Warehouse tip 1: Make sure everyone knows the process

Over the coming weeks, we’ll share lots of tips on how to set up your warehouse as a newcomer. You’ll get advice on structure, automation and the physical setup of your warehouse. Today is part 1 in the structure category.

Tip 1: Make sure everyone knows the process

In many small warehouses, there’s often one person who knows and does everything, while everyone else only handles specific tasks. This is a common source of stress and problems. The know-it-all gets constantly interrupted with unnecessary questions, and others are much less productive because they don’t understand the full process. And that’s not even mentioning what happens when the know-it-all is sick.

Make sure everyone who works in the warehouse, even occasionally, knows how the process works, how to use all the tools (both hardware and software), and where to find everything. This brings several benefits:

• It forces you to keep the process and tools relatively simple. Otherwise, you’ll never be able to explain it to everyone.
• It reduces stress, and your warehouse will run much more smoothly when everyone can work independently.
• You’ll be more flexible when handling busy periods or sick leave.

Also, write the process down. Writing helps you think things through more clearly, and it makes it easier for the team to review details when needed.

Extra tip: occasionally have someone from marketing or customer support spend time working in the warehouse. It’s a nice change of pace, and it helps them stay connected with the overall business process. They can also jump in to help during busy periods or sick leave.