6 Benefits of Vertical Lift Modules

In the ever-evolving landscape of warehousing and logistics, the need for space optimization, efficiency, and automation has never been greater. One popular solution in the industry is the Vertical Lift Module (VLM). Learn how VLMs are making a significant impact on the industry and why they are becoming synonymous with intelligent warehousing.

Space Efficiency

Vertical Lift Modules are champions of space optimization. VLMs provide a game-changing solution in a world where every square foot of warehouse space matters. These systems take storage to new heights—literally. By utilizing vertical space, they maximize storage capacity while minimizing the warehouse’s footprint. With VLMs, the sky’s the limit regarding storage possibilities.

Increased Storage Density

Storage density, an area where VLMs excel, is crucial in modern warehousing. VLMs allow you to store many items densely, reducing the amount of space needed compared to traditional shelving or racks. This solution enables warehouses to store more inventory within the same area. It’s like tripling your storage capacity without expanding your warehouse.

Enhanced Order Picking Speed

Speed matters in the world of e-commerce and rapid order fulfillment. VLMs offer a crucial advantage by automating the retrieval of items – meaning no more searching through shelves or walking long distances. VLMs bring the required inventory right to the operator’s fingertips, which translates to faster order fulfillment, higher productivity, and happier customers.

Reduced Labor Costs

Labor costs can be a significant portion of an operation’s expenses. With VLMs, automation plays a crucial role in reducing these costs. By automating the retrieval and storage of items, VLMs lessen the need for labor. This not only saves money but also minimizes the risk of human error in the order fulfillment process.

Scalability

As your business grows, your warehousing needs may change. VLMs offer scalability as a fundamental feature as these systems are modular and can be expanded or modified to accommodate changing storage needs. This adaptability ensures that your warehouse can evolve alongside your business.

Increased Order Accuracy

Order accuracy is a top priority in warehousing, and VLMs excel in this regard as well. Automation minimizes the potential for errors in the order-picking process, resulting in more accurate and reliable operations. With VLMs, you can significantly reduce order discrepancies and customer dissatisfaction, improving your business’s reputation and customer loyalty.

By implementing Vertical Lift Modules, warehouses are turning a new leaf regarding storage efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. These systems are helping businesses thrive in the competitive world of logistics by making their operations more innovative, agile, and better equipped to meet the demands of modern commerce. If you’re in the warehousing business, it might be time to take your operations to new heights with Vertical Lift Modules.

Interested in learning how Storage Solutions can help you integrate a VLM into your operations? Click here!

Benefits of Integrators with In-House Controls

Automation

Embarking on a warehouse conveyor project often means your integrator is entrusting engineering and controls work to subcontractors, which can often come with a set of challenges. Below, we uncover common hurdles – from communication gaps to differing work methods – that can impact project success. Finally, we cover how Storage Solutions’ in-house engineering and controls team avoids these challenges to ensure a seamless project from start to finish.

Communication Issues

Despite clear initial agreements, the intricate nature of project requirements can sometimes lead to misunderstandings between the customer, integrator, and subcontractors. This misalignment can stem from differing interpretations, inadequate documentation, or evolving project needs. As the project progresses, these disparities can amplify, resulting in a significant gap between what was initially envisioned and what the subcontractor ultimately delivers. This miscommunication not only hampers project efficiency but also jeopardizes the achievement of desired outcomes, underscoring the critical need for meticulous communication and ongoing collaboration.

Adapting to Needs in Real-Time

As projects evolve, the need for quick and precise adaptations often arises. However, the involvement of subcontractors can complicate this process, leading to delays in decision-making and execution. The coordination required to align subcontractor actions with project alterations can result in a slower response time, impacting the overall project timeline and potentially diminishing the ability to address emerging issues swiftly.

Post-Installation Support

In many instances, subcontractors might not be contractually obligated or well-equipped to provide complete post-installation assistance. This can result in unresolved issues, prolonged downtime, and frustrated stakeholders who anticipate ongoing support. The mismatch between these expectations and the subcontractor’s capabilities underscores the necessity of clarifying post-installation responsibilities and ensuring a holistic approach to project execution that extends beyond the initial implementation phase.

At Storage Solutions, we address these challenges through our in-house engineering and controls team, with decades of experience providing exceptional customer service. Using our proven processes, we achieve consistent communication with our internal teams and customers. We understand the frustrations that come along with a lack of support and provide a higher standard of post-installation services to avoid the challenges altogether. Moreover, we possess the capability to engage the appropriate personnel to optimize your operational efficiency from the initial design, displaying the flexibility to accommodate modifications as deemed necessary throughout the project’s life.

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5 Ways Automation Addresses Labor Challenges

Automation

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warehousing, businesses are constantly seeking innovative solutions to overcome labor challenges and optimize operational efficiency. One of the most transformative and promising advancements in this domain is warehouse automation. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and intelligent systems, automation has the potential to revolutionize the way warehouses function, making them less dependent on labor, more productive and cost-effective.

Increased Efficiency and Throughput

One of the primary labor challenges in warehouses is meeting the ever-growing demands for faster order fulfillment. Automation is pivotal in streamlining warehouse processes, reducing manual intervention, and significantly increasing overall efficiency. Automated systems, such as robotic order pickers and conveyors, enable seamless movement of goods, thereby minimizing processing times and freeing up the humans in the operation to focus on higher-level, complex tasks. This translates into increased throughput rates, reduced lead times, and improved customer satisfaction.

Reduced Training Time for New Employees

Reducing the training time for new employees is crucial in a dynamic work environment to maintain operational continuity and productivity. Automation simplifies tasks, making them more intuitive and easier to execute. User-friendly interfaces and automated workflows enable faster onboarding, allowing new employees to quickly grasp their roles and responsibilities. With automation handling non-value or repetitive tasks, the workforce can focus on mastering more sophisticated functions and value-add activities. This accelerates the learning curve and empowers employees to contribute meaningfully to the operation’s success from day one.

Enhanced Safety and Ergonomics

Warehouse work can be physically taxing, increasing the risk of injuries and accidents. Automation systems are designed with safety in mind, featuring advanced sensors and collision avoidance technologies to prevent mishaps. By automating hazardous or physically demanding tasks, such as heavy lifting or operating in extreme temperatures, warehouses can create a safer work environment for their employees. Improved ergonomics also reduce worker fatigue and work-related injuries, leading to higher workforce retention rates.

Real-time Data and Analytics

Automation enables real-time data collection throughout the supply chain, offering valuable analytics for continuous improvement. Through warehouse management software, businesses can optimize inventory levels, predict demand patterns, and make data-driven decisions. Moreover, automation facilitates rapid adaptation to changing market conditions, ensuring the warehouse’s human resources remain agile.

Business Continuity

Unforeseen events or peak seasons can disrupt warehouse operations, leading to business interruptions and potential revenue loss. Automated systems can work around the clock, maximizing facility utilization and ensuring business continuity even during unexpected events or fluctuations in staffing. The flexibility of automation allows warehouses to scale their operations up or down based on demand fluctuations without compromising on efficiency or quality. By embracing automation, businesses can build resilience and navigate challenging times with minimal disruptions, safeguarding their reputation and customer trust.

As the logistics industry evolves, staying at the forefront of technological advancements will be the key to success. Automation is no longer just an option; it is necessary for warehouses striving to achieve excellence in an ever-competitive global marketplace. By harnessing the power of automation, warehouses can position themselves to thrive in the face of evolving labor challenges and reach a higher level of consistent operational excellence.

Want to learn more about how Storage Solutions can help address your labor challenges through automation? Click here!

How Storage Solutions is a Unique Solutions Provider

Automation

Finding a solutions provider with the right tools and resources to complete a conveyor project can be challenging. At Storage Solutions, we utilize decades of experience from our in-house experts to ensure that we provide our clients with the best customer service and project outcome possible. We heard from Eric McDonald, VP of Automation Engineering and Integration, and David Darst, VP of Conveyor and Automation, to learn what makes Storage Solutions a unique solutions provider.

Question: What sets the Storage Solutions team apart from others regarding conveyor system design and installation?

Eric McDonald: “One of the standout features of our team is that we handle almost every aspect of the project with our direct employees. This allows us to maintain a high level of quality control throughout the entire project timeline. From the initial design phase to the final installation and post-go-live support, our dedicated team ensures seamless coordination and execution.”

Question: What are the benefits of having in-house control and customization through our Warehouse Control System (WCS)?

David Darst: “Our in-house WCS provides a remarkable advantage to our clients. It gives us more control and flexibility over the customization of each integration project. This means we can tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of our clients, resulting in systems that are not only highly efficient but also perfectly aligned with their operations. This level of customization translates into enhanced customer satisfaction. Our clients know that their unique requirements will be met, and our WCS allows us to respond promptly to any changes or adjustments needed during the project lifecycle.”

Question: Your team of highly experienced controls engineers is another strength of Storage Solutions. How does their expertise contribute to the success of conveyor installation projects?

David Darst: “Our controls engineers bring a wealth of knowledge and operational experience to the table. They are adept at designing intricate control systems that ensure the smooth operation of conveyor systems. Their expertise allows us to address potential challenges proactively and develop solutions that optimize efficiency and reliability. These engineers are not just involved in the later stages; they are integrated from the beginning of the design process. This early involvement ensures that controls are seamlessly integrated into the overall solution, minimizing potential complications, and reducing project timelines.”

Question: It’s clear that involving engineers from the start is crucial to a successful project. How does this benefit our clients?

Eric McDonald: “By involving engineers from the outset, we can identify potential design issues early on and address them before they become significant roadblocks. This proactive approach translates into smoother project timelines, fewer surprises, and, ultimately, more satisfied clients. Our clients appreciate the transparency and open communication that comes with involving engineers at the design stage. It builds trust and confidence in our process, knowing that their needs are being considered at every step of the way.”

Question: Lastly, you mentioned post-go-live support. How does our team’s consistent coding practices contribute to better support?

Eric McDonald: “Our team’s consistent coding practices are pivotal in ensuring post-go-live success. Since all aspects of the project, including controls and mechanical, are handled by our team, the coding is more streamlined and cohesive than with outsourced providers. This results in fewer compatibility issues and easier troubleshooting in the event of any post-implementation challenges. Our clients benefit from a higher level of support because the same team that was involved throughout the project’s lifecycle is readily available for assistance. There’s no disconnect between the initial development and ongoing support phases, significantly contributing to a smoother transition and a faster resolution of any issues that may arise.”

With a holistic approach that combines controls, mechanical expertise, and a commitment to customization, Storage Solutions delivers seamless and tailored solutions for every client’s unique needs.

Want to learn more about how Storage Solutions can help you introduce conveyor into your operations? Click here!

The Six Workflows of a Warehouse

Automation

In today’s fast-paced supply chain landscape, efficient material flow management is crucial for the success of any warehouse operation. A well-designed material flow ensures smooth coordination of various tasks and processes, improving productivity, reducing errors, and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Receiving

The first workflow of a warehouse material flow is receiving. This stage involves accepting incoming goods, verifying their quantity and quality, and recording essential information such as item codes, descriptions, and supplier details. The receiving process requires careful attention to detail to ensure accuracy and prevent discrepancies in inventory records. By establishing efficient receiving procedures, warehouses can streamline the subsequent stages of their material flow.

Storing

Once the goods have been received and inspected, the next workflow of the warehouse material flow is storing. This involves assigning appropriate items to locations based on factors like size, weight, and demand. Proper organization and labeling of storage areas are essential to facilitate easy access and retrieval of products. Effective inventory management systems are crucial in tracking stock levels, optimizing space utilization, and minimizing errors during the storing process.

Picking

Picking is a critical workflow involving retrieving items from designated storage locations to fulfill customer orders. Efficient picking processes can significantly impact warehouse productivity. Several strategies are employed for picking, including batch picking, zone picking, and wave picking. These methods aim to optimize travel time, reduce errors, and increase order fulfillment rates. The use of technology, such as barcode scanning or voice-directed picking systems, can further enhance accuracy and speed.

Replenishing

Replenishing is the process of restocking items in their respective storage locations after they have been picked. Warehouse management systems monitor inventory levels and generate alerts or work orders to initiate the replenishment process. Maintaining optimal stock levels helps prevent stockouts and ensures the availability of products for future orders. By efficiently replenishing items, warehouses can minimize delays and maintain a smooth material flow.

Packing

The packing workflow involves preparing items for shipment in a secure and efficient manner. It includes selecting appropriate packaging materials, ensuring proper labeling, and considering any specific product packaging requirements. Standardized packing procedures help maintain consistency and reduce errors during this crucial stage. Automation technologies like dimensioning systems or automated packing machines can further streamline the packing process.

Shipping

The final workflow of a warehouse material flow is shipping. Once the items are securely packed and ready for dispatch, they are transferred to the shipping area. Here, shipping documents, such as invoices, packing slips, and shipping labels, are generated and attached to the respective packages. Coordinating with shipping carriers and selecting the most suitable transportation method based on factors like cost, speed, and customer preferences are essential to ensure timely and accurate delivery.

A well-designed material flow and workflows are essential for maximizing efficiency and productivity within a warehouse. Investing in technology, automation, and robust inventory management systems can further enhance the overall efficiency of your workflows, leading to increased profitability and a competitive edge in the market.

Interested in learning how Storage Solutions can help you analyze and improve your operational workflows? Click here!

4 Warehouse Metrics You Should Track

Automation, Storage

Whether a small e-commerce company or a large retail chain, the efficiency of a warehouse can have a significant impact on the overall success of the business. To ensure a smooth, optimized operation, it’s important to keep track of key metrics that can aid in identifying areas for improvement. Below are four metrics identified by the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) that are crucial for warehouses to monitor in order to maximize productivity.

1. Average Warehouse Capacity Used – Best-in-class operations, on average, utilize 90% of available warehouse capacity.

By understanding how much of the warehouse space is being utilized, businesses can optimize their inventory levels, plan for future expansions or reorganizations, and make more informed decisions about their warehousing operations.

2. Order Picking Accuracy – Best-in-class operations achieve more than 99.9% order picking accuracy.

Inaccurate order picking can lead to incorrect shipments, delayed deliveries, and unhappy customers, which can damage a company’s reputation and impact on its bottom line. By measuring order picking accuracy, warehouses can identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to increase accuracy, ultimately leading to less returns, higher customer satisfaction, and increased revenue.

3. Percent of Orders with On-Time Delivery – Best-in-class operations deliver more than 99.48% of orders on time.

Late deliveries can lead to dissatisfied customers, lost sales, and a damaged reputation for the business. By tracking the percentage of orders with on-time delivery, warehouses can identify areas for improvement in their logistics and supply chain operations, employ strategies to improve delivery times, and finally enhance customer delight and retention.

4. Inventory Count Accuracy by Location – Best-in-class operations achieve a 99.9% match of physical inventory to reported inventory.

Accurate inventory counts enable warehouses to fulfill customer orders promptly, avoid stockouts, and minimize the risk of overstocking, which can tie up capital and lead to unnecessary storage costs. By measuring inventory count accuracy by location, warehouses can identify discrepancies, adjust their stock levels accordingly, and maintain optimal inventory levels, leading to better efficiency and profitability.

By keeping track of metrics such as those above, warehouse managers can make data-driven decisions to improve their operations. Our experienced team at Storage Solutions are no strangers to the negative impact ignoring data can have on a warehouse operation. Luckily, we know how to best support our customers in their journey of optimization.

If you want to learn more about how Storage Solutions can help you fully utilize these metrics, click here!

5 Warehouse Automation Myths Debunked

Automation

Debunking 5 Popular Warehouse Automation Myths

Automation continues to dominate conversations and recommendations in the warehouse and operations space, but there is still hesitation to implement it among many due to factors such as cost or complexity. Whether you’re an operations manager or a business owner, understanding the realities of warehouse automation can help you make informed decisions about investments that could impact your bottom line. Below, we debunk five popular automation myths.

Myth #1: Automation will lead to job losses

Reality: While automation can replace manual tasks, it can also improve employee’s quality of work, minimizing physical strain that can lead to employee discontent. Minimizing physical labor can free up employees’ time to focus on higher-value tasks that require critical thinking and decision-making. Automation can also create new jobs in areas such as maintenance, programming, and data analysis.

Myth #2: Automation requires a complete overhaul of existing warehouse operations

Reality: Automation can be implemented incrementally, with systems integrated into existing workflows. This allows companies to test and optimize automation processes without disrupting existing operations. Many automation solutions today can also provide flexibility for companies who may not be able to anticipate their growth or future needs.

Myth #3: Automation is only for large warehouses

Reality: Automation technology is available at a range of price points and can be customized to suit the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. In fact, smaller warehouses may find that automation is essential for remaining competitive, as it can help them optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

Myth #4: Automation is too expensive

Reality: Implementing large automation solutions can require a significant upfront investment, however, the long-term cost savings and increased productivity far outweigh the initial costs. There are also simple, affordable automation solutions, such as barcode scanners and conveyor systems, that can make significant impacts at a lower upfront cost. Ultimately, the cost of automating a warehouse will depend on the specific needs and goals of the business, but it is possible to implement automation cost-effectively.

Myth #5: Automation is too complicated to implement and maintain

Reality: Although automation technology can be complex, companies can work with experienced vendors and integrators to design, implement and maintain systems. Additionally, many automation systems have built-in diagnostic tools that allow for easy maintenance and troubleshooting.

For warehouses of all sizes, the need to stay competitive through increased efficiency continues to drive the implementation of automation solutions. Although we debunked several myths regarding warehouse automation, it is still important to work with a trusted partner to ensure you find the best solution for your unique needs.

Storage Solutions is a technology agnostic partner that will work to find or develop the best solution for your warehouse. If you are ready to take the next step to implement automation in your operation, click here

5 Ways Automation Improves Your Warehouse’s Safety

Automation

The integration of automation continues to expand across the material handling industry, driven by labor shortages and the need to lower operating costs. Another benefit of automating your warehouse is improved safety in day-to-day operations.

Reduction of human errors

Human errors can lead to accidents in a warehouse, especially when dealing with heavy equipment and machinery. By automating specific tasks, you can substantially reduce the risk of human error. Machines and robots are programmed to perform tasks accurately and consistently, eliminating the risk of errors caused by human factors such as fatigue or distraction.

Minimization of physical strain

Manual labor can be physically taxing, leading to injury or long-term health issues such as repetitive strain injury (RSI). Automating tasks such as heavy lifting and transporting goods can considerably lower the physical strain on workers, thereby reducing the risk of injuries and health issues.

Improved ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science of designing the workplace and equipment to fit the user’s needs, abilities, and limitations. Automation can help improve ergonomics in a warehouse by allowing workers to operate machines and equipment without engaging in repetitive motions that can cause strains and injuries.

Better hazard identification

Automation can help identify hazards that may not be immediately apparent to workers. For example, sensors on machines and equipment can detect when a worker is too close to moving parts and automatically shut down the equipment. This can prevent accidents and injuries that may have been tough to avoid without automation.

Reduced risk of accidents

By improving safety through automation, the risk of accidents in a warehouse is significantly diminished. This can reduce workers’ compensation claims, insurance premiums, and lost productivity due to accidents.

If you are interested in improving safety in your warehouse, automation is a solution worth considering.

To learn more about the wide range of benefits of implementing automation, click here to connect with one of our automation experts!

5 Ways Automating Improves Customer Satisfaction

5 Ways Automation Improves Customer Satisfaction

Automation

E-commerce growth has revolutionized how businesses operate, and warehouses play a crucial role in making it all possible. With advancements in technology, the automation of warehouses has become a popular, necessary trend in recent years. Automating your warehouse not only helps your business run more efficiently but can also have a significant impact on your customers. Below are five benefits that your customers will receive by implementing automation solutions into your warehouse operations.

Faster delivery times

One of the most significant benefits of incorporating automation into your warehouse is that it can substantially reduce the time it takes to process and fulfill orders. Automation can streamline the entire order fulfillment process, from receiving the order to packing and shipping. As a result, customers can receive their orders much faster, leading to increased customer satisfaction.

Improved accuracy

Automating your warehouse can also lead to increased accuracy in order fulfillment. Automated systems help eliminate errors that can occur during the execution of manual processes, such as mispicks or incorrect shipments. Enhanced accuracy can result in fewer returns and customer complaints, leading to a better overall customer experience.

Increased inventory visibility

Providing customers with accurate information on product availability in real-time is made possible with automated warehouse systems. With this information, customers can make informed purchasing decisions and avoid disappointment if a product is out of stock. Improved inventory visibility can also help businesses avoid overstocking and understocking, leading to a better customer experience.

Enhanced customer service

Automation can free up staff time, allowing them to focus on providing exceptional customer service. With automated systems handling routine tasks such as inventory management and order processing, staff can dedicate more time to value added services and interacting with customers. These activities can lead to a more personalized and satisfying customer experience.

Cost savings

Finally, automating your warehouse can result in cost savings that can be passed on to customers. Automation can reduce labor costs, increase efficiency, and minimize errors, leading to lower operational costs. These savings can be passed on to customers in the form of lower prices or free shipping, making your business more competitive and attractive to customers.

Our team a Storage Solutions knows that automating your warehouse can have a significant, positive impact on your customers. Faster delivery times, improved accuracy, increased inventory visibility, enhanced customer service, and cost savings are just a few of the benefits of warehouse automation. By investing in automation, businesses can improve the customer experience, increase customer loyalty, and ultimately, grow their bottom line.

If you’re ready to improve both your warehouse’s operations and your customer’s experience, click here!

Automation as a Business Continuity Need

Automation

The warehouse industry is one of the most critical sectors in any economy. Businesses in this sector are responsible for handling the movement, storage, and distribution of goods and products, making them a vital link in the supply chain. As such, any disruption in warehouse operations can have serious consequences, including lost revenue, missed deadlines, and unhappy customers. In today’s fast-paced business environment, where downtime is unacceptable, the warehouse operations leaders we talk to express the need to ensure business continuity, and automation is a great tool to achieve that.

Automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. In the warehouse industry, automation can take many forms, from robotic systems to conveyor belts, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), to warehouse management systems (WMS). Introducing automation to your operations, can ensure that your warehouse continues to function even when faced with unexpected events.

Here are some of the ways automation can be used as a business continuity need in the warehouse/operations industry:

Minimizes Labor Dependency

One of the most significant advantages of automation in the warehouse industry is that it reduces dependency on human labor. We hear from almost every customer we talk to that having enough labor to effectively run their operations today is a challenge automation ensures that your operation continues to function seamlessly, even with reduced human involvement.

Improves Efficiency and Speed

Automation can help improve the efficiency and speed of warehouse operations. Robotic systems, for instance, can pick and move products faster than humans, reducing the time it takes to move goods from one point to another. With solutions like conveyor belts and ASRS, you can ensure that products are routed to the appropriate places throughout the warehouse without human intervention. Even if you have fewer people working in your facility, you can still achieve or exceed the desired level of productivity with automation

Reduces Errors

Another benefit of automation in the warehouse industry is that it reduces the likelihood of human error. Automated systems are designed to perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy, reducing the risk of mistakes that can cost your business time and money. With a automation technology in place, you can ensure that products are accurately tracked, reducing the likelihood of lost or misplaced items.

Improves Safety

Automation can also improve safety in the warehouse. With many automaton solutions, you can reduce the risk of workplace accidents and injuries. For instance, robots or AGVs can handle heavy items that may be too difficult or dangerous for humans to move. This helps to ensure the safety of warehouse workers and reduces the risk of costly workplace accidents.

Enables Remote Management

With automation, you can manage your warehouse operations remotely. This is particularly useful in situations where physical access to the warehouse may be restricted. With a WMS, for instance, you can monitor inventory levels, track shipments, and manage your workforce from anywhere with an internet connection. Even if you are unable to be physically present in the facility, you can still ensure that it operates smoothly.

Automation is a critical tool in ensuring business continuity in warehouse operations. The introduction of automation to your operations can minimize labor dependency, improve efficiency and speed, reduce errors, improve safety, and enable remote management. If you need to ensure that your warehouse can continue to function seamlessly, even in the face of unexpected events, automation is worth your consideration.

Are you ready to explore how the implementation of automation solutions in your warehouse can positively impact your business? Click here!