BY BEN AMES, SENIOR EDITOR
WAREHOUSE LABOR STUDY
Special Report
THE NEXT TIME YOU’RE AT AN INDUSTRY TRADE SHOW, ASK THE LOGISTICS
executives in the buffet line next to you to list their biggest headaches in running a
warehouse.
Some might mention the surge in e-commerce parcel volume or the painful evolution
to omnichannel order fulfillment, but chances are you won’t have to wait long before
someone brings up warehouse labor turnover. Labor is the biggest operational cost in
most DCs, and the expenses associated with high turnover—like recruiting, hiring, and
training new workers—only add to the pain.
The industry’s continuing struggle with employee turnover was underscored by a
recent survey of warehouse performance conducted by DC VELOCITY in conjunction
with the Dedham, Mass.-based consultancy ARC Advisory Group. Among other find-
ings, the study showed that the respondents’ track record in controlling turnover lagged
Looking to take
your DC operations
to the next level?
Consider adopting
these nine habits
of high-performing
warehouses.
ways to boost
warehouse performance
(and cut turnover)
9
