Handling Equipment
The primary objective of handling in a retail store is to sort goods based on customer requirements. The three basic handling activities in retail are receiving, in-storage handling, and shipping. Goods must be handled using the appropriate equipment by trained and experienced staff. Common goods handling equipment includes cranes, moving trucks, slings, forklifts, hand trolleys, and pallet jacks.
Meaning of Handling Equipment
Various types of equipment are used in retail stores for loading, unloading, storing, and selling goods. These ensure that goods are handled safely.
Types of equipment for Handling
Different handling equipment is used for receiving goods, store shopping, and shipping. These include:
(a) Trolley: Useful for moving small loads of merchandise. Not suitable for very heavy loads. Helps prevent injuries caused by manual handling.
(b) Bags: Required during shopping and shipping. Retail stores provide handbags and shopping bags to customers.
(c) Basket: Ideal for customers buying a small quantity of goods, offering a more convenient option than trolleys.
(d) Hand-held scanner: Connects with the Point-of-Sale (POS) system to scan barcodes and assist in billing.
(e) Labelling machine: Produces neat and clear labels for merchandise and shelves. Allows color coding using different tapes.
(f) Electronic Funds Transferred at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) printer: Prints transaction receipts for customers, especially during credit card payments.
(g) Electronic scales: Used mainly in food departments to calculate both weight and price of goods.
(h) Pallet: Used for transporting goods from one store location to another efficiently.
(i) Crane: A mechanical device for lifting heavy goods horizontally and moving them from one location to another.
(j) Forklift: Also called lift truck or fork truck, this is used for short-distance movement of heavy items.
Need of equipment while handling goods?
Handling equipment plays a vital role in enhancing operations. Its benefits include:
- Identifying suitable distances to be covered
- Reducing material damage, thus improving product quality
- Saving time during loading and unloading processes
- Improving control of material flow within the store
- Creating safer work conditions
- Boosting employee productivity and efficiency
- Allowing customers to better utilize their time and money