Summer is peak season for many industries—but for warehouse operators, it’s also peak challenge season. Rising temperatures, shifting labor dynamics, and seasonal demand spikes can all throw a wrench into even the most efficient operations. At L&M Distribution and Logistics, we’ve spent years helping businesses navigate the highs and lows of seasonal warehousing. Below, we break down the top 5 warehousing challenges during summer—and how to solve them.
1. Heat-Related Worker Safety
Increased temperatures, especially in non-climate-controlled facilities, can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and fatigue among warehouse workers.
Our Solution:
Implement warehouse cooling strategies like large-scale industrial fans, improved airflow, and designated hydration stations. Schedule mandatory breaks in shaded or cooled areas, and rotate tasks to minimize prolonged heat exposure. Safety starts with awareness—train your team to spot and respond to heat-related symptoms early.
2. Seasonal Labor Shortages
With more employees taking vacation and temporary turnover rising, summer can leave warehouses short-staffed right when demand peaks.
Our Solution:
We recommend cross-training employees to cover multiple functions and creating flexible shift structures to accommodate changing availability. Temporary staffing partners and incentives like seasonal bonuses can help retain workers and attract qualified short-term talent.
3. Managing Temperature-Sensitive Inventory
Electronics, perishables, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics can degrade in high heat—leading to product losses and compliance issues.
Our Solution:
If your products require cold chain handling, make sure your logistics partner is fully equipped with insulated packaging, refrigerated vehicles, and certified handling procedures.
4. Inventory Surges and Delayed Fulfillment
Summer demand spikes for goods like outdoor equipment, apparel, and beverages can overwhelm inventory systems and delay shipments.
Our Solution:
Leverage demand forecasting tools and real-time inventory visibility to prepare for seasonal surges. Our clients also benefit from our scalable warehousing and distribution services that flex with seasonal demand—reducing backlogs and maintaining service levels even during peak months.
5. Pest and Infestation Risks
Hot, humid environments attract pests that can threaten food, packaging, and hygiene standards—especially in large or older warehouse facilities.
Our Solution:
We implement proactive pest control programs with routine inspections, professional treatment services, and strict cleanliness protocols. FIFO (first-in, first-out) inventory practices, sealed entry points, and dry, ventilated storage help protect goods and maintain compliance.
Keep Your Operations Cool and Efficient with L&M
Summer warehousing challenges don’t have to stall your supply chain. With the right planning and a reliable logistics partner, you can stay agile, safe, and on schedule.
At L&M Distribution and Logistics, we specialize in scalable warehousing and distribution strategies tailored to your seasonal needs. Whether you’re navigating labor gaps, handling sensitive inventory, or scaling operations for demand, our team is here to help.
Let’s talk about how we can support your summer logistics strategy.
Contact us today to get started.
