Manufacturers and distributors in the pharmaceutical industry are always pushed towards improving operational efficiency as automation is increasingly being adapted and has started a key role in warehouse designs for pharmaceutical products.
However, there are strict safety and quality standards in place which sets the framework for the entire industry. Close attention must be paid by the manufacturers and distributors to these strict requirements and make sure that everything is in order in the production and distribution process. It is also important for these companies to make inventory management an important element in the industry to reduce the likelihood of product recalls and protect the consumer.
What is Automated Storage and Retrieval System?
Automated Storage and Retrieval System, also known as AS/RS, is a computer-controlled system which efficiently stores and replenishes loads from specific locations. Its structure comprises many parts, such as a storage rack, aisles, storage and retrieval machines, a pickup/delivery (P/D) station and a control system.
The popularity of AS/RS has increased in recent years. Warehousing companies, manufacturing units, and distribution centres use it for seamless inventory management. These systems are used for cold storage, automotive, food and beverage, ecommerce and, yes, pharmaceutical companies as well.
Please read on to learn the Benefits of using an Automated Storage and Retrieval System in the Pharmaceutical Industry.
The benefits of Automated Storage and Retrieval System
A warehouse equipped with AS/RS is going to be several times more efficient than a non-automated warehouse. Why so? It’s because of the following reasons:
Better inventory management: AS/RS has perfect inventory management and warehouse space optimisation and significantly decreases time due to the complete removal of walking time and the high-speed nature of AS/RS.
Cost reduction: You would be mistaken if you think the AS/RS will not be cost-effective. The variable day-to-day operation costs decrease considerably as it reduces the dependency on manual labour.
Better safety: AR/RS eliminates the human fatigue factor; this drastically reduces the risk of fatigue and injury in the workforce.
Can handle heavier loads: In a warehouse, there will inevitably be goods and products that are too heavy or dangerous for humans to carry. AS/RS equipment can lift these goods without any issue, making storing heavy goods simple.
Better space utilisation: Warehouses and distribution centres aim for the most efficient and effective space utilisation. Goods must be replenished regularly, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, to keep all the products healthy and safe. Vertical storage systems, such as vertical carousels and lift modules, come into play here.
Product traceability: With AS/RS installed, it will automatically track the product and keep a record of its shelf life. This ensures that the products that get shipped are not already expired, which also ensures that the consumer is safe and you are held in high regard for safe and ethical business practices.
Can be modular: You might think that AS/RS can be expensive, and it can be if you install the whole unit. However, yet another advantage of AS/RS is that you can slowly transition from a regular, manually maintained warehouse to a fully automated smart warehouse. This process is done by prioritising one section of the warehouse to be fully automated while the other continues manual operations. Slowly, you will be able to make your warehouse fully automatic. This limits expenses and gives you and your team a decent amount of transition time.
In conclusion
There are several benefits to installing an Automated Storage and Retrieval System in your warehouse. If you are in the pharmaceutical industry, then you really shouldn't be on the fence about the upgrade. In case full automation is out of your budget, you can slowly bring the transition by installing modular AS/RS.
Installing an Automated Storage and Retrieval System in your warehouse is quite an investment, as your business and services will be heavily dependent on it. So it is important that you only go to a trusted source who can provide you with only the best systems for the best price.
Armes Maini is the most trusted source of warehouse shelving solutions in India and deals in only the best automation systems. It is a joint venture between the Maini Group in India and the Ferretto Group in Italy. The two companies have combined their knowledge and expertise in racking and storage solutions to make warehousing solutions more accessible.
Hope we were able to help you; happy warehousing!
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