In the fast paced world of order fulfillment and material handling, efficiency and space optimization are top priorities. A carton flow system can be a valuable tool for businesses looking to streamline their operations, improve order fulfillment, and save valuable storage space. To determine the best carton flow racking system for your specific needs, you should consider several key factors.

Budget and ROI

Evaluate your budget and consider the return on investment (ROI) payback window of your carton flow system. While initial costs will be a consideration, the long-term benefits in terms of increased efficiency and space savings are often worth the investment.

Carton Size Consistency

Understanding whether your cartons come in consistent or varying sizes is essential for selecting the right carton flow track types. Different track configurations are better suited for boxes of consistent dimensions, while others accommodate variations in size. This knowledge ensures a smooth and efficient product flow.

Carton Weight Variations

The weight range of the cartons loaded into your system is a critical factor to consider. Different carton flow system designs can accommodate varying weight ranges, ensuring safe and efficient material handling. Matching your system's capacity to the products' weights prevents overloading and potential damage.

Tote Utilization

Totes can significantly enhance the efficiency of your carton flow system, particularly when it comes to each-picking. Knowing the sizes of your totes allows you to design the system to accommodate them effectively, improving the handling of smaller items and streamlining your order fulfillment process.

Container Surface Area

Understanding the surface area of your containers helps determine wheel configuration, wheel spacing, and the type of wheel suitable for your system. Proper wheel selection ensures smooth carton flow and minimizes friction, making your system more efficient.

Number of SKUs

Efficiently accommodating a range of Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) is crucial for a carton flow system. Businesses that handle numerous product variations will require a system that can adapt to the diverse needs of their inventory. The number of SKUs plays a pivotal role in defining system configuration, including the number of lanes and shelves needed per bay.

SKU Fulfillment Velocity

The speed at which items need to be picked and shipped is a significant factor that influences the design of a carton flow system. High-velocity items may require more accessible and frequent replenishment points to keep up with demand. Therefore, it's essential to align your system's configuration with the pace of your SKU fulfillment.

Space Constraints

Assess the available space within your facility to determine how to best configure your carton flow system. Maximizing vertical and horizontal space can significantly enhance storage capacity.

Future Growth Projections

While predicting the future is challenging, having a clear understanding of your long-term plans can help you design a system that can handle current volume while accommodating future product lines. Flexibility and scalability are essential considerations in carton flow system design.

Talk To A Carton Flow Expert

Implementing a carton flow system in your business is a strategic decision aimed at enhancing order fulfillment efficiency and saving valuable space. Addressing these key factors can guide you in selecting the most suitable carton flow racking system that aligns with your unique operational needs. Call Raymond West today to speak with a warehouse design professional.