A contract warehouse, suitably authorised and validated, – and with a proven track record in 3rd Party stock handling – is a valuable, cost effective and reliable partner in wholesale distribution. Their facilities and experience in stock management will usually offer stability and the opportunities to help your business to grow.
But there is scope for smaller, start-up wholesale operations to utilise a smaller, bespoke facility. One that ensures a more direct input into how the stock is managed. This includes the control and certainty of regulatory compliance, particularly with medicinal distribution.
The setting up of a warehouse has many facets to consider. Not least in having the staff to work in it. Trained, capable and flexible – the modern demands of wholesale distribution requires a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
Setting up the facility itself requires thought and planning. Is it secure? Is it clean and dry? Can there be clear and separate Goods In and Goods Out areas? If, as is commonly the case with smaller warehouse/stock-room facilities, there is a single point of access and exit – it needs to be ensured that separated Goods In/Goods Out areas can be applied.
A picture of how the work is going to flow is vital. From the goods arriving, to being checked, then stored, counted, picked and packed. Although, as the project develops and the requirements become clearer, this can change a little – the workflow picture should always be foremost in the planning.
Storage and racking are also main considerations. Thought needs to be given to the type of products that will be held. The size and type of packaging, and the weight. With the area measured out for storage, allowing for staff and equipment (trolleys, pump-trucks, fork-lifts etc.) movement, utilising the space properly is the key to overall cost-effectiveness. With the racking in, decide on a logical sequence for the rack locations – and label them up.
Packaging, or more precisely the space it takes up, is something that often gets overlooked. As it is always cost effective to buy larger quantities, areas need to be allocated for their storage and accessibility.
A packing area will probably be required so this should be clearly separated and, along with everything else, clearly signed. Safety and work area signs should always be prevalent.
If an Administrative area is required – this should be self-contained. Walk-ways and defined areas need to be established so that there is a functional and professional operation, and that it is identifiable as such. This motivates staff. With these aspects, and clear boundaries between the tasks and processes, it’s the start of having an efficient stock facility.
Written by Brian Lindsay