Application of the analytic hierarchy process in the selection of storage rack systems for e-commerce clothing industry

Abstract

Purpose- In this study, it was aimed to select the appropriate storage rack system for e-commerce clothing industry, by comparing storage rack systems in terms of criteria such as cost, volume utilization, height utilization, ease of order picking and stock cycle speed. Methodology- First of all a literature review is carried out. Secondly, the comparison of the storage systems is made and the ones that are suitable for the e-commerce sector and that will be included in the AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process) analysis are determined. Finally, a semistructured interview is done with 3 e-commerce sector representatives and the AHP method is used to analyze the data. Findings- Considering the usage areas, features, advantages and disadvantages; it was decided to include Back-to-Back and Narrow Aisle and Automatic Storage Systems in the AHP analysis. Back-to-Back Rack System was found to be first with 36.2% ratio. Automatic Storage Systems are in the second place due to their cost disadvantage although they are advantageous for all other criteria. Narrow Aisle Rack System is in the third place, although it more cost-effective than the Automatic Storage Systems, it falls behind it in terms of other criteria, especially the inventory cycle speed criterion. Conclusion- As a result of the study using AHP multi-criteria decision-making method, Back-to-Back Rack System was evaluated as the most suitable storage rack system for e-commerce clothing sector.