Most Recent Articles

Let’s start with a confession.

It’s not uncommon for many of the experts, aficionados and consulting resources out there - including us – to share our expertise and views about the warehouse industry with somewhat generic language. Almost as if it were some kind of monolithic workplace with few differences in how they are designed, built, work and managed. But today we will be looking to address this oversight and focus on the specifics of running a top-notch distribution center for an industry that drives so much of our economy in the US.

A revolutionary transformation is taking place within the complex landscape of supply chain management and modern logistics. It’s one that attempts to combine technological innovation with human intellect and experience. There’s a common misconception that automation will replace humans. In fact, it should complement and support human workers, not replace them. Here’s where man and machine come together to get the most out of warehouse automation.

Mobile powered carts have revolutionized the way we get work done. These moveable productivity centers provide employees with the technology and other tools they need to accomplish a variety of tasks and make better decisions in the workplace.

We’ve recently put together a quick 13 question “Warehouse Audit” to provide a quick way to score your operation to see how well you are doing relative to other operations like yours or in other industries with similar processes. This initial audit focuses on aspects of your Shipping and Receiving dock. Future additions will cover areas like Returns, Replenishment, Picking and more.

Managing a warehouse will always be challenging. You must ensure smooth operations while tackling a variety of ongoing risks and problems at the same time. This can result in problems with order fulfillment, inventory accuracy, supply chain visibility, and much more. Here are some of the most common warehouse management problems and how your business can address them.

Supply chains have continued to recover after the turbulence and shutdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic (as well as the ongoing US-China trade war and the Russian siege on Ukraine). Manufacturers and retailers must focus on building resilience in 2024 as they manage a vulnerable but slowly improving supply chain. Here are some risks that still exist in the supply chain and what we can expect as we head into 2024 and beyond.

The product that’s stored in your warehouses and fulfillment centers is essential to keeping your business thriving—but this only makes smart financial sense if you have what you need and not much more. Otherwise, your product will go to waste, and you will spend too much on warehousing space.

Warehousing, distribution, and order fulfillment must continue to evolve to meet various challenges and changing consumer demands. Faced with expanding omnichannel options and the ability to leverage technology to address different inefficiencies, businesses in these industries have many opportunities for unprecedented gains. Here are some of the challenges still facing the warehousing industry and some top predictions for order fulfillment in 2024 and beyond.

From sweltering summer temperatures and frigid winters to powerful storms, flooding, and even wildfires, there are certain precautions (like having an emergency action plan) that can help keep everyone safe during a storm. Because of factors like scaffolding, large, open indoor spaces, electrical equipment, and heavy machinery, proper protocols during severe weather may be a matter of life and death.

Warehouses, fulfillment centers, and distribution centers are fast-paced, busy places with lots of activity--which can also make them a magnet for safety issues. Learn about the strategies you and your team should be implementing to avoid injuries and maintain your positive business reputation.