The coronavirus outbreak has ravaged more than the healthcare systems – it has also disrupted supply chains significantly. Some industries are experiencing shortages and vacant warehouses. On the other hand, others are bursting at the seams due to COVID-19 related logistics bottlenecks.
Pandemic or not, warehouses play a critical role in the success of any supply chain. And keeping up with the latest warehouse technology can make the biggest difference in your operations.
Whether you wish to reconfigure existing systems or implement new ones, take a look at how you can transform your warehouse.
1. Review the warehouse layout
Space planning is crucial when revamping an outdated warehouse. Before you decide on implementing new warehouse technology, you will want to accurately assess your current operations. Once you have identified the strengths and weaknesses in your warehouse, you can also find out the order profiles and volumes, and analyse any potential shortfall.
2. Warehouse Management System (WMS)
There are many types of warehouse management systems, but essentially WMS is a software solution that streamlines day-to-day warehouse operations. It gathers all of your important data into one centralised system that can be easily accessed – which makes for highly efficient reporting and planning.
You can expect to improve on the accuracy of inventory counts, have better demand planning, stock visibility and traceability, fewer picking errors and gain improved customer service. When trying to choose the right WMS, evaluate your needs first and see which system can best address them. Generally, the criteria can include real-time inventory updates, advanced reporting capability and support for multiple picking methods.
3. Implement Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT can help optimise your warehouse’s process in one network that’s easy to access. For instance, warehouse workers can use connected devices to identify products and packages quickly. These wearables will track the accuracy of product picking and access staff’s efficiency.
Sensors will also help warehouse managers gain better control over incoming and outgoing merchandise. They can track goods on every stage of the delivery and stay ahead of any supply chain-related risks.
If you’re considering to expand your warehouse operations, our property at Depot Lane offers ground floor warehouses with loading bay right outside the unit. This is a unique feature of the property as there are not many warehouse spaces for rent that offer easy loading setup in a centralised area. Located in Bukit Merah district, the warehouse is well-connected via Ayer-Rajah Expressway (AYE) to reach other parts of Singapore more efficiently, especially when planning your delivery routes. Amenities are also easily accessible at NTUC Fairprice Supermarket and Depot Heights Shopping Centre, as well as the nearest train stations at Telok Belangah MRT and Redhill MRT. Units range from 1,464 to 4,420 sqft – with 4.5m ceiling height and lights furnishing. There is also a 400 sqft open space unit with cement flooring. Other facilities include column-free layout, 40-footer access, 24-hour access, nearby F&B and season parking for heavy vehicles & cars/small lorries.
4. A well-designed storage system
Sometimes, a simple update means looking into what’s more suitable for the processes in your warehouse. For example, you have wire decking on your pallet racks, but it may still be challenging to have a good view which product is actually on the rack. Look into certain wire decking that enables better visibility and organisation. This will save your pickers time and effort in their daily tasks.
Wheel rails can be replaced with shelf racks to help improve ergonomics, safety and efficiency. They can be installed right into your existing shelving units. Plus, unlike wheel rails, they will prevent packages from slipping between the rail and get lodged, resulting in down time.
5. Keep staff training up to date
Efficient warehouses depend largely on great teams. And continuous training ensures that they not only adhere to industry rules and WSH (Workplace Safety and Health) regulations, but they are trained on the equipment best practices and usage. It can empower warehouse employees to carry out their job safely and efficiently, while being equipped with the most up-to-date knowledge about the tools they are using.
If you need to revamp your operations in a new warehouse, our property at 34 Boon Leat Terrace offers office spaces and warehouses for rent. Located within Pasir Panjang, this B1 light industrial building is a short distance away from Alexandra Techno Park and Mapletree Business City where giant tech companies like Google are located at. For entrepreneurs and businesses in the logistics/shipping industry, they can benefit from having an ideal office and warehouse location to support their operations. E-commerce and small businesses that need to be in close proximity of their clients can also benefit from the West Coast vicinity, where they can store inventory and fulfil orders for their customers efficiently. There are two warehouse units available at 4,000 sqft and 43,645 sqft (with 4.5m ceiling height and 25kN/m2 floor loading capacity). Facilities include 20-footer access, ramp-up till the 3rd level, 2 loading bays, 24-hour access, nearby F&B and season parking for cars & heavy vehicles.
For a limited time only, enjoy 50% off rental for our industrial and office spaces which includes factory spaces, storage warehouses and tuition centres for rent. Sign up now before 30 Sep 2020! Terms and conditions apply.