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Optimizing efficiency
Faster material handling is the answer to efficient warehouse operations .
By Paul Waddilove
Today ’ s global warehousing market is under relentless pressure to meet higher demand and achieve quicker turnaround . Staying competitive requires optimal efficiency in key areas such as logistics and operations .
One of the most substantial cost savings opportunities in production is the ability to efficiently move materials through a manufacturing site or warehouse . This discipline of material handling combines the equipment needed with the warehouse management system ( WMS ) to ensure seamless material movement .
However , the movement of significant components through a facility has its share of challenges , some of which include :
■ Space limitations due to warehousing cost
■ Real-time tracking and inventory management
■ Equipment wear and maintenance needs
■ Technology integration , updating , and security
■ Worker safety as sites pursue a higher throughput
A truly optimized warehouse ensures the best flow of materials , organized from fast to slowmoving parts , to ensure rapid material flow and order fulfilment . Inaccurate inventory can be costly , but the ability to track and update your inventory in real-time ensures warehouse operatives swiftly convert inventory to goods sold while managing the inventory carrying cost . Significantly , good material handling practices improve worker safety .
Implementing efficient material handling practices addresses the challenges faced in manufacturing and warehouse applications . Fortunately , a growing number of commercially available solutions can be used to help optimize material handling , capital durability , inventory cost , and worker safety . A great example is the growing use of demountable rugged computing devices fitted to material handling equipment .
How technology and digitalization are shaping the industry
Led by AI and smart manufacturing , industrial manufacturing , operations , and supply chain are transforming like never before . Sensors and data collection from the inventory operations provide a wealth of information that software analyses to influence process changes .
For instance , Dexory ’ s digital twin warehouse solution collects data from
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