Warehouse Automation

What warehouse automation looks like

There’s more to warehouse automation than conveyor belts, forklifts, sensors and robots. Intelligent automation converts all or parts of a warehouse into an integrated operation. It’s a collaboration between devices and people that delivers higher levels of efficiency, productivity and profitability.

Warehouse automation uses automated storage systems to replace repetitive tasks through a combination of machine learning and experience. It takes away time consuming or labour intensive duties that require repetitive manual data entry and analysis, and relieves warehouse workers from many of the more physical tasks.

These systems enable employees to focus on other important tasks that need more time dedicated to them, such as quality control.

The two types of warehouse automation

There are two forms of warehouse automation: physical and digital. The ideal solution is a blend of both.

Physical automation

Physical automation is all about cutting the burden on your workforce, by using devices to carry out manual handling tasks. Items are moved using automated guided vehicles or belts.

Digital automation

Digital automation relies on electronics and software to help manage warehouse operations. It includes a wide variety of tools and systems, including a warehouse management system, barcode readers, sensors to monitor locations of stock and devices. It makes inventory tracking and stock counts easier and more reliable.

The optimum solution blends both physical and digital

The integration of physical and digital warehouse automation, combined with AI, is the ideal solution. Where systems and devices have the capacity to process high volumes of data, fast, to communicate with one another, and to make rational decisions, they can boost warehouse efficiency.

The benefits of an automated warehouse

• Higher customer satisfaction
• Lower operating costs
• Reduced human error
• Improved workplace safety
• Better visibility of inventory location and count

Warehouse automation for SMEs

Businesses of all sizes can take advantage of warehouse automation. Robots and AI are no longer restricted to big companies with deep pockets. Today it’s possible for smaller firms to benefit from technologies like real-time computing, voice-directed warehousing and robotic process automation.

We’re delivering scalable, cost-effective solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs. We’re seeing clients enjoy a return on investment through improvements such as:

• Boosted Productivity: Improved pick accuracy and operational efficiency
• Maximised Storage: Increased capacity through optimised space
• Accelerated Operations: Speeding up of put-away and retrieval times
• Reduced Costs: Lower labour expenses while maintaining output

SEC Storage designs warehouse automation solutions

From innovative automation technologies and bespoke pallet racking systems to tailored mezzanine floors and cutting-edge warehouse design, our expert team delivers strategic, cost-effective results aligned with your business goals.

You benefit from an approach that takes full advantage of AI tools to design you a warehouse optimised for your business. The design process involves a detailed analysis of your transaction data and business objectives to create the best possible warehouse for your unique needs.

Our solutions make automation a smart choice for SMEs aiming to stay competitive.

We can help you with:

• Warehouse intelligence
• Warehouse fit-out solutions
• Operational analysis
• Warehouse reconfiguration

How automation helped a client achieve B-Corp status

We developed a new warehouse solution for an Electrical Distributor, that was designed to maximise space, streamline operations, and enhance service across their supply chain.

It involved consolidating inventory from multiple subsidiaries into a single facility with 12,000 SKUs. The design process ensured the solution met their current needs and was also aligned with their plans for future growth.

The client took advantage of our AI-enabled, data-driven design platform, DIDO. The result was a data-backed solution tailored to their expansion and innovation goals. It assisted them in reaching B-Corp status.