Busy UK warehouses are noisy: conveyors, forklifts, compressors. To keep VoIP calls intelligible you need the right devices, noise control and network QoS. This guide covers rugged SIP handsets, DECT for roaming, noise-cancelling headsets, paging/tannoy integration, QoS (DSCP EF), VLANs and Wi-Fi tuning.
Key takeaways
- Rugged SIP/DECT devices with ANC headsets and correct mic gain/EQ.
- QoS for RTP (DSCP EF), VLANs and guest shaping so calls cut through noise & traffic.
- Loud ringer beacons, visual alerts and paging for safety-critical comms.
- Wi-Fi/DECT roaming verified on the floor — no dropouts between aisles or loading bays.
Pick the right devices
- DECT handsets for long battery life and reliable roaming; belt clips for hands-free operation.
- Noise-cancelling headsets (ENC/ANC) with boom mics; tune mic gain to avoid clipping.
- Rugged SIP desk phones at dispatch/reception with loud ringer modules.
QoS, VLANs & paging
- Mark RTP as DSCP EF (46), trust at access switches and preserve end-to-end.
- Place voice on its own VLAN, rate-limit guest/staff SSIDs and throttle updates during peaks.
- Integrate paging/tannoy and strobe beacons where hearing protection is required.
Roaming on Wi-Fi and DECT
- For Wi-Fi handsets/softphones: consistent SSID, fixed channels/power, 802.11k/v/r where supported.
- For DECT: plan base station overlap for seamless handoff and coverage in high racks.
Training & safety
Short training boosts call quality: how to wear ANC headsets, position boom mics and escalate to paging. We also review call recording, emergency numbers and incident procedures.
Related guides
Recently asked questions
Are DECT handsets better than Wi-Fi phones in warehouses?
Often yes. DECT provides predictable roaming and range. Wi-Fi phones work well with careful channel/power planning and fast roaming features.
How do we make sure calls are heard over machinery?
Use loud ringers, visual beacons and paging/tannoy. ANC headsets and correct mic positioning keep speech intelligible.
Will QoS help if our internet is contended?
QoS protects LAN/WAN edges. For end-to-end priority, consider a Leased Line; on FTTP/SOGEA, local QoS still preserves voice at the uplink.
Can we record calls and meet compliance?
Yes — we enable call recording with retention policies, role-based access and voicemail-to-email for audit trails.