Traditionally designed distribution centers (DCs) face costly operational challenges: travel times that consume up to 50% of productive time, inventory errors, and bottlenecks in critical areas. In a warehousing market that exceeded USD $100 billion in 2024 in Latin America, with projected annual growth of 8.7% until 2030, the difference between efficiency and obsolescence is measured in seconds.
CEDIS with intelligent architecture represent the necessary evolution: they process orders 40% faster by integrating strategic zoning based on turnover speed, WMS (Warehouse Management System) technology with real-time visibility, and standardized processes that eliminate operational variability. This infrastructure allows operations to be scaled without massive capital investment, responding quickly to current market demands.
The heart of an intelligent layout lies in its zoning by turnover speed. This ABC methodology organizes physical space according to movement frequency: A-rated products (high turnover) are strategically located near picking and shipping areas, reducing travel by up to 60%. B products occupy intermediate areas with moderate access, while C products are stored in more remote areas or upper levels where their low frequency of movement does not impact daily operations.
The physical configuration of the CEDIS must be aligned with the type of operation and volume of goods. Three fundamental designs optimize different scenarios:
U-shape: Designed to maximize efficiency in shared spaces, it allows receiving and shipping to use common infrastructure. Workstations concentrated in the center of the "U" minimize travel distances and facilitate supervision. This configuration is particularly effective for cross-docking operations where speed of processing is a priority.
I-shape: Optimized for high-volume continuous flow, this design physically separates receiving and shipping operations at opposite ends. The configuration allows simultaneous operations at both ends without interference, significantly reducing total processing time.
Modular layout: Flexibility defines this design, allowing dynamic adaptation to changes in volume and inventory without completely redesigning the infrastructure. Independent modules can be expanded, contracted, or reconfigured according to seasonal needs or changes in the product mix.
The effectiveness of these designs is maximized when traffic patterns, equipment clearances, and clear lines of sight are prioritized. This technical approach eliminates operational friction and optimizes every available square foot, transforming physical space into a measurable competitive advantage.
A smart layout is only as effective as the technology that supports it. Advanced WMS systems turn optimized physical spaces into real-time decision-making ecosystems, where every movement is based on data and predictive algorithms:
Oracle WMS: A leader in warehouse management for seven consecutive years, this platform models complete logistics networks with hypothetical scenarios that identify the best option in terms of time and cost. Its strength lies in optimizing stock control using predictive algorithms that anticipate demand and dynamically adjust locations.
Manhattan Active Supply Chain: Specialized in harmonizing inbound and outbound flows, it maximizes the productivity of human resources and equipment. The integration of inventory, work orders, and human resources under a unified dashboard enables informed decision-making in seconds, not hours.
BlueYonder's Luminate Logistics: The first industrial platform genuinely based on artificial intelligence and applied machine learning. It anticipates disruptions through simultaneous analysis of multiple variables (weather, traffic, transport availability, demand trends). The ability to take corrective action before problems impact operations transforms reactive management into proactive strategy.
Pick to Light: Complementary technology that implements WMS decisions on the shop floor. A system of light indicators connected to the WMS guides operators to exact locations, reducing errors by up to 95% and increasing preparation speed by 30-50%. This solution generates immediate benefits in productivity and accuracy, especially in operations with a high number of SKUs.
Smart CEDIS transcend general storage when they integrate specialized capabilities. Documented cases in the industry illustrate this operational versatility:
High-precision co-packing services: Labeling, kitting, customized packaging, and e-commerce solutions are carried out in specialized facilities designed for value-added operations. Operations in mass consumption industries process volumes of 2.5 million units per month while maintaining 99.6% accuracy in kitting. This capability is critical for companies operating specialized distribution models, where absolute accuracy in assortment directly impacts the end customer experience.
A smart CEDIS does not operate in isolation. Its effectiveness is multiplied when it is integrated with systems that connect the warehouse to the entire supply chain. Modern technological integration operates through platforms that extend visibility and control beyond the walls of the warehouse:
Productivity Centers: Operating 24/7, these centers monitor fleets equipped with cutting-edge technology. They analyze traffic patterns, anticipate delays, and coordinate in real time with CEDIS to adjust delivery schedules and order preparation. Predictive analytics allow CEDIS to proactively prepare for receipts and shipments.
WMS integrated with TMS (Transportation Management System): Integration between warehouse and transportation management systems optimizes load consolidation from the moment an order is confirmed. The TMS processes multiple variables (routes, modes of transport, delivery windows, vehicle capacity) while the WMS prepares orders in the optimal sequence for efficient loading.
Control Towers: Command centers with end-to-end visibility of the supply chain. They monitor vehicle locations, order status in the distribution center, inventory levels, and preparation time compliance in real time. The ability to proactively intervene in the event of any deviation ensures that problems are resolved before they impact the customer.
IoT platform with WMS/ERP integration: Internet of Things applied to logistics enables complete traceability through sensors in products, vehicles, and equipment. The platform integrates bidirectionally with the customer's ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics), allowing information to flow automatically between systems.
Technology and optimal design are necessary but insufficient. The successful transition to a 3PL logistics operator that operates smart CEDIS requires structured management of human and organizational change:
Stage 1 - Preparation and Design: Begin by prioritizing critical business needs and creating a sense of urgency among internal teams regarding the benefits of transformation. Form a cross-functional leadership team to drive the project, including representatives from logistics, IT, finance, and operations. This stage includes a detailed assessment of current capabilities and the establishment of clear KPIs (Key Performance Indicators).
Stage 2 - Commitment and Transition: A shared vision is developed between the client company and the logistics operator, aligning expectations and responsibilities. Internal teams receive intensive training in new processes, WMS systems, and communication protocols. Ongoing support during the learning curve is critical to mitigating natural resistance to change.
Stage 3 - Implementation and Sustainability: The execution of change is constantly monitored using defined KPIs. Efforts are maintained through effective communication of progress and early victories that demonstrate tangible benefits. Finally, the new operating culture is institutionalized so that outsourcing with the intelligent CEDIS becomes an integral and natural part of operations.
Successful implementation of CEDIS with intelligent layout requires more than optimal design: it needs proven infrastructure and immediate operational capacity. Solistica by TRAXION combines more than 70 years of logistics experience with a consolidated network that enables accelerated implementations without compromising quality.
The strategic integration of Solistica strengthens TRAXION's leadership in the Mexican 3PL logistics services market. As the only publicly traded institutional company in the logistics sector in Mexico.
This proven infrastructure offers the financial stability and long-term commitment that companies require when outsourcing critical operations, with a proven ability to operate at industrial scale.
CEDIS with intelligent layouts operated by Solística by TRAXION process orders 40% faster, maintain inventory accuracy above 99%, and respond to peaks in demand without hiring additional staff. The ready-to-operate infrastructure allows for scaling without massive capital investment.
Free evaluation of your current operation:
Operational gap analysis comparing current performance vs. industry benchmarks
Customized proposal with optimized layout and projected ROI (Return on Investment)
Accelerated implementation with a methodology proven in over 150 companies
Visit solistica.com and schedule your free evaluation with specialists in smart layout design.
Sources:
IL-LATAM: "From traditional warehouses to smart distribution centers: Latin America's new logistics drive" - https://www.il-latam.com/blog/expert-comment/del-almacen-tradicional-al-cedis-inteligente-el-nuevo-impulso-logistico-de-latinoamerica/
Logistixnews: "The future of CEDIS is intelligent automation" - BRR recommends designing automated warehouses to maximize efficiency and scalability - https://logistixnews.com/2025/09/01/el-futuro-de-los-cedis-es-la-automatizacion-inteligente/
Logistixnews: "Traxión acquires FEMSA's logistics gem. Do you know its origins?" - https://logistixnews.com/2025/07/03/traxion-se-lleva-la-joya-logistica-de-femsa-conoces-el-origen/
Solistica.com: "We develop comprehensive 3PL logistics solutions for our clients in Latin America and around the world" - https://solistica.com/
TYT: "Solistica officially opens its Cedis Tultepark" - https://www.tyt.com.mx/nota/solistica-inaugura-oficialmente-su-cedis-tultepark
Solistica Blog: "Is your logistics operation ready to grow? Here's how Solistica can help you optimize it" - https://blog.solistica.com/operacion-logistica-preparada-para-crecer
Solistica Blog: "Beyond delivery: Solistica reimagines logistics in an ever-changing world" - https://blog.solistica.com/mas-alla-de-la-entrega-solistica-reimagina-la-logistica-en-un-mundo-en-constante-cambio
The Logistics World: "Warehouse Layout Design: Best Practices for Maximizing Space and Productivity" - https://thelogisticsworld.com/almacenes-e-inventarios/diseno-layout-de-almacen-tipos-tecnologias/