- \n
- A warehouse management system (WMS) gives you real-time visibility and control over inventory, orders, and warehouse workflows, helping you run a more efficient operation.<\/li>\n
- Implementing a WMS can reduce errors, lower operational costs, and improve order accuracy, leading to a better customer experience.<\/li>\n
- There are several types of WMS available, including standalone, ERP-integrated, supply chain modules, and cloud-based systems, each suited to different business needs.<\/li>\n
- Choosing the right WMS means assessing your operational challenges, growth plans, budget, and integration requirements to ensure your warehouse can scale without becoming a bottleneck.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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A WMS, or\u00a0<\/span>Warehouse Management System<\/a>, is a software application or system that can manage and optimise warehouse operations. By controlling the movement and storage of items within a warehouse, a WMS can help businesses ensure their processes are as efficient and accurate as possible.<\/p>\n
Warehouse management software can be used to improve warehouse operations in a wide range of businesses at various sizes. Implementing a WMS can refine warehouse operations by reducing errors; lowering operational costs and provides a better customer experience through faster and more accurate order fulfilment.<\/p>\n
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- What does a warehouse management system do?<\/a><\/li>\n
- What are the benefits of a WMS?<\/a><\/li>\n
- What types of WMS are there?<\/a><\/li>\n
- How much does a WMS cost?<\/a><\/li>\n
- How do I choose a WMS?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Warehouse management FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/people3-800.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dAn image showing someone holding a mobile device running on Peoplevox.\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat does a warehouse management system do?\u201d module_id=\u201dWhatdoesaWMSdo\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
The\u00a0<\/span>key features and functions of a WMS<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>typically include:<\/p>\n
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- Inventory management<\/a><\/strong>. Tracking the location, quantity, and status of all items within the warehouse. This helps in reducing stockouts, overstocking, and product obsolescence.<\/li>\n
- Order management<\/a><\/strong>. Managing the fulfilment of customer orders, including order\u00a0<\/span>picking<\/a>, packing, and shipping. A WMS optimises these processes to reduce errors and improve order accuracy.<\/li>\n
- Goods-in processing<\/strong>. Scanning incoming items and reconciling them against purchase orders. Warehouse management systems can help determine where to store products in the warehouse and organise items based on factors like size, weight, and demand.<\/li>\n
- Picking and packing<\/strong>. Providing guidance for picking items from their storage locations and packing them for shipment. Optimising picking routes will minimise travel time and increase productivity.<\/li>\n
- Real-time tracking<\/strong>. Offering real-time visibility into inventory levels, order statuses, and warehouse activities. This helps in making informed decisions and quickly addressing any issues that may arise.<\/li>\n
- Reporting and analytics<\/a><\/strong>. Generating reports and providing analytical tools to help warehouse managers monitor performance, identify bottlenecks, and make data-driven improvements.<\/li>\n
- Barcode and RFID integration<\/strong>. Integrating with barcode or RFID technology facilitates accurate tracking and scanning of items throughout the warehouse.<\/li>\n
- User management<\/strong>. Some warehouse management systems include labour management features to track the productivity of warehouse staff, optimise workforce allocation, and set performance standards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
In addition to these features, a WMS will often integrate with other technology to provide even greater visibility and control of processes and workflows.<\/p>\n
Watch our \u2018WMS Explained\u2019 series to gain a deeper insight into the features and functions of a warehouse management system.<\/strong><\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_video src=\u201dhttps:\/\/youtu.be\/I0wxWPe1FIE?list=PLVBLGAUD3NX0lWon7Bw7aV5tKv6ea7kT-\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_video][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat are the benefits of a WMS?\u201d module_id=\u201dbenefitsofaWMS\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
There are a multitude of benefits of a warehouse management system, from speeding up the pick, pack, dispatch process to reducing the volume of temporary staff through peak periods. The key feedback we hear from our customers is:<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dImproved efficiency\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
Using a WMS to optimise processes like pick, pack and dispatch enables warehouse teams to be as productive as possible. Reducing travel time through the warehouse by suggesting optimal picking routes ensures staff can process a higher volume of orders.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dInventory accuracy\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
With features like\u00a0<\/span>barcode scanning<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and real-time tracking, a WMS reduces the likelihood of errors in inventory management, order fulfilment, and shipping, resulting in higher order accuracy.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dBetter customer experience \u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
Orders arriving with customers faster and with fewer errors will result in better\u00a0<\/span>customer satisfaction<\/a>. This will improve the chances of repeat purchases and help build customer loyalty whilst reducing customer service enquiries and negative reviews.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dCost reductions\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
Better stock control will typically see a reduction in reducing overstocks or stockouts. Improved order accuracy will mean fewer replacements and refunds. An optimised workforce will ensure staff are as productive as possible, so fewer temporary hires are required through peak periods of trading.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dTeam management\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
Utilising technology to\u00a0<\/span>manage your team more effectively<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>will save time and free your warehouse managers up to work on other tasks. Ease of use means less time spent getting new hires up to speed and improved morale as warehouse staff can be effective from day one. A WMS can provide an audit trail to highlight areas for improvement.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat should a good WMS include?\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
A good WMS should provide seamless integration into your\u00a0<\/span>warehouse tech stack<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and improve your operations to prepare your business for growth. Scaling rapidly with unforeseen demand can be a make or break situation and having a suitable WMS in place will ensure your warehouse is not a bottleneck for your operations.<\/p>\n
The right software will grow with you and is a great investment in the future of your brand.\u00a0<\/span>Read more about our top warehouse efficiency tips<\/a>.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ss5-900.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dA black and white image showing a warehouse worker picking an order item.\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat types of WMS are there?\u201d module_id=\u201dtypesofWMS\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033]<\/p>\n
There are four key types of WMS:<\/p>\n
Standalone WMS:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>This type of WMS is installed and hosted on the organisation\u2019s own servers and infrastructure.<\/p>\n
Supply Chain Modules:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>This type of WMS is part of supply chain management software and allows businesses to control everything from one system for the entire supply chain.<\/p>\n
Integrated ERP Systems:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>This type of WMS is part of an enterprise resource planning system which will typically include applications that allow businesses to manage all functions, such as HR, finance, procurement, etc.<\/p>\n
Cloud-based WMS:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>This type of WMS is hosted online and will have an external IT and support system to maintain and update. A cloud-based warehouse management system can often be customised based on requirements and scaled up or down to suit business requirements. This is the type of WMS that Descartes Peoplevox offers.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n
\n <\/td>\n Pros<\/strong><\/td>\n Cons<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Standalone WMS<\/strong><\/td>\n \u2013 Offers full control over the software.<\/td>\n \u2013 May be a costly investment upfront.
\u2013 Will require ongoing maintenance.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n Supply Chain Modules<\/strong><\/td>\n \u2013 Better holistic view of supply chain.<\/td>\n \u2013 Features and functionality can be broader than requirements to suit a wider range of purposes and business needs.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Integrated ERP Systems<\/strong><\/td>\n \u2013 Will be integrated more effectively with other business areas to provide a better overall view of whole business operations<\/td>\n \u2013 Often very costly for both implementation and ongoing subscription.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Cloud-based WMS<\/strong><\/td>\n \u2013 Quick to implement, a cloud-based WMS often requires minimal downtime for installation as it\u2019s done online.
\u2013 Resource for maintenance not required as it will be included as part of subscription.<\/td>\n\u2013 Less control over maintenance and improvement priorities as this will be done by the SaaS provider.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow much does a WMS cost?\u201d module_id=\u201dWMScost\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
The cost of a WMS will vary from supplier to supplier and the type of WMS you choose will also have an impact on the pricing. For a standalone WMS the cost will generally not be ongoing but for integrated supply chain modules, ERP software and cloud-based warehouse management systems there will usually be a subscription fee for ongoing use of the software.<\/p>\n
- Order management<\/a><\/strong>. Managing the fulfilment of customer orders, including order\u00a0<\/span>picking<\/a>, packing, and shipping. A WMS optimises these processes to reduce errors and improve order accuracy.<\/li>\n
- What are the benefits of a WMS?<\/a><\/li>\n
- What does a warehouse management system do?<\/a><\/li>\n