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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Aprirose acquires strategic 12-acre Greater Manchester logistics facility

1 Aprirose acquires strategic 12-acre Greater Manchester logistics facility

Aprirose, the real estate investment company, has added to its growing portfolio of industrial and logistics assets with the acquisition of a 12-acre development in a strategic location in Wigan for an undisclosed price.

Beaverswood extends the racksack range with new workstation version

2 Beaverswood extends the racksack range with new workstation version

Improved collection and segregation of workstation and workbench waste materials is provided by the new racksack mini from workplace visual communications and safety products specialist Beaverswood.

Asda extends long-term partnership with Vanderlande

3 Asda extends long-term partnership with Vanderlande

One of the UK’s leading supermarket chains, Asda, has renewed its site-based, life-cycle services contract with Vanderlande for the next five years, further cementing the partnership.

New functionality the order fulfilment of the day for high growth 3PLs

4 New functionality the order fulfilment of the day for high growth 3PLs

WMS technology provider, Synergy Logistics, has further enhanced its multiple billing software that already offers high levels of detail, accuracy and clarity via its SnapFulfil WMS cloud based solution.

Packaging firm lays foundations for future success with FUSO Canter from Northside Truck & Van

5 Packaging firm lays foundations for future success with FUSO Canter from Northside Truck & Van

Doncaster-based Foundation Packaging contacted its local Mercedes-Benz Dealer to enquire about its next FUSO Canter – and was delighted to be told a new curtainside-bodied vehicle could be delivered the following week.

Lightening the load to improve employee experience

6 Lightening the load to improve employee experience

The logistics industry is facing unprecedented challenges. From endemic staff shortages to escalating stakeholder environmental demands, businesses must innovate to bounce back from the pandemic.

Dakota helps distributor Nimans keep technology moving

7 Dakota helps distributor Nimans keep technology moving

Delivering technology to its expansive customer network for over 35 years, Nimans Ltd has established itself as the ‘go-to’ distributor for technology-based products, services and solutions, including IT hardware, telephony systems, security AV and UC cloud platforms from over 200 branded suppliers.

Hines and Allianz Real Estate partner to build one of the largest logistics facilities in Milan

8 Hines and Allianz Real Estate partner to build one of the largest logistics facilities in Milan

Hines, the global real estate firm, and Allianz Real Estate, one of the world’s largest real estate investment managers, have finalised an €80 million investment in the Urban Mile fund managed by Blue SGR.

Investing in effective packaging waste recycling

9 Investing in effective packaging waste recycling

By Jim Roberts, Commercial manager, Beaverswood.

The UK’s warehouse and supply chain sector generates considerable amounts of paper, cardboard, plastic and other waste materials - almost 38 million tonnes in 2017, according to reports.

Walsall logistics firm Trailer Freight International sets sights on new 35,000 sq. ft HQ

10 Walsall logistics firm Trailer Freight International sets sights on new 35,000 sq. ft HQ

A West Midlands logistics firm is setting its sights on further growth as it plans to move to a new 35,000 sq. ft premises just a year after putting down roots in its current home.

Warehouse Management System

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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