Strategic Distribution and Facility Design
Our Planning Process
Strategic Distribution/Facility Design refers to the deliberate planning and optimization of warehouse facilities to align with broader business objectives and supply chain strategies. It involves carefully configuring the layout, processes, technology, and resources within a warehouse to maximize efficiency, minimize costs, and enhance customer service levels. Strategic warehouse design aims to create facilities that are adaptable, scalable, and capable of supporting current and future business needs effectively. YSCC has considerable experience in this area and uses a comprehensive approach to achieve results for our clients including.
Data Gathering and Analysis
At YSCC we are a data driven consulting firm. We have a proven methodology that follows where the clients data takes us. This data includes all aspects of the operation including receiving, put-away, storage, picking, sortation, packing, shipping and the systems that drive them.
Material Handling Equipment
Selecting appropriate material handling equipment or automated material handling such as forklifts, AMR’s, AGV’s, conveyors, pallet racks, automated storage systems, goods-person-systems (GTP) and robotics in picking and order building to streamline handling processes, improve productivity, and reduce labor costs. YSCCs of equipment depends on factors such as the volume and order profile of material handled, throughput requirements, and budget constraints.
Overall Facility Utilization
Designing the layout of the distribution center to optimize space utilization and facilitate smooth flow of goods which the data supports. This includes determining the size and arrangement of storage areas, picking zones, packing stations, shipping docks, and other operational areas to minimize travel distances and congestion while maximizing storage capacity.
Storage Systems
Designing storage systems and rack configurations that optimize storage density, accessibility, and inventory visibility. This may involve using various storage solutions such as selective pallet racks, drive-in racks, push-back racks, mezzanines, and shelving systems tailored to the characteristics of the products being stored.
Order Fulfillment Processes
Designing efficient order fulfillment processes to minimize order cycle times, improve order accuracy, and enhance customer satisfaction. This may involve implementing batch picking, zone picking, wave picking, or other order picking strategies based on factors such as order profiles, SKU velocity, and labor availability.
Operational Systems (WMS/WES/WCS)
Evaluating existing or new software systems to automate and optimize warehouse operations, including receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and shipping. WMS/WES/WCS systems provide real-time visibility into inventory levels, order status, and performance metrics, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation.