Warehouse automation is an effective way to streamline operations and increase efficiency. If you’re looking for modern warehousing solutions that fulfill these goals, warehouse automation is for you.
Are you curious to learn more about warehouse automation? You'll find out all about this topic and the benefits it can bring to your business.
What Is Warehouse Automation?
Warehouse automation is the combination of automated warehouse systems and technologies. When used together, they boost efficiency. This can be seen throughout the supply chain, from warehousing and order fulfillment to automated logistics. Warehouse automation involves a variety of components that integrate for accurate results,e including software, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) and warehouse management systems (WMS).
Together, these elements offer a smarter, more cost-effective way to pick, pack, and dispatch customer orders. This means enhanced satisfaction for the customer and cost savings for the business . These and other plus points make it a popular and fast-growing solution.
How Is Automation Transforming Modern Warehousing?
Automation is having a positive impact on warehousing operations, helping businesses to grow like never before.
First, it increases efficiency in warehousing. Warehouse automation links softwares and systems together, so operations become seamless. This in turn reduces the risk of errors.
Fewer mistakes mean increased efficiency and accuracy, which together form the foundation for scalability. Using effective automation systems in this way gives businesses greater capacity to grow and thrive. Savings made through enhanced efficiency can be reinvested in expanding the business.
What Are the Key Technologies in Warehouse Automation?
Warehouse automation uses a variety of technologies that work together to offer a more streamlined way of running a business. These are some of the main components of warehouse automation:
Robotics
In automated systems, robotics are used throughout the goods-to-person journey. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) operate independently within warehouses, using sensors to find the best way around the warehouse layout. Robots perform many essential tasks such as picking and replenishing stock.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)
Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) do as their title suggests — store and retrieve loads within the warehouse. Storage and retrieval systems are ideal for moving heavy loads.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse management systems (WMS) give you a bird’s-eye view of what’s in the warehouse and beyond. They allow you to track stock levels, orders and deliveries, giving far more accurate results than traditional methods.
How Does Automation Enhance Inventory Management?
Automated systems track inventory levels in real-time to give an accurate picture of stock volumes. This allows you to replenish goods promptly, optimizing warehouse operations. It also stops customers from ordering out-of-stock items, which can lead to disappointment.
What Role Does Automation Play in Order Fulfillment?
The various elements of the automated system “talk” to one another to create a seamless chain. This kicks in once the order is placed. First off, the inventory management system checks stock. Then collaborative robots and retrieval systems (AS/RS) pick and pack the order, ready for its onward journey. This responsive process means customers receive their orders quicker and with fewer mistakes.
What Are the Benefits of Implementing Warehouse Automation?
Automation can optimize your warehouse in many different ways. Here are some of the key benefits.
Increased Efficiency
Every step of the supply chain becomes more efficient with warehouse automation. It allows precise identification of the location of goods in the warehouse and the most efficient routes to get there. Meanwhile, automated robots and conveyor systems work quickly so you can get your goods to customers without delay.
Reduced Labor Costs
Warehouse automation drastically reduces the need for human labor. Repetitive tasks warehousing normally requires can be achieved quickly by modern warehousing solutions. This allows you to invest in human-based roles such as customer service and delivery.
Enhanced Accuracy
Automated systems using AI have a far higher accuracy rate than humans. This in turn leads to reduced costs in correcting errors and improved customer satisfaction scores.
Improved Safety
Warehouse automation enhances safety by bringing products to workers. This cuts out the need for heavy moving and handling and reduces movements around the warehouse space.
How to Choose the Right Automation Solutions for Your Warehouse?
Finding the right automation solutions for your warehouse is key. Consider these factors to arrive at the perfect match.
1. Choose a Solution That Fits the Bigger Picture
A company that understands logistics and delivery solutions, as well as your warehousing needs, can offer an efficient and joined-up system.
2. Base Your Decision on Your Specific Goals
Every warehouse is different, so choose a system that meets your unique needs, whether that’s fulfilling orders quickly or moving heavy items.
3. Choose a Flexible Solution
As your business grows, your automated warehousing solution will too. Automation technologies that can integrate with both old and new software and systems are a sound investment.
What Are the Challenges of Warehouse Automation and How to Overcome Them?
Let's look at the common challenges of warehouse automation and their solutions.
High Initial Costs
Implementing your automated warehouse system will involve high initial costs. But the savings you’ll start reaping as soon as it’s in place will help offset your investment.
Integration with Old Systems
Integrating new technologies with old ones is a valid concern. Talk this through in detail with your automated warehouse systems supplier. They can suggest the most compatible technologies and solutions to ensure a smooth transition.
Workforce Adaptation
Employees may have concerns about job security as well as how to use new technologies.. Communication and training help relieve concerns. Adopting a flexible approach that includes your staff can help in this instance too.
How Does SEKO Logistics Implement Automation in Warehousing?
SEKO Logistics is an industry leader in implementing warehousing and order fulfillment with the latest automation technologies.
Our specialist warehouse technology systems help you run and expand your business effortlessly. Our warehouse management platform, SEKO 360, allows you to optimize your inventory for faster, more accurate order fulfillment. Our inventory management system, SEKO IMS, manages and tracks your items with accuracy.
We offer a whole suite of services, from ecommerce logistics and delivery solutions to white glove and specialty delivery. We’re with you every step of the way!
Get in touch today for a quote.
