What are Dual-Command Operations in E-commerce?
Dual-command operations are a type of warehouse management system that allows users to control two separate commands at the same time. This system allows users to simultaneously manage two different tasks, such as receiving and shipping items.
In a dual command cycle, the workers in the warehouse perform storage operations, travel to the point of retrieval, and then come back to the pickup and deposit point.
Significance of Dual-Command Operations in Warehouse Operations
Dual-command operations are a common approach in warehouse operations that allow for greater efficiency and accuracy.
- By having responsibility for the same task, dual-command operations reduce the risk of error and increase the speed of operations. This is especially useful in warehouses that are handling large numbers of orders and need to move quickly.
- Dual-command operations also facilitate communication between the two workers, ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and to the highest standards.
- In addition, dual-command operations can help streamline warehouse processes, reduce costs, and ensure customer satisfaction.
Prerequisites to Calculate Dual-Command Operations and How It Works
A warehouse requires centralized software to initaite dual-command operations. The mentioned operations are achieved using three main stacking techniques, which are named Layout A, B, and C.
- Layout A: Products are stacked vertically in a warehouse from point A to B.
- Layout B: Products are stacked vertically from point A to B, but there is a small gap in the middle of the warehouse, middle cross aisle(2v)
- Layout C: Products are placed horizontally across two points.
However, layout B has proven to be the best system for dual command operations.
The estimated travel distance for a dual command system in layout B is computed through the given formula.
E[TBB]: 1/n {(17n-1)/12n} + v X {(6n-1) / n} + a {(5n2-2) / 6n}
L determines the total vertical length, v determines the open space before a stack starts, a highlights the breadth of a stack, α is the variable, and n determines the aisle numbers. A warehouse manager can measure and use it in the given formula to deduce their unique time-frames.
Use Case With Dual-Command Operations
A warehouse in Thailand has a maximum monthly processing capacity of 30,000 goods. However, the warehouse started categorizing and processing products based on consumer consumables and manufacturing essentials. As a result, two different streamlines initiate dual-command operations. The warehouse was able to successfully process 30,000 units within 20 days instead of a month.
