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How Warehouse Automation Solves 3 Major Operational Challenges
Automation advancements are significantly transforming how businesses operate and evaluate efficiency. The material handling sector is no exception, especially with the growth of warehouse automation. At Vitan Equipment, we assist our customers in optimizing their warehouse space by taking a comprehensive approach to their facility needs – from their equipment fleet and racking systems to shelving, loading docks, and beyond.
According to the 2025 Automation Solutions Study by Modern Materials Handling, 42% of respondents reported using a combination of automated and manual processes in their warehouse operations. This clearly indicates a growing trend toward automation within the industry. With the right material handling partner, challenges in warehouse operations can be tackled with innovative automated solutions, boosting efficiency, safety, and profitability.
Here are some of the challenges our customers are currently facing and how automation can offer solutions:
Labor Shortages
Many of our customers are struggling with labor shortages in the warehousing and distribution sectors, but there is a positive side.
Repetitive tasks in warehouse operations present an ideal opportunity for automation. These labor-intensive and difficult-to-staff tasks not only result in potential equipment damage but also pose safety risks for employees. Introducing automation allows warehouses to maintain operations during staffing shortages, while improving both efficiency and safety. By embracing automation, companies can reduce reliance on manual labor, enabling employees to focus on higher-value, strategic tasks. This approach helps alleviate labor shortage challenges and boosts employee satisfaction and retention.
To explore our automated guided vehicle solutions, visit our AGV page.
Equipment Downtime
A proactive service approach, such as planned or full maintenance programs, can significantly reduce downtime. However, warehouse automation solutions can elevate the efficiency of your fleet even further.
Lithium-ion-powered forklifts and automated vehicles are setting a new benchmark for efficiency in product movement. Lithium-ion technology ensures maximum safety and predictability, even in demanding industrial applications. Integrating automation into your workflow not only enhances safety but also drastically reduces downtime and other operational variables, such as staffing issues.
Inefficient Racking and Shelving Layouts
Addressing labor shortages and minimizing fleet downtime may not fully solve your challenges if your racking and shelving layouts are inefficient. A well-designed racking system is essential for maximizing storage space. Automation can also play a crucial role in optimizing this part of your warehouse operations. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) can accurately place and retrieve items, allowing for denser storage configurations and reducing the need for wide aisles.
There are various racking solutions tailored to your specific needs, depending on the materials being stored and their movement frequency. Additionally, multiple automated solutions are available to complement and enhance these systems.
Successfully Implementing Warehouse Automation
The future of warehousing will be shaped by ongoing automation advancements. If you haven’t begun incorporating automated solutions into your operations, now is the time to start. As automation continues to evolve, the warehousing industry will become more efficient, resilient, and better prepared to meet shifting demands.
As your business adapts to these changes, we are here to help you choose the right automated solutions as your trusted material handling partner.
Contact us today to speak with a material handling expert!