Designing a modern warehouse requires attention to multiple aspects, from space management to technology, as well as safety and sustainability.

The first phase certainly involves the analysis and selection of possible logistical solutions, considering that logistics is the reason the warehouse is conceived and built.

Phase 1 – Analysis of the Current Situation (“AS IS”)

• Analysis of operational and service needs.
• Analysis of warehouse processes (from receiving to shipping).
• Analysis of the physical/management characteristics of items (weight, dimensions, fragility).
• Analysis of inventory: occupied volume, turnover, lifecycle.
• Analysis of inbound and outbound flows.
• Logistical indicators during peak periods.
• Current service level.

Phase 2 – Design of the Future Situation (“TO BE”)

• Study of layouts and accessibility for vehicles and people.
• Projection of future logistical indicators.
• Definition of constraints and business strategies.
• Criteria for evaluating alternative solutions (economic and qualitative).

Phase 3 – Proposal of Logistical Solutions

• Solutions for personnel, vehicles, facilities, management software.
• Evaluation of flexibility, potential, and scalability.
• Definition of phases and implementation timelines.

Optimization of Space and Layout

Analysis of Available Space

• Structural constraints: surface, columns, access points.
• Vertical utilization: tall shelving and automated systems.
• Accessibility: loading/unloading areas, passages, forklift maneuvers.

Choice of Internal Layout

• Receiving area: ramps, quality control.
• Storage area: shelving and automated technologies.
• Picking and packing area: close to the shipping area.
• Shipping area: space for truck loading.
• Support areas: offices, services, break areas.

Automation and Technology in the Warehouse

• WMS systems for management and traceability.
• Robotics and AGV for picking and handling.
• RFID and barcode systems for automatic identification.
• IoT technologies for environmental control and safety.

Safety in the Warehouse

• Compliance with regulations (D.Lgs. 81/2008).
• Safety signage and fire protection devices.
• Continuous staff training.

Environmental Sustainability

• Energy efficiency: LED, solar, HVAC.
• Packaging recycling and waste management.
• Environmental certifications (LEED).

Scalability and Future Planning

• Flexible and modular layout.
• Preparation for future technological updates.

Budget and Cost Control

• Costs divided by construction, facilities, training, maintenance.
• Evaluation of CAPEX vs OPEX.
• Analysis of technological ROI.

Warehouse Startup

• Functional tests before startup.
• Operational staff training.

Alberto Lichene

Consulente Logistico

Sono un appassionato di logistica che si è formato in aziende caratterizzate da una forte attenzione al cliente, in un contesto in espansione e dai volumi importanti. Sono Black Belt Lean Six Sigma e svolgo attività di consulenza in ambito Supply Chain, Logistica e Lean Warehousing dal 2015.

LinkedIn