Putaway
Putaway is a common warehouse operation that involves moving products from receiving areas to their designated storage locations. Think of it as the process of properly storing items after they arrive at a warehouse. It's a crucial step that happens between when goods are received and when they can be picked for orders. This process ensures that items can be found quickly when needed and makes the best use of available storage space. Similar terms include "storage assignment" or "stock placement." Proper putaway is essential for keeping track of inventory and maintaining efficient warehouse operations.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Putaway operations for a 500,000 sq ft distribution center
Improved Putaway efficiency by 30% through implementation of new storage strategies
Trained team members on proper Putaway procedures and inventory management systems
Typical job title: "Warehouse Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Warehouse Operators
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you design a putaway strategy for a new warehouse facility?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss space optimization, consideration of product types and sizes, workflow efficiency, and how they would train and manage team members to execute the strategy.
Q: Describe a time when you improved a putaway process. What were the results?
Expected Answer: Candidate should describe specific improvements they implemented, such as reducing travel time, better space utilization, or implementing new technology, and be able to quantify the results.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when assigning storage locations for different types of products?
Expected Answer: Should mention product size, weight, frequency of access, storage requirements, and proximity to picking areas.
Q: How do you handle putaway during peak seasons?
Expected Answer: Should discuss prioritization strategies, temporary storage solutions, staff scheduling, and maintaining accuracy during high-volume periods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety considerations are important during putaway operations?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper lifting techniques, equipment safety, checking for damaged products, and following aisle and height restrictions.
Q: How do you verify that items are stored in the correct location?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic location verification processes, scanning procedures if using a warehouse management system, and double-checking location labels.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic warehouse safety procedures
- Understanding of storage location systems
- Operation of basic material handling equipment
- Following standard putaway procedures
Mid (1-3 years)
- Efficient space utilization
- Team coordination
- Problem-solving storage issues
- Using warehouse management systems
Senior (3+ years)
- Process improvement implementation
- Team leadership
- Strategic storage planning
- Training and mentoring
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic warehouse safety procedures
- Unable to operate standard warehouse equipment
- Poor attention to detail in location accuracy
- Lack of experience with inventory management systems
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