Buffer store

1. April 2025

A buffer store or short-term store is a temporary storage location for stored goods. In this warehouse, there are no fixed storage locations and it does not represent a final storage location. The stored goods wait there to be transferred to the next process step, for example further processing, order picking or delivery.

The buffer store is located between two successive process stages. Not every process in a warehouse takes place at the same speed, so the individual items to be stored must be stored safely and securely in a way that allows them to be retrieved again. This ensures that everything runs smoothly, even when disruptions occur.

The cost-effectiveness of buffer stores

A buffer store can also be cost-effective if goods need to be stored in production for long periods (weeks or months) and in large quantities. The stored goods have a specific destination, but may not be processed immediately for time or organizational reasons and are, so to speak, in the way. These warehouses serve as intermediate storage areas, since the individual production stations can usually only accept a certain contingent of stored goods. The fixed storage locations can then be used again for new stored goods.

For more information on storage, see Storage of hanging garments.