In the planning of a warehouse storage design can be a complicated method as a result of all the factors included. The process of the design of a warehouse storage layout includes strategic creating of plans for the storage layout that is maximising the efficiency of the warehouse, which promotes a consistent operations workflow and improves productivity.

The designing of a warehouse storage layout is a critical process that has a direct bearing on the performance of your warehouse. The planning of the warehouse layout should be such that considers a sensible warehouse flow to increase the warehouse efficiency and lessen overheads. A quality design will allow clear paths to the inventory in the storage system and reduce picking times

Other warehouse necessities to take into account need to take place while in the planning stage. It is an added cost to make adjustments to the arranged layout once the installation is underway, it will potentially have additional costs in material and labour. In the planning stage, it is a good idea to engage with a racking expert in the industry who can look to your current and future needs and create a plan based on these requirements. At Abbott, we offer complimentary warehouse design consultation sessions.

In considering the following 8 teachings of a warehouse storage design, it can assist in creating an effective and productive operations flow.

Prior to the commencement of planning the flow of the warehouse, it is important to evaluate all the current and potential future needs of the company. Examine budgets set out for the setup of the operations and base a plan on the allowed funds. In the researching and planning of a warehouse racking layout, some plans and ideas will be more costly than others to implement. With this in mind, consider the most fitting and efficient racking layout that will suit your operations.

It is a requirement on all Australian businesses that all applicable Australian Standards and rules are complied with. In keeping with the guidelines, it guarantees the safety of your staff in the warehouse as well as warehouse equipment and assets. On the other hand, it also assists in remaining compliant and evade any potential legal issues. Some applicable Australian Standards in the warehouse relate to Steel Pallet Racking, the standard is AS 4084-2012.

In consideration of the points above, it is critical to consider the flow through the warehouse. This includes the inventory flow path, staff paths and the warehouse equipment routes. Taking great care in this step as it will allow you to foresee any potential hindrances to the continuous flow of activity in the warehouse. Plan for each stage of the inventory order and aim to design the layout to accommodate the flow in a consecutive path.

In the selecting or planning of a warehouse storage design for your operations department, it is important to aim at maximising efficiency and productivity to get the most from your warehouse. Based on the 8 factors listed above it is a breakdown of some steps to take in the design of the warehouse and storage area. Every warehouse aims to improve its order fulfilment rates to the best it can achieve.