New slotting engine helps companies more intelligently manage resources in the warehouse
Warehouse Management Software, WMS, Warehousing Software, Warehouse Systems
A critical element within the wider supply chain, a warehouse management system (WMS) helps to manage the storage and distribution of goods within a warehouse or distribution centre (DC). The software stores and provides information on goods transactions such as receiving, putaway and picking and shipping, often based on real-time information related to bin utilisation. A WMS system also often incorporates the use of Auto Identification & Data Capture (AIDC) devices or systems – including barcode scanners, mobile computers, wireless LANs or Radio-frequency identification (RFID) – to help to optimise the efficient stocking and distribution of goods.
Nominate a woman who inspires you today
Feb 12, 2008
The 'everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards' 2008 are now open for entries
Woolworths keeps customers happy with Stock Checker from Episys
Feb 06, 2008
Woolworths has made sure that customers could get their hands on 'Big Red Book' catalogue items this Christmas by implementing in-store stock checking technology
Intermec introduces Windows Mobile-based CK61ex handheld computer
Feb 06, 2008
This ultra-rugged CK61ex mobile computer with integrated near-far EX imaging technology enables users to quickly scan 1D and 2D bar codes in any orientation, from six inches to 50 feet away, capture images, signatures, and documents
Millers Oils adopt Atlanta 8000 Series
Feb 05, 2008
As part of their ongoing commitment to maintain its consistently high standards, Millers Oils has invested in a warehouse management system to reduce errors and improve efficiency within its Brighouse facility.
Intermec PB50 mobile printer brings labels up close
Jan 30, 2008
Intermec has recently introduced the PB50, the company's first wireless mobile label printer
Fast delivery courtesy of Datalogic Mobile
Jan 28, 2008
Arredo 3 delivers kitchens to its clients faster and more accurately with Datalogic Mobile PDAs and mobile computers
BlueStar to distribute new linear bar code scanner
Jan 28, 2008
BlueStar has announced it is distributing the new MS9590 VoyagerGS scanner from Metrologic Instruments
SAGE 200 launches powerful software modules for wholesale, retail, construction and manufacturing businesses
Jan 25, 2008
Sage (UK) Limited has launched Sage 200 v.5, which includes modules for wholesale and retail and manufacturing businesses
Pedigree Wholesale benefits from BCPs Accord
Jan 24, 2008
Following a period of growth and investment in two new warehousing facilities at its main distribution centre in Nottingham, Pedigree identified the need for a warehouse management system to help fully utilise the new facilities
Warehouse Management System (WMS)
A warehouse is a commercial building used for the storage of goods and are usually cited in industrial areas. Warehouses are used by manufacturers, logistics companies, distributors, transport, freight forwarders, importers, exporters, wholesalers, etc. Warehouses usually have loading bays and docks and serve as a distribution centre for the loading and unloading of goods from trucks. Sometimes warehouses are designed for storage and despatch of goods directly from railways, airports or seaports.
A warehouse management system, or WMS, is a key part of the supply chain and primarily aims to control the movement and storage of materials within a warehouse and then organise and process all of the associated transactions such as shipping, receiving, put-away and picking. The systems also direct and optimise stock put-away based on real-time information about the status of bin utilisation. A WMS can be used by manufacturers in their own warehousing facilities or a logistics company (3Pl /4Pl) operating contracts for a number of clients and retailers.
Warehouses are an integral link in the modern supply chain, ensuring that the correct product is stored efficiently ,delivered in the right quantity, in good condition, at the required time, and at minimal cost. It performs an integral role in managing goods movement and information exchange between manufacturers, distributors and retailers.
A good Warehouse Management System (WMS) manages all types of warehouse operations efficiently and effectively. It also enhances inventory management by increasing accuracy, improving order fulfilment and reducing order cycle time. Receiving and shipping are streamlined as well to facilitate cross-docking and expedite back-ordered products.
A WMS can automate picking, packing and shipping and it will minimise the number of moves per order. The WMS can improve the accuracy of every order, reduce safety stock, manage tasks and improve processes. An efficient WMS can consolidate orders to reduce transportation and shipping costs. Data is collected within the warehouse environment by data-capture technology such as barcode scanners, mobile computers, wireless LANs and Radio-frequency identification (RFID). This information is then fed into a central WMS database to provide a real-time update on the overall inventory and specific SKU levels in the warehouse (stock keeping units). This information is then used to replenish the stock levels to ensure that there is sufficient flow of products. Once data has been collected, there is either a batch synchronization with, or a real-time wireless transmission to a central database. The database can then provide useful reports about the status of goods in the warehouse.
Bonded warehouses are specifically used as a secure holding or storage facility before duty is paid. Upon entry of goods into the warehouse, the importer and warehouse owner incur liability under a bond. Goods can be stored and held in a secure environment for a number of years before either being shipped on or released for distribution when the duty must then be paid.