LogGrad98
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This is something we are considering. The problem is the swisslog control software uses a top-off calculation when we put product away to ensure we are using the best cube of the storage space and it isn't set up to handle multiple SKUs per bin. However, if we do not need that, like for slow moving parts that have larger standard receipt quantities (like we have one gasket that is fairly small and our normal receipt quantity is 500 and all 500 fit in one bin and we receive it maybe once a quarter if that), then we can mix SKUs. The biggest issue with mixed SKUs is human error, if the person picks the wrong item or if the people putting stuff into the bins mix SKUs that are too similar and confusing. I am not a fan of SKU mixing in bins for exactly this reason unless it is pretty clear the difference. When I worked at amazon they used primarily library shelves and bin sizes were flexible, so you could have, say 5 different books, 3 CDs and 2 DVDs in the same bin, controlled by the scan, however product drift there was a big problem. With the autostore drift isn't the problem but we are still trying to avoid adding in any sources of ambiguity. Best for the operators is one tote comes to you, you count out the proper quantity and scan the barcodes and then send the bin back. Keep it simple.
