Warehouse and logistics operations face ever-rising costs. From property, labour, and energy expenses to equipment maintenance and safety concerns. The pressure to improve efficiency while reducing overheads can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are many real-world solutions available, writes Ron Farr, Director, Warehouse Sales – EMEA for Yale Lift Truck Technologies.
Telemetry systems can track equipment usage patterns, identify underutilised assets, and highlight where resources are being stretched thin, allowing informed decision-making about fleet composition and task allocation.
This information enables managers to right-size their fleet and redistribute workloads to extend equipment lifespan.
Moreover, telemetry systems can monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedules in real-time, which can reduce downtime.
In the quest for cost reduction, versatility is key. Investing in multi-functional equipment can yield significant savings compared to purchasing multiple specialised machines.
A single piece of equipment that can function both as an order picker and a pallet truck, or a reach truck that can also load/unload lorries outside, can reduce capital expenditure and maintenance costs, and optimises warehouse space.
Furthermore, versatile equipment provides operational flexibility for changing business needs or seasonal demands.
Safety is paramount in warehouse operations. It’s also linked to cost management. Accidents and injuries not only pose risks to employee wellbeing but can also result in significant financial losses through damaged infrastructure, increased insurance premiums, and lost productivity.
Operator Assistance Systems (OAS) are designed to support operators in reducing accidents, injuries, and equipment damage.
Some systems use sensors to detect nearby pedestrians or obstacles, alerting the operator to potential collision risks. Moreover, OAS can improve efficiency, increase productivity, reduce energy consumption, and minimise equipment wear and tear.
In response to labour shortages, many companies focus on operator comfort.
Modern lift trucks and warehouse equipment are being ergonomically designed to reduce operator fatigue and enhance comfort. Improvements include adjustable seating, intuitive controls, and reduced vibration levels. A more comfortable working environment also helps to retain experienced operators, reducing the substantial costs associated with recruitment and training, which leads to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.
Furthermore, comfortable operators tend to be more productive.
Energy costs represent a significant expense for many warehouses. However, innovative power solutions offer a path forward.
Some lithium-ion batteries, for example, deliver more usable energy per charge compared to their lead-acid counterparts, which means more operational time for every unit of electricity consumed, potentially leading to lower energy costs over time, and a longer lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries also support opportunity charging. This can significantly reduce downtime and boost productivity, as well as saving on warehouse space.
What’s more, these batteries require virtually no maintenance compared to lead-acid batteries. This helps cut direct maintenance costs and increases equipment uptime.
While the initial investment in lithium-ion technology may be higher, the long-term benefits often outweigh the upfront costs.
Thin plate pure lead (TPPL) batteries present another promising alternative.
While cutting-edge technology can offer significant benefits, pre-owned equipment can be reliable, and efficient at a fraction of the cost of new models. Good quality equipment is designed for longevity, meaning that even second-life machines can provide excellent value when properly maintained.
When considering used equipment, choose reputable suppliers who thoroughly inspect and/or refurbish their stock, and offer warranties.
As warehouses and logistics operations continue to navigate the challenges of rising costs, a multi-faceted approach to cost reduction is essential. Yale Lift Truck Technologies offers products and services designed to address these challenges. From advanced telemetry systems like Yale Vision and versatile equipment to lithium-ion powered trucks and high-quality Yale Used options, Yale develops real-world solutions for the complex challenges facing today’s warehouse and intralogistics operations.
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