One of the key tools we use to boost warehouse performance is the FACTS framework, which stands for Flow, Access, Capacity, Trace, and Safety. Flow refers to optimizing the movement of products through the warehouse to reduce unnecessary handling and costs. Access is about ensuring picking areas are clear and easily navigable. Capacity focuses on using the right storage systems to maximize efficiency. Trace emphasizes accurate inventory tracking, while Safety underpins all operations…
One of the most common issues is that businesses feel they’re out of space when, in reality, they may have unused vertical space. By adding extra beams or shelves to the racking, you can create additional storage levels and better utilize cubic capacity. This is a simple, low-cost fix that can add more storage without the need for expansion. Managing inventory is also a key. Many businesses hold on to slow-moving or obsolete stock that occupies valuable space…
The primary aim of product slotting is to enhance productivity by reducing travel time for pickers. For example, fast-moving products should be placed closer to the staging or packing areas, where they’re picked more frequently. This minimizes the distance that workers must walk, cutting down on the time spent retrieving products and allowing more orders to be processed each day. The benefits of product slotting are significant. In warehouses where this practice has been implemented correctly, businesses have seen productivity increases of 10% to 30%…
A useful guideline for managing warehouse space is to use around 85% of its total capacity. For example, if your warehouse has 10,000 pallet slots, aim to use about 8,500. This approach ensures that you have enough operational space for moving and reshuffling inventory. Overcrowding can lead to inefficiencies, much like trying to find a parking spot in a crowded mall. Keeping a portion of your warehouse open helps maintain smooth operations and productivity…
We’ve experienced a significant increase in demand here at Logistics Bureau for assistance in improving warehouse performance. Below, we share some of the main warehousing management problems we are helping with…
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in logistics remain a critical and frequently discussed subject. First off, many people fall into the trap of tracking too many KPIs. My advice? Stick to three or four key performance indicators per level in your organization…
During warehousing health checks, a common observation is that warehouses often seem full, but additional space can frequently be discovered through better organization. Many clients believe their warehouses are running efficiently, yet they might be losing time due to poor layout…
Recent studies have shown that among the challenges frustrating warehouse and distribution centre managers this year, rising energy and labour costs are two of the most often cited. Of course, there is no quick and easy way to curb increases in the cost of energy and labour, but now is an excellent time to start thinking about practical ways to reduce energy usage and increase labour productivity and efficiency…
Are you sure you need to move to a larger warehouse? Many businesses face space issues and immediately assume that a bigger warehouse is the solution. However, at Logistics Bureau, we’ve seen that moving to a larger facility isn’t always necessary. In my 26 years of experience, I’ve noticed that nearly all companies move to larger warehouses due to business growth, but there are often alternatives that can save both time and money…
A frequent error is diving into warehouse design before fully understanding the requirements. Many companies secure land or leases and then approach us at Logistics Bureau to design their warehouse layout. This approach often leads to problems because the essential planning steps are skipped. Companies might outgrow their existing facilities and decide to upgrade, but without a detailed analysis of their needs…