Warehouse optimization is a system of many interconnected processes that all need to work together as efficiently and affordably as possible to get the best results. The many processes involved include:

• Peak organizational practices
• High safety standards and expectations
• Productive workflow schemes
• Perfected inventory levels
• The use of advanced software tools

Having all of these pieces come together through a warehouse optimization system are part of a warehouse facilities manager’s dream.

To reach this dream of being without warehouse optimization problems, Avetta advises you to browse through this list of 7+ best practices and work to give them all a place in your plan.

Warehouse Optimization Techniques

Here is your no-nonsense list of warehouse optimization techniques that have been proven to work.

1.  Start with Safety

Let worker safety be your number one priority. Setting and keeping standards high while presenting ongoing training to staff is critical. Additionally, ensure safety all along the supply chain by pre-qualifying all suppliers. You’ll experience a positive trickle-down effect on the safety culture in the workplace. This gets your warehouse optimization project off to a good start.

2. Create a Flexible Floorplan

Every warehouse facilities manager knows that having a smart layout can cut down on a lot of inefficiencies. However, there’s more to it than just placing operations and storage close together to reduce travel time. These days, warehouse optimization machine learning can quickly customize optimal floor plans for current inventory and processes. Having a space that can accommodate changes on the fly will speed up fulfillment even more.

3. Develop a Partnership with Several Shipping Providers

Your customers want options, and you want to move inventory. One way to accomplish both is by offering to ship products via a variety of shipping providers. This way your customer will get what they want, when they want it, and at a price they are comfortable paying. At the same time, you’ll always have a backup shipper in case of a disruption.

4. Schedule Shifts According to Staffing Requirements

This seems obvious, but organizing so many people with different skills across all hours of the day can be a daunting endeavor. Homegrown spreadsheets may get it done, but you’ll need warehouse management software if you truly want optimization for time and money savings.

5. Measure and Learn with Analytics

Collecting data across a range of warehouse processes gives you a deep view into your business. It will also aid in confident, data-driven decision-making. The outcomes of analytics include increased agility and higher performance overall.

6. Balance Quality and Speed

Speed is essential, but quality is too. Some clients may forgive an occasional lapse of time, but they won’t forget finished goods that are not up to par. To achieve both speed and quality, your quality control process must be built-in and tight. It also has to be updated in real-time, with quick resolutions presented when needed.

7. Hone Your Warehouse Logistics Network

With the location and size of each warehouse in your network, getting the logistics right can take a bit of effort. Your sourcing of raw materials and parts, as well as the supply and sales of finished products from a compatible standpoint, will best suit both you and your clients’ needs.

8. Use Warehouse Optimization Software

Warehouse optimization software (also called warehouse management software) is unquestionably one of the most pertinent pieces of the puzzle. Human-prepared, updated spreadsheets and ad hoc homemade programs absolutely won’t cut it anymore. You need an automated, customizable solution that integrates various systems to form a complete, deep view into every aspect of your warehouse operation. Only then will all the other warehouse optimization techniques pay off.

And One More: Connect with Avetta

Look for a way to connect with qualified suppliers, contractors, and vendors by first connecting with Avetta. Our specialists will work with you directly to grant you all the benefits of running a supply chain with clarity and confidence.

Make qualified connections and build better relationships today for a more optimized warehouse tomorrow!

‍