limited as they are in the warehouse environment, long-term ROI must remain top priority. Sometimes that means purchasing used equipment. Other times it means adding an entirely new system to address your main pain points.
And while no one equipment-related decision alone is likely to make or break your operation, there are some useful tips you can use to keep incidents low and productivity high.
Plan based around your product flow.
Whether you hire a material handling and warehouse storage solution expert to help you with warehouse design or installation, or choose to do it yourself, make sure all steps are carefully tracked to avoid workflow impediments.
Update your safety certificates.
Injuries can severely disrupt your output and delay your shipments. Making sure your entire staff is up to date on OSHA safety trainings and certifications can help you easily circumvent potential setbacks.
Considerfinancing or leasing warehouse equipment instead of buying.
While the natural inclination may be to purchase used equipment and save up front, it can end up costing in the long run. When your needs change or you find yourself shelling out for costly repairs, you’ll be happy you did.
Create long-term maintenance plans and conduct audits.
If you do own the equipment, it’s important to engage in preventative maintenance before a problem is ever presented. Looking for Pallet Rack Inspection Tips? We’ve got you covered.
Keep a close eye on your picking and put-away processes.
You can easily improve your piece picking by making simple changes on the line. Try maximizing SKU counts by reducing travel time, regular re-slotting, testing out different picking methods, and implementing automation technologies.
In the end, taking careful notes on all the moving pieces and parts of your warehouse is key if you want to run a successful, productive operation. Be it storage units or material handling equipment, you can make informed decisions to keep things safe and productive while increasing your profitability.
Want help evaluating your warehouse or implementing significant changes? Contact us for help optimizing your warehouse.