Companies that have customers in different geographical areas find logistics and distribution complicated. Transit warehouses are designed to solve this problem.
What is a transit warehouse?
It is a type of logistics facility in which the goods are left temporarily, and which is equipped in such a way that it only serves for the rapid receipt and dispatch of goods, since the final destination is another warehouse or point of sale. This type of facility is used to transport goods to areas that are far from each other.
Functions and benefits of the transit warehouse
The primary function is to temporarily house the goods until they are transported to another warehouse or point of sale.
The most notable benefit is that they are usually very economical facilities, and that they also represent savings for the company. Compared to regular warehouses, the transit warehouse is only used for storing goods, as no further operations are carried out with the product.
Features of the transit warehouse
Although this type of warehouse does not require much equipment since the stock does not remain for long, it does require certain features to be considered a transit warehouse:
- Strategic location: They must be located in strategic areas, normally between the main warehouse and a regional warehouse or that of the end customer. They are usually used when the distance between the logistics centre of origin and destination is longer than one day of transit.
- Importance for picking: Receiving orders is key, so they must be designed to favour the receipt, dispatch and picking of goods.
- Management software: Management software is very useful in these types of facilities to ensure a much faster process.
- Pallet racking: Racking favours the optimisation of warehouse space.
- Safety: Warehouses must be safe and protected against any risk, so safety systems must be implemented.
- Efficiency: They must be efficient warehouses with the capacity to handle large volumes quickly and accurately.
Design of a transit warehouse
The most important requirement when designing this type of warehouse is that they are agile and ensure the smooth movement of goods. Transit warehouses are centres with a very high goods receipt and dispatch rate. These are some of the aspects to consider when designing a transit warehouse:
- Distribution of space
Divide the warehouse space into clearly defined areas that facilitate organisation. Also design specific areas for the receipt, storage and dispatch of goods.
- Storage system
Use racking adapted to different sizes of products and that facilitates load management. Often it is advisable to implement FIFO storage systems to ensure that the oldest products are dispatched first.
- Inventory management systems
Implementing automated inventory management systems helps to accurately track stock and minimise errors. It is advisable to use RFID, barcodes, or use other technologies to expedite the receipt and shipment processes.
- Loading and unloading areas
Design large and efficient areas for loading and unloading goods. And install loading bays with levelling systems to facilitate the movement of products between vehicles and the warehouse.
- Energy efficiency
It is necessary consider the implementation of sustainable and environmentally-friendly technologies.
- Automation
It is interesting to incorporate automated systems to streamline processes.
- Regulatory compliance
It is essential to comply with all local and international regulations and standards related to the storage and transportation of goods.
In summary, the transit warehouse must be adapted to the specific needs of the company and the nature of the products it handles.
Transportation and logistics continue to evolve, adapting to new consumer trends, especially due to the rise of e-commerce. The challenge of logistics is to shorten delivery times as much as possible and minimise operating costs. Transit warehouses are a good solution to be more efficient and reduce expenses.
At AR Racking we have a wide variety of storage systems that adapt to any need and location. If you need personal advice contact our team of experts.
