[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n
Warehouse performance has become a defining factor for\u00a0<\/span>direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands<\/span><\/a>\u00a0competing in an era where customers expect next-day delivery and seamless order experiences. The most successful D2C businesses are those that can scale quickly while\u00a0maintaining\u00a0exceptional accuracy and control over their fulfilment operations.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Improving warehouse performance begins with understanding how effectively your warehouse runs day to day, then using that data to set meaningful goals.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In this article, we explore how D2C businesses can benchmark, measure, and optimise warehouse operations using data-led strategies and insights drawn from industry benchmarks\u2014and how\u00a0<\/span>Descartes Peoplevox<\/span><\/a>\u00a0helps them achieve it.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_heading title=\u201dTable of Contents\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201dWhat Does Warehouse Performance Mean Today? \u201d module_id=\u201dWhatDoesWarehousePerformanceMeanToday\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Warehouse performance reflects how well a business uses its space, workforce, and technology to fulfil orders accurately and on time. In a D2C environment, performance is about agility as much as speed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Modern warehouses must\u00a0handle\u00a0fluctuating order volumes, high product diversity, and fast-changing consumer expectations.\u00a0It\u2019s\u00a0not simply about dispatching as\u00a0many\u00a0orders as possible\u2014it\u2019s\u00a0about doing so consistently, cost-effectively, and in a way that enhances the customer experience.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For D2C businesses, the warehouse is an extension of the brand promise. Every\u00a0accurate\u00a0and\u00a0timely\u00a0delivery builds trust, while each delay or error risks undermining<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow to Measure Warehouse Performance?\u201d module_id=\u201dHowtoMeasureWarehousePerformance\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Warehouse optimisation starts with clarity. Without\u00a0accurate\u00a0insight into performance,\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0impossible to know where to focus efforts. Data allows teams to see\u00a0what\u2019s\u00a0working well and where resources may be wasted.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Some of the most important warehouse performance indicators include order accuracy, picking productivity, dock-to-stock time, space utilisation,\u00a0<\/span>inventory accuracy<\/span><\/a>, and dispatch reliability. These metrics\u00a0provide\u00a0a balanced view of\u00a0<\/span>operational efficiency<\/span><\/a>\u2014from inbound processing through to outbound fulfilment.\u00a0This insight is essential for anyone looking to understand\u00a0<\/span>how to improve warehouse operations<\/span>, because it shows exactly where delays, errors, or bottlenecks begin.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n By\u00a0<\/span>tracking and analysing performance trends<\/span><\/a>, warehouse leaders can\u00a0identify\u00a0patterns, uncover inefficiencies, and make informed adjustments. For example, measuring how long items take to move from goods-in to storage highlights potential delays at\u00a0<\/span>receiving<\/span><\/a>, while tracking orders picked per hour helps gauge workforce productivity.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dBenchmarking Your Warehouse Performance\u201d module_id=\u201dBenchmarkingYourWarehousePerformance\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Performance data becomes far more powerful when viewed in context. Benchmarking allows D2C businesses to compare their own metrics against industry standards, revealing where their operations stand in relation to peers.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For warehouse leaders, this visibility turns data into direction. It shows whether their fulfilment accuracy is competitive, whether dispatch times align with customer expectations, and where investment in process improvement could make the greatest impact.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Benchmarking also brings accountability. When teams can see how performance measures up against clear, external standards, it encourages focus and pride in improvement.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2025_12_Blog_Metrics-and-Improvements-Every-D2C-Brand-Should-Know-2.png\u201d alt=\u201dAn image promoting the 2025 Descartes Warehouse Performance Benchmark Report.\u201d title_text=\u201d2025_12_Blog_Metrics and Improvements Every D2C Brand Should Know-2\u2033 url=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.descartes.com\/lp\/2025-warehouse-performance-benchmark-report?utm_source=peoplevox_blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=2025_warehouse_performance_report\u201d url_new_window=\u201don\u201d _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][\/et_pb_image][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 The\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span>2025<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span>Descartes Warehouse\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Performance\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Benchmark Report<\/span><\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span>provides<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>valuable insight for ecommerce and D2C operations, highlighting how leading businesses structure their warehouses for performance. The report explores average benchmarks across key operational metrics, outlines trends driving modernisation, and shares actionable recommendations to improve throughput, accuracy, and scalability.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.descartes.com\/lp\/2025-warehouse-performance-benchmark-report?utm_source=peoplevox_blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=2025_warehouse_performance_report\u201d url_new_window=\u201don\u201d button_text=\u201dGet the report\u201d button_alignment=\u201dcenter\u201d _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][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow to Improve Receiving and Putaway Accuracy?\u201d module_id=\u201dHowtoImproveReceivingandPutawayAccuracy\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Many\u00a0warehouse inefficiencies begin at the point of receipt. When products are miscounted, mislabelled, or misplaced, the impact ripples through the entire fulfilment process. For D2C brands, where product turnover is fast and SKUs change regularly, getting this step right is critical.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Efficient receiving ensures that every item entering the warehouse is accounted for and\u00a0located\u00a0precisely where it should be. Peoplevox supports this through real-time data capture, allowing staff to scan incoming stock as soon as it arrives. The\u00a0Descartes\u00a0system automatically updates quantities and locations, giving full visibility of available inventory without delay.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Structured putaway processes guided by\u00a0a warehouse management system\u00a0(WMS)\u00a0ensure goods\u00a0are stored\u00a0efficiently, reducing travel time and maximising available space. This visibility prevents stock discrepancies later in the fulfilment cycle and ensures pickers always know exactly where to find every item.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow to Improve Picking and Fulfilment Efficiency?\u201d module_id=\u201dHowtoImprovePickingandFulfilmentEfficiency\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Picking is often where\u00a0the majority of\u00a0time and labour are spent, making it one of the most\u00a0important areas\u00a0to refine. For D2C businesses\u00a0handling\u00a0thousands of small orders daily, even a minor improvement in picking speed or accuracy can deliver a significant impact.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Best-in-class fulfilment operations use technology to reduce unnecessary movement,\u00a0eliminate\u00a0manual errors, and prioritise high-value or time-sensitive orders. Peoplevox enables this by combining\u00a0<\/span>mobile scanning<\/span><\/a>, dynamic task assignment, and real-time visibility of order status.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Wave or zone-based picking can help reduce travel time, while the WMS can automatically group similar orders or direct pickers along the most efficient routes. The result is faster, more\u00a0accurate\u00a0fulfilment\u2014especially vital during peak periods when order volumes surge.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow to Calculate Warehouse Efficiency?\u201d module_id=\u201dHowtoCalculateWarehouseEfficiency\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Efficiency is best understood as the relationship between actual performance and what your warehouse\u00a0can achieve\u00a0under\u00a0optimal\u00a0conditions.\u00a0For teams\u00a0<\/span>exploring how to improve warehouse efficiency<\/span>, understanding the gap between real output and ideal capacity is the foundation for long-term improvement.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n A simple calculation\u2014comparing real output to expected capacity\u2014can reveal whether your operation is working at full potential or falling short.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Peoplevox\u2019s\u00a0<\/span>reporting tools<\/span><\/a>\u00a0make this process effortless. The\u00a0Descartes\u00a0system tracks performance metrics automatically, presenting clear visual dashboards that highlight trends and anomalies. Managers can\u00a0monitor\u00a0throughput,\u00a0identify\u00a0underperforming areas, and use this data to refine layout, staffing, or workflows.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Once visibility improves, decision-making becomes more precise. Instead of guessing where time or labour is lost, businesses can take targeted action that leads to measurable gains in both speed and accuracy.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhy Does Continuous Improvement Matter?\u201d module_id=\u201dWhyDoesContinuousImprovementMatter\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n High-performing D2C operations treat performance improvement as an ongoing discipline rather than a single project. The most successful teams regularly review their data,\u00a0test\u00a0small process changes, and measure the impact.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This iterative approach builds long-term efficiency without major disruption. For example, minor adjustments to pick path design or storage allocation can compound into significant savings over time. By fostering a culture of continuous evaluation and refinement, warehouses\u00a0maintain\u00a0agility and resilience as order volumes grow.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow Our WMS Helps You Improve Warehouse Performance\u201d module_id=\u201dHowOurWMSHelpsYouImproveWarehousePerformance\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2025_12_Blog_Metrics-and-Improvements-Every-D2C-Brand-Should-Know-3.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dTwo warehouse workers use mobile scanning devices to scan bins while picking order items in a warehouse.\u201d title_text=\u201d2025_12_Blog_Metrics and Improvements Every D2C Brand Should Know-3\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n Peoplevox is a WMS built specifically for fast-moving D2C brands. It gives operations teams full visibility of every order, item, and staff movement across the warehouse, helping them improve performance and scale with confidence.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The\u00a0Descartes\u00a0solution\u2019s mobile-first design allows teams to work faster and with greater precision, scanning items at every stage to\u00a0maintain\u00a0accuracy from goods-in to dispatch. Real-time dashboards present performance data clearly, helping managers\u00a0monitor\u00a0productivity, spot inefficiencies, and measure improvements as they happen.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Peoplevox\u2019s\u00a0configurable workflows adapt to\u00a0<\/span>seasonal peaks<\/span><\/a>, team changes, and business growth, ensuring the system evolves alongside your operation. By integrating directly with major ecommerce platforms, it bridges the gap between front-end orders and back-end fulfilment\u2014keeping customer promises on track.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Watch how\u00a0our solution\u00a0transforms warehouse operations in practice in this short video:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_video src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=gnu2d1kgEiw\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d][\/et_pb_video][et_pb_heading title=\u201dThe Role of Data and Benchmarking in the Future of Warehouse Performance\u201d module_id=\u201dTheRoleofDataandBenchmarkingintheFutureofWarehousePerformance\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n The future of D2C fulfilment will depend on data-driven decision-making. As customer expectations and operational complexity continue to rise, real-time visibility will become the foundation of every high-performing warehouse.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Benchmarking adds an extra layer of context, helping businesses understand how their internal improvements compare with wider industry progress. Together, these tools enable D2C brands to remain competitive, scalable, and consistently\u00a0reliable.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n To see how your warehouse measures up, explore\u00a0the<\/span>\u00a02025 Descartes Warehouse Performance Benchmark Report<\/span><\/b>, which offers performance data, best practices, and insights drawn from top-performing operations.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dKey Takeaways\u201d module_id=\u201dKeyTakeaways\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\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=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d theme_builder_area=\u201dpost_content\u201d]<\/p>\n\n
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