Order-picking technology is vital to the success of any distribution center, no matter the size, volume of inventory, or choice of products. The list of available services includes wearable products, traditional barcode scanners, RFID, and robotics. But which technology is best for you? It’s important to create a well-coordinated evaluation process so that you can put the right tools in your worker’s hands.
The right picking technology can help you optimize your warehouse's operations, increase worker productivity, and improve the accuracy of your order fulfillment process. Before you can choose the RIGHT PICKING TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR WAREHOUSE, you must consider what exactly your particular workplace may need, which can be done through a comprehensive pre-deployment evaluation. Here are four common challenges decision-makers keep in mind when considering optimization:
When it comes to optimizing picking efficiency in the workplace, decision-makers may find themselves choosing between traditional handheld systems and flexible hands-free solutions. Both have their own unique advantages, and it's important to understand these in order to determine which solution is best for your business.
Wearable devices, for example, are designed to provide workers with real-time information and guidance while they perform their tasks. One of the main advantages of wearables is that they provide workers with a hands-free solution that generally results in increased worker safety and up to 30% more productivity. Wearable computers, ring scanners, and headsets can all come together to form future-forward voice-picking solutions, minimizing training time and speeding up fulfillment by leveraging muscle movement. As expected, wearable solutions hinge on dependable connectivity, which means warehouses should assess their wireless system to prevent connectivity issues.
On the other hand, Android handheld systems leverage familiarity since most workers may already be accustomed to smartphones. Enterprise-grade mobile devices similar to Honeywell’s CT47 combine ease of use with higher durability standards, intelligent scanning abilities, and a flexible platform to integrate your preferred picking applications. The result is a fully automated data processing system that fits in your team’s hands. Depending on your selection, handheld devices can later be paired with RFID sleds to further expand your tracking system and deliver real-time insights. Furthermore, handheld devices can be tailored to match your environmental needs and workflows. Vehicle-mounted computers like the Thor VM1A can switch between forklift and handheld uses. Flexible read ranges can extend up to 80ft depending on your device, empowering several warehouse tasks besides order picking. Last but not least, the Granit XP 1991iXR provides a foundational start to digitized data capture by seamlessly scanning and verifying barcodes for items within an order. As a leader in adaptable modernization, Heartland also supports inventory tagging with dependable label printers like the PX65 to ensure stock can be tracked from the moment it enters your facility.
With business challenges exposed, it’s time to begin selecting what tools you want for your warehouse. By working alongside an experienced solution provider, businesses can outline measurable goals for their picking systems. Objectives often take the following points into consideration:
Choosing the right tools to optimize order picking presents a lot of variables. With Heartland and Honeywell, that decision can be made easily, with our team of experts ready to build you a customized picking solution. gain more insight about the potential of Heartland and Honeywell picking technology and how it can help improve your warehouse efficiency.