Put-Away
Also known as: Put Away, Stocking, Storage Assignment
Definition
Put-away is the warehouse process of transferring received inventory from the receiving dock to designated storage locations. It’s a critical step that affects inventory accuracy, space utilization, and picking efficiency.
Put-Away Process
- Complete receiving - Goods inspected and documented
- Get assignment - WMS assigns storage location
- Move product - Transport to assigned location
- Confirm placement - Scan to verify correct location
- Update system - Inventory available for allocation
Put-Away Methods
Directed Put-Away
- WMS assigns specific location
- Considers slotting rules
- Optimizes space and picks
- Most efficient but requires WMS
User-Directed
- Operator chooses location
- Follows general guidelines
- More flexible, less optimal
- Used in smaller operations
Mixed
- System suggests, operator can override
- Balance of efficiency and flexibility
- Handles exceptions easily
Put-Away Considerations
| Factor | WMS Consideration |
|---|---|
| Velocity | Fast movers in pick locations |
| Size/weight | Appropriate slot size |
| Product type | Temperature, hazmat, etc. |
| FIFO/FEFO | Date-sensitive placement |
| Batch/lot | Keep lots together |
| Available space | Current utilization |
Put-Away Metrics
- Put-away rate - Units or pallets per hour
- Dock-to-stock time - Hours from arrival to available
- Location accuracy - % placed in correct location
- Space utilization - How well slots are filled
Put-Away Best Practices
- Don’t delay - Put away promptly to free dock space
- Verify locations - Scan to confirm placement
- Follow FIFO - Place new stock behind old
- Use appropriate equipment - Match MHE to product
- Communicate issues - Report problems immediately
Put-Away Equipment
- Forklifts (pallet put-away)
- Reach trucks (high rack storage)
- Pallet jacks (floor-level storage)
- Carts (small items to bins)
- Conveyors (automated systems)
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