As anyone who has ever worked in a warehouse knows, there is a lot more to it than just stacking and storing things. A well-run warehouse is ruthlessly organized, making it possible to identify its contents at any time, to quickly retrieve items that are needed, and to ensure that gratuitous or redundant items are not purchased.
To ensure warehouses function at an optimal level, it’s important to invest in the best warehouse automation technology. And because warehouse automation technology is always evolving, it’s crucial to remain in-the-know about the latest innovations.
What Are Today’s Essential Warehouse Automation Technologies?
There are a number of innovations worth considering here. Some top examples of warehouse automation technology include:
- Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS): Leveraging robotic technology or other mechanical systems, AS/RS makes it possible to store and retrieve items automatically. In the process, it also optimizes for both speed and space.
- Warehouse management systems (WMS): This software manages inventory, tracks orders, and coordinates various warehouse activities. It provides a simple way for both warehousing professionals and their clients to monitor and manage inventory any time and from any place.
- Asset sorting systems: Automated sorting systems organize items based on predefined criteria, such as destination or item type. This can be especially useful when using a warehouse space for the purpose of order fulfillment and shipping.
- Drone technology: Believe it or not, some warehouses are now using drones to manage inventory. They can be put to work automating and completing tasks such as scanning barcodes or RFID tags to keep track of stock levels.
- Tracking technology: Warehouse tracking technology uses tools like RFID tags, barcode scanners, and GPS to monitor inventory in real time. This technology can make stock management both more accurate and more efficient.
What are the Benefits of Warehouse Automation?
Broadly speaking, investing in technologies like these can yield some significant benefits for warehouses.
- It improves your efficiency. Automation can minimize the time and energy required for tedious tasks like picking, packing, and sorting.
- It optimizes accuracy. Automated systems minimize human errors in inventory management and order processing.
- It helps you make better use of your warehouse space. Automation also helps with space utilization, allowing for higher density storage and maximizing available capacity.
- It enhances safety. Automation reduces the need for manual handling of heavy or hazardous items, which can decrease the risk of workplace injuries.
- It provides scalability. Finally, automation can easily scale to handle increased item volume or adapt to changing inventory needs.
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Technology plays an important role in ensuring warehouses are run smoothly and efficiently. At Corovan, we have long been at the cutting-edge of inventory management and tracking, ensuring a frictionless experience for all of our warehousing clients. We’d love to tell you more, or to answer any questions about your warehousing needs. Contact Corovan at your convenience.