From a logistics point of view, the kitting companies offer an effective system in logistics warehouses named kitting process. It is mainly for eCommerce fulfillment companies that manufacture electronic products (mobile phones, kitchen appliances) and even car factories. This strategy speeds up the assembly process, reduces errors thanks to the specialization of the operators, and manages to reduce the costs associated with the process.
If you want to discover all the details and special features of kitting companies, keep reading!
How do we define the kitting process?
Kitting is a logistics process or service that mainly involves bringing together the different pieces that make up a product to create a package. After gathering all the product materials into a single kit, it is sent to the next phase of the process, where the warehouse operators will proceed to assemble it. By anticipating this step, the proper functioning of the logistics chain is guaranteed efficiently, without delays or errors.
Today, kitting is a standard process, from creating electrical appliances to building cars.
Differences between kitting and VAS
Sometimes doubts may arise regarding the preparation of kits and the VAS (value-added service) technique, the well-known process of supplying a production line. Although they seem similar, there are some significant differences, and they are the following:
The VAS consists explicitly of the customization or transformation of a specific product according to the end customer’s demands. In logistical terms, they respond to the needs of the target audience.
In contrast, kitting companies propose a technique whose main objective is to streamline the assembly process to work more efficiently and quickly during the rest of the logistics process. Although both methods are different and are implemented in different ways, it is possible that they can coexist simultaneously.
How to organize the warehouse focused on kitting?
The preparation of the packs or kits must be carried out using suitable storage systems for this task; only this way can the process be efficient and organized. But what characteristics must these storage racks meet? They must:
- Be versatile to be able to handle different types of products.
- Facilitate access to materials in a visible and fast way.
- Contribute to a good organization by references to optimize the movements of workers.
The most suitable racks to carry out the kitting process are:
- Dynamic shelves: To store small parts or materials, the best organization will be through picking or manual loading shelves. They offer convenient and quick access and are specially designed for manual handling of materials where operators have great ease in extracting products without using machinery.
- Pallet racks: The best choice will be pallet racks if we talk about large products. It is a versatile system that allows immediate access to the entire load, which is essential in this kitting system.
Advantages of applying kitting in a warehouse
Although kitting is a process that requires excellent involvement and organization on the part of the company and the operators, when it is applied correctly, it is efficient and effective, providing significant benefits during the logistics process:
- Optimization of time and workspace: The storage space is used to the maximum thanks to grouping materials in packs. In addition, the times decrease since the movements of the operators are more minor.
- Improve productivity: Having products grouped in kits help to improve inventory organization while the supply chain is fluid and has no interruptions.
- Error reduction: The specialization of workers in each position minimizes the appearance of failures in the process thanks to organization and classification.
- Savings in costs associated with the process: With the operators’ savings in time and management, the costs associated with the entire logistics process are considerably reduced.
- Greater efficiency and inventory control: The inventory is up-to-date and accurate information on the parts is available on site. This advanced preparation of the packs allows the assembly process to be continuous and without interruptions.
Is Kitting automation necessary?
Many kitting companies are currently automating their logistics warehouses to obtain more incredible performance. This automation reduces the risk of error and improves stock control. It also provides greater merchandise security and reduces the time during all logistics processes.
Today, a warehouse management system (SGA) is the best tool for optimizing management and keeping complete control of the inventory and the products involved in preparing the kits.
