warehouse automation software is becoming the new normal and everyone is talking about it no matter they understand the meaning of it or not. It is being utilized in several areas such as transport, utilizes, operations, information technology, manufacturing, and warehouses. It is employed to substitute humans in the most repetitive or menial tasks. The main goal of automation is to minimize labor.
Warehouse management automation is emerging with the evolution of the retail and manufacturing industry. WMS automation is the process of automating inventory movement with the least human assistance. Businesses can eliminate labor-intensive duties that involve manual data entry, manual analysis, or repetitive physical work with the help of automated warehouse management. Warehouse automation refers to the use of software for the replacement of manual tasks. Moreover, WMS automation depicts how humans and robots work together to accomplish repetitive tasks while minimizing injury and fatigue.
Let’s have a look at the types, benefits, and best practices of warehouse automation software.
Types of an Automated Warehouse Management System
There are several types of warehouse management software because there is a broad range of warehouse systems and technology available. The agenda of warehouse management system automation is to boost the speed of processes and minimize manual tasks from receiving to shipping.
Automated Sortation System
Sortation is the procedure of item identification on a conveyor system and redirecting them to a warehouse location using barcode scanners, RFID, and sensors. Industries use an automated sortation in an automated work order system for picking, packing, receiving, and shipping the parcel.
Voice Picking and Tasking
Pick by voice warehouse processes, which are also known as voice-directed warehouse procedures, use mobile headsets and voice recognition software. The system develops an optimized pick path to direct warehouse workers where to put or pick away the product. Thie process excludes the need for handheld devices such as RF scanners. This helps pickers to focus on their tasks with improved efficiency and accuracy.
Pick-To-Light and Put-To-Light Systems
Pick-to-light and put-to-light systems utilize mobile barcode scanning devices which are synchronized to digital light displays. This helps to direct warehouse pickers where to pick up and place selected items. Pick-to-light and put-to-light systems minimize searching time, walking time, and human error in high-volume situations.
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)
Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are more flexible as compared to autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs). They use the global positioning system (GPS) to create an effective route within the warehouse premises. AMRs use advanced and robust laser-guided systems for the detection of obstacles. AMRs can safely navigate a dynamic ecosystem with enormous human traffic. Moreover, AMRs are easy to implement and program with routes.
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
This class of warehouse management system automation has minimal onboarded computing power. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) use wires, magnetic strips, and sensors for the navigation of the fixed path within the warehouse premises. AGVs are limited to simple and large warehouse environments and are designed with a navigation layout. Complex warehouses with space constraints and enormous human traffic are not good candidates for automated guided vehicles.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)
Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) are a form of GTP fulfillment technology. ASRS includes automated material handling equipment such as tote shuttles, material carrying vehicles, and mini loaders. ASRS is the best candidate for high-volume warehouse applications with space constraints.
Goods to Person (GTP)
GTP fulfillment is one of the most popular methods for reducing congestion and enhancing efficiency. Carousels, conveyors, and vertical lift systems are a few examples of GTP systems. The proper implementation of the GTP system results in enhanced warehouse picking speed.
Benefits of WMS Automation
An inefficient warehouse leaves an adverse impact on the customer’s experience. Automated warehouse management systems thrive under increased customer demands and do more with less. Warehouse management automation enhances warehouse operations and provides a broad range of benefits.
Below is the list of most commonly cited advantages of WMS automation:
- Improved accuracy of order fulfillment
- Enhanced material handling coordination
- Reduced inventory loss
- Fewer shipping errors
- Enhanced workspace safety
- Greater inventory control
- Optimized warehouse space
- Minimized stockout events
- Improved analysis and data accuracy
- Enhanced employee satisfaction level
- Increased efficiency and productivity
- Reduced manual labor
- Minimized human error
- Reduced storage and handling costs
- Improved customer service
- Enhanced customer satisfaction level
- Reduced operational and labor cost
- Better resource utilization
- Improved warehouse throughput
Processes That Benefit From Warehouse Management Automation
The appropriate WMS automation technology can automate tasks that touch every aspect of inventory control and order fulfillment, including:
- Receiving
- Returns
- Putaway
- Picking
- Sorting
- Replenishment
- Packing
- Shipping
Choose the Best Warehouse Automation Software
Warehouse management automation with the acquisition of inventory tracking or warehouse automation software has great potential. Warehouse automation software is crucial to the evolution of automated warehouse management. Automated material handling equipment within the warehouse premises helps to move products from one place to another with almost no human contact. It helps create a supply chain capable of seamless, and rapid order management. Investing in advanced automated material handling solutions plays a pivotal role in warehouse management system automation. Moreover, it helps companies to meet ever-evolving customer demands on time.
MWI Solutions is an innovative single-source provider of automated material handling solutions. It provides a warehouse management system and order management system. It helps businesses of all shapes, sizes, and types to boost their sustainability, profitability, and productivity in the supply chain. They strive to provide more than what their customers expect from them with a high rate of accuracy and efficiency.
Following are the specialties of all-inclusive solution provider MWI Solutions:
- Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS)
- Pallet handling automation
- Auto-print and apply
- Auto bagging
- Robotic delivery
- Structural systems
- Racking systems design
- Goods to person
- Data analysis
- Sortation systems
- Industrial Automation
- Parcel handling systems
- Distribution Center Design
- Consulting
- Automated Material Handling Equipment
- Supply Chain
- Paperless fulfillment
- Facility Planning
- Vertical conveying
So head over to their official website to find out McCombs, their products, and extensive services. Get in touch with MWI and let them decide best for you today!
