The future of warehousing is exciting.
There are many technological advances that are coming to the fore which will inevitably have a huge impact on the way warehouses operate.
More efficient techniques and cost-effective practices are leading the way, with getting goods in and out as fast and efficiently as possible, the aim.
Here are some advancements that we’re already beginning to see, or be sure to see in the (near) future.
Robotics
Robots are becoming increasingly common in modern warehouses.
Machines that pick and pack orders, perform maintenance tasks and aid human workers in their tasks are just some of those utilised.
Drones are also becoming more common, and are very handy when picking items from high rise storage in warehouses.
Amazon is an example of a company now successfully using drones in their warehouses.
Height
The average height of a warehouse has increased dramatically in the past few years, which is a reflection on new technology and practices, as well as higher density space.
This is more sensible in terms of space, as well as operation now.
New technology and techniques make this possible, for example picking robots and drones, better lighting at height and more advanced forklifts.
Cutting Edge Cleaning
Modern warehouses are seeing more cutting-edge cleaning techniques.
For example, warehouse sweep and scrub companies that use environmentally friendly practices and new, modern ride on machines.
These machines, along with expert practices, make cleaning more efficient, cheaper and more sustainable.
Sustainability
Warehousing practices are becoming more sustainable.
Sustainable warehouses minimise their negative impact on the environment by using eco-friendly chemicals, recycling and re-using where possible.
Other additions that promote a sustainable warehouse include solar panels, LED lighting and thermal glass, and are becoming increasingly common.
Super Flat Floors
Super flat
floors are an important aspect of cutting edge warehouses.
Super flat floors aid easy movement for the robots who pick and pack items. To maintain a super flat floor, the surface needs to be cleaned precisely by a sweep and scrub company.
A dirty floor will inhibit robotics and other machinery.
Smart Maintenance
Smart maintenance includes robots and system programs that anticipate maintenance before things break.
For example, robots continually checking the structural integrity of shelving, and carrying out necessary repairs before the issue becomes much larger.
This approach to maintenance inevitably saves a company time and money.
Software
New software programs are making the management of stock and dispatches and so forth far easier.
Often, these programs will interact with robots or machinery inside the warehouse, as part of a ‘smart’ system, or smart warehouse.
Cloud based storage is one aspect that is being increasingly utilised in warehouse computer systems.
