Warehouse Management includes activities flowing into and out of the warehouse, and those that ripple out to the extended supply chain, can be improved with a good RFID based warehouse management solutions (WMS) – from stock receiving and storing to pick, pack and shipping. The core features of a WMS support these activities in the following ways:
Receiving and put-away process
A WMS can help companies receive, process, and dispatch stock efficiently properly defined under warehouse flow.. In fact, in a 2018 Peerless Research survey, 87% of respondents said they were handling materials manually during the receiving process.
A WMS system supports using RFID technology and integration with billing or ERP, ensures stocks can be automatically received, validated, and reconciled against any digital purchase orders with the scan of a barcode, and with labels printed and tags for quick storage and smooth retrieval. The entire operation will be paperless ensuring complete digital transformation of warehouse.
Inventory management
Warehouse management software provides real-time view into an organization’s inventory across any location, including stock in transit and in stores and warehouse. It provides tracking information using automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technology such as barcodes or RFID. Warehouse management software also helps in cycle counting and demand forecasting using advanced analytics and insights into product and vendor performance. With these insights, companies can adjust inventory levels on the fly as well as vendor alignment to ensure there’s just enough stock to satisfy customer demand, whether in-store or online.
Accurate inventory tracking are key areas which helps in improvement of order rates. That means orders that are received are completed on time, undamaged, and dispatched with an accurate invoice. They can also help allocate inventory according to custom workflows (eg. LIFO FIFO etc) and picking logic so that inventory can be moved faster, both into and out of the warehouse.
There are numerous benefits of Warehouse Management Solutions that are the beating heart of any supply chain. But inefficient operations can quickly turn this engine into a sluggish beast. Here’s how Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) act as the fuel injection system, optimizing every step for maximum efficiency.
From Picking to Fulfillment
Smart Picking
ResearchGate reveals a startling fact: order picking can gobble up a whopping 55% of your warehousing costs! WMS swoops in as your hero, guiding the most efficient storage, retrieval, and packing strategies. It’s like having a built-in GPS for your inventory, ensuring every product is picked with laser focus.
A Symphony of Picking Techniques
WMS isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It offers efficiency- rich picking techniques to suit your needs. From radio frequency tags to pick-to-light and voice systems, it caters to every picking style. Even robots join the party, automating tasks for enhanced efficiency. Intelligent algorithms craft the most streamlined picking paths, minimizing wasted steps for warehouse workers.
The Fulfillment Flow
The fulfillment process is more than just picking items. WMS offers a diverse repertoire of techniques like single order picking, zone picking, and wave picking. Each technique is unique in is own way, working together to ensure a smooth and efficient flow of orders.
Shipping
A seamless fulfillment process results in timely deliveries. WMS integrates seamlessly with logistics software, generating bills of lading and invoices with the precision of a well-oiled machine. Real-time tracking keeps you informed every step of the way, ensuring your packages arrive on time and at the right destination.
Optimizing Your Workforce: Powering Up Performance
Your workforce is a crucial cog in the warehouse engine. WMS provides real-time insights into labor costs and productivity, acting as a performance monitor. By identifying trends and response times, managers can fine-tune operations, ensuring everyone is working at peak efficiency.
Task Interleaving
Just like a finely tuned engine eliminates unnecessary friction, WMS optimizes workflow. It considers factors like priority and location, minimizing travel time for workers and eliminating wasted effort. Scheduling and planning become effortless, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted flow of tasks.
Yard and Dock Management:
Every efficient process needs a smooth beginning. Yard and dock management features ensure trucks find their loading docks quickly. Cross-docking, the swift movement of goods straight to outgoing shipments, becomes a reality for products like fresh groceries. WMS acts as the traffic controller, coordinating arrivals and departures for optimal efficiency.
By implementing a WMS, your warehouse transforms from a sluggish, fuel-guzzling operation into a finely tuned engine of efficiency. Let your warehouse reach its full potential and keep your supply chain running smoothly.
In conclusion, a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is no longer a luxury for businesses – it’s an essential tool for thriving in today’s demanding marketplace. By implementing a WMS, you can gain a competitive edge through increased efficiency, cost savings, and improved customer satisfaction. With real-time data, optimized workflows, and enhanced decision-making capabilities, a WMS empowers your business to navigate challenges and achieve long-term success. Consider exploring the various WMS solutions available to find the right fit for your specific warehouse needs and unlock the full potential of your operations.
