Efficient inventory storage is a cornerstone of warehouse management, especially for building materials distributors managing decentralized warehouses across Canada. Proper putaway—the process of moving received goods to their designated storage locations—can significantly impact space utilization, picking efficiency, and overall operational costs.
In this blog, we explore advanced putaway rules and strategies that distributors can implement using Buildix ERP to optimize storage, improve inventory accessibility, and enhance warehouse productivity.
Why Putaway Rules Matter
Without structured putaway rules, warehouses can quickly become disorganized, leading to:
Inefficient use of storage space
Increased picking times due to poorly located stock
Higher risk of damage or loss of materials
Difficulty in inventory tracking and cycle counting
Well-designed putaway rules ensure that items are stored logically and efficiently, enabling smoother warehouse workflows.
Key Considerations for Putaway Optimization
Product Characteristics:
Heavy, bulky, or fragile building materials require specific storage conditions and locations to minimize damage and handling risks.
Demand Frequency:
Fast-moving items should be stored in easily accessible locations near picking zones, while slow movers can be placed in less accessible areas.
Warehouse Layout:
Storage zones, aisle widths, and rack types influence how inventory is allocated across the warehouse.
Storage Capacity:
Available space must be maximized without compromising safety or accessibility.
Regulatory and Safety Requirements:
Certain materials may require special handling or segregation according to safety codes.
Advanced Putaway Rules to Implement
Class-Based Putaway: Assign items to storage locations based on product class, such as size, weight, or turnover rate. Buildix ERP can automate classification and location assignments.
Zone-Based Putaway: Define warehouse zones for different categories or functions (e.g., bulk storage, picking, quarantine) and direct items accordingly.
Capacity-Aware Putaway: Incorporate real-time monitoring of storage bin capacities to avoid overfilling and balance load distribution.
Dynamic Putaway: Adjust putaway locations based on current warehouse conditions, such as congestion or temporary storage needs.
FIFO/LIFO Compliance: Ensure perishable or time-sensitive building materials are stored to support first-in, first-out or last-in, first-out inventory rotation.
Benefits of Optimized Putaway Rules
Reduced Travel Time: Logical storage minimizes picker travel distances, speeding up order fulfillment.
Maximized Space Utilization: Efficient use of vertical and horizontal space reduces the need for warehouse expansion.
Improved Inventory Accuracy: Consistent location assignment simplifies cycle counting and stock audits.
Enhanced Worker Safety: Proper storage of heavy or hazardous materials reduces accident risks.
Better Equipment Utilization: Optimized storage supports effective use of forklifts, conveyors, and automated systems.
How Buildix ERP Supports Putaway Optimization
Buildix ERP enables advanced putaway rule management by:
Providing configurable rules engines to tailor putaway logic to business needs
Offering real-time visibility into storage bin status and capacity
Integrating with warehouse automation tools for guided putaway operations
Supporting mobile device interfaces for warehouse staff to follow optimized putaway paths
Generating alerts for exceptions like full bins or misplaced items
Best Practices for Canadian Building Materials Distributors
Map Warehouse Layout Thoroughly: Document all zones, racks, and bin dimensions for accurate rule application.
Involve Warehouse Staff: Engage frontline workers to gather practical insights on efficient storage locations.
Regularly Review and Update Rules: Warehouse dynamics change; periodic adjustments keep putaway rules relevant.
Combine Putaway with Receiving Processes: Coordinate inbound inspections and quality checks with storage allocation.
Leverage Data Analytics: Use Buildix ERP reports to identify bottlenecks and continuously refine putaway strategies.
Conclusion
Advanced putaway rules are essential for building materials distributors seeking to optimize inventory storage and warehouse operations in decentralized settings. With Buildix ERP’s robust capabilities, distributors in Canada can implement dynamic, capacity-aware, and class-based putaway strategies that improve space utilization, boost picking efficiency, and enhance overall supply chain performance.
