Busy warehouses need packing stations that enable operators to process the maximum number of orders in a day. At the heart of the station are the packing benches. Though most packing benches have similar functions, their size and features vary according to how they are used.
Before ordering parking benches, there are four things that need to be done to ensure the best benches for the packing station.
1. Write a job description
A job description is a list of the tasks done on the packing bench. A typical list is:
•Consolidate orders – there must be enough space for this
•Check that the line items are correct – this will usually require a computer or tablet to monitor
•Quality control – all items need to be examined for damage, and there should be an area to put damaged items
•Pack items – the operator needs easy access to packing materials such as paper, boxes and protective fillers
•Address and label packages – address labels need to be on hand
•Manifesting – this is the process of allocating a carrier and booking the packages on their system
•Transport – Packed items need to be taken to the transport area ready to be loaded on carriers’ vehicles
Depending on how the above processes are organised, the packing bench will need features such as laptop stands, rolls of packing paper, shelves for equipment, and easy access to packing tape.
2. Outline the workflow pattern
Create a flowchart with all the processes from items reaching the packing station, being packed, addressed and shipped. Based on this workflow, make a sketch of how the packing station will handle each of these processes.
An example of a packing station sketch includes order-picking carts that bring orders to the packing station, a packing bench to pack and wrap order and a conveyor belt to take packed orders to the dispatch area.
3. Plan material handling systems and equipment
Material handling equipment is needed to bring orders to the packing station. There also needs to be a system to bring packing materials to the station when tape, paper and box stocks are low.
Warehouse trolleys, carts or conveyors bring items to the packing station. Packing material stocks should be bought to the station so that packers do not have to stop or leave their packing benches. Packed orders need transporting to the dispatch area.
4. Make a list of supplies and equipment needed at the packing station
An example list of equipment and materials needed on or near the packing benches includes the leaflets packed with orders, laptops or tablets, label printers, scanners, tape dispensers, a staplegun, boxes, bags, filler material pens and markers.
Each item requires its place. Packing benches can be equipped with shelves on top of them and have underneath storage areas. Frequently used items need to be stored so that operators do not have to stretch or twist to access them.
Speak to Steely Products, the experts in packing station organisation. We can make bespoke packing benches based on your specifications.
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