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Warehouse management systems (WMS) are perfect for any business or company that handles goods and products, in some form. From small shops with a modest-sized stock room to vast warehouses requiring hundreds of employees to make sure operations run smoothly, a WMS can help to make the lives of business owners and managers easier in some form or another. But what is a WMS and what are the benefits of implementing one for your warehouse? Let’s take a closer look:
What are warehouse management systems?
Warehouse management systems, or WMS as they’re also referred to, are pieces of software that enable warehousing, fulfilment centres, distribution centres and businesses in general to seamlessly manage and control essential workplace operations. In this modern, digital age, a WMS plays a vital role in the supply chain. It can automate processes and give real-time information about a wealth of different aspects of the warehouse. A WMS offers tools for the following things:
- Inventory management
- Picking and packing processes
- Resource utilisation
- Analytics
- More
What are the benefits of a warehouse management system?
Now you know what a WMS is, it’s time to give you some details of how it can be advantageous. From inventory optimisation and visibility to reduced costs and improved customer relationships, here are five benefits of a warehouse management system that you need to know:
1. Inventory optimisation & real-time visibility
One of the most advantageous parts of a WMS is the inventory optimisation and visibility side of things. A WMS allows warehouse managers and other employees to see inventory details. This can include the stock they have, where it is and how much of everything they have. This prevents over-ordering and inventory shrinkage. It also means that you’ll have more space available, which is something we will touch on again in a moment.
A WMS will also offer real-time data. As such, analytics will be updated as soon as items are picked and processed. Therefore, your customers will also be able to see, as soon as possible, when items have sold out. It’s a win-win for everyone – the warehouse workers and the customer. This is just one reason to implement a WMS on your premises.
2. Improved order processing
With real-time data available, as we’ve already touched upon, it makes it far easier for orders to be processed. Not only does it make everything easier, but it also makes the whole operation quicker and more efficient on the whole. A WMS can entirely streamline this process, therefore making for a happier workforce and satisfied customers.
Another benefit a WMS has to offer in terms of order processing is that orders are entirely tracked and traced. This eradicates ambiguity on the part of the customer, allowing them to see where their items are at any time throughout the picking and delivery process, with real-time updates also.
3. Reduced waste & costs
With improved inventory management and intelligent systems available that involve automation and real-time data, it’s never been easier to keep track of what is coming in and going out of your warehouse. As such, this helps to keep up a first-in-first-out policy, therefore preventing sellable products from expiring and therefore being rendered unsellable, for example. As such, your waste is reduced and this often comes hand-in-hand with reduced costs. You won’t need to foot the bill for replacement products have have expired, for instance. This is yet another benefit of implementing a WMS in your warehouse today.
4. Better customer & supplier relationships
With improved supply chain processes, from the picking and processing right through to the delivery, you’re helping to forge better relationships with those involved along the way, and that includes your suppliers and your customers. If you have happy suppliers, this will filter through to your customers. It helps to keep the service quick and efficient, therefore boosting customer satisfaction in the process.
5. Optimised warehouse space
If you have a WMS in place, then it will help you to make the most of the space you have throughout your warehouse. Not only does this mean that you have more space for additional stock when needed during peak times, for example, but it also means that you can save hassle and money as you won’t need to relocate to larger premises.
Not only does it mean you can house more inventory, but it also gives you additional room for warehouse equipment. A WMS combined with additional warehouse equipment makes for fast and efficient warehouse operations, regardless of the industry you work in or the size of your premises.
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Multy Lift has over three decades of experience in the material handling industry, providing customers throughout the UK with quality warehouse equipment, used warehouse equipment, industrial cleaning equipment, cleaning chemicals, warehouse services and more. If you would like further information about our forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, warehouse racking or other products and services we have available, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team today – we’re always pleased to hear from you.
