A proposed hybrid storage assignment framework: a case study

Abstract

Purpose – A hybrid storage assignment (combination class-volume-based) framework considering quality proximity, customer and material categorization are key distinguished contents of this paper. In spite of using individual storage allocation approach, the hybrid allocation policy performs better under certain environment. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – Although it has been proved that every storage assignment policy has their advantages and limitations, one or more storage assignment policies with combination of zoning and layout design can be used together for further improvement. The authors have conducted this study at warehouse of a manufacturing firm that produce only single product with varieties of material and quality criteria. Picking optimization includes elimination of non-value-added activities like unwanted forklift and package movements, time and distance traveled for retrieval as well as storage. Other allied operations with respect to customer acceptance level and resource utilization are also considered. Findings – The time and distance from manufacturing point to storage location are accountable as it also contributes to picking performance. Originality/value – Quality-based cluster analysis is carried out to find out closeness among customers, which is used to propose algorithm with new layout design, zoning and storage allocation policy.