A successful warehousing system ensures that all areas of the centre layouts can contribute to the value and service quality of a company. These areas are segregated into shipping, receiving, and storage systems. In this article, we will know the dynamics of the warehouse storage system, otherwise known as the warehouse management system.
Aside from labelling wall brackets and containers and scheduling regular maintenance and reviews, selecting the best choice of shelving and storage solution is one of the first and integral steps in organising a warehouse efficiently. Warehouse storage systems are a major capital investment for any company. Depending on their design and whether they fit into the whole logistics process, a storage system can either help or hurt the business.
Dynamic Storage Systems
Dynamic racking systems, also known as gravity flow systems, utilise inclined rails and rollers. This allows pallets or containers to slide toward the picking direction for order fulfilment and to reduce overall pick time. According to research, labour and equipment costs are reduced by up to 75% when using the dynamic storage systems.
The Benefits of Dynamic Storage Systems
Organisation and accessibility
A dynamic storage process provides the benefit of dense storage without affecting easy access to the inventory. Tracks are set to allow loads and boxes to roll, by gravity, from the input area to the output area. When new inventory is loaded onto the system, prior inventory is pushed forward for picking. Additionally, boxes are entered and removed from the same side of the system. This makes retrieval for any inventory extremely convenient for workers, increasing efficiency and safety in the work area.
Efficient use of storage space
One of the main purposes of a storage system is to maximise utilisation of any available space. These systems are built to compliment the layout of a warehouse, all while providing storage density. Since pallets are loaded and unloaded from single dedicated areas, storage space is maximised. This system also eliminates the need for forklift truck movements, thus minimising the aisle space required.
Static storage systems
A static racking system, also known as a fixed space system, is a system where each item inside the warehouse is stored and assigned to a fixed area. This section of the warehouse is often referred to as the reserve storage area. This particular method of storing inventory is primarily suitable for small companies with a manageable warehouse. It does not need an extensive inventory system. Moreover, these systems are also a good option for highly specialised businesses with consistent SKU quantities.
The Benefits of Static Storage Systems
Less training time required
Training time for new personnel is minimised because any kind of storage is sent to the same area and kept stationary after they’ve been loaded in. Additionally, these systems are so simple to install and expand that minimal business time is lost to construction.
Long-term storage, including inventory overflows
Static storage is also very useful when items are needed to be stored for a length of time. Density is often the focus over accessibility as this system utilises double-deep racking and lesser floor space.
One of the first steps in setting up an organised and functional warehouse is to select the best choice of storage system for the warehouse. No method of storage is better than the other. However, certain factors and conditions make one particular method more efficient and effective in a company. Understanding how each system works will help businesses choose the best warehouse system that will work for them.
