[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 background_size=\u201dinitial\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_repeat=\u201drepeat\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_padding__hover=\u201d|||\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_heading title=\u201dKey takeaways\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
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_divider][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
Warehouses are commonplace in many industries, but ecommerce is one of the use cases where the benefits of good order and wider warehouse management is most obvious.<\/p>\n
During busy sales periods, like\u00a0<\/span>Black Friday<\/a>, having a robust warehouse management system is essential. This system should help with the\u00a0<\/span>picking<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and sending of orders quickly. This is where many start to seek out a WMS for ecommerce that can help them do just that.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s where we can guide you through the process of selecting the right ecommerce WMS for your use case. We\u2019ll touch on examples of areas to look at and provide some of the most frequently asked questions you may have about getting the software.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dTable of contents\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 [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dUnderstanding the role of a WMS in ecommerce\u201d module_id=\u201droleofaWMS\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 It is worth noting that there are many ways that you can\u00a0<\/span>improve your warehouse operations<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>outside of software applications, but a WMS for ecommerce will help to give you that marginal benefit that can make all the difference when your warehouse reaches capacity.<\/p>\n Finding the best\u00a0<\/span>WMS for ecommerce<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>will reduce the need to rely on manual processes and allow for a much more scalable warehouse operation, helping your warehouse workers reduce errors and in general improve the accuracy of orders.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWider benefits of a WMS for ecommerce\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 There are numerous upsides when introducing a WMS for ecommerce which will have positive impacts both on your\u00a0<\/span>staff<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and finances, you can find some of the main ones below which may help when building a business case for selecting the best ecommerce WMS:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dReal-time inventory management\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh4\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 WMS provides real-time tracking of inventory levels, ensuring businesses always know what\u2019s in stock and where it\u2019s located. This prevents stockouts or overstocking and enables faster replenishment, resulting in better inventory control and more efficient order fulfillment. Having this control over stock levels is a big benefit for your order management team.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dImproved Order Accuracy\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh4\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 automated picking lists, a WMS reduces errors in the\u00a0<\/span>picking and packing<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>process. Accurate order fulfillment minimises returns, increases customer satisfaction, and strengthens brand loyalty, leading to fewer customer complaints and better reviews.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dEnhanced scalability\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh4\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 strong WMS can grow with your business. Whether it\u2019s handling seasonal order surges or expanding into new markets, a WMS can scale operations efficiently. This flexibility allows ecommerce businesses to meet increasing demand without compromising performance or adding excessive labour.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dCost reduction\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh4\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 By optimising labour, reducing errors, and improving workflow efficiency, a WMS helps cut operational costs. With faster order processing, reduced\u00a0<\/span>returns<\/a>, and minimised inventory holding costs, businesses can operate more profitably while delivering a better customer experience.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dAssessing your ecommerce WMS requirements\u201d module_id=\u201dAssessingrequirements\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 Not all warehouses will have the same WMS requirements and having a good understanding of what yours are will help you when it comes to assessing which provider is the perfect fit.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dStep 1: Map out all the current warehouse operations\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 Getting to grips with your operations has to be the first step, this will help you map out the priority areas to improve for efficiency and also give you a chance to (ideally with your warehouse staff) discuss any areas of the wider warehouse management that could do with improvements. Some of the areas to consider include the following:<\/p>\n Starting to record the above will give you insight into potential bottlenecks and priority areas, which will then feed into the must haves vs the nice to haves.<\/p>\n Top tip:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Make sure you have an understanding of your ecommerce platform before you make the decision on a WMS. For example, if you use Shopify, then there are\u00a0<\/span>warehouse management systems for Shopify<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>that offer great functionality.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dStep 2: Define the must haves vs nice to haves\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 Once you have a clear understanding of current operations, the next step is to define the must-haves versus the nice-to-haves for any new system or improvement.<\/p>\n This involves separating the essential elements that directly impact productivity, safety, and compliance from those that may simply offer convenience or cosmetic benefits. Must-haves typically include systems for real-time inventory management, reliable order processing, and adequate storage solutions.<\/p>\n In contrast, nice-to-haves may include advanced\u00a0<\/span>reporting features<\/a>, upgraded ergonomic equipment, or additional automation tools. By clearly differentiating between the two, you can prioritise investments that drive tangible improvements in operational efficiency while also leaving room for future upgrades.<\/p>\n Remember to keep staff involved throughout this process, what management may consider a nice to have, staff may consider a real must have for the expected impact it could have on the warehouse operation.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dStep 3: Forecast for future growth\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 The final major step to consider starts with looking towards the future; if you are implementing a WMS then you may well be on a growth trajectory or at least near one. This means you should anticipate future demand and make sure you take into account the scalability of the warehouse system you are looking to implement.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dEvaluating different WMS providers\u201d module_id=\u201dEvaluatingWMSproviders\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 Now comes the fun part, diving into the potential providers out there to get an understanding of what they offer. The first step should be to do a search online to find the major providers, try to look beyond commercial landing pages and seek out case studies, reviews and customer testimonials. This will give you the wider context needed to make the decision beyond the information on WMS benefits and implementation (which is still of course very important).<\/p>\n Following this stage, look to schedule a WMS demo to see if the potential systems could suit your needs. This will give you the chance to speak to someone who has experience with the system and ask specific questions on what the use case may be for your organisation.<\/p>\n After you have had this demo, look into the associated investment required and start to map out the return on investment (ROI) available (most reportable WMS providers will have\u00a0<\/span>ROI calculation<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>content that guides you along this path).<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat are the most important features of a WMS for ecommerce businesses? \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 Key\u00a0<\/span>features of a WMS<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>for ecommerce include real-time inventory tracking,\u00a0<\/span>integration<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>with ecommerce platforms, and efficient order fulfillment, including pick, pack, and ship automation. The system should support multi-channel sales, handle high order volumes, and provide accurate stock visibility.<\/p>\n Return management, scalability, and warehouse automation (like barcode scanning) are also crucial for maintaining operational efficiency.\u00a0It is worth noting that importance is also greatly determined by what your specific pain-points are, as the solutions and features for these will naturally provide the biggest benefit.<\/p>\n\n
\n