{"id":15107,"date":"2026-04-02T08:37:41","date_gmt":"2026-04-02T08:37:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peoplevoxprod.wpengine.com\/opinion\/the-8-warehouse-jobs-that-robots-cant-do\/"},"modified":"2026-04-02T08:37:45","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T08:37:45","slug":"the-8-warehouse-jobs-that-robots-cant-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/en-us\/blog\/the-8-warehouse-jobs-that-robots-cant-do\/","title":{"rendered":"The 8 Warehouse Jobs That Robots Can\u2019t Do\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 background_size=\u201dinitial\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_repeat=\u201drepeat\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_padding__hover=\u201d|||\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_heading title=\u201dKey takeaways\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Robots are not yet a complete solution for ecommerce warehouses. Human workers remain essential for decision-making, problem-solving, and quality control.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Many core warehouse tasks, such as buying, returns handling, and inventory control, still require human judgement and flexibility that robots cannot replicate.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Software automation, particularly warehouse management systems (WMS), delivers immediate efficiency gains by improving accuracy, visibility, and workflow execution.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>The most effective approach today is a hybrid model, using automation to support workers, not replace them, to drive productivity and reduce errors.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p><span>Robots have the world at their metal fingertips. The potential of robotics is massive. The promise that they give to improve efficiency across all areas of the warehouse is impressive. So, what\u2019s the catch?<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>At the moment, they\u2019re not the easy cure that everyone wants them to be. They\u2019re largely unproven.<\/li>\n<li>They\u2019re not yet fit for use in most ecommerce warehouses, where people will remain the most important resource for the foreseeable future.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>What are the jobs that robots can\u2019t do? And how can automation be employed to support human workers in the warehouse? Click through the slides, or scroll down this blog, to find out.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dTable of contents\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#Buying\">Buying<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Picking\">Picking<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Receivinginbound\">Receiving inbound<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Putaway\">Put away<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Replenishment\">Replenishment<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Returns\">Returns<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Stockcontrol\">Stock control<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Inventorycounting\">Inventory counting<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#FAQs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dBuying\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dBuying\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p>The responsibilities involved with buying can be split into three separate functions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span>Deciding which products to buy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span>Deciding which supplier to buy from.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span>Deciding on the freight that should be used.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div>All of these tasks currently require human input. Deciding which supplier to buy from will become far easier in the near future when AI helps to speed up the development of the Collaborative Supply Chain; a concept for companies across the supply chain to share more information in order to experience dramatic improvements to inventory management and enjoy subsequent cost reductions.In this way, software automation will help out human buyers with some of their admin tasks, but people will still be needed to get the job done properly.\u00a0<\/div>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dPicking\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dPicking\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p>There are some pretty cool picking robots out there. If you haven\u2019t seen how Ocado\u2019s incredibly impressive \u2018swarm\u2019 of robots handle picking at its distribution centre, check out the video below.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_video src=\u201dhttps:\/\/youtu.be\/XJqsdprXF5c?si=_uf79WVUHtiE7P_X\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_video][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p>These robots look cool, and they undoubtedly improve efficiency, but they aren\u2019t yet ready to deliver on ROI for the majority. Ocado\u2019s investments haven\u2019t had a payoff in real-terms; profits and share values are decreasing and the grocer still needs an<span>\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/business\/2018\/feb\/06\/ocado-uses-150m-from-shareholders-for-warehouse-robots\">additional \u00a3150m<\/a><span>\u00a0<\/span>from their shareholders to make sure that the march of the robots is well oiled.<\/p>\n<p>Until these robots can prove that they can deliver on ROI, they\u2019re useless to most ecommerce companies. Far more useful: intelligent software like a WMS which speeds up the picking process and makes it 100% accurate every time.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dReceiving inbound\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dReceivinginbound\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p><span>Robots will have a role to play with inbound deliveries, but that role will be very much supportive. Breaking down the responsibilities at this stage and it\u2019s clear that some functions require a level of concentration, physicality and tact that robots don\u2019t have (yet):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span>Measuring compliance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span>Managing human resource requirements.<\/span><\/li>\n<li>\u00a0Determining whether items were delivered as expected.<\/li>\n<li>Breaking down boxes and rebuilding ready for put away.<\/li>\n<li>Quality control assurance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This area needs an overhaul to increase accuracy and speed. Software automation can help with the more administrative tasks. And physical automation with the breaking down of boxes, all aspects will still need people to work.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dPut away\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 module_id=\u201dPutaway\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p><span>Here, physical automation will be a great help in speeding up the put away process. But again, it won\u2019t be able to run autonomously. It should work hand in glove with a human workforce. W<\/span><span>alking is the biggest time-waster in a warehouse. That\u2019s why why physical automation will be such a godsend.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span>Physical automation that speeds up the movement of goods, and people, from point A to point B should be welcomed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span>This doesn\u2019t need to be complicated: it could be something that a worker rides on around the warehouse, or a conveyor belt that helps to transport goods.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span>More complex robotics will need to prove return on investment (ROI) to have any viability.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dReplenishment\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dReplenishment\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p>Replenishment, or the act of moving items from bulk to pick locations, is a job for a man or a woman with their machines in tow. They need to know the right amount of stock to bring across from bulk, and they need to transport this stock in a timely fashion.<\/p>\n<p>While there are robots in development to take over all replenishment tasks, the overall benefits are not yet strong enough to justify the investment.<\/p>\n<p>But improvements still need to be made. That\u2019s where software comes in to help out with:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Improving warehouse layouts and organisation.<\/li>\n<li>Eliminating stock-outs from inaccurate forecasts.<\/li>\n<li>Delivering real cost benefits through removing human error and increasing efficiencies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dReturns\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dReturns\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p>Currently, this is a job that is almost exclusively being handled by the ground staff in the warehouse, albeit in some cases with the assistance of a WMS that helps to keep track of subsequent inventory changes. It\u2019s a process that needs to be speeded up.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Physical and software automation should be introduced here to help move things along a bit faster:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Conveyors can speed up the movement of goods from when they were received to the returns desk.<\/li>\n<li>Software can help out greatly with quality assurance.<\/li>\n<li>And more physical automation can transport goods for sale to the appropriate area within the warehouse.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>So, humans are still very much needed at returns; they could just be helped out a bit more with the right technology.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dStock control\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dStockcontrol\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p><span>Here\u2019s how stock control works in too many ecommerce warehouses:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span>People see that items are running low or have run out in a particular bay.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span>Then the decision to restock is made, on the fly.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>Not every warehouse is as bad as this. Many have rules in place to ensure that stock levels are regularly checked and topped up, but there\u2019s still a huge reliance on humans. Robots can\u2019t help here. But software can.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Clunky, manual methods should soon die out. Technology currently exists, like a WMS, which makes controlling stock levels far easier for the people responsible. This isn\u2019t technology which will replace humans; it\u2019s technology designed to make their lives easier.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dInventory counting\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dInventorycounting\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n<p><span>Humans are needed for inventory counting. This isn\u2019t something that robotics can feasibly handle in the majority of warehouses. Neither is it the best use of funds or resource. But the amount of time spent counting inventory, and the resource that\u2019s dedicated to it, needs to be reduced Inventory counting can, and should, be made more efficient with the help of intelligent software.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>With a WMS in place, the role and the responsibility almost disappears. It deals with real-time inventory counts, so the data is continually being updated within its system each and every time an item is scanned.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>This means that the job\u2019s already being taken care of as warehouse workers engage with their other tasks. Here, physical robotics won\u2019\u2019t lead to a more streamlined workforce. But software just might.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>If robots can\u2019t deliver the results your warehouse needs, it\u2019s time for a smarter solution. Book a Descartes Peoplevox demo today.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_text=\u201dTalk to us\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d button_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d url_new_window=\u201don\u201d button_url=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/request-demo\/\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d20px||20px||false|false\u201d][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_column _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d type=\u201d4_4\u2033 theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_divider _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_heading _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title=\u201dFAQs\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 module_id=\u201dFAQs\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title=\u201dCan small and mid-sized warehouses benefit from automation without investing in robots?\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 open=\u201don\u201d]<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"10\" data-end=\"288\">Yes. Many warehouses improve efficiency using software and simple equipment like barcode scanners and conveyors. These tools are more affordable and quicker to implement than robotics.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title=\u201dHow can warehouses improve productivity without increasing headcount?\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 open=\u201doff\u201d]<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"290\" data-end=\"525\">By optimising workflows and reducing manual tasks. A warehouse management system helps streamline processes, improve task allocation, and minimise wasted time.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title=\u201dWhat is the biggest barrier to adopting warehouse robotics today?\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 open=\u201doff\u201d]<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"527\" data-end=\"752\">Cost and uncertainty around return on investment are the main challenges. Many businesses cannot justify the upfront spend without clear, proven results.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d title=\u201dHow can warehouses maintain accuracy as order volumes increase?\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 open=\u201doff\u201d]<\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col text-sm pb-25\">\n<section class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"e202024b-2200-40d9-9c08-23f32b010598\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-12\" data-scroll-anchor=\"true\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"e202024b-2200-40d9-9c08-23f32b010598\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word dark markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"754\" data-end=\"975\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">By using systems that provide real-time data and guided workflows. This helps staff pick, pack, and process orders correctly, even during busy periods.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][et_pb_code _builder_version=\u201d4.27.6\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<script type=\"application\/ld+json\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->{<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \"mainEntity\": [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"@type\": \"Question\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"name\": \"Can small and mid-sized warehouses benefit from automation without investing in robots?\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"acceptedAnswer\": {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"@type\": \"Answer\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"text\": \"Yes. Many warehouses improve efficiency using software and simple equipment like barcode scanners and conveyors. These tools are more affordable and quicker to implement than robotics.\"<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"@type\": \"Question\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"name\": \"How can warehouses improve productivity without increasing headcount?\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"acceptedAnswer\": {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"@type\": \"Answer\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"text\": \"By optimising workflows and reducing manual tasks. A warehouse management system helps streamline processes, improve task allocation, and minimise wasted time.\"<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"@type\": \"Question\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"name\": \"What is the biggest barrier to adopting warehouse robotics today?\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"acceptedAnswer\": {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"@type\": \"Answer\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"text\": \"Cost and uncertainty around return on investment are the main challenges. Many businesses cannot justify the upfront spend without clear, proven results.\"<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"@type\": \"Question\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"name\": \"How can warehouses maintain accuracy as order volumes increase?\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \"acceptedAnswer\": {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"@type\": \"Answer\",<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        \"text\": \"By using systems that provide real-time data and guided workflows. This helps staff pick, pack, and process orders correctly, even during busy periods.\"<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  ]<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/script>[\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Automation can help optimise warehouse operations and scale upwards, but are there jobs that tech can&#8217;t take on? Find out where people are essential here.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":243314,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"The SlideShare &amp; content in this blog touches on some of the points made in our latest whitepaper, titled 'Will robots wipe out warehousing jobs?' It's an expert take on the real-world impact that robotics will have in the majority of warehouses. Download your free copy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/robots-warehousing-jobs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.\n\n<hr \/>\n\n<span style=\"text-transform: initial; background-color: transparent;\">Robots have the world at their metal fingertips. The potential of robotics is massive. The promise that they give to improve efficiency across all areas of the warehouse is impressive. So...what\u2019s the catch?<\/span>\n<ul>\n \t<li>At the moment, they\u2019re not the easy cure that everyone wants them to be. They\u2019re largely unproven.<\/li>\n \t<li>They're not yet fit for use in most e-commerce warehouses, where people will remain the most important resource for the foreseeable future.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nWhat are the jobs that robots can\u2019t do? And how can automation be employed to support human workers in the warehouse? Click through the slides, or scroll down this blog, to find out.\n<div class=\"hs-responsive-embed hs-responsive-embed-undefined\"><iframe class=\"hs-responsive-embed-iframe\" style=\"border: 1px solid #CCC; border-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 5px; max-width: 100%;\" src=\"\/\/www.slideshare.net\/slideshow\/embed_code\/key\/cxDoSzljAbRuk\" width=\"595\" height=\"485\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"> <\/iframe><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><strong> <a title=\"8 jobs that warehouse robots can't do\" href=\"\/\/www.slideshare.net\/Peoplevox_Ltd\/8-jobs-that-warehouse-robots-cant-do\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">8 jobs that warehouse robots can't do<\/a> <\/strong> from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.slideshare.net\/Peoplevox_Ltd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Peoplevox Limited<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><strong><!--more--><\/strong><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><span style=\"color: #333333;\"><span style=\"font-size: 24px; letter-spacing: -0.6px;\"><strong>Buying<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><\/div>\nThe responsibilities involved with buying can be split into three separate functions:\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\">1. Deciding which products to buy <\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\">2. Deciding which supplier to buy from <\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\">3. Deciding on the freight that should be used <\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><span style=\"color: #808080;\">All of these tasks currently require human input Deciding which supplier to buy from will become far easier in the near future when AI helps to speed up the development of the Collaborative Supply Chain; a concept for companies across the supply chain to share more information in order to experience dramatic improvements to inventory management and enjoy subsequent cost reductions. In this way, software automation will help out human buyers with some of their admin tasks - but people will still be needed to get the job done properly.\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"margin-bottom: 5px;\"><strong style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Picking\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\nThere are some pretty cool picking robots out there. If you haven\u2019t seen how Ocado\u2019s incredibly impressive \u2018swarm\u2019 of robots handle picking at its distribution centre, check out the video below.\n<div class=\"hs-responsive-embed hs-responsive-embed-youtube\"><iframe class=\"hs-responsive-embed-iframe\" src=\"\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/XJqsdprXF5c\" width=\"560\" height=\"280\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-service=\"youtube\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/div>\nThese robots look cool, and they undoubtedly improve efficiency, but they aren\u2019t yet ready to deliver on ROI for the majority. Ocado\u2019s investments haven\u2019t had a payoff in real-terms; profits and share values are decreasing and the grocer still needs an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/business\/2018\/feb\/06\/ocado-uses-150m-from-shareholders-for-warehouse-robots\">additional \u00a3150m<\/a> from their shareholders to make sure that the march of the robots is well oiled.\n\nUntil these robots can prove that they can deliver on ROI, they\u2019re useless to most e-commerce companies. Far more useful: intelligent software like a WMS which speeds up the picking process and makes it 100% accurate every time.\n<h2><span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Receiving inbound<\/span><\/h2>\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Robots will have a role to play with inbound deliveries, but that role will be very much supportive. Breaking down the responsibilities at this stage and it\u2019s clear that some functions require a level of concentration, physicality and tact that robots don\u2019t have (yet): <\/span>\n<ul>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Measuring compliance<\/span><\/li>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Managing human resource requirements<\/span><\/li>\n \t<li>\u00a0Determining whether items were delivered as expected<\/li>\n \t<li>Breaking down boxes and rebuilding ready for put away<\/li>\n \t<li>Quality control assurance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThis area needs an overhaul to increase accuracy and speed. Software automation can help with the more administrative tasks. And physical automation with the breaking down of boxes - all aspects will still need people to work.\n<h2><span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Put away<\/span><\/h2>\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Here, physical automation will be a great help in speeding up the put away process. But again, it won\u2019t be able to run autonomously. It should work hand in glove with a human workforce. W<\/span><span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">alking is the biggest time-waster in a warehouse. That's why\u00a0why physical automation will be such a godsend<\/span>\n<ul>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Physical automation that speeds up the movement of goods, and people, from point A to point B should be welcomed <\/span><\/li>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">This doesn\u2019t need to be complicated: it could be something that a worker rides on around the warehouse, or a conveyor belt that helps to transport goods <\/span><\/li>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">More complex robotics will need to prove ROI to have any viability<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Replenishment<\/h2>\nReplenishment, or the act of moving items from bulk to pick locations, is a job for a man or a woman with their machines in tow. They need to know the right amount of stock to bring across from bulk, and they need to transport this stock in a timely fashion.\n\nWhile there are robots in development to take over all replenishment tasks, the overall benefits are not yet strong enough to justify the investment.\n\nBut improvements still need to be made. That\u2019s where software comes in to help out with:\n<ul>\n \t<li>Improving warehouse layouts and organisation<\/li>\n \t<li>Eliminating stock-outs from inaccurate forecasts<\/li>\n \t<li>Delivering real cost benefits through removing human error and increasing efficiencies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Returns<\/h2>\nCurrently, this is a job that is almost exclusively being handled by the ground staff in the warehouse, albeit in some cases with the assistance of a WMS that helps to keep track of subsequent inventory changes. It\u2019s a process that needs to be speeded up.\n\nPhysical and software automation should be introduced here to help move things along a bit faster:\n<ul>\n \t<li>Conveyors can speed up the movement of goods from when they were received to the returns desk<\/li>\n \t<li>Software can help out greatly with quality assurance<\/li>\n \t<li>And more physical automation can transport goods for sale to the appropriate area within the warehouse.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nSo humans are still very much needed at returns; they could just be helped out a bit more with the right technology.\n\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Stock control <\/span>\n\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Here\u2019s how stock control works in too many e-commerce warehouses: <\/span>\n<ul>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">People see that items are running low...or have run out in a particular bay <\/span><\/li>\n \t<li><span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Then the decision to restock is made, on the fly <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Not every warehouse is as bad as this - many have rules in place to ensure that stock levels are regularly checked and topped up - but there\u2019s still a huge reliance on humans. Robots can\u2019t help here. But software can. <\/span>\n\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent; text-transform: initial;\">Clunky, manual methods should soon die out. Technology currently exists, like a WMS, which makes controlling stock levels far easier for the people responsible. This isn\u2019t technology which will replace humans; it\u2019s technology designed to make their lives easier.\u00a0<\/span>\n<h2><span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Inventory counting <\/span><\/h2>\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">Humans are needed for inventory counting. This isn\u2019t something that robotics can feasibly handle in the majority of warehouses. Neither is it the best use of funds or resource. But the amount of time spent counting inventory, and the resource that\u2019s dedicated to it, needs to be reduced Inventory counting can, and should, be made more efficient with the help of intelligent software. <\/span>\n\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">With a WMS in place, the role and the responsibility almost disappears. It deals with real-time inventory counts, so the data is continually being updated within its system each and every time an item is scanned. <\/span>\n\n<span style=\"background-color: transparent;\">This means that the job\u2019s already being taken care of as warehouse workers engage with their other tasks. Here, physical robotics won\u2019\u2019t lead to a more streamlined workforce. But software just might.<\/span>\n\n<hr \/>\n\nFor far more detail, download our latest whitepaper. It explores the ideas in this slideshare, and this blog, in far more detail. Follow the link below to find and keep your free copy.\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/robots-warehousing-jobs\"><img style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 775px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/hubfs\/robots-whitepaper-email-footer-2-1.png\" alt=\"robots-whitepaper-email-footer-2-1.png\" width=\"775\" \/><\/a>","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[37],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15107","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The 8 Warehouse Jobs That Robots Can\u2019t Do\u00a0 | Peoplevox<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Automation can help optimise warehouse operations and scale upwards, but are there jobs that tech can&#039;t take on? 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