A New Era for Warehousing
Warehousing is changing fast, automation and AI are no longer future tools, they’re here now. From robots picking orders to AI predicting demand, logistics is becoming tech driven.
But even in an automated world, human workers remain critical to fill labor gaps, manage unusual tasks, and handle complex tasks. Though AI and automation are changing things, warehouse temp staffing is still a vital part to a successful warehouse.
The Rise of Automation in Warehousing
Though automation feels like a new development there has been automation in the warehouse industry since the 1950’s. The Unimate arm, which was the first hydraulic arm used in warehouses, was first introduced in 1954. So for anyone panicking about automation in warehouses, realize robotics has been in warehouses for almost 75 years and warehouses still need human workers.
Robotics for picking and packing have evolved. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and robotic arms are helping to speed up fulfillment. Conveyor and sorting systems are helping to reduce manual handling and errors. This technology is best used for repetitive tasks so human workers can work on higher skilled jobs.
Automated inventory management has also benefited from automation and AI. Sensors, drones, and RFID for real-time tracking helps keep everyone organized and on track to meet goals.
The impact of automation is resulting in faster turnaround and fewer repetitive injuries. This does not replace the need for temp labor or for tech savvy labor to run the robotics.
AI’s Growing Role in Warehouse Logistics
AI is a newer development but is impacting warehouse logistics just the same. Demand forecasting is benefiting from AI models predicting order surges and seasonal peaks. The improved forecasting helps managers know when to find more warehouse workers.
AI also improves route optimization for shipping and for picking and packing routes. With AI optimization, new hire picking and packing can quickly learn how to move around the warehouse efficiently.
With AI managers can more efficiently plan labor. AI is helping managers know when to scale up or scale down staff to meet real time demand. Managers can use temp agencies near you or warehouse job apps to scale their workforce.
AI is also useful for spotting defects or mis-picks faster than humans alone. Using AI in this role also helps reduce repetitive tasks for human staff.
AI can guide when and how many workers are needed, but flexible temp staffing makes it possible to respond.
The Human Side of Automated Warehousing
Humans still matter, machines can’t handle exceptions, customer service, or complex decision-making.
New workers should work to build skills in tech oversight, problem-solving, and adaptability. These skills will become more valuable as AI and Automation evolves.
Flex labor is a solution to staff flexibly. Temp labor fills unpredictable staffing gaps created by tech transitions. Managers can also find warehouse staff to scale their workforce up or down based on AI forecasts.
On-demand staffing apps let managers instantly post shifts and find pickers and packers. Workers can pick up warehouse shifts that fit their schedule.
Challenges of Balancing Automation and Staffing
Automation requires a big investment and has upfront costs. Large scale automation is only being used by massive warehouses such as Amazon. Staffing is still a faster and more cost effective fix for most warehouses.
Integrating tech can streamline one part of logistics while creating bottlenecks in another. So it’s best to build in tech integration piece by piece. And to integrate tech before the rush of the busy season hits.
Over relying on tech can create challenges as well. Systems fail and AI can make mistakes. Flexible labor can help prevent downtime when there are gaps in the system.
Transitioning workforce to work with more tech centered logistics is a process. Retraining staff and supplementing with temporary warehouse workers means training needs to be clear and concise.
The Future is Hybrid: Tech + People
AI and automation are transforming warehouses, but people remain the backbone of logistics. Managers who combine tech with smart staffing strategies to staff warehouse shifts have the most resilient operations.
Ready to future-proof your logistics? Use Bacon’s warehouse job app to find reliable staff and keep your warehouse running efficiently.
