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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.
Time to invest in warehouse systems!
May 20, 2009
The suggestion to invest in new warehouse applications now may not at first glance seem the wisest counsel. But there are a number of good reasons why improving your warehouse systems and technology during a downturn could be a good idea.
VoiceWeaver for SAP customers
May 13, 2009
Vocollect, Inc. has introduced of VoiceWeaver, a native interface to SAP's NetWeaver Warehouse Management solutions.
Fastest growing WMS provider of 2008
Apr 24, 2009
The ARC Advisory Group recognised HighJump Software as the WMS provider with the highest year-over-year sales growth from 2007 to 2008.
Snapfulfil benefits charity
Apr 23, 2009
Following the outstanding success of their WMS Snapfulfil implementations Snapfulfil came to the attention of one of the Princes Trust charities and its supporting logistics partner.
Developing a beautiful logistics solution
Apr 08, 2009
Gideon Hillman Consulting has been working with the Urban Retreat group to develop and deliver an improved and reduced cost warehouse and distribution strategy.
Four Soft wins WMS contract from Calderhead, UK
Apr 08, 2009
Four Soft has recently signed a contract with Calderhead Refrigerated Transport, to implement its warehouse management system.
RedPrairies latest Warehouse Management release launched
Apr 08, 2009
RedPrairie has launched the latest release of its Warehouse Management solution to help retailers meet the challenges of multichannel retail.
Swisslog drink in praise from Britvic
Apr 06, 2009
Swisslog has successfully installed its WarehouseManager software at Wincantons Britvic site.
Snapfulfil On Demand - In Demand!
Mar 24, 2009
Continuing to demonstrate that Software as a Service in the WMS sector is the future, Snapfulfil have announced two successful implementations.
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.
