Common Manufacturing Storage Issues And Best Solutions
Effective manufacturing storage solutions are important to maintaining an efficient and organized warehouse. Proper storage affects the workflow and influences overall productivity and operational costs.
Below, we’ll examine some common problems and a number of present best practices and solutions. This will include how manufacturing storage solutions from Gauer Metal Products, Inc. can improve your operations.
Inefficient Use of Space Calls
One of the biggest problems in manufacturing storage is the inefficient use of space. Over time, warehouses can become cluttered. This leads to reduced storage capacity and difficulty locating items quickly. Traditional static shelving can worsen the problem, limiting the amount of available storage space and causing disorganization.
Case Flow Rack Systems like the Flo-Rak line offer a solution to this dilemma. Flo-Rak systems use FIFO (first-in, first-out) principles. This assists in optimizing inventory rotation and maximizing available storage.
Using these systems lets you increase storage capacity by up to 40% (compared to traditional shelving). The space-saving capability means that your warehouse can operate more efficiently and that inventory is easily accessible.
Slow Picking and Packing Processes
Another problem in manufacturing storage is the slow picking and packing processes. Inefficient storage layouts can lead to extended picking times. This results in a slowdown in the packing and shipping processes. Such inefficiency affects overall productivity and can delay order fulfillment.
Manufacturing storage solutions that use advanced case flow rack systems deal with this issue effectively. Gauer Metal Products, Inc.’s Flo-Rak products like the Flo-Trak (Roller Track) and Flo-Bed Staggered Wheel System, can simplify the picking process.
These systems improve ergonomics by positioning SKUs in easily accessible locations. They reduce picking times and increase the number of picks per hour. The boost in productivity from these systems makes for faster and more efficient order processing.
Inventory Management Problems
Managing inventory can be difficult, especially in a high-volume manufacturing setting. Usual problems include tracking inventory levels, managing stock rotations, and seeing to it that products are readily available as needed. Poor inventory management can lead to overstocking, stockouts, and increased operational costs.
Precision metal fabrication and manufacturing storage solutions play a major role in tackling these challenges. Flo-Rak systems make the absolute most inventory management by providing clear and organized storage solutions.
The use of Flo-Rak’s integrated systems means that inventory will be stored according to its arrival date using FIFO, reducing the risk of uselessness. This organized approach assists in maintaining accurate inventory levels and improving stock control.
Workflow Interference
Workflow interference can take place when the picking and placing processes are not well-separated. The problem can lead to bottlenecks and delays. These can negatively affect the overall efficiency of warehouse operations. Traditional storage systems might not properly deal with the need for separate, simultaneous operations.
Flo-Rak line tackles this issue by making systems separate picking and placing processes. Using the Flo-Rak Mobile Workstation and other modular components can enable warehouses to create a layout that lessens workflow interference. The separation increases operational efficiency and decreases the chances of delays caused by workflow congestion.
Insufficient Storage for Specialized Needs
Some manufacturing environments call for specialized storage solutions – like those for temperature-sensitive products or items that need to be stored in exacting conditions. Standard shelving systems often fall short of seeing to these specialized needs. This can lead to compromises in product integrity and operational inefficiencies.
Flo-Rak line brings an impressive selection of products to deal with these specialized storage needs. For example, the Cooler/Freezer Flo-Rak Shelving (available in stainless or galvanized steel) is perfect for temperature-sensitive items. The specialized shelving helps guarantee that products are stored under the best possible conditions. This helps to preserve their quality and extend their shelf life.
Using Custom Solutions
Every warehouse has unique storage requirements based on its layout, inventory, and operational needs. The use of custom solutions that cater to these specific requirements can be difficult with old-school, off-the-shelf products.
Gauer Metal Products, Inc. surpasses our competitors in bringing customized metal fabrication services to meet diverse storage needs. If you need a new system from scratch or want to retrofit an existing setup, Gauer Metal Products, Inc.’s expertise delivers smooth, easy incorporation into any warehouse configuration.
Our custom solutions can improve functionality and efficiency in your warehouse, including precision-molded plastic rollers and specialized rack systems.
Make the Most of Your Storage with Gauer Metal Products, Inc.
Dealing successfully with manufacturing storage problems requires effective solutions that improve space use, simplify picking processes, and manage inventory efficiently. Manufacturing storage solutions from Gauer Metal Products, Inc. bring distinct advantages for improving storage and boosting warehouse operations.
With over seven decades of experience, Gauer Metal Products, Inc. promises unparalleled expertise in creating custom storage solutions made precisely to your needs. From maximizing storage capacity to increasing workflow efficiency, our products meet the highest quality and performance standards.
For specialized solutions and professional support, call us at (908) 241-4080 or use our online form to reach out today.