In order for your warehouse to operate at maximum capacity and efficiency, you need to have an identification system that allows those things to happen.
Color coding is one of the best ways of improving efficiency in the warehouse. It can be used in a variety of different ways. Using different colors for various sections and purposes. You can even use a secondary system, in tandem, such as labelling items with heart stickers, for instance, to make picking even easier.
Here is an overview of why color coding works and what you can do with a system that is built around this method of organization and identification.
Color coding makes it easier to pick out objects
We are used to identifying different colors. That’s how our brain is wired. That means it is easy to create a system where you can go straight to an object that needs picking once you know the color coding scheme you have implemented.
It is also useful to assign colors that have a certain relevance to the items stored. Once you have a pattern, it becomes really easy to pick out objects due to color association.
Assigning meaning to each color
If you think about it, we already use color coding in a warehouse situation. Yellow is often associated with hazard warnings, and red is often used to signify a warning or danger.
Using the same line of thinking, you can assign colors that will take on a natural meaning and make it easier for warehouse staff to improve search and picking efficiency.
You could even use color codes to signify the age of stock on the shelves. For example, items with blue stickers might need to be used before those with green ones. It is a simpler way of identifying key information without having to read labels or check stock notes.
Create zones
Another great use of color coding is to create zones in your warehouse.
Using colors to designate certain zones makes it more efficient when it comes to loading and unloading pallets in the warehouse. It also helps prevent any cross-contamination issues when you have a zoning system.
Improve visual recognition with a color code system
Checking levels of stock and identifying which pallet to pick in order to fulfil an order becomes a whole lot easier with a color code system in place.
You can use colors to help identify a specific bay and other key location information. You will also be able to carry out a quick visual stock check when everything is arranged using a color coding system.
These are just a few examples of how you can greatly improve efficiency and process orders quicker using a color code plan. Color creates a quick recognition process that warehouse workers will quickly become accustomed to.
The idea of color coding is simple enough, but the possibilities and applications are almost endless. How can your business improve efficiency by making the most of color in the warehouse?
