From automated racking systems to AGV’s: the future of warehouse technology

Wondering about the warehouse of the future? You’re in the right place. Many retailers are now building warehouses with the future in mind, and the popularity of online shopping has completely changed the game. It’s certainly an exciting time to be working in this industry.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the many different technologies that are emerging in warehouses. From automated racking systems to robotics, we’ll take a look at how these new technologies could benefit and transform the workplace.

There will continue to be an increase in automation

Labour shortage in the warehouse sector is more acute than ever. This has led to a boom in automation, led by the need to reduce the dependence on human labour.

You can now find advanced technologies such as automated packaging systems, shuttle systems and even pouch sorters. Some of the most well-known retailers have also started using drones to take inventory in their warehouses.

More warehouses and distribution centres will adopt robotics

Although most warehouses haven’t adopted robotics yet, they’re definitely on their way to mainstream use. You can now find robots that can travel to a location to pick up items and then go on to place them directly into shipping containers.

We’re even seeing the emergence of robots that can autonomously travel to a location and pick all the items for a complete order.

Although the use of robotic technologies in the warehouse is still limited, there’s no doubt that it will soon start to spread across the sector. At the moment, early adopters are investing in a test and learn approach for a variety of different exciting features.

Retailers are using ‘smart’ systems

Retailers are paving the way with bringing warehouses into the future. They’re trying various methods to make their systems smarter and faster, with an aim to making the distribution and shipping process a lot more efficient.

There are now systems that can pick items from different locations in the warehouse for one order and transport them to the same location at the same time.

Smart software is now also able to detect any potential issues within the warehouse. They can flag when a conveyor may be about to fail so the warehouse manager can deal with the issue before it escalates and leads to a delay in operations. Through the use of sensors, it is now possible to monitor warehouse conditions and use the data to optimise operations.

Warehouses are becoming more streamlined

Warehouses of the future will be a lot more compact than the enormous warehouses of today. Retailers want to locate their distribution centres closer to urban areas for more efficient dispatch as customers demand faster deliveries.

Larger warehouses in remote areas will probably be broken up into a few smaller spaces that are closer to cities. Retailers may also move some of their smart fulfilment machines into the smaller storage rooms at their physical stores to dispatch orders even more quickly.

Warehouses racking solutions are becoming taller

Thanks to automated racking systems and automated picking tech, it is not easy to reach super high shelves. Warehouses now hold shelving and racking that goes all the way up to the ceiling. As lighting systems have also improved, it is now possible to illuminate even the tallest spaces.

It’s now easier than ever to track your inventory

Modern warehouse managers now have access to wireless technology that makes it much easier to track their inventory in real time. Tags are attached to items and data is then transmitted from the warehouse to special applications designed to manage inventory. This allows warehouse (and store) teams to track inventory using an app on their mobiles, from the very moment it arrives.

Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are becoming more common

AGVs are innovative vehicles that can save a lot of money on labour costs while also improving the efficiency of the storage and pick up process. Essentially, they’re robots that use markers on the floor or wires to make their way through their warehouse. AGVs can perform the following jobs:

●Storing industrial racks, pallet shelves and other containers

●Vertical and horizontal reel storage

●Unloading of trailers

●Receiving and transporting raw materials

There are many types of AGV options to choose from based on your warehouse needs and requirements. You can even get custom-built AGVs for any specific requirements.

The distribution industry is becoming more sustainable .

Thanks to the rise in the number of alternative energy options available, it is now possible for warehouses to be more energy efficient than ever. Warehouse operators can now choose from solar panels, thermal glass, LED lighting and lots of other green materials to bring warehouses into a more eco-friendly phase.

Packaging and shelving is also being manufactured using more sustainable and recyclable materials. The waste management processes are becoming more environmentally friendly. This is refreshing and much needed change that will hopefully make the industry a lot more appealing to modern-day workers as well.

Warehouse designs are becoming more ‘human friendly’

It may be an odd way to put it, but modern warehouses are now much more human friendly than they ever were. In previous years, there wasn’t as much focus on the quality of life of those working in the warehouses.

Now, warehouses are designed with the worker’s comfort in mind as well as efficiency. For instance, modern warehouses now have more efficient lighting as well as temperature control and sensors to check the air quality.

Improving the work environment could have a positive impact on employee turnover and also help deal with the labour shortage issue in this industry. It also makes warehouses a much safer and healthier place for someone to work.

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Here at Racking + Shelving, we specialise in storage solutions for a range of sectors. We understand how important it is to keep your business organised, and our storage system aims to help with just that.

Our professional team will take care of the whole process, helping you find a solution that suits your needs, installing it and maintaining it in the future. From pallet shelves to mezzanine floors, we have it all. Get in touch today for more information.