Managing a warehouse can be extremely difficult, especially during busy and high demand periods. Warehouse operations managers have various responsibilities including:
- ensuring the efficient flow of stock
- overseeing inventory levels
- optimising the layout
- maintaining a safe environment
While there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach when it comes to managing a warehouse, there are several signs you can look out for to keep everything running efficiently and help stay up-to-date with the warehouse systems and work safe practices. Here’s our list of top five things to look out for:
1. Constant Repairs
Warehouse equipment, particularly your racking system, should last for many years with the right maintenance. Inevitably with pallet racks there will be some wear and tear overtime. If you find you’re regularly repairing beams and uneven shelves, then it could be time to upgrade your racking system. Unstable pallet racks can lead to damaged stock as well as unsafe work conditions.
2. Inadequate Health & Safety Management
A tidy warehouse isn’t necessarily a safe warehouse, and often there is more than meets the eye. You should be checking your racking system at least a couple of times a year to ensure it’s in good working condition, and reporting anything that you notice between inspections. If you can’t remember the last time there was a routine inspection in your warehouse, check your records and organise one. Warehouses can be extremely dangerous places and you need to determine what might need repairing or replacing to avoid workplace accidents.
3. Difficulty Tracking Stock
Inventory management is the key to having a successful and smoothly operating warehouse. If you’re finding it increasingly difficult to keep track of inventory and stow away stock efficiently and in the correct place, then not only could be time to update your racking system but also your stock management software!
Upgrading to new technology helps to future proof your business. Racking systems should also be able to accommodate flexible layouts if you ever need to rearrange picking paths in the future.
4. Slow Productivity
If you’ve noticed the productivity in your warehouse is slowing, don’t jump to conclusions and blame your staff! The productivity of your warehouse heavily relies on having clear, organised picking paths and racking systems. Easy access to inventory is essential to speed along productivity across your warehouse. If you can’t rearrange your existing racking systems then you may need to invest in a new one that optimises storage.
5. Not Enough Space
If your warehouse is tight on space, changing to a larger facility may seem like the only option. However, there are many modern pallet racking systems that can create more space by building upwards. Mezzanine floors can range from a simple storage platform to heavy duty structural floors. Not only are they freestanding but they do not depend on the existing building for support. This means they can be relocated if you do eventually need to move to a larger space.
At All Storage Systems, we strive to improve efficiencies for your business. We offer complete warehouse design services, from layout and planning to warehouse auditing and complete supply and installation. No matter your industry, our team of specialists can design the perfect shelving storage system to suit your warehouse and needs.
Contact our sales team on 1800 772 726 or sales@allstoragesystems.com.au for advice or book an audit and organise a free fitout consultation.