Scott Stone | Warehousing Insights | Material Handling Systems - Part 9
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A Guide to Shoe Sorter Applications

October 5, 2021

shoe sorter conveyor system in a distribution center

Conveyor systems with shoe sorters are the go-to method for carton or parcel handling divert applications, but aren’t limited to just those types of loads. Shoe sorters are gentle with the product, fast and reliable with lower maintenance than other sortation options. What are the best applications for shoe sorter conveyors?

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Posted in Conveyor Optimization|

How to Prevent Forklifts from Striking Doors & Overhead Obstructions

September 14, 2021

This door frame was struck by a forklift and suffered significant damage.

In warehouses where forklifts drive beneath doors, ducts, conveyors, electrical equipment or other overhead obstructions, costly and dangerous accidents can happen. What are some ways to make these pass-throughs safer?

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Posted in Safety & Ergonomics|

Specifying High-Performance Parcel Handling Conveyor Solutions

September 2, 2021

parcel conveyor system in a warehouse fulfillment operation.

The pressure on companies of all types to continuously ship faster and more efficiently has grown, particularly in the age of increased e-commerce, an extremely tight labor market and Covid-19 restrictions. Increased demand also affects retail distribution as companies work to develop effective delivery channels outside traditional ship-to-store.

The core mission of these operations is parcel shipping–an old art with new twists.

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Posted in Conveyor Optimization|

Conveyor Transfer Options & Applications

August 17, 2021

chain transfer on a conveyor system

When you need to transfer loads 90 degrees to conveyor lines, machinery or workstations, you have options—both standard and custom. Which transfer works best for your product, application and environment?

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Posted in Conveyor Optimization|

The Process of Specifying Pallet Flow Rollers & Wheels

August 3, 2021

Various types of pallet flow rollers being compared for application and load suitability.

Above – left to right: reinforced resin wheels. split rollers, full-width rollers, steel skatewheels. Each roller type has advantages in terms of versatility and capacity, depending on your load and environment.

Pallet flow rack is one of the most space-efficient, first-in, first-out high-density pallet storage and picking systems available. Because the first pallet stored in a flow lane is always the first pallet picked at the front, you constantly rotate inventory. It’s a simple concept but the execution can be complex based on the load size, weight and other characteristics. One of the most important decisions is the type and style of roller needed.

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Posted in Pallet & Warehouse Racks|

Ways to Pick Full Cases Faster, More Accurately and More Ergonomically

July 16, 2021

full case picking from carton flow rack

Case picking is common in most e-commerce, retail and wholesale distribution operations, so it’s important to understand the best ways to pick cartons from start to finish through a process. Most warehouse operations will need at least some case-picking capacity. Beverage and grocery distributors almost always need a large full case picking function. Since order picking commands a high percentage of distribution center labor costs, finding ways to make it more efficient is critical.

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Posted in Order Picking & Fulfillment|

Bowing, Leaning and Out-of-Square Pallet Racks: Causes & Solutions

July 8, 2021

A row of heavily loaded pallet rack in an industrial warehouse.

Racks will often be damaged over a long lifetime of use. When you see a bent beam, out-of-square beam, damaged upright or other issues with your pallet racks, you can’t ignore it.

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Posted in Pallet & Warehouse Racks|

Choosing the Right Pallet Conveyor

June 15, 2021

heavy pallet load of cans moving on a powered conveyor line

Above: a powered roller conveyor transporting a heavy load at Simmons Pet Foods.

Pallet conveyors transport skids, pallets, sheets and other extremely heavy loads. This can be accomplished with chains, belts, rollers or even ball transfers. The pallet conveying solution is critical for efficient, speedy product or process flow. Given the options, which conveyor type is right for you?

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Posted in Conveyor Optimization|

How to Safely Modify Your Pallet Racks

June 1, 2021

Pallet rack design and reconfiguration is a process you must engage carefully.

The nature of pallet racks—adjustable beams and teardrop connections on uprights—invites reconfiguration. Many rack manufacturers’ beams easily connect to other manufacturers’ teardrop uprights, which lets you mix & match components. This versatility can invite trouble if all the factors aren’t considered. Before you adjust beams, add new loads or reconfigure your racks, consider all the factors.

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Posted in Pallet & Warehouse Racks|

How to Help Drivers Park Faster & Safer at Your Truck Docks

May 18, 2021

Dock lasers work in darkness, helping drivers find the right lane at a busy receiving dock.

Warehouse managers tend to focus on internal processes, equipment and systems, but making your dock apron and loading zone more efficient will save time, money and damage. Truck drivers who can’t clearly see the right dock in darkness or poor weather can’t maneuver effectively or square up to the dock quickly. They often must back in and out multiple times. Helping drivers align and organize will improve the entire flow of your shipping and receiving operation.

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Posted in Docks & Shipping|

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