~by Kara Masterson~

The modern warehouse is far from the traditional storage area it once was. Improvements in technology, combined with a “need it now” culture, mean that warehouse inventory can and must move faster than ever before. Fortunately, modern technology is more than up to the task, offering warehouse managers more options than ever before. As such, it’s no wonder that so many of these managers consider having an online masters degree in computer science in addition to their years of experience.

Advanced Logging Devices

Keeping a record of what is and isn’t in a warehouse has always been the primary responsibility and primary problem of warehouse operations. Just keeping everything on a sheet of paper is inefficient and prone to failure, especially when looking out for things that may have gotten lost or damaged. Modern logging devices, which can enter or remove an item with a quick barcode scan, eliminate most of these issues and enable workers to move as fast as the lasers in their scanners.

Constant Tracking

When dealing with high-value items, making sure that their exact location is known is crucial. Fortunately, with modern passive radio systems, it’s possible to ping the exact location of any item in a matter of seconds. Working in the same way as toll transceivers, these devices enable computers to keep track of everything in the warehouse at all hours and in all conditions. This reduces theft and breakage, and makes certain that the tally sheet and actual inventory line up correctly.

Remote Status Sensors

Many sensitive items can be lost due to environmental concerns, especially food items and electronics. Excess heat, cold, or moisture, even within an otherwise stable facility, can do severe damage in a short period. As such, the usage of multiple remote sensors can alert warehouse workers to adverse conditions and prevent a disaster.

The Best Software Ever

All of this new technology is integrated into a single computer with current software which enables any warehouse manager to see everything that’s going on at a glance. Even better, the software allows clients, suppliers, and others within the company to know what’s going on. This ensures that out of stock items are not unintentionally sold, and that the moment something runs out, it can be replenished.

With so much technology available, it’s important for every warehouse to find what works for them. Not all of these innovations may be necessary for every warehouse. But some or all of them can certainly be beneficial, cutting costs and losses with better tracking.

Meet the Author: Kara Masterson

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.