Layout
Layout
Planning a warehouse layout design can be a complex process due to the various factors
involved. This process includes strategically planning a facility layout that can properly utilize
the space available, facilitate the smooth functioning of operations, and increase efficiency.
Designing a practical warehouse layout is a crucial process as it has a direct impact on the
efficiency and productivity of your warehouse. The planned layout should arrange the processes
in a logical sequence that can help streamline operations, boost productivity, and reduce
expenses. A well-executed and optimized warehouse layout design can provide easy access to
stored goods, minimize travel time, and improve order fulfillment rates.
Additionally, it is vital to consider all the requirements according to your business needs during
the planning phase itself. This is because altering the planned layout once the construction of
your facility starts is costly due to the additional material and labor costs involved.
Considering the principles below can help you design an efficient layout and streamline
warehouse operations. Here are some of the most crucial factors to consider:
Budget Considerations
Before starting with the design of your warehouse layout, it is essential to assess all your
business requirements, review associated budgets, and then plan the layout accordingly. During
this process, you might come across some layout designs that are more comprehensive and
expensive than others, but it is recommended that you consider the most suitable and cost-
efficient solution for your warehouse.
Space Available
Effectively utilizing the warehouse space available can help improve inventory visibility, reduce
travel time, and increase overall operational efficiency. When designing your warehouse layout,
it is crucial to allocate maximum space to storage and inventory processing purposes while
minimizing space for office areas, empty pallets, charging stations, etc. Additionally, how you
decide to allocate space will impact shelving designs, installation capacity, and placement of
goods inside your facility.
Flow
Ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods, personnel, and equipment is vital to consider in the
design layout for the smooth functioning of your warehouse. You can avoid inefficient routes
and disruptions by strategically planning your warehouse layout design so as to facilitate each
operation in a sequential manner.
Accessibility
While planning your warehouse layout, it is crucial to ensure easy accessibility to all the areas
and products in your facility. The layout should be designed in a way that makes it easy for
personnel to navigate throughout the facility while conveniently locating and picking items
without having to move other products. As a result, your productivity can be enhanced and
orders can be fulfilled at a faster rate.
Equipment
The use of different types of equipment in your warehouse, such as lifting & packing tools, pallet
racks, or conveyors, can influence the layout design. By identifying the equipment needed, you
can evaluate and design the most suitable layout according to your requirements and boost the
productivity of your facility.
Throughput
Throughput in a warehouse refers to the number of products that are processed and moved
through various warehouse processes such as receiving, putaway, storage, picking, packing, and
shipping. By collecting and analyzing this data, you can design a layout to ensure an efficient
flow of goods and accommodate the necessary equipment for your warehouse.
Personnel
Knowing the number of people required, their current levels of training and shift timings, and
other related factors can help you design your warehouse layout in a way that doesn’t limit your
workforce’s productivity. Also, the layout must be planned in a manner that can safely
accommodate new employees and their needs in the future.