Just how many pallets can you store in a 100′ x 100′ area? It can range from not that many–X with selective racks that let you pick or place any pallet at any time–or “Y” using incredibly dense, using pallet flow or drive-in systems that restrict how and when you can access pallets. The balance between storage density and selectivity is always critical, but there are other factors in play: cost, efficiency and safety.
Tags: Space Optimization
Posted in Pallet & Warehouse Racks|
It started with a simple question: What’s your biggest operational challenge?
We didn’t expect leaders in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution to respond with such clarity, but they did. And what we heard wasn’t vague. It was precise, urgent, and reflective of a sector that’s evolving in real time.
Posted in Industry Insights|
As we’ve discussed previously, labor is hard to find these days – and it will get harder every year. Cultivating your labor pool eases the need (and high costs) of hiring, training and retaining workers. One of the best ways to do this is to optimize as much as possible for ergonomics.
As the saying goes, what you appreciate appreciates.
Posted in Safety & Ergonomics|
Above: Belt conveyors hang from the ceiling of a busy e-commerce distribution center, feeding shipping operations from a pick module while leaving the space below for traffic and shipping activities.
Conveyor systems transform picking, transport, assembly, and more, but occupy space in fixed positions. Tight layouts, low ceilings, facility structures and equipment compromise and compete for that square footage. Don’t worry, though—there are creative ways to work circumvent those limitations–and in some cases make them strengths.
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
Ensuring workplace safety is an ongoing challenge, especially in fast-paced manufacturing, warehousing, and material handling operations. Every year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes its list of the most frequently cited workplace safety violations, a snapshot of the most pressing hazards that can lead to injuries and serious fines.
While the list results don’t have many changes from year to year, it’s important to review annually. Comparing your safety processes and training to what’s included can help to create a more robust system that can save lives and protect what matters.
Posted in Safety & Ergonomics|
Most pallet rack systems are installed with a starter-adder design, which shares a common rack upright between consecutive storage bays. The alternative is a double-post rack system, where each bay has two independent uprights. Most of the time, starter-adder is used because it’s more economical and uses space more efficiently.
Given that it’s costlier and uses more space, why–and where–would you use a double-post design?
Posted in Pallet & Warehouse Racks|
Above: VLMs condense space more efficiently than conventional storage racks, or even mini load systems. They can use the space more effectively because less “air space” is needed for the storage capacity.
Companies install carousel systems and vertical lift modules for many reasons, including flexibility, storage decentralization, operator access, retrieval times, security consolidation and picking accuracy gains. One of the most important reasons is the way they optimize space.
Posted in Space Optimization & Planning|
Every facility has its heroes like the shiny conveyor systems, towering pallet racks and state-of-the-art automation that seem to draw all the safety focus. But just like in any good action movie, even the heroes have a few weaknesses. Warehouses and manufacturing facilities are no different! These “weak links” are the areas that, if overlooked, can cause big safety issues. You can create a stronger, more resilient facility by paying attention to these sneaky trouble spots.
Posted in Safety & Ergonomics|
Sometimes the right tool for the job is not the flashiest. The humble ball transfer isn’t high-tech, but does a great job of minimizing reaching and straining that endangers workers. Ball transfers punch above their weight class in a warehouse ergonomics and safety program.
Posted in Conveyor Optimization|
On October 22, supply chain and warehousing professionals from across Texas will converge in Grapevine for the 23rd annual WERCouncil Texas Warehousing Resource Conference. This is the place to be if you want to stay ahead of the curve.
With a sharp focus on the latest industry trends and innovations, this conference will equip you with the insights you need to thrive in an evolving landscape. Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge strategies or new connections, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Posted in Industry Insights|
