It’s no surprise that yesterday’s legacy systems and manual processes can no longer keep up with the pace of modern logistics. Mis-picks, inventory inaccuracies, lost productivity, and operational blind spots are costly, and can add up to millions in lost revenue each year. Warehouse and DC operators need integrated systems that streamline workflows, reduce errors caused by manual processes, and empower workers. Meeting these demands requires more than manpower, it demands strategic investments in cutting-edge technology.
In warehousing and distribution, the automation market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.9% by 20341. This massive growth demonstrates the importance of adopting new technologies to keep up with today’s automated world. That’s why Heartland is proud to deliver proven warehouse & distribution mobility solutions that help your business operate smarter, faster, and with greater visibility. From wearable scanners and mobile computers to RFID solutions, Wi-Fi optimization services, and mobile device management, we help warehouse operators automate processes and drive measurable ROI.
This blog explores the solutions that are reshaping warehouse and DC performance, and how Heartland can help you achieve a seamless transition to scalable, partial automation solutions that make a difference in your bottom line.
Today’s warehouse and distribution thought leaders are recognizing the cost of inaction. Investing in mobility isn’t just about automation; it’s about protecting margins, boosting throughput, and gaining a competitive edge. That’s where warehouse management mobile solutions come in. These technologies offer:
Below are six essential technologies and solutions that are transforming warehouse and DC performance. Each solution delivers measurable improvements in accuracy, productivity, and visibility that set your business up for long-term competitive advantage.
Speed and efficiency are paramount in high-velocity distribution environments. Wearable barcode scanners and mobile computers allow workers to scan and process inventory without ever needing to set devices down. This translates into faster picking, packing, and inventory times, crucial for meeting same-day and next-day delivery commitments.
Rugged mobile devices for warehouse operations are engineered to thrive in tough environments like cold storage, high-dust facilities, and multi-shift, repetitive use. Devices like the Honeywell 8680i wearable mini mobile computer offer a lightweight, ergonomic solution with two-way communication and instant data access, directly from the worker’s wrist or finger.
Key Benefits:
Voice automation is revolutionizing warehouse workflows. Honeywell voice-directed solutions allow workers to receive instructions and confirm tasks using simple voice commands, with no need for screens or manual data entry.
This hands-free, eyes-up technology improves safety and ensures workers stay focused on the task at hand. Ideal for picking, replenishment, and cycle counting, voice solutions significantly reduce training time and boost order accuracy.
Why Voice Works:
As a certified integrator of voice solutions, Heartland has a wide range of experience in deploying Honeywell voice technologies that align with your WMS, workflow demands, and warehouse layout.
Not all scanning jobs require wearable tech. For general-purpose scanning, handheld barcode scanners for warehouses remain an essential, partial-automation tool. Whether at the dock, in receiving, or during quality checks, these devices need to read a wide range of barcodes fast and flawlessly.
Handheld scanners like Honeywell’s Xenon™ and Granit™ series deliver industry-leading scan performance in warehouse environments. From dirty and damaged barcodes to high-volume operations, these rugged scanners are built to handle it all.
Advantages of Rugged Handheld Barcode Scanners:
Barcodes are essential, but for high-volume operations or large-scale inventory, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) provides a powerful automation feature. With RFID, your warehouse gains the ability to track assets and inventory with unparalleled speed and accuracy, without needing to scan items individually.
Benefits of RFID Devices for Distribution:
Applications for RFID in the Warehouse:
As with most technologies, the above solutions can’t work effectively without reliable, high-performance wireless connectivity. Wireless network optimization is often overlooked, but it’s mission-critical in the modern warehouse.
From dead zones to interference from machinery, poor Wi-Fi coverage leads to latency, downtime, and worker frustration. Heartland’s AlwaysConnected services optimize wireless networks specifically for warehouse environments. We conduct comprehensive site surveys, network design, installation of industrial-grade access points, and provide network monitoring services to ensure 24/7 connectivity for your devices and applications.
Wi-Fi Services Include:
The result? Reliable wireless network optimization and without dead zones, where your mobile computing, scanning and printing performs flawlessly, for every scan, every voice prompt, every shift.
Managing dozens, or even hundreds of mobile devices across multiple distribution centers can quickly become overwhelming. The demands on your IT team can be too much to manage. That’s where Mobile Device Management (MDM) services come in.
Heartland’s AlwaysOn device lifecycle management program allows your team to have complete control over your device fleet and offloads the administrative burden on your IT team by taking on all of your MDM needs. AlwaysOn can:
Choosing the right technology is only part of the equation. Implementation, integration, and support are critical to success. That’s where Heartland stands apart. As a distribution-focused systems integrator, we bring deep industry knowledge and a consultative approach to support your business. We’re not just here to sell devices; we’re here to solve problems.
Our Process:
When you partner with Heartland, you're getting more than just devices. You're gaining a long-term ally dedicated to your warehouse’s performance and profitability. Ready to get started? Let’s talk!
[1] Source: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/warehousing-market-size/global