[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”auto” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Automation technology is an incredible tool for streamlining warehouse logistics. Amazon, one of the largest retailers in the US, ships over a million orders daily. The company also has 520,000 robots<\/a> spread across its warehouses. Coincidence? We think not.<\/p>\n By leveraging robots and other warehouse automation methods, Amazon has succeeded in optimizing inventory management, order processing accuracy, and cycle times.<\/p>\n The good news is this: you don’t have to be a large organization with an Amazon-like budget to benefit from warehouse logistics automation. This technology can boost the operations of even small and medium-sized 3PL, DTC, and B2C warehouses.<\/p>\n How? All your answers are here, including specific ways automation can benefit your logistics business and how to use automation to your advantage.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In this guide, we’ll discuss:<\/p>\n In simple terms, warehouse logistics automation involves automating inventory movement and processing into, within, and out of your warehouse. The technology reduces the need for human involvement in processing and moving inventory.<\/p>\n Businesses typically use warehouse automation to replace labor-intensive and repetitive duties, such as sorting inventory. An obvious example is how Amazon uses robots and automated conveyor systems to sort and move items within its fulfillment centers. These automated systems boost efficiency, speed, and accuracy within a warehouse.<\/p>\n However, warehouse logistics automation doesn\u2019t have to be physical. Digital automation platforms, such as warehouse management systems<\/a> (WMS), use data to reduce manual workflows. Such solutions streamline and optimize various processes to eliminate repetitive tasks like manually monitoring inventory or entering inventory details.<\/p>\n Let’s discuss some of the most common types of warehouse logistics automation tools, both physical and digital:<\/p>\n Depending on your unique needs, you can use warehouse logistics automation to manage inventory, fulfill orders, or distribute, store, and handle inventory.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_class=”center-vertically” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#eef1f8″ width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”42px|auto|45px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”30px|40px|30px|40px|false|false” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_vertical=”0px” box_shadow_blur=”10px” box_shadow_color=”rgba(74,75,109,0.09)” global_module=”3761″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.logiwa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Footer-cta-1-1.png” alt=”Logiwa Device Screens” title_text=”Logiwa Device Screens” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|700|||||||” text_font_size=”22px” text_line_height=”30px” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]Transform your warehouse to a DTC fulfillment center[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/www.logiwa.com\/request-a-demo” button_text=”Request a Demo” module_class=”custom” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”auto” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n The demand for warehouse logistics services is on the rise, and if you want to keep up with customer demands, you need warehouse automation.<\/p>\n For example, by combining automation with machine learning, you can continuously adjust and improve operations to match changing requirements. An automated facility can predict and automatically adjust to keep up with demand changes during peak seasons.<\/p>\n This is just one benefit. Automation can also:<\/p>\n Virtually any process within your warehouse can be automated with the right tools, including everything from putaway to sorting.<\/p>\n Putaway involves moving incoming goods from the dock to a resting or storage space until it\u2019s time to ship them out. Ideally, you should store goods in an easy-to-reach location where workers can easily pick them up and process them to fulfill orders.<\/p>\n However, if you have various goods in your warehouse, how do you decide where to store what? Instead of relying on intuition, use an automated system like Logiwa’s directed putaway<\/a>.<\/p>\n Our directed putaway software uses an algorithm to decide the optimal place to store specific items. The algorithm uses data, such as projected sales volume, item size, available space, and receiving and shipping frequency, to determine the best places to store each item.<\/p>\n Using such an automated system eliminates issues like misplaced inventory, wasted or underutilized storage space, and docking area congestion.<\/p>\n Order picking involves retrieving goods from within your warehouse to fulfill an order. However, human error during order picking can result in delayed or uncompleted orders and other issues that lead to customer dissatisfaction. Fortunately, you can automate order picking and prevent such issues with a WMS.<\/p>\n WMS platforms enable you to select and implement a picking strategy that reduces walking time and prevents wasted labor. Effective picking strategies include wave picking<\/a>, batch picking, and zone picking<\/a>. You can also use a WMS to automate tasks like order picking lists<\/a> and packing lists.<\/p>\n Dimensioning involves measuring the length, width, and height of stock-keeping units (SKUs) and fulfillment orders. Your warehouse can use the information to organize each item\u2019s storage or handling. Automating dimensioning with a WMS will speed up processing SKUs for storage or order fulfillment.<\/p>\n Carrier rate shopping<\/a> involves researching carriers to find the most affordable shipping rates without sacrificing quality. Lowering your shipping rate costs will help your warehouse save money and protect your revenue. However, manual carrier rate shopping can be tedious, time-consuming, and inaccurate.<\/p>\n On the other hand, automating the process can give you accurate and real-time information quickly. You can find rate shopping tools in most high-quality, full-scale warehouse management systems, such as Logiwa WMS.<\/p>\n A shipping label<\/a> is a sticker placed on an order\u2019s shipping container or box. The label states the order’s recipient, destination, origin, weight, and other relevant information.<\/p>\n Manually creating and printing labels<\/a> for each order is time-consuming and inefficient. With the right logistics software, you can generate labels automatically.<\/p>\n A sortation conveyor system uses data to route packages to their appropriate destinations within your warehouse. The Goods-to-Person (GTP) solution eliminates the need for personnel to move around to retrieve items so they can focus on processing orders.<\/p>\n Ready to take advantage of logistics automation? Below are the best practices you should follow to get started.<\/p>\n Automating workflows<\/a> is typically the first step in warehouse logistics automation. It involves using technology to streamline and manage tasks and activities within your warehouse. Some workflows you can automate include:<\/p>\n Automating these workflows will help standardize processes, eliminate guesswork, and reduce error rates.<\/p>\n An effective warehouse management system is the foundation of every successful warehouse automation<\/a> initiative. With the right WMS<\/a>, you can monitor and control every automated process or technology within your warehouse. Besides providing centralized control and visibility, such a system allows you to achieve:<\/p>\n It also provides data analytics for continuous improvement of your processes and operations.<\/p>\n Warehouses invest in robotics technology<\/a> to handle repetitive and dangerous jobs. These robots can work tirelessly, leading to increased productivity. Also, since you don\u2019t have to pay robots salaries, installing such a system can boost your company\u2019s long-term profitability.<\/p>\n Examples of robotic solutions for warehouse logistics include:<\/p>\n More 3PL, B2C, and DTC warehouses are embracing automation in their facilities. In fact, projections indicate that the warehouse automation market<\/a> will grow from $21.7 billion in 2021 to $93 billion by 2031. Below are some of the latest trends driving warehouse automation growth.<\/p>\n Today\u2019s warehouse robots are far more advanced than what was available a few years ago. Combining a WMS with robotics<\/a> allows you to automate multiple processes and optimize operations within your facility. The WMS provides the means to monitor and control all your warehouse robots in one place.<\/p>\n Some warehouses have even started incorporating artificial intelligence<\/a> (AI) into their warehouse robotics systems. A 2021 Retail Info Systems study revealed that retailers plan to supercharge warehouse and DTC operations with AI investments.<\/p>\n Most of the investment will go into AI for predictive inventory planning, labor planning, and robots for picking and material handling.<\/p>\n The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of internet-connected devices with sensors, software, and other technologies for connecting with other devices. More warehouses are relying on such devices to automate their facilities. For example, robotic units like AGVs and AMRs controlled by a WMS rely on IoT to fulfill tasks.<\/p>\n You also have smart shelves that broadcast inventory information and provide low stock and theft alerts. Since these devices connect to your network, you can monitor and control them remotely to track and optimize processes.<\/p>\n Predictive analysis involves using analytics and algorithms to identify patterns and predict upcoming events regarding warehouse operations. For instance, predictive analysis can forecast demand<\/a> spikes or when inventory will run out.<\/p>\n With such information, you can anticipate potential issues, maintain strategic inventory levels, and plan effectively for busy seasons.<\/p>\n As mentioned, warehouse workers moving around to retrieve items takes up most of a worker’s shift. The bigger the warehouse, the longer the trips to retrieve items.<\/p>\n Modern warehouses combat these issues with smart internal transportation systems, such as AGVs and AMRs. Automating product movements with these systems allows pickers to focus on more valuable tasks.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.logiwa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Blog-AI-in-warehouse-ops.png” alt=”Blog – AI in warehouse ops” title_text=”Blog – AI in warehouse ops” url=”https:\/\/www.logiwa.com\/blog\/9-ways-ai-streamlines-high-volume-fulfillment” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”on|20px|20px|20px|20px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Do you want a warehouse management system software that can help you streamline warehouse logistics automation? If so, Logiwa WMS<\/a> can help. Our cloud-based WMS software<\/a> helps high-volume DTC, B2C, and 3PL providers automate and optimize the entire order fulfillment lifecycle.<\/p>\n The Logiwa WMS dashboard<\/a> provides total visibility and control. This allows you to perform complex tasks, such as optimizing order processing, and simple tasks, such as reprinting shipping labels.<\/p>\n Even better, Logiwa WMS integrates seamlessly with accounting, shipping, and ecommerce services<\/a>. It also integrates with leading robotics providers<\/a>, including Locus Robotics<\/a>, Dematic Robotics, and 6 River Systems.<\/p>\n The integrations boost efficiency and simplify control by allowing you to manage your entire warehouse from one device. Lastly, our mobile app allows you to track and manage your warehouse operations remotely from the comfort of your mobile device.<\/p>\n Get started with Logiwa today to create a fully digital warehouse optimized for safety and efficiency. Our software simplifies updating your warehouse automation rules, moving inventory, and adding new clients.<\/p>\n Also, thanks to our integration and configuration options, onboarding is easy and takes only a few weeks instead of months. Don\u2019t just take our word for it. Request a demo today<\/a> and experience Logiwa\u2019s automation capabilities.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_class=”recommended-content-callout” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”900deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#2d6ef9 0%|#6717cd 100%” background_color_gradient_start=”#63a2d9″ background_color_gradient_end=”#3469b2″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”30px|30px|50px|30px|false|false” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_vertical=”0px” box_shadow_blur=”10px” box_shadow_color=”rgba(74,75,109,0.09)” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” custom_margin=”||20px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_align=”center” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” header_2_line_height=”32px” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” custom_css_main_element=”text-align: center !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”blog-callout-tiles” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ module_class=”three-pl” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”30px|10px|60px|10px|false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_vertical=”13px” box_shadow_blur=”30px” box_shadow_color=”rgba(74,75,109,0.37)” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#413885″ text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Cloud 3PL software for high-volume fulfillment excellence<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n 3PL Warehouse Management System<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ module_class=”warehouse-management” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”30px|10px|60px|10px|false|false” box_shadow_style=”preset1″ box_shadow_vertical=”13px” box_shadow_blur=”30px” box_shadow_color=”rgba(74,75,109,0.37)” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” header_3_text_align=”center” header_3_text_color=”#413885″ text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Modern digital WMS powers a modern fulfillment experience<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n
What Is Warehouse Logistics Automation?<\/h2>\n
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Why Is Automation Important in Logistics?<\/h2>\n
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How Can Your Logistics Be Automated?<\/h2>\n
Putaway<\/h3>\n
Order Picking<\/h3>\n
Dimensioning<\/h3>\n
Carrier Rate Shopping<\/h3>\n
Label Creation<\/h3>\n
Sorting<\/h3>\n
Warehouse Logistics Automation Best Practices<\/h2>\n
1. Start With Workflow Automation<\/h3>\n
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2. Implement a Warehouse Management System<\/h3>\n
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3. Consider Robotic Solutions<\/h3>\n
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The Future of Warehouse Automation: 4 Trends<\/h2>\n
1. Robotics<\/h3>\n
2. Internet of Things<\/h3>\n
3. Predictive Analysis<\/h3>\n
4. Smart Internal Transportation<\/h3>\n
How Logiwa Can Help<\/h2>\n
Take Advantage of Automation Within Your Warehouse<\/h2>\n
Ship more with a fully integrated WMS Software<\/h2>\n
3PL<\/h3>\n
Warehouse Management<\/h3>\n