Introduction to Warehouse Operations

In its simplest form, “warehousing” is the storage of goods until they are needed. The goal of warehouse operations is to satisfy customers’ needs and requirements while utilizing space, equipment, and labor effectively. The goods must be accessible and protected.

Meeting this goal requires constant planning and ongoing change.

How does your organization view warehouse operations? Some will say it is an unavoidable cost of doing business, others that it is a necessary service to our customers. A few will say it is a valued part of our publishing program. While we all agree that warehousing is an unavoidable cost and that it provides a necessary service to our customers, do we also agree that it is a valued part of our publishing program?

I believe we do. The only question is who should handle warehousing needs: should we do our own or let someone else do it for us? Either way, the effectiveness of warehousing operations certainly will contribute to how your customers perceive your organization. You can publish great books, but for them to receive high praise, your customers need to receive them promptly and in good condition.

Do you know your customers? Do you, for example, consider other departments in your organization to be customers? If not, there could be trouble. The needs of all of your customers must be considered in all warehouse-planning activities. Otherwise, rather than meeting their needs, you probably are reacting to their demands.

How can I solve this problem? How can I meet this need? Those of us in warehousing are continuously asking ourselves such questions. I have never found a one-fits-all solution to the challenges I have faced. Each problem can have multiple solutions.

Such factors as available space, equipment, personnel, and investment capital, as well as a willingness to change, help determine which solutions are available to us. I hope the following information will help you find solutions to the challenges you face.