Racking in the logistics 4.0 era

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04Nov
2024

Racking in the logistics 4.0 era


Logistics 4.0 is the interconnection of all elements of the supply chain through digital technologies, an industrial revolution that transforms our modes of production and distribution based on a multitude of technologies. Among them, racking is central. But how does this traditional storage system fit into such a digitalized world?


Let’s find out how racking is evolving to meet the demands of logistics 4.0.

1. Intelligent Racking

The racks are now equipped with sensors that allow you to monitor in real time the status of stocks, the location of products and even their temperature. This data is then passed on to warehouse management systems for continuous optimisation of operations.
  • Electronic labels: These labels display real-time product information (reference, price, quantity), facilitating inventory management and order preparation.
  • Warehouse management systems (WMS): These software allow to track in real time the location of products in the shelving, optimize locations and manage the flow of goods.

2. Automation

  • Transstockers: These automated machines move pallets between the aisles of the racks, thus increasing the storage density and the speed of order picking.
  • Conveyor systems: Automated conveyors transport products between different areas of the warehouse, reducing manual movements.
  • Autonomous mobile robots (AMR): These robots can move autonomously around the warehouse to perform various tasks, such as order picking or inventory.
  • Collaborative robots (cobots): These robots work alongside operators to perform picking, storage or inventory tasks. The racking is designed to facilitate their work and optimize their travel.

3. Augmented Reality (AR)

  • Pick-to-light: This technology uses light indicators to guide operators to the products to be sampled, reducing errors and improving productivity.
  • Augmented reality glasses: These glasses allow operators to view additional product information, such as picking instructions or tracking data.

4. Internet of Things (IoT)

  • Sensors: The sensors can be used to monitor the condition of the racks, temperature, humidity and other environmental parameters in order to ensure the safety of products and warehouses.
  • Data analysis: The data collected by the sensors can be analyzed to optimize warehouse management and predict future needs.

5. 3D Printing

Even before implementing a new racking system, companies can perform 3D simulations to optimize the warehouse configuration and improve productivity.
  • Customization: 3D printing allows the creation of custom shelving to meet the specific needs of each company.
  • Repair: Damaged parts of the racks can be easily replaced thanks to 3D printing.

The benefits of using shelving technologies

These technologies, used individually or in combination, offer many advantages:
  • Productivity improvement: Reduction of errors, process optimization, increase in order picking speed.
  • Cost reduction: Optimization of space use, decrease in labor costs.
  • Increased accuracy: Reduced inventory errors, improved product traceability.
  • Flexibility: Rapid adaptation to changing business needs.

By choosing the right technologies, companies can transform their warehouses into smart, efficient and competitive storage facilities.