Utilizing Bar Code Technology in Your Warehouse
If there is one technology that can help improve warehouse operations, it has to be the utilization of bar code scanning. Those warehouses that employ a wide use of this technology reap significant benefits. Improvements in productivity and accuracy are possible. Since these two areas are usually the focus of most warehouse operations, it makes sense to consider the use of bar code scanning to meet your goals in these areas.
Operations that still try to manually record data and enter information manually risk the inevitable error in the input issue. It is too easy to write down the wrong information or to make errors in data entry and to rely on a manual process to gain inventory and activity accuracy. In addition to accuracy concerns, those warehouses who do not employ bar code technology miss out on potential productivity gains.
It is not necessary to totally revamp your processes and replace all manual operations with bar code scanning technology. I would suggest you identify those areas where the maximum benefit can be obtained and focus on these areas initially. You can always expand the application of this technology later as the justification presents itself.
It is possible to include real-time bar code scanning updates to warehouse transactions or to queue up transactions and utilize a batch upload process. You can select either method based on the function being studied and the need or benefit of utilizing real time updates.
Bar codes can be used throughout the operation. They are utilized in the following areas in many warehouses.
Receiving – bar codes at the unit, carton, and pallet level are used to record product movement throughout the receiving process. In addition, document bar codes can reduce manual and clerical time required to receive product.
Put Away – scanning bar codes on products from receiving and the location where that product is placed in the warehouse provides accurate inventory location tracking, which is a fundamental necessity of a well run operation.
Replenishment – by scanning product out of a reserve location and into a pick slot, accurate and potentially real time information is available for the picking process.
Picking – the use of scanning while picking confirms that the right product is being picked. In addition, those operations using a form of cart/bin picking utilize bar codes to confirm that product is placed with the right order.
Packing – the use of scanning to pack verify orders increases the order accuracy level to avoid shipping mistakes.
Shipping –some level of scanning is used in most operations to sort and manifest packed orders.
Returns – bar coded return documents and product bar codes can be used to accurately and quickly process returns and issue appropriate customer credits.
Cycle Counting – by using bar codes on cartons or pallets and warehouse locations, the cycle counting process becomes very efficient.
Productivity Tracking – by using bar codes to track activities and associating these activities to individuals through a sign on process or through scanning employee bar codes, it is possible to track and record what each individual has accomplished.
I am sure there are many other uses of bar code scanning in the warehouse. But these may trigger some thoughts about your warehouse as to where this technology could be applied.
Let F. Curtis Barry & Company assist you in finding the right bar code system and develop the strategy on how to effectively use bar coding in your warehouse and operations.
Bob Betke is vice president of F. Curtis Barry & Company, a multichannel operations and fulfillment consulting firm with expertise in warehouse and distribution, warehouse management systems, order management systems, call center, inventory management, and benchmarking; Learn more online at: http://www.fcbco.com
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