Warehouse management trends

The wholesale distribution industry requires continuous innovation and evolution in warehousing, manufacturing, and supply chain operations due to increasing consumer demand.  Nowadays, this innovation relies on technology integration to eliminate labor-intensive tasks that require repetitive physical work or manual data entry and analysis, enabling warehouses to automate their business process with minimal human intervention.  

There are several types of Warehouse Automation Technology that will help you increase your profitability; in this blog, we will review four of the latest Warehouse Management trends:  

1. Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a system of devices with sensors, processing abilities, software, and other technologies. These devices are connected to the internet to transfer and receive data from one to another to automate, monitor, and control processes. 

IoT is being used extensively to lessen the burden on humans and can be implemented in almost every part of the industry, such as infrastructure. For example, IoT can monitor the health and correct utilization of machinery, and inventory analysis features provide real-time stock information that helps you make better decisions to get maximum profitability out of your business.  

2. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)

Robotics and automation represent a necessity in the warehouse market industry. Although it feels like something straight out of a science fiction movie, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) can actually help overcome many challenges, such as fluctuation volumes and labor shortages. An AGV is a load carrier that operates on a facility basis without an operator or driver to support warehousing and distribution activities.  

Automation extends beyond simple package tracking; you can automate your business with the help of robotics to improve your labor utilization and enhance product management. This automation decreases the margin of error in processes like collection, transport, loading and unloading of goods as well as staging and shipping.  

3. Wearable Warehouse Technology

Wearable Warehouse Technology is any electronic device designed to be small and lightweight to be worn on the user’s head, face, or other body parts. Although most people may immediately think of a smartwatch that tracks their health and fitness performance, the reality is that these kinds of devices are also revolutionizing the future of warehouse processes. According to a prediction by MHI, almost 70% of warehouse facilities will adopt some form of wearables by 2023. 

This automation helps workers better perform crucial tasks and improve manual labor with the help of devices such as smart glasses, mobile computers, wrist-worn technology and ring scanners. In addition, it allows businesses to monitor workers’ activity and location, and it provides real-time data that can help optimize workflows.  

4. Warehouse Management System (WMS)

 A Warehouse Management System (WMS) allows businesses to track stock movements, transfers, and availability and take any corrective action when required. Vital data about your stock levels is easily accessed, interpreted and utilized, allowing the organization to gain tight margin control and have full visibility. With WMS, you can track everything from inventory receipt to final proof of delivery, all in one intuitive platform  

Interested in adding the latest and greatest technology to your warehouse? Contact us today to learn how KCS can help through our Warehouse Management solutions that integrate directly with our business management and ERP software.