Storage Systems

Retail computer distribution

Segmenting inventory by size, activity levels and using proven picking methods and systems help this 3PL pick up pace

Rapid turnaround of orders is critical for this 3PL, which distributes computers and peripherals to retail stores. Most items are received in full pallet loads, which are staged on the receiving dock prior to being put in the pallet storage area. Large items are picked directly from pallets on flow racks. Smaller items are segregated by activity level: The fastest items reside on flow rack; medium-movers are picked from shelving; and the slowest-moving items, which represent 70% of the SKUs, are picked from carousels . High-value items, such as microprocessors, are housed in a controlled area adjacent to small parts picking. Individual items are packed, put onto pallets, and merged with the remainder of the order. Completed orders are staged on flow racks prior to shipping.

• Oversize dock areas reduce congestion and potential for any bottlenecks

• Short pick lanes and use of pallet flow rack for picking large items maximizes picking efficiency

• Locating replenishment racks adjacent to pick areas reduces travel distances and times

• Storage/staging equipment is carefully matched to item size and frequency, optimizing the use of space and maximizing picking productivity

• Use of different storage equipment on same pick line creates flexibility, optimizes orderpicking throughput

• Use of dynamic staging systems (flow lanes) at both shipping and receiving reduce congestion, ensure FIFO rotation of items, and promote efficient operations

• A WMS facilitates consolidation of orders coming from multiple pick points within the facility

• Should business expand, a mezzanine can be added to the small parts picking area, thereby increasing order-handling capacity

THE NEW PICKING TECHNOLOGY