Are you looking to automate – or further automate – your warehouse parts storage? Here are a few ways to improve warehouse efficiency with our warehouse automation solutions.
Bar Code Products and Storage Locations
A great way to begin the warehouse automation process is through the use of bar coding or another automatic identification and data collection (AIDC) process. Used to identify and track items, AIDC is, according to MHI, “a family of technologies that identify, verify, record, communicate and store information on discrete, packaged or containerized items…. The most common technologies used to identify and capture data are barcodes, handheld and fixed-position scanners and imagers, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and readers, and voice recognition, weighing and cubing devices.” Using these types of technologies – rather than the typical-but-antiquated pen and paper method – results in higher efficiency rates and fewer errors.
Install an Automated Vertical Storage System
If you want to improve warehouse efficiency and at the same time save space, vertical storage systems are the way to go. Vertical carousels and vertical lift modules use “the cube” — that otherwise wasted space in your warehouse, factory or distribution center. What’s more, vertical storage systems typically create a substantial return on investment because they can mean the difference between outgrowing your current space and optimizing your current space.
If you’re not familiar with vertical storage systems, the basic design is simple: Vertical carousels consist of rotating shelves that move up or down on response to your commands, delivering items to you at an ergonomically safe and convenient access window. Vertical Lift modules, which are compact automated storage and retrieval systems, work similarly. In the center is a platform equipped with an extraction mechanism operates in the vertical plane. The computer controlled platform transfers the special storage trays from the access window to an appropriate storage location. While the trays remain in the system, they are protected from the outside environment. With either type of system, you get efficient, automated parts storage.
Fully Implement WMS and ERP Systems
A warehouse management system (WMS) automates (and optimizes) picking and replenishment operations, all with complete item traceability. WMS operating procedures are designed for an intuitive and easy-to-use experience, and allow real-time warehouse management using a PC interface. In addition, the WMS system is easily adapted to existing operations systems such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.
Outsource Equipment is happy to help you figure out how to implement these warehouse automation solutions at your facility. Give them a call today at 877-741-6711 to talk about how you can better automate your facility.
