5 warehouse problems and how to solve them

One of the biggest issues for a warehouse owner or operator can be keeping that warehouse organized and operating smoothly. Running your warehouse effectively is key to the success of your company; after all, that it is where you store and move your inventory. How your inventory is handled, whether or not it is delivered on time, etc., obviously has a large reflection on your business and its brand.

Small bad habits can lead to worse problems in a warehouse, especially if they are carried out over an extended period of time. It is important that you stay on top of things for proper organization and the efficient running of your warehouse, and that means always considering the now, the next week, the next month, and even the next year.  So, let’s talk about some of the most common warehouse problems and how to solve them…

#1 Holding on to too much excess inventory

This is one of the most common mistakes that businesses make when it comes to their inventory. You may think this is a rookie error, but you’d be surprised by how many big dogs still make this mistake from time to time. Reducing your inventory levels (to necessary means) will make you better in the long run.

#2 Trying to keep up via paper processing

We live in a day and age that is highly dependent on technology. The truth is, if you haven’t hopped on board the technology train, it is likely that you are starting to fall behind. Paper-based processing is a huge slow down to you and your workers and will leave you delayed or dealing with lost or misplaced documents. It has been proven, regardless of the size of your business, that you will generate more efficiency when switching to a digital storage and organizational system.

#3 Not keeping things tidy

A messy warehouse will definitely lead to chaos. Cluttered loading docks, littered aisles, unorganized and overfilled pallets, and items not being in the proper place are all really bad signs of an untidy warehouse. They are guaranteed to slow down your processes and create a more hectic work environment. Make your workers aware that you expect them to clean up as they go and not leave clutter around.

#4 Poor facility layout/space utilization

Using your storage space efficiently is key in warehouse organization and functionality. Whether you have overloaded your warehouse or not utilized the space you have, these are problems that need to be dealt with. By using forklifts that are able to reach the roof of your building, you will be able to maximize your space vertically; using forklifts with good turning radiuses will enable you to maximize your space horizontally.

#5 Redundant processes

In typical warehouse processes, multiple hands handle a product multiple times. One redundant practice in a warehouse environment can be when warehouse workers pass the same ticket through these multiple hands. Even though it is inventible in some circumstances, sometimes this practice can become unnecessary. By utilizing barcode technology streamlines in your warehouse processing, you can remove a lot of slack that is built up by the above-mentioned redundancy.

One of the biggest problem solvers for warehouse organization and operation is having the right moving systems. Having the right machinery, such as, the right forklifts, helps these moving systems. Here at Ace Equipment we know our stuff when it comes to forklifts and forklift equipment in Texas. We can help you find the perfect forklift for you and your warehouse operations. Contact us today and let’s get started.