Efficient warehouse setup is essential for smooth order picking and packing. The right organization of your product SKUs and an optimized warehouse layout can significantly enhance productivity. In this blog, we will discuss the best ways to set up your warehouse for different picking methods and recommend additional products to improve efficiency.
Setting Up Your Product SKUs
SKU Numbering
- Logical System: Use a logical SKU numbering system that reflects product categories and characteristics.
- Consistency: Maintain consistent SKU formats to avoid confusion.
- Ease of Use: Ensure SKUs are easy to read and understand for quick identification.
Labeling
- Clear Labels: Clearly label all SKUs and storage locations with visible and durable labels.
- Barcode Labels: Use barcode labels to streamline inventory tracking (optional if you have a scanning system).
- Location Labels: Label aisles, shelves, and bins to guide operators.
Inventory Management System
- Robust System: Implement a robust inventory management system to track stock levels and locations.
- Real-Time Updates: Ensure the system provides real-time updates for accurate inventory management.
- Integration: Integrate with your order management system for seamless operations.
Warehouse Layout
Efficient Flow
- Minimize Travel: Design the layout to minimize travel time, with frequently picked items placed near packing stations.
- Logical Arrangement: Arrange items logically by category, size, or frequency of picking.
- Clear Pathways: Ensure clear and unobstructed pathways for easy movement.
Clear Signage
- Guide Operators: Use clear signage to guide operators through the warehouse.
- Zone Markings: Mark zones clearly to help with zone-based picking methods.
- Directional Signs: Use directional signs to indicate the flow of movement.
Accessibility
- Easy Access: Ensure all items are easily accessible to reduce picking time.
- Ergonomic Design: Design storage solutions to minimize bending, reaching, and lifting.
- Safety: Implement safety measures to prevent accidents and injuries.
Additional Products for Efficient Picking
Picking Trolleys/Carts
- Multi-Bin Trolleys: Use multi-bin trolleys for cluster picking to sort items for different orders during picking.
- Standard Carts: Standard carts are essential for transporting items in discrete and batch picking methods.
- Ergonomic Design: Choose trolleys and carts with ergonomic designs to reduce strain on operators.
Double-Checking Methods
- Manual Checks: Implement a system for double-checking SKUs against the order list to ensure accuracy.
- Checklists: Use checklists to verify each item before it is packed and shipped.
- Team Verification: Have a second team member verify the picked items for critical orders.
Sorting Stations
- Central Sorting Station: Set up a central sorting station for wave picking to organize items before packing.
- Shelving and Bins: Use shelving and bins to sort items efficiently.
- Labeling: Clearly label sorting areas to avoid mix-ups.
Get Started with Easy Pick List
Easy Pick List by HelloTMRW is an excellent tool to streamline your order fulfillment process. It supports various picking methods and offers advanced features like duplicate prevention, real-time status tracking, and refund visibility.
Why Choose Easy Pick List?
- Efficiency: Simplify stock management and order processing.
- Insights: Real-time updates keep you in control.
- Flexibility: Work seamlessly across devices with multi-device compatibility.
- Optimization: Analyze pick list history to improve efficiency.
Get Started Today!
Transform your order fulfillment process with Easy Pick List. Embrace efficiency and accuracy with a 14-day free trial. Download the Easy Pick List app now and revolutionize your warehouse management!