Because of the competitive nature of manufacturing, distribution, and retail, implementing the following warehouse best practices from the experts at Papé Material Handling can mean the difference between merely keeping up with the competition and surpassing them.
USE A WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Supply chain management involves a lot of moving parts, processes, and inventory; efficiency and safety are dependent upon investment in a robust warehouse management system. Order picking systems and other warehouse solutions can help compile data and automate processes, which reduces the amount of time spent order picking. At Engineered Products, a Papé Company, we’ve partnered our fully integrated products with Next Level Warehouse Solutions to help design functional and productive warehouses.
IMPLEMENT AUTOMATIC DATA COLLECTION TECHNOLOGY
Automatic data collection technology offers a solution to problems caused by human error in the warehouse. Using RF barcode and RFID systems makes the tracking process more accurate and more efficient, eliminating unnecessary time consumption, warehouse imprecision, and the labor costs that accompany manual data collection.
REDUCE ENERGY COSTS
Aside from the eco-friendly perspective, finding ways to reduce energy costs can be incredibly beneficial for companies. These cost savings can help improve your bottom line. If you’re looking for ways to minimize energy costs, try implementing zone lighting or replacing outdated equipment. Remember, warehouse solutions with high upfront costs help save money in the long run, so don’t be afraid to spend money to save money.
PRIORITIZE SAFETY
Thinking about safety in terms of meeting minimum standards and regulations? Big mistake. A safe warehouse environment leads to increased productivity and employee morale, as well as decreased downtime and worker absences. So, any steps you take to prioritize safety - anything from forming a safety committee to enrolling your employees in additional safety training - can make for a more productive, higher earning year.
SWITCH TO LITHIUM BATTERIES
Although the high upfront cost of a lithium battery-powered fleet is daunting, it’ll help cut long-term costs when the pressure has never been higher. You can make the switch from lead-acid batteries to lithium batteries this year and see an increase in efficiency, decrease in costs, and a reduction in machine downtime. Lithium batteries also increase forklift power and cut emissions, making them a greener alternative. Make 2018 the year you consider lithium power for your electric counterbalance, narrow aisle forklifts, and electric pallet jacks.
At Papé, we can help identify warehouse best practices for your facility while keeping safety, cost, and modern technology in mind. Contact a warehouse product specialist at your nearest Papé Material Handling location today.
