The needs of your business are unique. With a wide range of material handling systems for warehouses, it can be tough to determine which one is appropriate for your requirements. If you’re looking for the style that offers you the best possible solution for your storage needs, here’s what to consider.
Think about your products
What materials do you handle? Are the items sensitive? How often will you need to transport them? Also, how are the materials packaged? Are they in pallets, on spools or something else? If you are storing chemicals or perishables, you’ll need to get the proper handling equipment to prevent damage and contamination. Use these questions to determine the appropriate system.
Consider the function
Material handling systems are used to store materials that you don’t frequently move. Your options include racks, pallets, shelving, and containers. If you deal with bulk materials, invest in specialized equipment to move and process the items with ease. You’ll also want to think about automation systems. Warehouse automation upgrades your systems with the latest technologies, which allow you to improve efficiency, speed up production times, and save on costs in the long run.
Factor in the size of the facility
Warehouse automation can help you update your floor plan. Making the switch will mean relying on robots to store and retrieve the items. That means you won’t need to build wide aisles. Wide aisles are a common sight in warehouses because they allow staff to turn around the aisles for easier retrieval and storage. Automation technologies, though, require less space, allowing you to maximize every inch in your floor plan.
Look for a solutions provider
Pick a trusted manufacturer for material handling solutions. Look at the range of products that the firm offers. What kind of systems and services does it specialize in? How long has it been in the business? These questions will help you look for the right company to handle the design, installation, and even maintenance of your material handling systems.
