With the rise of e-commerce, the warehouse of the modern age looks very different to the industrial storehouses of before. But what changes have occurred? We explore what a warehouse in today’s world looks like.
High-tech
Modern warehouses operate using a range of technology to maximise productivity. Whether it’s sophisticated articulated robot arms, the latest precast dock leveller systems from Modular Cubed, or the newest pallet truck, the warehouse of today has all the latest in tech.
Ongoing tracking of deliveries and products means that modern warehouses rely on extremely precise inventory management systems. For instance, items are often traced through the supply chain from the point of arrival, to storage in the warehouse, to distribution. Technological systems, such as radio frequency identification chips, sensory software, barcodes, and others, mean that warehouses today are becoming more efficient and productive.
More and more warehouses are also now relying on AI and robotics technology than ever before. Robotic solutions add precision, accuracy, and speed to warehouse operations and therefore boost their overall productivity. They often work alongside humans, giving support with tasks that might be otherwise repetitive or tedious. Examples of robotic tech in modern warehouses include automated guided vehicles, robotic cube storage systems, autonomous mobile robots, and pick and place robots.
Bigger and nearer
With more consumers shopping online, it’s no surprise that modern warehouses require more storage and so tend to be much larger. Also, today’s consumer is used to their goods being delivered fast, sometimes even on the same day as purchase. In an attempt to meet this high expectation, companies have to rethink their warehouse designs and locations. This results in competition between businesses for land space near urban areas, so that deliveries can reach customers faster.
As space near densely populated areas tends to be more limited and expensive, it suits businesses to buy one plot of land for one large, extended warehouse, rather than fork out on multiple sites. This means that warehouses are extending upwards, with the modern design incorporating more multiple levels, unlike the traditional single-storey depot of old.
Eco-friendly
With the current climate crisis, many companies are trying to be greener in how they operate. This means that the modern warehouse tends to incorporate more green practices and systems. Companies have to stay in touch with what is important to consumers and today’s average customer is much more environmentally aware than in previous decades.
Warehouses
The modern warehouse is more technologically advanced and eco-friendly than before. It is also larger, particularly in terms of levels, and more likely to be located nearer urban areas.
