Warehousing and warehouse logistics play an increasingly central role in modern business and competition. Digitization and modern warehouse technologies and programs have made it possible for businesses to outsource and delegate their warehousing processes and control them more effectively and profitably from a distance. This is why many companies are moving away from the classic storage system today. Because with this approach you create a much more sustainable supply chain for your business. This is not least because warehousing, contrary to the storage principle, improves the speed, accuracy and traceability of your logistics processes.
To define warehousing and warehouse logistics, we first need to understand the meaning of logistics itself.
Simply put, logistics can be defined as the detailed planning, organization, management and execution of complex operations. In many industries, including warehousing, logistics also encompasses the flow of both physical goods and information.
Warehouse logistics therefore encompasses all the diverse, complex factors - organization, movements and management - involved in warehousing. This includes the flow (shipping and receiving) of physical goods and cargo, as well as that of more abstract concepts such as information, shelf life and shipping and delivery times.
Warehouse logistics can also be extended to everything from pest control in the warehouse, to handling damaged goods, to safety policies and human resource management. In other words, warehouse logistics includes all the policies, procedures and organizational tools needed to keep your warehouse operations running smoothly.
Common warehouse logistics challenges revolve around organization or, in other words, how can you achieve optimal control over all the processes taking place in the warehouse?
You must be able to pinpoint the exact location of a specific item of goods and items, a pallet that has carried a food item with an assumed expired shelf life, or the truck that sent an item damaged during transport. These controls are essential for smooth operations and stable revenue, and without expert tools it is almost impossible to achieve.
Warehouse challenges are even deeper than these immediate concerns, extending to inventory management, supply chain management, cost control, human resources, risk management and security.
Advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) give you real-time insight into your warehouse and provide you with the information and tools you need to effectively, efficiently and profitably manage your goods and warehouse.
WMS warehouse programs are not only a sure way to improve warehouse operations management and warehouse logistics, but are also a must in modern and efficient warehousing. Inventory control programs and warehouse management systems take control of all warehouse logistics, from inventory control and management to order fulfillment. Many WMS today include mobile tools, so your warehouse managers and employees can consult the system on the go, via smartphone.
An integrated WMS combines traditional management tools with Warehouse Control Systems (WCS) to create synergy for the entire warehouse, to improve your overall logistics, from receiving goods to shipping parcels to end customers.