Optimising Material Storage for Effective Warehouse Management

In the era of Logistics 4.0, the storage of materials is playing an increasingly crucial role in business operations. The ability to organise, manage and protect materials efficiently is a decisive factor for a company’s efficiency and competitiveness. In this article, the main aspects and strategies for optimising material storage and turning it into a competitive advantage will be explored.

In this article:

Why is optimised storage important?

Material storage is not just a question of ‘where’ to store products: it involves the efficiency of the logistics chain, the speed of order preparation and the satisfaction of the end customer. An optimised storage system reduces operating costs, minimises the risk of material damage and improves productivity. With the implementation of advanced technologies, errors and slowdowns can also be reduced.

Scaffalature multi-livello per stoccaggio materiali verticali.

Storage types for materials

The first step in warehouse optimisation is to choose the material storage system best suited to the type of products handled. Combining different solutions within the warehouse allows goods and operating cycles to be organised efficiently.

Among the material storage systems:

  1. Manual systems: operators handle goods manually with the help of forklift trucks.
  2. Automated systems: handling equipment handles the goods and places them in the appropriate location.

In choosing the system, one must evaluate:

  • Product to be stored: characteristics, measurements, weight and rotation of goods.
  • Storage space: floor characteristics and available height.
  • Means of handling: from manual forklifts to robotic systems.

Technology and automation for efficient storage

Digitisation has revolutionised material storage, making it more accurate and secure. Some key technologies include:

  • WMS (Warehouse Management System) systems: they allow real-time monitoring of the location and status of materials. The Agilog WCS, developed in-house by Errevi Automation, optimises warehouse operations.
  • Robotica e veicoli AGV: i veicoli a guida automatica movimentano i materiali autonomamente, migliorando sicurezza ed efficienza.
  • IoT technologies and sensors: monitor temperature, humidity and environmental conditions to protect sensitive materials.

Strategies for improving storage space management

To make the most of every square metre of the warehouse, a targeted storage strategy is essential. A classification of materials must be implemented, subdividing them according to rotation and size, allocating specific spaces to those with the greatest demand.

Opt for scalable solutions in order to respond to changes in the type of goods and seasonal demand in the event of peaks (link to an article we wrote on peak management).

Take advantage of warehouse height with multi-level racking or automated vertical storage systems to gain more space.

Advantages of optimised material storage

A well-designed goods storage system brings benefits such as:

  • Improved productivity: less time spent moving and searching for materials means greater operational efficiency.
  • Reduction of waste: accurate stock management reduces the risk of obsolescence and material damage.
  • Competitiveness: fast response times and efficient inventory management enable better customer satisfaction by offering a reliable and punctual service.

Conclusion

Optimising material storage is a crucial challenge for modern companies. With advanced technologies and space management strategies, the warehouse can become a competitive asset, capable of responding to market needs and improving business efficiency.

Contact us to find out how to optimise the storage of materials in your warehouse!

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