Warehouse tip 3: Reduce exceptions

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 3 in the structure category.

Tip 3: Reduce exceptions

Exceptions go wrong more often and can cost a lot of money. So make sure you have as few exceptions as possible in your warehouse. We often hear that exceptions are key to great service, but even then you can reduce the number of exceptions or standardize them. The goal is that everyone knows exactly what to do in any situation, with as little improvisation as possible.

Make sure, for example, that you have a fixed shipping carrier and fixed rates for every type of shipment you handle. That way you won’t need to start making calls if you suddenly have a pallet shipment. Only ship pallets once or twice a month? Then make sure that process is also standardized and everyone knows exactly what to do. This reduces the need for coordination, lowers the chance of mistakes, saves time, and provides clarity for your customers.

You can also think about reducing the number of box sizes. It’s cheaper and easier to work with four box sizes instead of eight. Of course, this depends on the products you ship, but take a look to see if you can manage with fewer sizes. Maybe even your current three are already too many...

Also read Tip 1 Make sure everyone knows the process and Tip 2 Complete each order in one go.