Warehouse Automation: Its Types, Benefits, and Best Practices

Warehouse Automation: Its Types, Benefits, and Best Practices

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Warehouse Automation: Its Types, Benefits, and Best Practices

Warehouse Automation

Post Date/Time:- 22 Feb 2022 at 18:11:02

Currently, we all are living in an era where technology is ruling over the whole world and making everything simpler as well as efficient. We can find the importance of technology in every sector such as banking, healthcare, education, real estate, shopping, etc.

Similarly, the warehouse sector is seeing huge growth with the arrival of automation technology and now easily encounters several challenges related to the warehouse. In this article, we are going to study different aspects of warehouse automation and how it is helping warehousing services in encountering several challenges as well as attaining massive growth. Learn various aspects of warehouse automation in this blog and get benefited as logistics companies in India.

What is Warehouse Automation?
Warehouse automation means encompassing modern updates and technologies to enhance the warehouse environment. The basic meaning of warehouse automation is automating the different processes of warehouse management services and reaches customers with negligible human assistance. With the help of automation, warehouse services can easily eliminate labor-intensive works that include repetitive physical work and physical data entry as well as analysis.

Warehouse automation uses robots, software, and other modern tools to make the inventory process faster, reliable, accurate, and secure. Warehouses in India can use automation to replace manual tasks with software to bring efficiency to warehousing services.

Different Types of Warehouse Automation
With the availability of a wide range of warehouse systems and technology, there are different types of warehouse automation available that can be used by logistics companies in India. Warehouse automation aims to speed up the inventory process and minimize manual tasks from receiving to delivering in warehousing services.

Goods-to-Person
Goods-to-Person is a popular strategy for enhancing efficiency and decreasing congestion of warehousing services. Carousels, conveyors, and vertical lift systems all fall under this category. With the proper implementation of the Goods-to-Persons system, 3PL companies in India can easily increase the speed of warehouse picking.

Automated Storage and Retrieval System
Automated Storage and Retrieval System is a sort of GTP (Goods-to-Person) fulfillment technology that incorporates automated systems and equipment like material-carrying vehicles, tote shuttles, and mini-loaders for storing and retrieving materials or products. AS/RS systems are most commonly used in high-volume warehouse applications with limited space.

Automated Guided Vehicles
This type of automation has low onboard computing power. Magnetic strips, wires, or sensors are used to guide Automated Guided vehicles along a predetermined path through the warehouse. AGVs are restricted to big, simple warehouse facilities equipped with this navigation scheme. AGVs should not be used in warehouses that have a lot of human traffic and are constrained by space.

Pick-to-Light Systems
Barcodes and LED lights are used in pick-to-light systems to help workers locate the relevant goods to fill out orders. In addition to minimizing walking and increasing productivity, pick-to-light systems let individuals find products more quickly and efficiently.

Voice Picking and Voice Tasking
A warehouse order picker's routine can be enhanced using voice-picking or voice-tasking technologies. Pickers and taskers interact, usually via wireless headphones, to coordinate mobility and picking jobs.

Automated Sortation Systems
With RFID, barcode scanners, and sensors, objects are identified on a conveyor system and diverted to a warehouse site for sortation. In order fulfillment, 3PL companies in India utilize automated sortation systems for receiving, picking, packaging, and shipping orders.

Benefits of Warehouse Automation
The client experience is negatively affected by an inefficient warehouse. Only automated warehouses efficiently fulfill the growing demands of customers. Comparatively, modern warehouse automation technologies are more flexible and accessible than earlier automation solutions like conveyors, which are heavy and permanently installed.

Warehousing companies in India can rent extra robots during the peak season to fulfill increased demand, and then return them when the season ends. Unlike conveyor systems, collaborative mobile robots don't require infrastructure improvements, making them easier to implement.

Some other benefits of Warehouse Automation are;

  1. Enhanced Warehouse Throughput
  2. Increased Resource Utilization
  3. Better Customer Service
  4. Minimize Human Error
  5. Reduced Manual Labor
  6. Increased Data Accuracy
  7. Optimized Warehouse Space
  8. Lesser Shipping Errors
  9. Boost Safety at Workplace
  10. Higher Inventory Control, and more

Best Practices of Warehouse Automation
The role of the warehouse in the supply chain has evolved dramatically. Modern warehouses offer cost-saving warehousing services and enhance consumer experiences. Best Practices of warehouse automation to consider;

Integrate with WMS
Choose warehouse automation systems that are compatible with a WMS. Look for a solution that manages inventory controls, tracks inventory, monitors and reports on labor expenses, integrates dashboards, and automates all of these features.

Invest in Scalable Solutions
Your technology should grow along with your business. The system should accommodate future warehouses, workers, equipment, and supply chain partnerships, such as 3PLs or drop shippers.

Automate Data Collection
Start with a solution that automates data collection, transfer, and storage, regardless of the type and extent of warehouse automation you're planning in the long run. Cloud-based technologies combined with mobile barcode scanners offer a low-cost, low-risk path to automation.


Conclusion
Warehouse automation has huge potential to bring evolution in warehouse management services. Movement of products and implementation of warehousing services with lesser human contact helps 3PL companies in India to bring efficiency, speed, and accuracy in the warehouse. Investment in advanced technologies will help warehousing companies to fulfill customer's expectations.





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It won't be an understatement to state that the success of an online retail business relies on fast and secure delivery. One of the most significant things to consider for your online store is how you will materialize the smooth delivery of your products. Getting your e-commerce delivery strategy just right can directly impact your customer relationships. As a result, determining the best and most appropriate strategy is absolutely essential. It can certainly make or break your business! Most customers would like to have their products delivered as quickly as possible and don't want to pay higher shipping charges. The right shipment strategy can drive you more and more sales while offering a positive customer experience.

In this particular blog post, we will outline the best E-Commerce delivery strategy for your online store! Without further ado, let's get started!

The Shipping Process

In recent times, e-commerce delivery strategy and cheapest shipping for e-commerce stores is becoming more pertinent than ever before. The shipping process for online stores includes everything from receiving and processing an order, to picking, packing, and delivering to the customer's doorstep. A reliable shipment process ensures that the parcel is not only delivered on time to the customer, but also that it is not damaged during the transportation.

Best Practices And Strategies For Shipping

Initially, you might feel overwhelmed by all of the choices, but don't worry; we will go through each one properly. Most of these delivery options are combined into a comprehensive shipment strategy that works for every online store. Keep in mind that you will need a shipping strategy that benefits everyone.

1. Offering Free Delivery

Free Delivery is a sure-fire way to catch the attention of your buyers. Putting 'Free Shipping' on your website might provide a strong marketing edge over competitors who do not offer the same perk. You can also offer free shipping on a minimum order value.

Potential Benefits

• It is simple to explain to buyers.
• It fulfills customers 'expectations.
• It has a beneficial effect on conversion rates for buyers that make it to the end of your sales funnel.

It is essential to note that, although the free shipment process is a perk for your customers, it isn't for you.

2. Offering Live Rates

If you don't want to offer free shipment, then another option for e-commerce shipping is to offer real-time carrier prices. Customers can choose from a variety of choices, such as same-day, next-day, or normal second-class delivery, and pay for the service they prefer. This option puts the customers in authority, allowing them to select the option that matches their needs the best.

Potential Benefits

• By asking exactly whatever the carrier would charge you, you're providing the most cost- effective delivery option.
• You can typically offer substantially lower shipment charges than your competitors.


Pro tip- To ensure smooth and timely delivery, stores can collaborate with the best shipping partners for e-commerce.

3. Offer In-Store/ Local Pickups

Providing free in-store pickups can be a win-win situation for you and your consumers if you have multiple outlets or a strong local business. This is a well-known strategy employed by e-commerce stores that also have offline stores.

Perks

• Customers can save shipment expenses and period of waiting.

4.Same-Day Delivery Option

Same-day delivery is essentially what it sounds like, but executing it is far more difficult than defining it. Serving your consumers with the same day delivery necessitates fine-tuned logistics operations and ample resources.

Perks

• Gives you a competitive edge.
• Increases your conversion rate.

5. Outsourcing Shipping to a 3PL (Third Party Logistics Provider

This is perhaps the best option and e-commerce delivery strategy! A 3PL can handle all of your distribution, logistics, and fulfillment needs. They offer the cheapest shipping for e-commerce stores. They surely provide an out-of-box experience by delivering your products efficiently, timely and safely. Outsourcing logistics to a third-party logistics provider can help to reduce costs, gain access to state-of-the-art technology, and enhance scalability, efficiency, and service quality.

Warehousing Express, a leading third party logistics provider is one of the best shipping partners for e-commerce stores. You can store your inventory in their warehouse; they can automate the shipment of your orders. Their cutting-edge in-house application provides users with more options and quicker delivery of products. WELPL comes with everything you will need to set up a shipping strategy for your online store and products.

Bottom Line

Undeniably, Shipping is one of the most significant operations that has a direct bearing on the success of your business. Simply put, delivery services are an excellent way for an e-commerce business to establish credibility. By outsourcing your logistics operations to a third party logistics provider, you can provide fast delivery to your customers. Hiring a third-party logistics provider that specializes in fast delivery can translate to great savings. Furthermore, the key to implementing a successful strategy is to strike a balance between your business' and consumers' needs. As a result, choose a shipping option that is both lucrative to your customers and practical for your business.




Chennai Corporation
30 Mar 2022

Chennai has become a key warehousing hub?

Chennai is a key industrial and commercial center primarily because of its port accessibility and strategic position. According to the Chennai Corporation, the capital city of Tamil Nadu has 15,000 licensed enterprises and factories, making it the leading industrial and commercial hub in Southern India.

Undeniably, Chennai is rapidly emerging as a prominent warehousing and logistics hub of the country. Furthermore, the Automobile and E-commerce sectors have seen tremendous expansion in this region. Several factors have contributed to an increase in demand for a warehouse in Chennai and its neighboring areas. The necessity of warehousing operations to store products is becoming incredibly important as business organizations embrace globalized supply chains.

In this blog post, we look at the reasons for the city's rapid growth and its future possibilities.

Manufacturing hub-

The city has long been regarded as one of the country's major trade and commercial centers. It was once known as a textile hub, but it has now grown into one of the most important manufacturing centers, particularly for automobiles. The city produces 30 ppeof the country's automobiles and 40 percent of all auto components. This city contributes significantly to India's leather exports and has seen a significant increase in the leather industry in recent years. Furthermore, leading electronics companies such as Samsung, Dell have built manufacturing clusters in this region, and the government has invested $26 million in the development of an IT park in Chennai. There are plans to establish more and more Industrial and Logistics Parks in India.

The city is a host to several companies and industrial sectors. This, in turn, has resulted in increased demand for warehousing and logistics facilities and services.

Infrastructural facilities and strategic location-
The city is well-connected by various transportation modes and offers easy access to business enterprises. The metropolitan area is located in one of the government's two industrial zones. Furthermore, the Seaport serves as a major hub for exports and imports. This has inevitably resulted in a significant demand for warehousing and logistics services. There are significant levels of exports and manufacturing services scattered around the city. Another benefit of this warehouse cluster is the availability of a large workforce, both trained and untrained. Chennai is a hotspot for state-of-the-art and Tech-enabled warehouses.

The city not only has the proper location, but it also has a qualified workforce and facilities to meet the increasing demands of businesses. Chennai's growth as a logistics hub has sparked the interest of investors.

Emergence as a warehousing hub-

With the logistics and warehousing industry growing rapidly, Chennai, which has developed as a key warehousing hub, is the focus.

As per the Knight Frank India Warehousing Market Report, Chennai observed leasing of over 3.4 million sq ft in 2020, with the manufacturing industry accounting for roughly 53% of all transactions. Further, the report states that the city's warehouse stock has the potential to increase from 24 million sq ft to 49 million sq ft. in the near future. The government's persistent efforts to establish a multi-modal logistics park in Chennai and other cities of India has increased the logistics sector's efficiency by huge leaps. The establishment of manufacturing clusters will be facilitated by the setting up of new corridors, which will connect them to seaports and consumption hubs via highways, trains, and waterways. Furthermore, several logistics parks near Chennai are also getting established to increase growth prospects.

Bottom line-

All the aforementioned reasons have boosted confidence in Chennai as a warehouse hub, particularly in the Sriperumbudur-Oragadam cluster, which has seen a major increase in demand. In all likelihood, the future looks bright for Chennai and its surrounding areas, which will aid in re-establishing the country's economic growth trajectory.


e-commerce boom demands changes
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E-commerce Boom Demands Changes in the Warehousing & Logistics Industry

E-commerce Boom Demands Efficient Processes and Changes in the Warehousing & Logistics Industry

The buying behavior and expectations of consumers have been changed quite positively with the rise of e-commerce. The factor of the digital marketplace phenomenon has played an important role in changing consumer shopping habits. Now consumers can shop from anywhere and enjoy some advantages including:

  1. Can discover a wide range of products
  2. Can locate new products and compare prices
  3. Can compare pros and cons
  4. Can create and manage shopping lists
  5. Can review their purchases

With increased expectations of consumers including faster delivery and competitive prices, there are bigger challenges for warehouses and distribution centers to remain ahead with future-proof systems. The demand today for the industry is to adopt smart technology. For example, an efficient warehouse in Gurgaon is dealing with a cluster-picking strategy, a cost-efficient method to decrease labor and sustain profitability.

What do Consumers Expect from logistics and supply chain leaders?

1.Personalization

It is all about forming a personal bond with the customer. Sharing messages and other important data with your consumers make your brand more valuable. Today, we have advanced technology and there are different types of strategies that a supply chain provider can follow to personalize everything so that a brand can go beyond advertising and research more on consumer behavior.

2.Quality

This is the biggest factor for which any consumer stays with a particular brand or finds its replacement. Maintaining quality is a relevant strategy to remain competitive and a top logistics company in Bangalore knows exactly how well the consumers appreciate quality over all other factors.

3.Low Prices Fast Delivery

Next-day delivery, free shipping etc. are some attractive strategies that consumers like the most today. Consumers' shipping requirements have been changed a lot due to competitiveness in the market and the availability of choices. Therefore, the customer today is highly smart and he always looks for the best prices for top brands and products and also expects super-speed delivery.

How Warehouse and Logistics Leaders can rise to the current eCommerce challenges?

1.Micro-Fulfillment Centers

These are fulfillment points that fill the lack of retail locations and make same-day delivery and other assessments smooth, hassle-free even if there are thousands of urgent orders in a particular area.

2.Third-Party Logistics Integrations

By choosing a 3PL provider, it becomes easy for supply chain providers to deploy inventory quickly. This is also an effective way to take access to goods and make every node visible.

3.Improve Operations

Improvements are extremely necessary for all Warehouse and Logistics leaders to remain competitive today. Perform the required strategies to keep distribution and fulfillment centers working effectively. It is important to upstream different opportunities across the major delivery models to keep your entire supply chain management up-to-date.

It is important for a reputed 3PL Warehousing and Logistics service provider to understand the challenges faced by businesses in today's scenarios. For businesses looking for a warehouse for rent in Mumbai, it is important to consider some kick start things that bring your business into high gear. Companies like Warehousing Express that are acquiring future innovations and growth perspectives are receiving significant results and are also retaining top spots among the best logistics and supply chain providers in the nation today.


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