According to the UN, the fashion industry is responsible for a staggering 8-10% of the world’s carbon emissions. It’s imperative, therefore, that businesses in this sector switch to using more sustainable resources, not only in terms of fabrics, but right across their supply chains.
In this post we’ll look at how apparel e-commerce fulfillment can reduce their carbon footprint quickly – and reap the rewards of better apparel organization – using modular storage solutions.
The modern apparel e-commerce fulfillment challenge
Warehouses face a number of challenges. They need to ensure that space is utilized as efficiently as possible, and respond to rapidly changing inventory demands.
Modular racking systems offer a promising solution: Providing the customized storage configurations needed to make optimal use of space in the warehouse – with the added ability to accommodate, and provide easy access to, a diverse range of stock items.
Modular systems like PALLITE PIX can enhance an e-commerce warehouse organization, with adjustable shelving and sorting options that help to streamline inventory management. PALLITE PIX and PIX SLOTS storage units are inherently flexible and scalable, allowing operations managers to quickly expand or reconfigure layouts whenever required. This flexibility works to improve workflow efficiencies, and reduce operational costs.
The setup of an e-commerce distribution center
Apparel distribution warehouses are characterized by the diverse array of items they need to store, from larger coats, to accessories and footwear, each with varying weights and sizes.
In the apparel industry inventory is constantly changing, too, with the seasonal nature of fashion adding an extra layer of complexity. Warehouses need to manage surges in demand, and shifts in inventory styles, throughout the year. This demand requires adaptable storage solutions that can be quickly reconfigured, to enable efficient inventory management and the distribution of orders as quickly as possible.
Pain points of traditional warehouses.
Inefficient use of space, with static shelving and fixed layouts often lead to underused storage capacity. A lack of proper organization in a warehouse also makes it difficult to access items easily, slowing down order fulfillment, and increasing labor costs.
Inventory management is another area which can be problematic, where products are not visible enough, leading to overstocking or stockouts. The high return rates experienced by apparel retailers exacerbates problems in the warehouse further, leading to restocking and quality control issues.
By implementing modern, flexible warehouse storage solutions, introducing automation, and making use of data-driven analytics, warehouse managers can alleviate many of their pain points – and make operations more efficient and cost-effective.
Why modular racking is perfect for clothing
Modular racking systems are ideal for addressing the dynamic needs of clothing warehouses. Their adaptability means they can deal with a diverse range of clothing items, from smaller accessories to bulky winter garments. The fact they can be easily reconfigured facilitates seamless adjustments during seasons, and optimizes use of space as fashion trends shift.
Modular racking also excels in making the most of vertical space in the warehouse, reducing the need to expand the premises to accommodate rising levels of inventory.
PIX Systems: A Game-Changer for E-commerce Fulfillment
The PALLITE® PIX® range of storage solutions includes warehouse racking systems with built in skids. These have proved a game-changer for clothing warehouses worldwide. PALLITE® PIX® storage bins have a unique strength and durability, making them ideal for storing apparel and accessories of all types.
Another benefit of PIX® units is that they tend to be more resistant to mould and mildew than many of their traditional counterparts.
PALLITE® PIX® also offers a high number of customization options so storage units can be configured to your exact needs. Adjustable shelving and dividers mean a wide variety of clothing sizes and styles can be accommodated, whilst maximizing space efficiency.
PIX® storage systems are extremely lightweight compared to metal or wooden alternatives, making them easy to handle and configure as inventory changes. They’re also easy to assemble without any specialist equipment, saving on labor costs, with little to no ongoing maintenance issues.
PALLITE® PIX® warehouse storage systems can be used for both short and long-term stock requirements, making them adaptable to the seasonal nature of the fashion industry.
Addressing high return rates with modular solutions
Modular warehouse storage solutions like PALLITE® PIX® can play a crucial role in helping to mitigate the challenges posed by high return rates. Their adaptability allows for efficient reconfiguration of storage spaces, to accommodate various types of returned items, reducing the need to find additional storage infrastructure.
Customizable shelving and dividers make it easier to sort, and assess, returned merchandise, streamlining the return and restocking processes.
How to organize clothing inventory – sustainably
PALLITE® PIX® offers a sustainable approach to e-commerce fulfillment which can help businesses become more environmentally responsible. PIX® storage bins are made from recycled paper, and are recyclable at the end of their lifetime, all of which adds to the circular economy more and more companies are striving towards. PIX® products are durable and can be used over the longer term, reducing any need for frequent and expensive replacements.
Success stories with modular racking
Successful ecommerce company Trendhim switched to PALLITE® PIX® products to take their warehouse racking to the next level. The company was looking for a warehouse storage system that could improve their flexibility and pick accuracy, so they could grow their business.
Trendhim incorporated a combination of single and twin-sided PIX® storage units and created a greater pick face density that simultaneously enabled pickers to access their smaller fashion accessories more easily.
Trendhim also wanted a sustainable solution, and PALLITE® PIX®’s 100% recyclable cardboard units fitted the bill perfectly – providing them with a durable and flexible system that helped the company streamline product returns and reduce walk sequences.
With the help of PALLITE® PIX®, Trendhim boosted their product range significantly, with the company now employing over 100 staff.
The future of clothing warehousing
E-commerce fulfillment is undergoing a fundamental shift, with innovative solutions like PALLITE® PIX® helping to boost efficiencies and sustainability. PALLITE®’s customizable and lightweight skids, racks and storage bins offer a durable alternative to traditional storage methods whilst reducing carbon footprints and material waste.
PALLITE® products are modular and adaptable and integrate with smart technology for inventory tracking and retrieval optimization which promises to streamline operational efficiencies even further.
If you’re looking for an innovative warehouse storage solution to help with apparel e-commerce fulfillment that puts sustainability at its core, we should talk. PALLITE® products can help you reduce your carbon footprint. PALLITE® PIX® storage bins can also ensure your products are well organized and accessible, reducing pick times and speeding up fulfillment rates.
