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.

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New Warehouse Management System launched By PathGuide

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PathGuide Technologies has announced the immediate availability of its Latitude version 9.0 Warehouse Management System

Honeywell and Spirit streamline processes at JD Williams

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After deciding to upgrade some of its devices, JD Williams opted for Honeywell Dolphin mobile computers for a number of different applications

Global Shipping & Logistics drives Middle East growth with Manhattan Associates

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Manhattan Associates has announced that GSL has made key improvements in the service it provides to customers following a recent upgrade of Manhattan ILS

Churchill Fine Foods choose Sanderson

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Sanderson has won a contract to supply its Wholesale Distribution solution to Churchill Fine Foods Ltd

Howard Tenens meets complex and changing demands of 3PL operations

5 Howard Tenens meets complex and changing demands of 3PL operations

HighJump Software has announced that its WMS has improved operations in the Andover warehousing and transport facility of Howard Tenens

Speech-based picking gives a significant boost to warehouse efficiency

6 Speech-based picking gives a significant boost to warehouse efficiency

In the warehouses of modern companies the arrival of advanced processes was witnessed long ago

JLT Atom-ic powered warehouse terminal cuts the cost of forklift applications

7 JLT Atom-ic powered warehouse terminal cuts the cost of forklift applications

The new Intel Atom-powered rugged vehicle mount JLT 1214 represents another breakthrough product from the rugged mobile computing pioneer JLT

Sephora goes live with RedPrairie Warehouse Management System

8 Sephora goes live with RedPrairie Warehouse Management System

RedPrairie Corporation have announced that its WMS is running in cosmetics retailer Sephoras new Salt Lake City distribution centre

Logistics Simulation 3D technology linked to Keystones live inventory

9 Logistics Simulation 3D technology linked to Keystones live inventory

Logistics Simulation Limited has developed an innovative warehouse 3D simulation programme with real-time inventory tracking in partnership with Keystone Distribution UK

AWG slashes picking errors with BCPs Voice Picking

10 AWG slashes picking errors with BCPs Voice Picking

The first phase was a month-long four picker pilot to thoroughly test the system before implementing Voice picking in the bulk warehouse

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.

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