Efficient material handling processes are the backbone of many warehouses. Material handling systems can impact all aspects of your business, but different equipment for every occasion may not always be necessary. Housing surplus material handling equipment is a common problem that warehouses struggle with, but by streamlining the use of certain machines, you may see numerous benefits to workflow and efficiency. Here, Barclay Brand Ferdon discusses some ways you can be aware of unneeded equipment and how addressing this issue may benefit your business in the long run.
Signs of Redundant Equipment
All businesses have evolving needs, and for warehouses and companies that depend on a supply chain, this could mean that once-relied-on equipment is no longer needed. Whether a piece of machinery is rendered completely unnecessary or simply used less often, there are ways to tackle this problem with efficiency and get the most out of your equipment. The first step, however, is becoming aware of your company’s redundant equipment. The following tips are great signifiers of areas where you may be able to streamline and explain how to pinpoint this equipment:
Performing Audits after an Account Change
In many industries, product flow is subject to change. If you’ve recently closed an account requiring specific machinery, or perhaps a supplier has changing storage and handling needs, you may subsequently have equipment that no longer serves a purpose.
Regularly Checking Equipment Storage Areas
Sometimes things slip through the cracks, but through the routine assessment of storage areas, you may be able to quickly and easily pinpoint handling equipment that has gone unused.
Staying Aware of New Equipment on the Market
Even if you don’t have an immediate need for equipment, it’s smart to know what’s on the market. New, multi-use innovations could save you money in the long run and reduce the need for multiple machines.
Get the Most from Your Equipment
Investing in machines that can perform multiple uses for your business is an easy way to enhance efficiency or diversify your services. Handling a wide variety of materials doesn’t necessarily mean you need to purchase different types of forklifts, though. Specialized forklift attachments, like the following, can help you save money and increase productivity by providing additional functions:
- Fork positioners: Adjustable lift forks enable the operator to easily lift different-sized pallets with the same vehicle.
- Clamps: These allow you to grip and transport awkwardly shaped or sized loads. Specific clamps are available for materials such as paper rolls and cartons.
- Push/pulls: This convenient attachment allows you to ship, receive, and store loads on slip sheets without having to transfer the unit to a new machine.
- Rotators: These equip the operator with a 360° turning motion that can be implemented for inverting and dumping loads.
- Multiple load handlers: This piece allows operators to handle up to six loads at a time and is ideal for warehouses that regularly handle high volumes.
Suitable attachments may depend on your type of existing equipment and the requirements of your handling needs. Researching which accessories are compatible with your equipment may save you time, storage space, and money.
Cut Back on Unneeded Machines
Inefficient material handing can directly affect productivity in warehouses, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and more. However, these tips could easily help you reduce surplus material handling equipment and subsequently save you money. Since 1996, Barclay Brand Ferdon has been serving the business needs of Central and Northern New Jersey and parts of New York. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you cut back on unneeded equipment and drive efficiency.
