Whether the storage and handling of electronic components are standardized correctly is one of the criteria for distinguishing the quality of component distributors. On the one hand, the original manufacturers consider the "component storage specification" as part of the assessment standards for authorized partners; on the other hand, standardizing the storage method of electronic components is a key factor for distributors to realize the product quality management. Improper storage methods can lead to damage or even scrapping of components.

So when dealing with storage issues related to electronic components, business decision makers must have a problem-solving mindset, which means enterprises need to invest more resources such as using climate control systems, building automated warehouses, and more.

Understand the risks of electronic component storage failures
Improper storage of electronic components has many negative impacts. Understanding the possible risks of component storage first can prompt warehouse managers to develop appropriate preventive measures in advance, thereby becoming more familiar with the solutions.

Oxidation and vapor diffusion are two major risks to electronic components during storage.

Generally, items in a super-dry environment tend to oxidize slowly. Therefore, storing electronic components in dry storage cabinets is a solution to prevent oxidation. Another solution is to place components in vacuum-packed moisture barrier bags. As long as the bag is filled with nitrogen, it is absolutely feasible to prevent oxidation. Likewise, dry storage cabinets and moisture-proof bags can effectively prevent components from absorbing moisture or gas.
Vapor diffusion refers to the way in which vapor moves with air flow or pressure difference. In component warehouses, vapors can spread to various places, especially where printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other delicate components are at greater risk of absorbing moisture. Therefore, placing components in moisture-proof bags and storing them in dry storage cabinets can effectively reduce the threat of vapor diffusion.
The third storage problem for electronic components is the difficulty of visualization. Without disassembly, it is impossible to discover the extent of damage to the components themselves.

Cooperation with temperature and humidity control system suppliers
The "climate control system" of the electronic component warehouse mainly controls temperature and humidity, so it can also be directly called the "temperature and humidity control system". The temperature and humidity control system suppliers are proficient in the anti-oxidation and moisture-proof methods of warehouse storage that can provide professional storage specifications for different types of components.
To maintain constant temperature and humidity is the most important factor for the storage of electronic components. Temperature could change the shape of plastics, and metals also expand or contract due to changes in temperature. Humidity is also a key factor. When the humidity is too low, the tolerance of components is reduced and they become brittle. Conversely, excessive humidity has negatively effect to the electrical conductivity of components. 

Most suppliers of temperature and humidity control systems will use a variety of methods to ensure the climate environment of the warehouse.

One method would be to have dedicated temperature zones for different categories of components, or to use seals to limit the movement in order to reduce climate change caused by frequent entry and exit. Another method is the use of IoT temperature sensors that can help to verify in real-time that climate conditions are as expected. Additionally, having a backup climate control system is critical to contingency planning.

Automation support
More and more top distributors in the industry are spontaneously pursuing automation to improve workflow. These automation attempts are reflected not only in warehouses, but also in manufacturing, internal management and strategic decision-making. 
As mentioned above, placing electronic components in a storage cabinet with constant temperature and humidity is a reliable protection method. On this basis, many manufactures further deploy automation to improve the operability. 

Take Digi-Key as an example, they are a low-volume, high-variety component distributor that recently opened a new facility in Minnesota, USA. The 2.2 million-square-foot distribution center is almost fully automated. More specifically, parts picking is where the only work that needs to be done by hands. The center has more than 27 miles of automatic conveyor belts. On average, a component order travels more than 3,200 feet inside the factory to various final destinations.

Automation puts most of the work in the hands of intelligent systems, which has no feelings about fatigue. This is the fundamental reason why manufacturers are implementing automation in the PCB manufacturing and using automated storage solutions.

Summary
If decision makers do not fully understand and solve these problems, the storage of electronic components will inevitably affect product quality and even lead to customer dissatisfaction. Whether using temperature and humidity control systems, pursuing automation or researching entirely new strategies or not, manufactures and distributor must act quickly and proactively rather than operating under risks.

In addition, many electronic components are currently in a state of high demand and supply shortage. Correctly storing the necessary components can help the industry chain to cope with the future supply crisis and ensure that more components are available to support regular production operations.