Chaotic storage

In most cases, warehousing is static, i.e. articles are assigned to fixed locations in the warehouse. With chaotic or dynamic warehousing, on the other hand, constantly changing and arbitrary storage locations are allocated that are available at the time. The whole process is independent of the product group, manufacturer or other distinguishing features. Only individual characteristics, such as dimensions or weight of the articles, are taken into account.

The system of chaotic warehousing may sound chaotic at first, but to ensure that it does not become chaotic, the use of a warehouse management system is a basic requirement. The system controls the storage locations, assigns them and manages the inventory data of the items.

Advantages of chaotic storage:

• Optimal use of the available storage capacities
• Clarity through the use of the warehouse management system
• Time saving, as storage locations are allocated according to availability and not manually
• Reduction of fixed costs that arise in static storage due to unused space
• Shortening of travel times, as storage areas that can be reached most quickly are used

Disadvantages of chaotic storage:

• High investment costs for the warehouse management system
• Risk of system failure
• Items with certain storage conditions, such as refrigerated goods, are not suitable for chaotic storage.
• Requires high discipline on the part of the people involved