Inventory can be located using one of three basic systems:
- Fixed Location
- This is normally used for fast-moving items
- A specific part identification is allocated to a specific location
- Staff know exactly where the material or product is located
- Random Location
- Incoming stock is allocated to the next available area against specific criteria such as size, weight, and/or quantity, by the Warehouse Management System (WMS)
- Using barcoding or RFID in conjunction with this method can help staff locate products efficiently
- Zoned Location
- Items stored in specific locations determined by the characteristics of the item
- Specific personnel work in specific areas and become familiar with locations