Companies have always used warehouses for storage. At a warehouse, trucks pull up to loading docks, and workers use forklifts to move and organize items and hold them until it is time to ship them. Warehouses still use the same operation with a few modifications thanks to the rise of online shopping. Here are the biggest effects e-commerce has on warehouses.
Picking a Warehouse Location
As businesses increase their online sales and switch to hybrid methods for in-store and online shopping, many warehouses are seeing a demand for bigger storerooms. Even with a small space, warehouse managers can find innovative ways to maximize space in their small stockroom.
For example, since more stores are going online, warehouses need to utilize their space accordingly. So, instead of expanding out, many need to aim high. In other words, storehouses need to build higher shelves to hold more stock.
As business booms, delivery needs to become faster. Warehouses in urban areas can offer faster shipping, some even aiming to deliver items in under an hour. Keep location in mind when building around e-commerce sales.
Varying Buying Patterns
Companies need to be ready for the times when unpredictable buying patterns slow their process down. An analyst can track customers’ behavior on the business’s website and when and how often a buyer shops.
Analysts can record times of day or months specific customers buys items. With this data, you can improve operation logistics and give workers a heads up on when to expect an increase in sales.
Performing Ongoing Operations
Day or night, online shopping never closes. Since there is no closing time for online shoppers, it’s essential to have employees around the clock on different shifts to keep up with incoming orders.
When considering the location of distribution centers, ensure that you aren’t too close to residential areas so you do not disturb neighbors or create traffic congestion. Work with your team on developing ways to improve the workplace while dealing with online orders 24/7.
New Warehouse Technology
As vital as e-commerce is, many people fear that specific jobs will disappear, such as heavy machinery drivers or stockers. However, that’s far from the truth.
Even as businesses venture into new immersive technology, warehouses still need individuals who can operate equipment and sort items. Adding technology that eliminates minimal areas of sorting ensures they don’t remove an entire position.
Some technologies to consider for warehouse enhancement include:
- Sensors
- Automation
- Analytic systems
- Scheduling systems
It’s essential to adapt to the changes e-commerce is creating in warehouses and to optimize your workspace without eliminating jobs. Work with your team to make the necessary changes to improve your warehouse for e-commerce and keep your workers updated on the latest technology.