Advanced logistics is based on the use of technological solutions to improve the performance of stages such as storage, order preparation, and merchan
Advanced logistics is based on the use of technological solutions to improve the performance of stages such as storage, order preparation, and merchandise distribution.
With the help of state-of-the-art technologies, companies can optimize times and costs in order to promote a better logistics service. Advanced logistics is based on efficient planning and the use of solutions that, through the automation and digitization of processes, enhance the productivity of the warehouse.
1. Design Efficient Logistics Planning
The first step to obtaining advanced logistics is to plan and organize the internal processes of the company. Having well-structured logistics planning is essential to improve the efficiency of operations such as the supply of raw materials, stock management and order delivery.
Logistics planning must take into account aspects such as the layout of the warehouse, the type of product, stock rotation and the seasonality of the stored merchandise.
This preliminary phase of analysis has the goal of optimizing’s the company’s logistics resources and establishing indicators that make it possible to periodically evaluate the performance of the installation.
When it comes to achieving advanced logistics, planning must consider the choice of storage systems that contribute to boosting the development of operations. On the market, there is a wide range of solutions adapted to each logistics need, so it is essential to analyze the type of merchandise, its demand and seasonality to determine the ideal storage method, handling equipment and degree of automation.
The logistics strategy must also determine the most efficient order preparation method based on criteria such as the volume of SKUs, the characteristics of the stored product or the type of facility.
2. Digitize Warehouse Processes
Advanced logistics demands digitized management of warehouse operations. Warehouse management software (WMS) is the most suitable tool for synchronizing the processes that take place in the facility, from the receipt of goods to the preparation and dispatch of orders.
The program maximizes the performance of all types of warehouses. In manual installations, the software sends instructions to the operators about the tasks to be carried out, while in automatic warehouses, it connects with the different control programs to synchronize the movement of the robotic handling equipment.
The management system automates decision-making, such as the ideal location for each reference, the order of tasks to be carried out by each operator or the most efficient picking routes. To carry out error-free warehouse management, it is essential to configure the software with a set of pre-established criteria and rules. The parameters must be determined in advance, during the logistics planning process.
Warehouse management software also controls the resources available in the different storage areas. The program promotes error-free inventory management: it provides monitoring of the status of products in real-time, facilitating product traceability and avoiding merchandise losses in storage operations.
3. Automate Company Logistics
Implementing automated solutions in a warehouse or production Centre enhances advanced logistics and increases performance in stages such as order preparation and internal freight transport.
During logistics planning, it is necessary to determine the degree of automation of the operations, which usually depends on the company’s requirements, the layout of the warehouse or the technical characteristics of the products, among many other factors.
One of the first operations to automate is usually the movement of loads between areas of the facility. Depending on the needs of each warehouse, anything from conveyor circuits and pallet or box elevators to modern solutions such as autonomous mobile robots (AMR), devices capable of performing tasks and moving around the facility without anyone directing them, can be installed.
Companies that have advanced logistics also tend to automate the storage and extraction of products. The installation of automatic handling equipment such as stacker cranes eliminates the risk of error and guarantees maximum reliability in product handling.
Depending on the type of unit load used in the warehouse, solutions can be installed, which speeds up pallet storage, or the Shuttle System, which streamlines the supply of merchandise to the picking areas.
As per ExFro To achieve advanced logistics, you must have productive order preparation processes. High-performance order picking stations are an innovative solution that boosts pickers’ performance and allows them to carry out up to 1,000 picks/hour.
The path to advanced logistics
Advanced logistics starts with the implementation of new technologies in warehouses and distribution centres. The company’s logistics manager must bet on the latest solutions in storage, production and preparation of orders to maximize the performance of the facility.
An intelligent warehouse uses technologies such as data analytics or process simulation to increase logistics performance. The most advanced management programs make it possible, for example, to create digital reproductions of the different operations so that changes can be implemented in a virtual environment.
On the road to advanced logistics, it is essential to use the advice of storage experts who accompany companies in the implementation of innovative technologies. A consultant will advise you on the best solution for your company.
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