As logistics consultants, we often get asked: “When is the right time to automate?” The short answer is :… “sooner than you think, but with strategic planning and timing.”
Warehouse automation isn’t just for large scale operations anymore. Advancements in robotics, AI, and cloud-based WMS systems mean that automation is now accessible to mid-sized and even growing smaller businesses. The best time to automate is when manual processes begin to impact your bottom line. For example, through shipment delays, rising labour costs, or stock inaccuracies. Obvious signs that your business cannot scale include :-
- Your order volume is increasing but your team can't keep up
- You are expanding your SKU range, but storage and picking are inefficient
- Your error rate is creeping up, impacting on customer satisfaction and rectification time
Seasonal peaks also offer an opportunity. If your business sees dramatic Q4 surges, implementing automation just before that rush can dramatically improve throughput without scrambling for seasonal labour.
However, timing also depends on your readiness. A phased automation strategy starting with high-impact areas like order picking or inventory tracking allows for faster ROI and smoother adoption.
The best time to automate isn’t just a date on the calendar, it’s when your operation demands more speed, accuracy, and scalability than your manual processes can deliver. If you’re approaching that point, give Davies & Robson a call on 01327 349090 or email daveboulton@daviesrobson.co.uk Now is the time to start planning because in logistics, agility is everything.
