It is important for all warehouses to ensure a well-structured storage system. This would be beneficial to the company both in the short and long terms. For instances, it will reduce the company overall cost such as less damages and scraps by limiting rework. So what is a well structured storage system?
Characteristic of a well-structured storage system
It should be strong and durable enough to stand up to the demanding requirements of an industrious production line which could be operating 24hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition, the warehouse should be built to the highest standard using quality materials.
It must be able to eradicate damage inflicted by careless handling, thus reduce costs.
The warehouse must be designed to prevent contact between stored components which might damage one another or both. It should also reduce the damaging impact of pollutants such as dust.
Hold the equipment securely and safely to prevent any damage that could hard the products.
Incorporate specially designed locking features that hold equipment securely and safely or features that keep the system itself stable, such as locable castors.
Allow easy identification of goods once placed in its rack or compartment.
The storage system should be able to improve inventory control and reduce the time it takes to reload or changeover each machine, which means lower downtime and more efficient production line and increased capacity.
Encourage flexibility so as to use different system for different purposes or different sized equipment.
Enhance production flows.
- Compact and functional.
It should be designed so as to eliminate damaging effects of static electrucity. Thus, reduce rework efforts and costs. Include elements such as quality conductive tyre castors that provide an electric path to the floor.
It should be designed to be able to accommodate specific design requirements. This is because even two manufacturers with ideal production lines may need different storage specification depending on their working practices. For this reason, it is important to deal with a storage equipment manufacturer with the ability to offer custom designs. Be prepared to listen and understand a customer's specific storage equipment needs.
Our group comment
Choose a system that is balanced in terms of ease of use, functionality, security and logistical benefits and it will provide a pay back for years through improved safety, reduced mishandling, increased efficiency, reduced defects, increase capacity and ultimately high profits.
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