In traditional logistics operations, the majority of products move and are stored on pallets. Pallets are stored on pallet racks or on the floor, stacked in a single row or several rows on top of each other, depending on product type, dimensions, and storage strategies.

In e-commerce logistics, on the other hand, since orders are received on a unit basis and the nature of the business requires faster operations while keeping less stock, there are many different storage methods for products.

The following criteria are decisive in determining the storage methods in e-commerce logistics:

• Product type

• Product dimensions

• Number of product units to be kept in the warehouse

• Inventory turnover rate

Knowing these basic characteristics is sufficient to decide which products to store with which method. Storing the right product with the right method will align perfectly with daily fulfillment needs, reduce costs, and increase efficiency by enabling a higher volume of product dispatch.

So, how should we store which products for ultimate efficiency?

For example, if our products are small stationery items such as pens, sharpeners, or staples, the best solution would be to store these products in addressed small boxes. Likewise, small boxes are the most appropriate solution for cosmetics and personal care products, or accessories and jewelry.

If your products are small home decoration materials, blankets, bedspreads, shawls, hats, etc., using addressed medium-sized boxes will be the most accurate choice. This way, you can easily find the products and quickly start the packaging process.

If your products are larger in volume and have a high inventory turnover rate, such as bags, pots, and pans, the most accurate solution would be to use large boxes located on the shelves.

If the products are large dimensional weight and heavy products such as disassembled furniture or home decoration products, the operationally correct method is to store them in the same way they arrive at the warehouse on pallets, and to dispatch them by picking directly from the pallet as orders arrive.

For hanging textile products, it is necessary to use hanging rack systems that will not deform the shape of these products.

It should not be forgotten that the right inventory and picking strategy is one of the most important factors that will affect e-commerce order preparation performance.