Supply chain management is a complex task. Despite your best efforts, there will be times when problems occur. As a distribution centre, your business sits right in the middle of the standard supply chain. So, when issues do occur, whether it’s your fault or not, it is usually you, the distribution centre, that gets the blame.
Any issue with the processes that control your business will have a knock-on effect on other parts of the supply chain; especially to the most important part – the end customer.
Supply Chain Problems lead to Bad Reviews
There are few business in the sector who haven’t come under scrutiny at some point. Some businesses have received terrible reviews, caused simply by small glitches in their supply chain. From delayed parcels marked next day delivery, to goods arriving in pieces, the warehouse is usually the first to be blamed for many issues.
Whilst annoying to deal with, bad reviews can lead to loss of revenue for the retailer as the customer returns the goods, and a potential loss of a client for you. As suppliers of warehouse equipment, Monarch Shelving have seen, first hand, the issues that can come from a poorly run warehouse. From loss of revenue to loss of clients.
The good new is that there are simple processes that can help, from simple holes that can quickly be plugged, to major changes that will boost the performance of your section of the supply chain. Here are six simple ways your equipment choices can impact your optimisation and reduce glitches and issues in the supply chain.
1. Chose the right type of pallet for the job
We have seen regularly that wooden pallets can cause more problems than they solve. They have the advantage of being easily repaired, recyclable and can carry much more weight than plastic ones. But they also splinter, are susceptible to moisture and can harbour insects and other pests.
Plastic pallets, are generally more durable, easier to clean and reuse, and are weather-resistant. The key to choosing the right pallet is to know what type of freight you are handling and have the right pallet in place.
2. Know the cost benefit of your choice
It’s important to make check the cost versus benefit. If you are a small operation, can you afford to invest in expensive plastic pallets from the onset?
Once again, the type of product you are carrying dictates the pallet type. But is the cost of careful handling on plastic pallets greater than potentially damaging the goods, leading to upset customers?
3. Are you a specialist?
Most warehouses can comfortably handle a range of different goods but some are more specialised with their freight. The equipment required in a warehouse distributing pharmaceuticals or food will differ from that used in an auto parts distribution centre.
Using specially designed equipment for climate control and employing tight security for monitoring, all require the use of trained personnel and have additional cost benefit ratios.
4. Keep equipment up-to-date
When we talk with our clients, we don’t advocate buying brand new top of the range forklifts unless they are necessary, but buying a model that is over a decade old is also not acceptable.
Your forklifts should have modern features, such as wireless communication to allow easy recording of vital data, advanced safety features such as adjustable operator compartment and controls, operator steps, audible and visible parking brake warnings etc. That way you are optimising picking times and reducing accident risks that could potentially bring the facility to a grinding halt.
5. Get the best support deals you can
It’s important to ensure that your forklift supplier provides prompt after-sales support. If you buy from dealers with their own dedicated technicians and parts inventory, you will be supported from the get-go.
A good dealer should alert you when trucks are overdue for maintenance repairs. And they should also be clear on the level of warranty coverage they offer.
6. Optimise your storage with the right racking
The storage capacity of a warehouse is directly related to the type and amount of racking installed. Using the wrong type of rack for a product can lead to under utilisation of space, damaged goods. accidents etc. Pallet racking is one piece of equipment you can buy in a used or refurbished condition, as long as the appropriate pre-purchase checks are carried out.
Being a reliable part of the supply chain can lead to more business and better profits. But if your building, it’s equipment or processes fall short, you can easily find yourself at the wrong end of a lawsuit and lost profits.
Monarch Shelving is a leader in the supply of new and refurbished warehouse equipment, pallet racks (all types), workbenches, work stations etc. Contact us today for more support on optimising your warehouse.
