TheWarehouserCongratulations! You’ve looked at the numbers and company strategy and the payback is there. You’ve decided that you need a new warehouse, distribution center, or fulfillment center. You’re planning on using a consultant, design firm, integrator, 3PL, or other partner to implement your vision. But there are many challenges and risks in designing a new … Read more
Discover how a warehouse project consultant can work to optimize your warehouse operations through expert analysis and the implementation of industry best practices.
Companies starting warehousing & distribution sites have an important decision to make. It’s about resourcing. Who will implement the site? Despite drawbacks, there’s a strong case for engaging external consultants to help your distribution and warehousing projects succeed. Here’s why: Startup Resource Planning Many factors go into this decision. First is the total resource plan … Read more
Automation projects in warehouses and distribution facilities can yield substantial returns in the long term. That being said, new technology often introduces new risks. Let’s break some of these risks down, along with ways to mitigate them. Unfamiliarity With New Technology Technological advancements in the world of industrial automation can remove many laborious burdens within … Read more
“Are we on schedule?” Schedules are a critical element of warehouse projects. They are important in both planning and project communication. Using scheduling best practices will help you plan and communicate effectively throughout the project. Here are some things to keep in mind as you build (or receive!) schedules. Schedules: Who they are for and … Read more
Project schedules are always a big focus in project execution. There’s so much time, money, and relationships tied to them, especially in big warehouse projects which often include construction, equipment, and software. Nobody likes delays, but there’s a lot ‘under the hood’ of a schedule that can make it go sideways. People, environment, other projects, … Read more
Warehousing automation’s high return-on-investment has made it a popular subject in the world of logistics. A properly executed shift towards automation can provide several benefits for companies in the long run, in addition to a hefty return on investment (ROI). There are many reasons a business may choose to move forward with automating their facilities. … Read more
Managing warehouse implementation projects usually involves spending money. Big warehouses will take a lot of money. Spending that money with high efficiency (speed & quality) is a critical part of a successful implementation. Here is what to look out for during the project to stay on track: Identify Big Spend & Long-Lead Items Early When … Read more
Most warehouse professionals understand how to calculate required labor hours but few do it while taking quality rates into account. Let’s look at an example. Picking Labor Example A typical calculation for required headcount for picking looks at the direct picker rates against the volume, then lays on an indirect labor percentage and an absenteeism … Read more
Let’s explore a warehouse improvement case study employing lean concepts and a holistic overview approach. The results speak for themselves – 30%+ improvement in cycle times, 30% reduction in labor, improve quality by 10x. How did it happen? Situation The company, “RailCo”, shipped produce and wine by rail from the west coast to the east … Read more