Key Objectives
Designing an efficient warehouse picking system aims to:
- Increase productivity
- Reduce cycle time
- Improve accuracy
Types of Warehouse Picking Installations
Warehouse picking systems vary greatly based on your operation’s needs. Often, a combination of systems is necessary. Factors to consider include the number of products, picks per order, picks per SKU, total SKUs, and whether you handle piece pick, case pick, or full-pallet loads.
Warehouse Picking Equipment
The type of picking equipment you need will depend on your specific application.
Automatic Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)
ASRS systems use computer-controlled systems to automatically place and retrieve goods from defined storage locations. They are ideal for high-volume SKU operations that require accurate real-time inventory data. Benefits include:
- Increased efficiency and throughput
- Space savings
- Elimination of physical inventory needs
- High storage density, supporting racking up to 100 feet high
We offer high-capacity ASRS systems for single deep, double deep, and multi deep storage.
Carton Flow Racks
Carton flow racks are gravity-driven and perfect for operations with numerous SKUs. Based on the first-in, first-out principle, they handle a range of product weights and sizes in the same pick locations. Products are stocked from the rear and picked from the front, making them ideal for cartons or smaller bins. These racks can be integrated with conveyors and other storage solutions to enhance picking efficiency.
Carousels
Horizontal Carousels
Feature hanging racks that can accommodate various storage bin sizes. They offer high pick rates and storage density.
Vertical Carousels
Resembling large vending machines, these carousels maximize available height. Also known as vertical lifts, they can be customized for almost any purpose.
Conveyor Systems
Automated conveyor and sortation systems are bespoke-designed to suit large-scale pick operations. Options include:
- Power roller conveyors
- Belt conveyors
- Gravity conveyors
- Flexible conveyors
- Incline conveyors
- Sortation conveyors
- Pipe handling conveyors
- Spiral conveyors
- Bucket conveyors
- Custom conveyors
Static Shelving
For applications with few picks per SKU, static shelving is the most economical solution. Products can be placed directly on the shelves or stored in corrugated, plastic, or steel bins.
Get Expert Advice
For expert advice on organizing your storage, call us today at 01937 585 057. Our team is ready to assist you.