Left unto itself, the humble warehouse storage bin would never solve the mysteries of the universe, paint amazing church ceilings, or attract much attention at all, for that matter.
But it can be used in some, shall we say, bingenious ways.
BINGENIOUS WAYS TO USE STORAGE BINS
Here are some very clever ideas on how to use storage bins in a warehouse:
Bin as a place holder
A storage bin can be used as a place-holding device, which will help keep similar items in one area, while keeping those items separate from other items, or preventing items from falling through your racking.
Storage bin as navigational tool
You can use a number and/or letter system with storage bins to create an effective way of organizing items, making them easier to find and put away. For example, you could label a silver wires bin as A-02-03, meaning that you can find the silver wires in Row A, Stack 2, and Level 3. After you have come up with a system that works best for your warehouse, you can then label each bin to make sure that bins are returned to their designated spots, setting an expected sort and order to your warehouse organization. By using a system to organize the placement of each bin, a storage bin can be used as a navigational tool, helping you find an item's location in your warehouse through the number and/or letter system.
Ideal for picking small amounts
Storage bins are useful when you want to pick a small amount of items or stock, as opposed to taking an entire box or pallet down, which might require more time and equipment.
Bin as organizational tool
The many different storage bin colors, options, and sizes can help you organize your warehouse based on your particular needs. Some storage bins are made out of special material, such as polypropylene, which is resistant to extreme cold and can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. The different sizes allow you to choose the particular bin measurements that best fit the shelving. Also, a wide variety of available bin sizes allows you to choose bins to fit the items you want to store.
Bins as color cues
Instead of using a number and/or letter system to label bins, you could also use color coordination. For example, you could place all Raymond-branded products in red bins or nuts and bolts in clear bins. An easy to remember, color-coded system allows employees to find what they need quickly, and also return items to their proper locations. This kind of system can also be more visually pleasing.
Quick pick tool
Some warehouses place bins containing a small number of items on the easily accessible lower shelves, while placing the remaining stock on the overhead racks. This helps you create a well-organized and efficient system that allows workers to easily access items without needing a ladder or lift device every single time you need to pick something. Ladders and lift devices are only needed when it's time to restock the storage bins.
Think outside the bin
Overall, storage bins can be a powerful tool to create an organizationally optimized warehouse. Used creatively, they can save you time and money.
I mean, it's really bincredible. :-)
Do you use storage bins in a cool way in your warehouse? Hit reply and drop me a line. I'd love to know.
