If you’re a warehouse owner, it’s important to ensure that you’re managing your warehouse in the most efficient way possible. However, this can be difficult if you’re unaware of the common mistakes many warehouses make. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Why Is Warehouse Management So Important?
Warehouse management is important for several reasons. It is essential for running a safe and efficient warehouse operation. By keeping track of where dangerous materials are stored and creating clear labelling systems, warehouse managers can help to prevent accidents. It also helps to ensure that inventory is properly stored and organized. This makes it easier to find items when needed and keeps the warehouse tidy.
In addition, warehouse management helps to streamline the shipping process. By keeping track of inventory levels and knowing where items are located, warehouse managers can save time by sending items directly to their destination.
Common Warehouse Management Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Below, we discuss some of the most common warehouse management mistakes and how you can avoid them. By following these tips, you can create a safer and more efficient work environment in your warehouses.
Not Enough Space
Lack of space can lead to many problems, such as inventory being stored inefficiently, items being damaged due to a lack of space, and employees feeling cramped and uncomfortable. Make sure you have ample space in your warehouse. This can be done by adding more storage shelves or racks or renting additional space. Plan for growth by anticipating future needs regarding space and labour so that you can make the necessary changes before they become an issue.
Poor Lighting
Insufficient lighting in warehouses can lead to many safety issues, such as slips and falls and decreased productivity due to employees’ inability to see what they are doing. To avoid unnecessary accidents due to poor visibility, install more light fixtures or use higher-wattage bulbs in your warehouse.
Lack of Organization
Unorganized warehouses can lead to misplaced and lost items and difficulty finding items when needed. To avoid this common mistake, implement a labelling system, store items in bins or containers, and regularly clean up around the warehouse. Label all shelves and containers, using colour coding, and establish designated areas for specific items.
Not Utilizing Technology
Technology can help to improve many aspects of warehouse management, such as inventory control, order picking, and shipping. On top of that, technology can help to improve accuracy and efficiency in the warehouse by automating tasks and providing real-time data analysis. Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of using the latest technology is that automation can reduce the need for manual labour, which could actually save you money in the long run. Various automated systems can be used in the warehouse, such as conveyor belts, robotics, and barcode scanners.
Inadequate Ventilation
If you don’t have enough ventilation, this can lead to employees feeling uncomfortable and dizzy, and can also increase the risk of fires. Not to mention, some warehouses handle/store toxic materials that could be hazardous to breathe in. It’s vital that you have adequate ventilation. Make sure you install fans or open windows and doors when possible.
Poorly Maintained Equipment
Poorly maintained equipment can lead to decreased productivity, increased downtime, and safety issues. It’s essential that you keep your equipment in good working condition. This can be done by regularly inspecting and maintaining your equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, service carts, dollies, and castors.
Poor Employee Training
You could face decreased productivity, increased accidents, and higher turnover rates if you don’t train your employees properly. You can ensure that your team is up to date on safety standards by holding orientation sessions, providing training manuals or videos, and scheduling regular safety meetings. Automated systems are commonplace in most workspaces, so include instructions on using them correctly during periodic training sessions. Similarly, show your employees how to perform their job tasks properly through step-by-step demonstrations or video tutorials. Training your warehouse employees on proper communication strategies will decrease shipment errors and delays. Furthermore, if all departments can easily communicate, it helps keep everyone on the same page
Not Maximizing Storage Space
Depending on how big your warehouse is, you may find yourself running out of storage space or losing track of inventory if you aren’t maximizing the space to the best of your ability. Take advantage of the floor space and the vertical space by using vertical storage, wall space, or installing mezzanine floors. You can maximize space by utilizing bins and racks like pallets, cantilevers, or rolling shelves.
Not Tracking Inventory Properly
If you don’t track your inventory properly, this can lead to items being out of stock and difficulty knowing what needs to be reordered. Over time, warehouses can accumulate unwanted or left-out inventory. This can lead to clutter and decreased efficiency. Instead, you should conduct physical counts or use inventory tracking software, barcode scanners, or RFID tags. Ensure you manage left-out inventory and properly dispose of obsolete or damaged items.
Not Practicing Routine Rack Inspections
This is perhaps one of the biggest mistakes you could make and it can eventually lead to rack failure and possible injuries. Make sure to practice routine rack inspections. This can be done by appointing a responsible person to conduct regular inspections and keeping records of these inspections. Make sure he or she checks for damage, rust, loose parts, or other potential hazards. You can also hire professionals from Canadian Rack Technologies to conduct annual rack inspections.
Need More Information? Contact Canadian Rack Technologies Today!
Canadian Rack Technologies Inc. has almost 25 years of experience working in industrial racking and warehouse storage solutions. We’ve built up a wealth of industry expertise and knowledge over the years, allowing us to deliver suitable storage solutions for all our clients. When it comes to increasing operational safety standards and overall warehouse efficiency, organization is the key. Our ready-to-install turnkey warehouse storage solutions can assist you in achieving this goal. Contact us today to learn more about our products.
About: Kevin Ausman
Kevin Ausman is the founder of Canadian Rack Technologies. He has over 30 years of experience in providing safe and efficient turn-key storage solutions and he specializes in pallet racking, pick systems, industrial shelving, mezzanines, cantilever racks, and more. Kevin is dedicated to providing great customer service, listening to client’s needs, and supplying the best products available.