Logical storage solutions blog

Navigating The Challenges of Modern Warehouse Storage

Warehouse storage has changed dramatically in recent years, particularly as technology has evolved and new solutions have been developed. As businesses grow there is an increased demand for efficient and flexible storage, so let’s have a look at how we can help businesses navigate these modern storage challenges.

Evolution of Warehouse Storage

Traditional warehouse systems were very basic and were only designed to accommodate a specific volume of stock. As the e-commerce industry flourished, it was recognised that something had to be done as having warehouses full of goods was not the most efficient way of running a business. With trends changing so fast, an item that was a bestseller one week would then not be sold for months after that. Many companies end up with excess stock in their warehouses that they simply can’t sell.

Today’s warehouses have to be optimised and adaptable, capable of handling a diverse range of stock and ensuring fast turnaround times for customers. This new way of storing goods has been incredibly challenging for the logistics industry but also has provided opportunities too. Companies that are quick to adapt to meet new demands have a very big competitive edge, but of course, there are hurdles to overcome too. Getting the balance between inventory control, space utilisation, and operational efficiency is challenging, but that is where here at Logical Storage we can help with that.

Space Utilisation

One of the major challenges with modern warehouse storage is optimising the space efficiently, particularly as warehouses are so expensive to run. Maximising the use of every square foot is key, but not always easy. Modern warehouses have to cope with a variety of different inventory being stored within them, which all require different storage solutions. Pallet racking systems are popular for large, heavy products, but many businesses are looking for alternative solutions to allow them to build upwards. At Logical Storage, we understand that no two warehouses are the same. One may need mezzanine floors to help maximise height, while another may be more suited to racking solutions. The approach we take is customised around the specific needs of our clients, and we ensure that every warehouse layout is designed for maximum efficiency and adaptability.

Balancing Automation & Human Labour

Warehouse technology has also evolved rapidly in recent years, with a huge growth of Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) to help businesses streamline operations and reduce human error. This also comes with its advantages and disadvantages.

The cost of implementing automation technology within warehouses can be incredibly high, particularly for smaller businesses that aren’t likely to see an immediate return on their investment. A fully automated system also may not be suitable for all warehouses, as some products need a more hands-on approach. The key is to strike the right balance between automation and manual labour, which is why we tend to steer towards a part-automated system. This means repetitive tasks are automated, while leaving more complex processes for the skilled workers.

The Role of Technology in Modern Storage Solutions

The rise of technology has been a game changer when it comes to modern warehouse storage. From sensors that automatically detect inventory levels in real-time, to advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) that optimise every part of the warehouse process, technology is evolving at rapid speeds.

The main issue businesses face with this incredible new technology is integration. Most business owners don’t tend to like change, particularly when it involves a huge overhaul of all of their existing systems as this causes a lot of downtime within the business. When looking at new warehouse storage solutions, it is important to ensure everything integrates seamlessly with existing systems. For example, smart shelving systems need to communicate with existing WMS to ensure operations continue to run smoothly.

Future-Proofing Your Warehouse

The challenges of modern warehouse storage are not going to disappear overnight, and as businesses grow they will become more complex. Consumer expectations for faster delivery times will continue to rise, so future-proofing your warehouse is essential to remain competitive.

Here at Logical Storage, we provide solutions for businesses that not only meet today’s challenges, but are designed to adapt to future demands. For advice on making improvements to your warehouse, get in touch with Logical Storage Solutions. Our expert team are on hand to find a solution to any storage problem, so call us on 0845 689 1300, or email [email protected].