Someone using a forklifts gear stick.

Vehicle Mounts and Other Mobile Innovations Enhancing Forklifts in the Warehouse

Forklifts remain an integral part of any warehouse or distribution centre (DC), however small or complex those operations might be. But like any asset within the four walls (and without), these vehicles and their drivers can achieve far greater levels of productivity and unlock new efficiencies when enhanced with the right technologies. 

Far from simply carrying goods, with the right technologies installed, forklifts can now play an even more important role in the fulfilment space. From optimising task completion times and reducing labour costs to improving workflows and overall accuracy, there are so many ways a forklift and its driver can be empowered to do more.  

In our latest article on the Knowledge Base, we discuss some of the different innovations that your organisation can leverage to transform the speed, accuracy and performance of your forklift operations. 

 

Vehicle-mounted computers and tablets 

Mobile computers and tablets – often referred to as ‘vehicle mounts’ or ‘vehicle-mounted computers’ –  are installed in the cab of a forklift to give drivers an easy way to access key applications and data without the need to rely on a traditional handheld device. This way, operators can easily check order or stock information briefly. Rather than risking taking their hands off the wheel to handle a mobile piece of hardware. 

Vehicle mounts ensure that your drivers stay fully connected to the data that they need. Without any time-consuming delays, and while still being able to quickly respond to any real-time changes. These devices are usually ruggedised to ensure they can retain peak performance. Even with the fast-paced and rough and tumble of daily warehouse operations. 

The latest models, including those from Renovotec technology partner Honeywell, feature a variety of connectivity options. Including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with support for voice-directed solutions and RFID.  

 

Industrial scanners and mobile data capture 

Data is the lifeblood of every warehouse. So it’s no surprise that barcode scanners have played such a pivotal role in their business-critical processes. Much like those working in goods in / goods out, picking and every other corner of the warehouse, forklift drivers often need a form of reliable data capture when moving goods. 

Industrial scanners are built to last with industrial-grade components that ensure long-term durability and reliability. Even during peak periods of business. When paired with an enterprise-grade scanning engine, these scanners enable forklift drivers to scan pallets, boxes and racking with speed and accuracy. 

Moreover, many scanners’ enhanced capabilities also mean that they can still read barcodes even if there is film in the way. Or if they’re damaged or poorly printed. Rugged designs also provide a range of advantages. From impact and water resistance to extreme temperatures and dust. 

 

Machine vision and fixed barcode scanning 

Alongside more traditional barcode scanners, that may be used by hand when the driver can come to a safe stop, warehouses are also relying on fixed solutions that use the positioning of the forklift itself to capture data automatically. With automation continuing to revolutionise how fulfilment businesses operate, organisations are beginning to deploy machine vision camera systems throughout their sites. 

One such application is on the forklift itself. Where fixed cameras use machine vision to automatically scan pallets and boxes. Thus, capturing information and triggering workflows without the need for the driver to waste time manually scanning. Load accuracy can then be confirmed. While reducing the time it takes to scan and move an asset. 

Machine vision camera systems not only improve productivity and the accuracy of the data they’re capturing. But also promote a safer environment for drivers and other warehouse workers. 

 

Installing RFID in forklifts

Radio-frequency identification (RFID) readers and antennas automatically identify and track assets as they move through a warehouse, and beyond. For the warehouse, this means that you can install RFID readers on forklifts to quickly identify key information on pallets. Such as its contents, reference number, recipient, delivery date and more. 

Gain real-time visibility of assets within the four walls while improving asset utilisation with the power of an RFID solution. RFID technology is designed to provide the most accurate method for rapidly identifying the movement of tags within a given space. Thus, ensuring stock always remains accounted for. 

Moreover, since it directly connects with your WMS (Warehouse management system), this also means inventory management, and other key tracking processes, can be performed automatically. All without any need for input from your operators who can focus on the job at hand.  

 

Mobile printers

There are a variety of ways that you can install mobile printing solutions in the warehouse. Depending on your workflows and processes. And forklifts are no exception.  

There are many mobile printers which are small enough, and adaptable enough, to be installed to fixed points of the forklift so that your operators can print as they go. Despite their size, these portable devices are both durable enough to take the rigorous demands of a warehouse, and reliable enough to produce high-quality labels every time.  

This allows operators to easily and efficiently print labels. Which can even be done automatically when paired to a data capture device or machine vision system within the workflow. These compact and lightweight devices have become a must for forklift operations of all sizes and complexities. 

 

Voice-directed technology 

Voice-directed technology is known for its key ‘hands-free’ and ‘eyes-free’ benefits. This well-established but still hugely relevant technology enables workers to continue to focus on the task at hand. Without needing to stop and check instructions on devices.  

This makes voice greatly beneficial for workers who are operating machinery or transport such as forklifts. As they can be connected to their workflow and continue receiving instructions. But without needing to glance or interact with terminals. They can also give their own instructions in real time via voice prompts.  

Besides increasing efficiency and speed in processes, this also improves safety for both drivers and other warehouse workers. As forklift drivers can stay focused on their surroundings. Furthermore, this innovative technology can seamlessly integrate with your other software systems and workflows to create an end-to-end solution that streamlines warehouse operations.  

 

Conclusion: Technology solutions are taking forklifts up a gear 

There is a range of innovative cutting-edge technologies that are transforming the modern warehouse to increase efficiency, productivity and cost-effectiveness in operations.  

However, these technologies are not only easy to install but, as they enhance existing processes, can also be easily integrated into your operations with a minimal transition period. Providing a rapid ROI with extensive and immediately visible results. 

 

Contact us today to find out more about a tailored end-to-end technology solution that will unlock greater operational efficiency in your forklift processes.  

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