Let's turn that title on its head. The ideal is to work out your materials handling system first, and only then fit the building design around it. In an existing building, you may be limited in your ability to do this – but designing from the inside out as far as possible is key to maximising efficiency.

A new product comes into the warehouse. Which pick face do you give it? Let me guess, one which is empty! Is it the most suitable for the number of times you are going to access it or replenish it? You have no idea as you don’t have any history.

A period has passed and you now have some history as to how it is moving. However, can you see it in comparison with all the other products you are picking? Is it an “A” mover or a “B” or a “C”?

The ideal way to automate a warehouse is to start with a blank canvas. This lets you plan your layout and flows in the most efficient manner and ensures that the various aspects of your operations work together seamlessly. In practice, however, unless you’re a start-up with extremely deep pockets, this blank canvas approach is rarely possible. Companies often take more piecemeal approaches instead, automating one or two processes at a time.

While gradual automation can be successful, there are some pitfalls involved. Is it possible to completely overhaul your warehouse operation without breaking the bank or bringing your business to a standstill?

Warehouse automation technology is developing rapidly, which is good news for business owners who want to increase productivity and profitability. However, you'll need to be aware of the latest trends if you want to maintain an edge over your competitors. If you work with us, we'll keep you up to date with what's happening in the industry and tell you which new technologies could work for you.

Let's look at some of the automation processes and tools that are making waves at the moment:

Today's logistics directors and operations managers will almost certainly be familiar with the term 'warehouse automation', but people sometimes interpret the phrase in different ways. Here's a brief guide to what the concept involves, both theoretically and in practical terms.

A warehouse will only be efficient if its operations function seamlessly, so it's crucial to attempt to minimise the chances of anything going wrong. There are a number of steps you can take in order to increase efficiency, so that your business continues to develop in a positive manner.

Call it what you will; after sales service, customer relations, or post-purchase marketing. Research shows that using automated post-purchase platforms (PPP), you have a 60/70% chance of converting a satisfied existing customer, and just a 5/20% chance of converting a new customer. Although all research points to large gains for retailers and brands, what are the benefits for a 3PL carrier who embraces post-purchase platforms in partnership with the suppliers?

The use of automated systems within warehouses can positively impact performance, but to ascertain whether this is a suitable option for your business, you'll need to calculate your likely return on investment (ROI). Here are some of the factors you'll need to take into account.

Transportation management is no longer a simple strategy for moving products at the lowest possible price. Today, shippers must use resources that aren’t part of their traditional core competencies. Outsourcing, inventory flow, and predictive analytics all play a starring role in a transportation strategy that meets rising buyer expectations. Your customer should be at the peak of every supply chain, no matter which industry or business model you fall into. Your products’ value is no longer limited to the item inside the box. Customer experience has become a critical component, and that means your supply chain should be governed by buyer loyalty.

If you're considering automating your warehouse operations, it's vital to think your decision through carefully before committing to anything. Here are six things to investigate before you take the plunge: