Looking ahead to 2024, we can expect major improvements in the world of warehousing, largely thanks to new technologies and changes in how operations are run. As more people get used to shopping online, they want to know more about where their orders are and when they'll arrive and it’s becoming increasingly important for warehouses to provide clear information about orders.
The current crisis in the Red Sea has not only led to immediate logistical challenges but also highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains. Shipping delays, increased transportation costs, and the subsequent ripple effects on global markets are just a few of the direct consequences we are witnessing. It is anticipated that in response, more businesses will request warehouses to consolidate their inventories, merging stocks for physical and online retail. This approach not only offers flexibility but also aids in buffer stock management, reducing overproduction and environmental impact.
Sustainability is also looking to be a big focus. Many businesses are focusing on strategies to reduce the environmental impact of their operations. In 2024 we'll probably see more warehouses being built with sustainable materials and using renewable energy. We’re likely to see a heavy use of reusable pallets and packaging, to help cut down on waste and reduce the environmental impact of warehouses. Tools used to keep track of emissions and help in cutting down greenhouse gases in supply chains will be key for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Book a demo of our powerful visibility platform. Know exactly when your goods are going to arrive. Predict delays based on live data feeds. ESG reporting at a click of a button. Our online visibility platform puts you in charge of the data, in real-time.
A major change for warehouses in 2024 will be the increase in automated technology. We'll likely see more Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) being used to help with fulfilling orders and making the process of picking items for orders more efficient. Also, we'll see more use of robotic arms for jobs like unloading containers. These technologies, with their advanced location-finding algorithms and the ability to 'see' using computer vision, are going to change the way products are handled and packaged in distribution centers. While it might be tricky to integrate these new technologies, if done right, they could bring big benefits in the long run, especially for keeping up with the fast pace of online shopping.
An ongoing trend not to be ignored is digitalisation and the processes and advanced systems in warehouses. Technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will improve safety and make operations run more smoothly. IoT devices on machines will give real-time warnings to keep things safe, while AI will make Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), conveyor belts, and robotic pickers work faster and more accurately. Using data to drive these changes will also help in predicting when machinery needs maintenance, which is key to keeping things running without interruption and making the most out of the distribution centers.
Finally, updating warehouse infrastructure will be important. Warehouses that are now seen as outdated will be upgraded to meet the demands of today's logistics and online shopping needs. The coming year is also likely to bring more customisation for specific industries, like pharmaceuticals and automotive, and this trend of tailoring warehouses to specific sectors is expected to keep growing.
The warehouse industry in 2024 is set to be defined by big leaps in technology, better operational methods, a focus on sustainability, and customisation. All these changes are aimed at meeting the ever-changing and growing needs of modern business and commerce.
Finding an efficient warehousing solution is essential to the success of your business operations, but it can be easier said than done to find the right fit. With our 100-year+ history and deep understanding of a wide range of industries, you can count on WTA to create a warehousing strategy with efficient operations and compliance with all necessary standards.
