How to Label Warehouse Racking
The core function of any distribution centre is to accurately select goods speedily and safely. The emphasis should be on picking the correct products in the chosen colour, size, type or model in the necessary quantity; this eliminates errors which will result in returns and customer dissatisfaction, along with the consequent cost to the business for replacement.
One important element in operating an efficient logistics facility is to have clearly marked warehouse locations of racking, shelves, bins, totes, trays or pallets. There tends to be a number of industry standards, which form part of any warehouse racking identification system:
- Shelves should be numbered from the ground up. This allows vertical expansion of racking, without the need to re-label all shelves.
- For all numbers less than ten it is recommended that zero is added before the number, i.e. 01, 02, 03 etc. This will allow locations to be located alphanumerically. If the warehouse is vast and exceeds 99 aisles, then numbering needs to start at 001 rather than 01.
- Labelling should be consistent to prevent picker confusion.
- Aisles should be marked alphabetically to match pick lists to create organised and efficient routes for pickers.
- Location tends to be initially labelled aisle, secondly shelf or rack and thirdly row/ bin ie aisle 01, rack 02, bin 01.
- In some instances there may be a need to create zones, such as dry goods, chilled and refrigerated.
- Labelling should be highly visible, with the best colour combinations being black on white, or black on yellow.
- Labels can be alphanumeric, with or without barcodes for scanning, dependent on the type of location. Barcodes can be either 3 of 9, interleaved 2 of 5, code 128, Data Matrix or QR, which tend to be the most popular types.
- Labels for locations should have a suitable adhesive to prevent any problems with lifting or peeling. They should be easily released from their backing to allow quick installation. They need to be installed at suitable temperatures, normally 10°C. For variable location marking another material option tend to be magnetic, which allows easy repositioning
- Labels should have laminated surface to improve their durability in the event of damage from impacts. Surfaces which are not highly glossy tend to provide more accurate and consistent scanning of barcodes.
For your bespoke warehouse rack labelling solutions, contact Label Source to discuss your requirement, browse our warehouse racking labels or request a quotation.
