Technology in Warehousing

By: Scott Bahr

As the world continues to move forward, innovations continue to emerge in technology that makes jobs much more efficient and easier to do. With the growth in technology, the warehouse is becoming more advanced with its ability to self-regulate the functions needed. Here are a few technologies worth spotlighting evolved in warehousing.

Technology-based Management Systems

Developments in technology have made management systems within the warehouse much more streamlined than ever before. Electronic data interchange (EDI) communication technology allows the sharing of documents between two computer systems in a format that is compatible with both. Integrating it into your warehouse means a smooth flow of information, better communication and efficiency, and more. You can use EDI for purchase orders, shipping and inventory advice, warehouse shipping orders, and stock transfer receipts.

Cloud Storage

Cloud-based warehouse management systems work on a similar system as EDI by storing information in the cloud and allowing all necessary parties to access it. For this, you need an IT staff member to monitor the system because it does require some level of professional knowledge to maintain.

Radio Frequency Identification Technology (RFID)

RFID uses radio waves to communicate information between stock tags and the device that picks up the signal, making it far easier to manage inventory and gather information about stock in the warehouse. You can also combine this technology with another that can be used in warehouses, like drones, to be more easily cataloged than manual workers would be able to do it.

Voice Tasking

You can now use hands-free voice recognition technology to speak commands for functions around the warehouse, such as picking, putting, receiving, and replenishing shipping functions. All you have to do is say the words to complete the command, taking up far less time than manually entering a task. With this in the warehouse, the productivity overall is increased, and it requires less training and improved control.

Warehouse Robotics Technology

In many industries, robotic technologies are increasing efficiency. Warehousing isn’t exempt from this, and robotscan manage movement, storage, and sorting of inventory. They can increase the volume you are producing, create order packing, and fulfill faster shipping requirements. Overall, robotics can provide higher order accuracy, faster cycle times, reduce safety incidents, improve productivity, and reduce operational and labor costs.

Print and Apply Labelling

Printing and applying by hand is time-consuming and can potentially lead to errors. With print and apply labeling, a machine will close and label packages right away according to what is inside. If you integrate IoT systems, you can run it autonomously through closed loop systems and prevent shipping errors.

Put to Light Systems

Another way to increase efficiency is with a put to light system. This technology improves picking accuracy and efficiency, lowers labor costs, and works as a paperless system. By scanning item barcodes and then providing an illuminated path to the storage location, indicating how many should be picked, it speeds up the process and allows for employees to have a less robust knowledge of the warehouse inventory manually.