In every industry there are trends that leaders in each particular field watch out for and make predictions on the upcoming changes, systems and environment. In warehouse management, there are several trends that are being discussed for 2019 and on. Forbes Magazine wrote on Supply Chain Trends to Watch in 2019. Logistics Management Magazine recently published Six Warehouse Management Trends to Watch in 2019. This article will summarize the upcoming trends from these sources.

2019 Warehouse Trends and Updates

From numerous sources, we have put together the trends you should be aware of and start to implement into your business.

Challenges

Challenged by the demands of e-commerce, omni-channel fulfillment, smaller orders, shorter delivery timeframes, and a consistent labor shortage, operations are in need of tools that can help their businesses tackle productivity issues.

Technology

Technology has been improving distribution facilities with automation, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies.

Software systems have provided enhancements in inventory visibility, manage supply chain operations, and integrate with transportation management systems to streamline the movement of goods from manufacturer to warehouse to retailer—or eventually the end customer.

Key Trends from Logistics Management

Here are six key trends from Logistics Management that will dominate the warehouse management landscape:

1.   Systems that use machine learning to sense and adapt

2.   Systems that can interject last-minute orders

3.   WMS vendors working with their OEMs to “democratize” automation

4.   A big focus on WMS user interface

5.   Better, faster return-to-inventory management

6.   Expanded functionalities that make implementations easier

Key Trends from Forbes

Forbes identifies the following trends that will be the most impactful to the supply chain and logistics domain throughout 2019:

• Logistics labor shortages and automation
• The “Digital Supply Chain” will be the logistics technology concept of the year
• Machine learning enhancements will be widespread

All sources reinforce that the need to skillfully adapt is more necessary than ever in the warehouse management industry. There is a lot of opportunity to improve your warehouse facility and operations.

Warehouse Organization Review

At Versatile Industrial Maintenance, we can help you maximize your organization with a warehouse review. During this review, we can work with you in these areas:

• Floor plan layout
• Racks and Shelves
• Inventory
• Labeling
• Order Picking Process
• Receiving
• Maintenance
• Rack Repairs

Give us a call at 404-516-0611 to schedule your warehouse review or contact us for a free consultation.

Warehouse Racking Inspections

Versatile Industrial Maintenance Inc. (VIM) in Lawrenceville, GA offers rack inspections and provides a full detailed report. Usually, these are done for no charge if we do the repairs.

We are an independent fabricator, equipment installer of industrial maintenance expertise that specializes in custom warehouse rack repairs. We enjoy taking on challenges offered by the Warehousing industry. We offer custom solutions to storage, safety, and ergonomic issues utilizing our resources and skills to provide custom access platforms, conveyor crossovers, and custom picking carts, and more!

Versatile Industrial Maintenance Inc. was established in 2006 in Lawrenceville, GA, and draws on over 40 years of manufacturing and facility maintenance experience with a high emphasis on regulatory and safety. VIM specializes in warehouse rack repairs. Contact us for a free consultation via email or call 404-516-0611.