New warehouse technology has made it possible to deploy robots to move objects, devices to extract merchandise, and automated picking systems for both boxes and pallets. All of these options speed up storage processes, make the most use of warehouse assets, and, most importantly, reduce the margin of error associated with human process management.
Shashi Shekhar, Co-Founder and Director, Eshipz.com, explains that “the warehousing industry in India has seen much evolution in the last 2 decades from simple storage-oriented warehouses to fulfilment-driven warehouses based on fluctuating market demands. From a manual process of record creation and storage to automation with complete visibility not only on what is in a warehouse but also a predictive analysis of future loads These solutions and related visibility help a company plan its production, dispatches, and related resources to manage the fluidity of market demand.
Ever-evolving Indian eCommerce and customer demands have shaped the industry with a faster evolution in the adoption of new technologies. The industry hardly used to make any investment in technology enhancements at the warehouse level, which has increased to 1–2% of total logistics spend. With evolved e-commerce warehousing, companies have honed their skills and are trying new initiatives on even B2B bulk dispatches.”
In the words of Shashi Shekhar, the following technologies are now being employed in the warehouse business to address common challenges:
- Warehouse Management Software: It automates inventory tracking, order processing, and shipping processes. There are various ways in which automation workflows can be optimised via WMS companies.
- RFID and barcode scanning: This helps warehouse managers track inventory levels, monitor product movements, and improve order fulfilment accuracy.
- Robotics and Automation: Robotics and automation technologies such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) can help address labour shortages and improve efficiency. These technologies can perform tasks such as material handling, inventory management, and order picking. Using these, the throughput efficiencies of a warehouse can be improved drastically.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: These help with protective analytics, demand forecasting, and other decision-making processes.
- Cloud Computing: Cloud computing technology allows warehouse managers to access and manage data from anywhere, making it easier to monitor inventory levels, track shipments, and communicate with team members. This technology also allows for real-time collaboration between different warehouses and locations.
Technology has played a vital role in
- Improved inventory and order accuracy
- Reduced manual and system errors at the warehouse
- Improved throughput time and overall efficiency
- Reduced unplanned expenses
- Reduced overall cost of operations
- Better Visibility
- Predictive Anlaysis helps companies with better decision-making opportunities.
Emerging technologies such as automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence promise to further transform the warehousing industry, along with the following opportunities and challenges:
Opportunities
- Improved inventory and order accuracy
- Reduced manual and system errors at the warehouse
- Improved throughput time and overall efficiency
- Reduced unplanned expenses
- Reduced overall cost of operations
- Better Visibility
- Predictive analysis helps companies with better decision-making opportunities.
Challenges
- High initial investment
- Integration between existing legacy systems and new-age technology
- Skilled labour and related costs
- Change management
- Potential job losses
The industry hardly used to make any investment in technology enhancements at the warehouse level, which has increased to 1–2% of total logistics spend