Automated Warehouse and Buffer - Processes, Systems and Automation
What is an automated warehouse and buffer?
An automated warehouse and buffer system is used to store goods efficiently and make them available exactly when needed within a warehouse or distribution centre.
Storage systems manage inventory over longer periods, while buffer systems temporarily hold goods between process steps. Together, they ensure a continuous and controlled material flow across receiving, picking and dispatch.
As order volumes increase and operations become more dynamic, automated storage and buffering are essential to maintain throughput, accuracy and scalability. Automated systems provide a more efficient alternative to manual storage by optimising space utilisation, reducing handling effort and improving process reliability.
How automated warehouse and buffer systems work
Automated warehouse and buffer systems manage the storage, retrieval and temporary staging of goods within a warehouse or distribution centre.
Goods are received, identified and transferred to storage locations using conveyor systems, shuttles or storage and retrieval machines. Warehouse management and control systems determine where goods are stored based on factors such as demand, availability and process requirements.
Buffer systems temporarily hold goods between process steps, ensuring that downstream operations are supplied continuously. When goods are required, they are retrieved automatically and transported to picking, packing or dispatch areas.
In automated environments, all movements are coordinated to create a continuous and efficient material flow across the entire system.
Benefits of automated warehouse and buffer systems
Automated warehouse and buffer systems support more efficient and reliable logistics operations.
By optimising storage space, including vertical capacity, they increase storage density and reduce the overall footprint of the warehouse. Automation also reduces manual handling, leading to more consistent processes and improved operational safety.
Fast and reliable retrieval ensures that goods are available when needed, supporting higher throughput and faster order fulfilment. At the same time, integrated systems improve accuracy and reduce errors in storage and retrieval processes.
In addition, automation increases transparency by providing real-time visibility of inventory and material flow across the warehouse.
Warehouse and buffer use cases
Buffer systems are used to decouple different process steps such as receiving, picking and shipping. They ensure that goods are available when needed, even if upstream or downstream processes operate at different speeds. This helps to reduce bottlenecks and stabilise the overall material flow.
Automated pallet warehouses are designed to handle large volumes efficiently.
Storage and retrieval machines and shuttle-based systems enable high-density storage and reliable handling of pallets and large load carriers. Depending on the application, goods can be stored according to FIFO or LIFO principles.
For smaller units, highly dynamic storage systems are used to support fast and efficient operations.
Shuttle systems supply goods directly to picking workstations using the goods-to-person principle. This reduces travel distances and increases picking performance.
Automated small parts warehouses also provide fast and reliable access to stored goods in both distribution and production environments.
GEBHARDT Implements State-of-the-Art Logistics Centre at REISSER
GEBHARDT, as a general contractor, implemented a state-of-the-art, scalable system together with its partners, which is a comprehensive solution across the various warehouse areas and meets the requirements of REISSER's further growth. The integrated digital network has substantially improved the process quality of the state-of-the-art and customer-oriented logistics and the delivery quality.
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