We’ve been working in warehouses either directly or indirectly for the past decade. From handling inventories of multiple customers to ensuring error-free deliveries, Third-Party Logistics (3PL) warehouses are constantly looking for a software vendor which understands the daily operations of the warehouse to save time and money. 3PL Warehousing management software have not changed for many years and they are all mostly doing the same functions, and there are still many deficiencies when it comes to receiving goods with different units of measure, efficient picking strategies, automated billing and customized invoicing. In this post, we’ll explore how WMS, particularly when integrated with other systems, drastically reduces manual tasks, saves costs, and delivers unmatched operational efficiency.
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1. Batch Picking and Order Processing Automation
Traditionally, 3PL warehouses relied heavily on manual labor for order picking. This often led to errors, delays, and an increased need for workforce management and paperwork.
Most modern WMS offer various picking strategies like wave, location, and batch picking, but 3PL businesses that process thousands of orders every day know that it’s not enough to just rely on these basic order picking strategies.
Businesses need to created automated rules so that the system can generate batches of orders that are ready for picking. Example of an automated rule could be to batch all orders with the *same SKU, *same quantity and the *same shipping method together, so that a picker can grab the batch and start picking.
These rules should be customized and overruled at a customer level setting.
Instead of individually picking items for each order, the WMS groups similar orders and allows for picking in batches. This not only expedites order processing but also results in fewer errors, ensuring that the right products reach the right customers on time.
To put this into perspective, consider the significant cost savings: By automating processes with WMS, 3PL warehouses can save an average of $55k annually by reducing manual task and use technology to do that job instead. These savings stem from the reduced need to hire additional staff for manual tasks, leading to both direct and indirect financial benefits.
2. Real-time Inventory Visibility for Customers
One of the primary concerns of businesses that utilize 3PL warehouses is maintaining visibility over their inventory. With the right WMS, this is no longer a concern. Advanced warehouse management software offers real-time visibility, enabling customers to view their inventory status anytime, anywhere.
Moreover, the capabilities of WMS go beyond mere visibility. Customers can run detailed reports, assessing their inventory turnover, spotting trends, and making informed business decisions. They can seamlessly create orders, ensuring that their products are always in stock and ready to meet market demands.
3. Seamless Integration with E-commerce Platforms
In today’s digital age, e-commerce reigns supreme. 3PL warehouses, must be equipped to handle e-commerce operations seamlessly. By integrating WMS with platforms like Shopify, Shipstation and many other platforms, warehouses can ensure that inventory levels are automatically updated, orders are processed swiftly, and customers receive their products promptly.
Checkout how Packem can connect your warehouse to over 80 platforms with just a few clicks so that you can receive orders automatically and create shipping labels from every available carrier.
4. Partnering with SPSCommerce and TrueCommerce for Automated EDI Data Exchange
Data exchange is a critical component of 3PL operations. Traditional methods, often manual, are time-consuming and prone to errors. However, as partners with industry leaders like SPS and TrueCommerce, PackemWMS has taken a giant leap forward. By automating the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), the need for manual data input is eliminated. This not only reduces the risk of errors but also saves time and money, enabling 3PL warehouses to focus on their core competencies.
Warehouse management software has undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of 3PL warehousing. By reducing manual tasks, offering real-time visibility, integrating with e-commerce platforms, and automating data exchange, WMS ensures that 3PL warehouses are well-equipped to meet the dynamic demands of the modern logistics world. As the logistics industry continues to evolve, tools like 3PL Warehouse Management software (WMS) will be at the forefront, driving efficiency, cost savings, and unparalleled customer satisfaction.
Our team at PackemWMS have configured many systems in various environments and industries. Contact the team today and a team member will be in touch to help you with the right option for your specific needs.
