Selection of storage systems suitable for the warehouse: Logistics planning must include storage systems that are optimally suited to the inventory in the facility

The efficient design of warehouse and logistics processes is a crucial factor for the success of a company. Selecting the right storage system plays a central role. An optimally coordinated storage system takes into account not only the specific characteristics of the warehouse, but also the type of products stored, the flow of goods and the inventory quantities within the facility.

Importance of choosing the right storage system

A suitable storage system contributes significantly to increasing efficiency. It enables optimal use of space, reduces throughput times and minimizes error rates. In addition, it affects the flexibility and scalability of the warehouse, which is particularly important in times of dynamic market requirements.

Important factors when choosing

When deciding on a storage system, various aspects should be taken into account:

1. Product features

The size, weight, shape and sensitivity of the products determine the requirements for the storage system. For example, fragile goods require different storage conditions than robust materials.

2. Flow of goods and turnover rate

How frequently are items stored and removed from storage? A high turnover requires systems with fast access times.

3. Storage capacity and utilization

The planned storage capacity influences the choice of system. It must provide enough space for current and future inventory.

4. Spatial conditions

The dimensions of the storage building, soil conditions and load capacity set physical limits.

5. Technological requirements

Automation and digitalization are playing an increasingly important role. Systems should be compatible with existing IT structures.

6. Economics

Investment and operating costs must be proportionate to the benefits.

Overview of different storage systems

Shelves

Ideal for manual storage of smaller items. They offer flexibility and are easily expandable.

Pallet racks

Suitable for palletized goods and allow direct access to each pallet.

High bay warehouse

Make optimal use of the height of the warehouse and are often automated. They are suitable for large quantities of homogeneous products.

Flow racks

Work on the first-in, first-out principle and are suitable for fast-moving items.

Shuttle systems

Semi-automatic systems for high storage and removal frequencies.

Automatic small parts warehouse (AKL)

For storing small parts with a high variety of items and turnover rates.

Technological innovations in warehousing

Advancing digitalization opens up new possibilities in warehouse logistics:

Robotics and automation

Robots take on transport and picking tasks, increasing efficiency and reducing errors.

Warehouse management systems (WMS)

Software solutions that control and optimize warehouse processes.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Networking devices and sensors enables real-time monitoring and control.

Adaptation to industry-specific requirements

Different industries have different requirements for storage systems:

food industry

Requires temperature control and hygiene standards.

Matches:

• Cold Chain Logistics Blog (Fresh Logistics/Cold Logistics)

Pharmaceutical Industry

Requires strict safety and quality controls.

E-commerce

A high variety of items and fast delivery times require flexible and efficient systems.

Sustainability in warehouse logistics

Sustainability is also becoming increasingly important in warehousing. Energy-efficient systems, the use of renewable energies and sustainable warehouse construction contribute to environmental protection and can reduce costs.

Employees and ergonomics

In addition to technological aspects, people are also a decisive factor. Ergonomically designed workstations and intuitive systems increase employee satisfaction and productivity.

Strategic planning and implementation

Introducing a new storage system requires careful planning:

Analysis of the current situation

Recording of all relevant data and processes.

Definition of goals

What does the new system aim to achieve?

Selection of the system

Based on the requirements and goals.

Test phase

Pilot projects can help identify potential problems at an early stage.

Training of employees

Ensuring that all users can operate the system effectively.

Challenges and solutions

Cost control

Costs can be kept within limits through detailed planning and obtaining offers.

Technical compatibility

Systems should be compatible with existing infrastructure or offer appropriate interfaces.

Scalability

The system should be able to be adapted to growing requirements.

Further development of warehouse logistics

Warehouse logistics will continue to develop in the coming years. Artificial intelligence, big data and autonomous systems will play an even greater role. Companies that invest in modern storage systems early on and remain flexible will achieve competitive advantages.

Selecting the appropriate storage system is complex and depends on many factors. A thorough analysis, consideration of current and future requirements, and the involvement of employees and experts are crucial for success. With the right storage system, companies can increase their efficiency, reduce costs and prepare for future challenges.

Choosing the right storage system is crucial for the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a logistics center. In today's competitive economy, well-organized and thoughtfully planned warehouse structures play a key role in ensuring smooth operations and quick response times to customer requirements. Logistics planning should therefore integrate storage systems that are tailored to the specific characteristics of the respective warehouse, the nature of the stored goods and the internal and external flow of goods. But what are the important factors when selecting the right storage system? Which systems are suitable for different requirements and which trends influence development in this area?

Essential factors when selecting the storage system

Planning a storage system begins with a detailed analysis of the requirements of the warehouse and the products stored. Several factors are of central importance:

1. Type of products stored

The type and nature of the products to be stored significantly influence the choice of storage system. Bulk goods, liquids, perishable goods or bulky goods each have different storage requirements. For example, sensitive products such as medicines or fresh food must be stored under special conditions such as controlled temperature or humidity.

2. Quantities and turnover rates

Another key aspect is the storage density and the turnover rate of the stored goods. Are these fast-moving goods (so-called “fast movers”) that have to be moved often, or slow-moving products (“slow movers”) that are stored over a longer period of time? This information helps to choose the right storage concept that ensures both efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

3. Flow of goods and layout of the facility

The internal flow of goods within the warehouse plays an important role. The paths taken by employees or automated systems to store and retrieve goods should be made as short and efficient as possible. An optimized layout and a well-thought-out arrangement of the storage systems help to minimize unnecessary movements and time losses.

4. Availability of storage space

The spatial conditions of the warehouse also determine the choice of storage system. Smaller warehouses may need to choose more compact storage systems, while larger warehouses have more flexibility in choosing and building their storage structure. In addition, the vertical use of the available space is an important aspect, especially in ultra-modern, automated warehouses.

Types of storage systems

There are a variety of storage systems that can be chosen depending on the specific needs of a warehouse. Some of the most common systems are presented below:

1. Shelving systems

This is the most common form of storage found in almost all warehouses worldwide. There are different variants of shelving systems, including:

Pallet racks

Suitable for large quantities of goods stored on pallets. These shelves are particularly popular because they offer a high level of flexibility and can be operated both manually and automatically.

Shelves

They are particularly suitable for smaller, handy goods that are stored without pallets. They offer high accessibility and are ideal for warehouses with high turnover rates.

Flow racks

With this system, goods are stored on one side of the shelf and removed on the other side. Gravity automatically moves products forward, speeding up removal and improving accessibility. This system is particularly useful for warehouses that use a strict FIFO (First In, First Out) method, such as in the food industry.

Shuttle and lift systems

These automated systems enable particularly efficient and space-saving storage. A shuttle system uses motorized carts to automatically move goods onto and off shelves. Lift systems, on the other hand, transport goods vertically to their storage location. These systems are ideal for large warehouses with a high number of storage positions and a high storage density.

4. Automated small parts warehouse (AKL)

These are fully automatic systems that have been specifically developed for the storage of small and medium-sized items. These systems are particularly common in the e-commerce and spare parts industries as they enable quick access times and precise handling of goods.

5. Block storage

In a block warehouse, the goods are stacked directly on top of each other without shelves. This is particularly suitable for large quantities of similar products that are stored over a short period of time. This type of storage is particularly space-saving and is particularly suitable for less valuable goods or those with a low turnover rate.

Automation in warehousing

An increasingly important trend in warehouse logistics is automation. Companies are under increasing pressure to speed up their warehouse processes while reducing costs. Automated storage systems can help achieve this goal. They offer numerous benefits including increased efficiency, reduced error rates and improved space utilization.

1. Automated shelving systems

These systems work in combination with robots or conveyor belts that store or remove goods. They enable high speed and precision, which is particularly important in industries with high throughput volumes, such as e-commerce or the food industry.

2. Robotic solutions

The use of robots in warehouse logistics is also constantly increasing. These can take on tasks such as picking, transporting or sorting goods. Especially in high-volume warehouses, robots can significantly increase efficiency because they can work around the clock.

Suitable for:

• Robotics/Robotics – Industrial Robots Blog

3. Warehouse management systems (LVS)

A LVS controls and monitors all processes in the warehouse and ensures optimal use of storage capacity. It supports inventory management, the coordination of storage and retrieval and the optimization of picking processes. Modern WMSs are able to process data in real time, allowing for immediate response to changes in the flow of goods.

Sustainability in warehouse logistics

With increasing awareness of environmental issues, sustainability is also playing an increasingly important role in warehouse logistics. Companies strive to make their processes as environmentally friendly as possible to reduce costs and minimize their environmental footprint.

1. Energy efficient storage systems

Modern storage systems are designed to minimize energy consumption. Automated systems often work more energy-efficiently than manual processes because they are better coordinated and avoid unnecessary movements or empty runs.

2. Sustainable building materials

Sustainability also plays a major role in the construction of storage buildings and the selection of the materials used. For example, recyclable or particularly long-lasting materials are increasingly being used to reduce environmental impact.

3. Optimization of storage density

High storage density means that more goods can be stored in less space. This not only saves space, but also energy, as less area needs to be heated or illuminated. Compact storage systems such as shuttle or lift systems help maximize the use of space.

Future developments

Warehouse logistics is constantly evolving, and it can be assumed that new technologies and trends will have a significant impact on the market in the coming years. The increasing networking and digitalization of warehouse processes, for example through the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) or artificial intelligence (AI), will further increase efficiency. Companies that invest in such technologies early on can secure a decisive competitive advantage.

Choosing the right storage system plays a crucial role in a company's efficiency and flexibility. The choice depends on many factors, including the type of products stored, storage density, turnover rate and available space. With increasing automation and the integration of new technologies, companies today have a wide range of opportunities to optimize their warehouse processes and be prepared for future challenges.