New trends in warehouse management emerge every year, thanks in large part to innovation driven by technological development. But what trends to watch out for in 2023?
Thanks in part to the rise of e-commerce in recent years, the number of companies using warehousing and storage facilities has increased steadily in recent years: more than 30% between 2007 and 2021 in the United States alone.
As an increasing number of companies have begun to use these facilities, the demand for advances and developments in their management has similarly grown.
Many of the warehouse management trends highlighted below are based on innovative new technologies that simplify previously complex processes.
Others reflect another trend in the modern world: a growing emphasis among companies, as well as demand among consumers, for ethical and sustainable practices.
Contact us at today if you need assistance with the installation of a warehouse in Brazil, Mexico or the United States, including the placement of items such as shelving, signage, collision barriers or warehouse floor markings.
Or read on to better understand the seven warehouse management trends to watch out for in 2023.
1. Warehouse automation
Until a few years ago, warehouses were managed by people, who performed most tasks and workloads alone or by operating machinery. However, things are moving fast and today many warehouses are working with automated processes and AI to make workflows more efficient and to increase the safety of operations.
That is why one of the latest trends in warehouse management is the automation of everyday tasks with guided vehicles or autonomous robots, such as driverless forklifts. Technology is now involved in all operations, from transportation to stock counting.
Effective warehouse management makes use of today’s robotic tools to make processes more efficient, avoid personnel errors and increase the safety of operations.
Warehouse management systems
Upgrading warehouse management systems allows for greater control of operations. It is important to stay ahead of the curve in this regard and make use of modern technologies to reduce the human error factor. Warehouse management systems can make use of artificial intelligence, big data and automation to simplify the complexity of day-to-day operations.
Increased data analysis enables more efficient operation of . An effective system provides reports on the location of items and the number of inventories. It also allows for greater control and trends in warehouse management are increasingly focused on identifying areas that need significant improvement.
AI and machine learning also create exciting new opportunities for inventory management, from predicting how customer demand and therefore supply fluctuates, to identifying wastage and blockage within the supply chain.
Inventory tracking
State-of-the-art optimized inventory tracking uses advanced technologies, such as radio frequency, to find and track items over long distances.
The use of such a system is particularly useful, as it allows tracking of all items leaving the warehouse up to the time of delivery. Cloud-based inventory tracking allows central nodes to manage multiple warehouses in concert with increasing efficiency.
The right system allows you to not only track, but also provide timely data. This alerts you to potential shortages at times of high demand, and since the technology is already in use, its further development and use is key among the warehouse management trends for 2023.
4. Portable technology
Another major trend in warehouse management that will continue to develop and revolutionize the way warehouses operate is wearable technology. These devices, which are worn on the body like a common garment, help employees obtain information about items in the warehouse.
A clear example of this type of technology is smart glasses with integrated scanners that allow the user to recognize and identify objects more easily. This helps to avoid human error and also frees up employee resources to focus on issues that require human intervention.
Other wearable technology includes powered exoskeletons such as those from Italian company AGADE. This reduces the likelihood of injury to workers, while improving the potential workload of each worker.
5. Warehouse security
Modern department stores have incorporated high security measures to guarantee the various types of existing risks. New technologies have strengthened security systems, such as alarms, security cameras, inventory tracking and smart locks. Many systems are connected to each other.
However, it is important to note that the latest trends in warehouse management also include cybersecurity, given the increasing reliance on technology and the Internet seen in this type of facility.
Inventory and operations management, as well as the total amount of information that is online, could be breached if they are not sufficiently protected against the risks. There is also a risk that ransomware could be used to block or restrict access to the warehouse.
6. Sustainable storage
Warehouses are spaces that often produce a lot of waste that, unfortunately, damages the environment. With increasing attention being paid to environmental issues, another emerging trend in warehouse management is the development of more sustainable practices.
The measures taken are often based on recycling or the purchase of second-hand items. For example, in the case of the purchase of pallet racks or large plastic containers.
Low energy consumption is another key objective. For example, forklift trucks can use the electrical energy from and lighting and heating systems can take advantage of intelligent energy management. These measures not only reduce pollution, but are also cost-effective.
7. The introduction of drones
One of the latest trends in warehouse management that will grow in 2023 is the use of drones for inventory management, including picking, packing and delivery.
Drones do not work alone, but in conjunction with other tools such as cameras and sensors, and their use has the advantage of replacing many repetitive and laborious tasks. They are also used to read and process images remotely.
Including drones in warehouse operations is no longer science fiction; it is now part of everyday reality and, of course, is an important trend that enables faster and more efficient processes. This will only increase in the coming years as robots and drones take over more and more processes.
Serviap Logistics offers warehouse picking services
Serviap Logistics offers warehouse assembly services in Brazil, Mexico and the United States.
This includes signage, shelving, labels, floor markings and collision protection. We oversee the installation, remodeling or relocation of your warehouse from start to finish.
We also offer project management services and can advise you on how the latest trends in warehouse management could benefit you.
We count among our satisfied partners some of the world’s largest companies, spanning a wide range of industries, including automotive, e-commerce and wholesale, among others.
As a family business that has grown internationally after starting in Mexico, we are committed to excellence and pride ourselves in offering personalized service to every customer.
We are also dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards wherever we operate, including OSHA certification in the United States.
Contact us at for more information on how we can help you mark your warehouse floor.
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