Special Report: 7 Operations and Fulfillment Tips to Boost Efficiency

7. Streamline functions wherever possible. Three areas — picking, packing and returns processing — account for up to 60 percent to 80 percent of the labor cost in most retailers' distribution centers. Look at each of these areas to determine how to reduce the work required.

In picking, 60 percent of pickers' time is spent walking. Slot fast-moving product (which is likely 20 percent to 30 percent of your inventory) in closer proximity to reduce pick time. Are there other picking methods like cart/bin, pick to light or voice pick that will increase production?