Introduction to warehousing – storage systems

Storage systems

The main function of a warehouse is to store materials (e.g., parts, work-in-process, finished goods) for a period of time and permit retrieval when required.

Storage systems are everywhere (factories, warehouses, distribution centers, wholesale dealerships, and retail stores) and are one important supply chain component.

Automation systems is critical to improve efficiency but only in determined conditions.

 

Storage performance systems

It does exist different performance measures for storage systems:

  • Storage capacity – two measures:
    • Total volumetric space
    • Total number of storage compartments (e.g., unit loads)
  • Storage density – volumetric space available for storage relative to total volumetric space in facility
  • Accessibility – capability to access any item in storage
  • System throughput – hourly rate of storage/retrieval transactions
  • Utilization and availability (reliability)