17 Best Inventory Management Software in 2022 (2023)

Each year,Retailers are losing big$1.75 trilliontoo ineffective in salesinventory management. That adds up11,7 %of annual lost sales for each company. Still,43%of small business owners either still use manual inventory tracking methods or don't track inventory at all.

In the meantime,55%of SME owners say that the use ofinventory management softwaresaves them up to five hours a week, and as many as 16% report more than a day's time savings.

Warehouse management systems can help you address common warehouse management challenges such as: B. Accurate inventory tracking, redundant processes and time management.

If you are new to digital warehouse management or looking to upgrade your existing warehouse management solution, this article will help you. Here we check17 of the best warehouse management systemsand answer some frequently asked questions about warehouse management software.

We also cover the types of warehouse management software, the benefits of each, and what features to consider when choosing a quality warehouse management software.

List of the best warehouse management systems

1.Netsuite

Best Inventory Management Software for Ecommerce Businesses.

Netsuite is a cloud-based ERP solution that offers users complete visibility and control over their business in areas such as finance, payroll, cash flow, inventory and more in a single tool.

Netsuite includedSuiteCommercein its offers a solutionspecially developed for e-commerce, in addition to tools for warehouse and inventory management. In a single tool, users get support for both B2B and B2C e-commerce. This allows those who offer more than one type of product or service to manage everything in one place.

Netsuite SuiteCommerce includesFeatures for real-time inventory visibility, multi-channel order management, and fulfillment.The platform also includes point-of-sale, content management, and marketing capabilities, effectively providing a holistic way to manage e-commerce.

You canPublish new content, create landing pages and launch new promotions within the platform. The drag-and-drop interface allows you to easily edit pages and manage content. You can also work on multiple versions of your sites at the same time and plan for future deployment.

Netsuite is scalable and extensible, offering a wide range of extensions to enhance your website. It also offers new features and automatic updates with each version.

pricing

Netsuite pricing is available upon request. They also offer a free product tour.

Advantages

• Offers inventory management, order management and e-commerce marketing in one solution
• Support for B2B and B2C
• Supports order processing and management for multiple channels

Disadvantages

• The pricing is not transparent
• Requires more pre-built 3rd party integrations

2.Mobe3 WMS

Best inventory management software to optimize warehouse layout and picking routes.

IfStructure your warehouse layout and expand your direct picking routesare important to you, then Mobe3 WMS might be the solution you need. Mobe3 WMS offersSmartBarcode scanning and system-guided order pickingdesigned to increase work efficiency and eliminate manual errors.

Mobe3 WMS is acloud-based warehouse management software that automates inventory processes for medium to large businesses. It is currently the only inventory system that simulates actual warehouse operations and suggests improvements.

The software is easy to implement and quick to set up and get started. The user interface is easy to understand and navigate and offers good training opportunities.In terms of usability, Mobe3 WMS scores very well.

Mobe3 WMS is a very flexible and configurable toolintegrate with your ERPand other enterprise software and systems such as TMS and MES. However, there are some compatibility issues with previous iOS versions and other older smart devices.

pricing

Mobe3 WMS has a free demo and prices start at $300 per user per month.

Advantages

• User friendly
• Easy to implement and get up and running

Disadvantages

• Compatibility issues with previous iOS versions and older devices

3.KugelWMS

Best warehouse management system for inventory tracking.

SphereWMS offers full control, efficiency and transparency over your warehouse operationsReal-time web visibility and reporting, flexible customization, wireless barcode scanning, and an iOS app.

Inventory management features include control over inventory accounts, lot numbers, bin locations, serial numbers, and pallet/case IDs, as well as visibility into availability, shipment, and ordering. You can track the real-time location, quantity and history of each item in your warehouse.

SphereWMS tooyou can optimize your entire ordering processby integrating the requirements of your customers directly into the workflow and implementing needs-based fulfillment solutions.

Users can do this without any trainingUse the ad hoc tool to create, save, schedule and distribute reports automatically. The integrated document management system supports multiple types of file attachments. You also get 24/7 IT support.

KugelWMSoffers a solid list of third-party integrations, making it one of the most flexible warehouse management systems. Integration options available include integrations with top online marketplaces and ecommerce platforms like Amazon, ClickFunnels, ApparelMagic, CS.cart, Bigcommerce, Blue Cherry, Etsy, Channel Advisor, Foxycart, Houzz, WooCommerce, NetSuite, PayPal, Prestashop , Salesforce, and many more.

On the downside, using this tool can be a bit complex, although that's due to the many extras required to ensure detailed information gathering. The software is also one of the more expensive options out there, relatively speaking.

pricing

SphereWMS is free and prices are based on offers.

Advantages

• Can accommodate any inventory solution needed
• Highly flexible and modular
• Implementation is quick
• First class customer service

Disadvantages

• Relative expensive
• Can be a bit complicated to use

4.Infoplus

Best Inventory Management Software for Custom Reporting Dashboards.

Infoplus is aFull-service, web-based warehouse management systemfor inventory control and management of warehousing and shipping operations.

Infoplus is aimed at small to medium-sized 3PLs, e-commerce retailers and wholesalersoffers functionality for inventory control, receiving and purchasing, dispatching and shipping, building blocks, custom dashboards for reporting, low inventory and inventory control, real-time order and shipment tracking, exception management, and customer portals, among other features.

One great thing about this platform is that you can manage multiple lines of business under a single platform.

It also allows youdefine different production line processes, is compatible with any iOS or Android-based device and supports lightweight manufacturing with print-on-demand and kit-on-demand capabilities.

The platform includes 120+ 3rd party integrations with shopping carts, carriers and more. These include Amazon Seller Central, Cratejoy, Etsy, HSN, ChannelAdvisor, Walmart Marketplace, Walmart DSV (Drop Ship Vendor) and many more.

pricing

In terms of pricing, Infoplus offers some more affordable options for startups and small businesses. Pricing starts at $379/month and goes up to $9,979/month for the Enterprise plan.

Advantages

• Native mobile application available
• Simple and fast navigation
• Easy setup of multiple warehouses

Disadvantages

• Security features are missing

5.Odoo

Best all-in-one solution for warehouse management and sales.

Odoo isa family of warehouse and vending apps covering everything from websites, operational, vending and productivity tools. As of 2021, Odoo is a fast growing software solution with over 5 million users worldwide and available in over 80 languages. Warehouse management software automatically replenishes your supply chain using order points and automated requests.

Odoo offers a full suite of software and applications, so you don't have to rely so much on external plugins. But even if you need them, you can always run themThird party integrations with Zapier.

This approach to third-party integration can be cumbersome for some users. Customization can also be cumbersome.

You can use one of the applications in the suite for free and add another for a small additional fee. This easily makes it one of the most budget-friendly options on this list.

pricing

Odoo offers a free basic plan for one application. Different fees apply for other applications.

Advantages

• Provides all the tools needed to manage a business
• Easy to set up
• Intuitive
• Modules are well integrated

Disadvantages

• Third-party customization and integration can be cumbersome

6.SkuVault

Best inventory management system for 3rd party integrations.

(Video) How to create an equipment inventory list?

SkuVault is a cloud-based warehouse management solution aimed at small and medium-sized businesses with aFocus on e-commerce but with extensive omnichannel capabilities.

It has warehouse management features such asOptimized picking, packing and shipping process, inventory visibility across multiple warehouses, hyper picking and product assembly.

SkuVaultis characterized by the sheer number of built-in integrationsavailable within the system.

Some of these integrations include Amazon, 3dcart, Back Market, eBay, Etsy, GeekSeller, Jet, Magento, Miva, Oracle Netsuite, Salesforce, Sellbrite, Shopify, WooCommerce, Zero, Square, ShipRush, RetailPro, Quickbooks, Mozu, Microsoft Dynamics, Logic Broker, InfoCon Systems, Feedonomics, Ecomitize, Anvizent and many more.

There is also aquality control systemto ensure all orders are filled correctly. The system can automatically detect where an error occurred during the fulfillment process.

As the software is cloud-based, it works on all operating systems and offers mobile applications for Android, iOS and Windows devices.

In addition, SkuVault also helps improve warehouse operations and reduce human error with features likepaperless wave picking, cycle counting, serialization and replenishment reports.

By selecting SkuVault,You get access to a dedicated customer service team that includes onboarding specialistswhich are available 5 days a week. This is in addition to support documentation and community forums.

pricing

After the free demo, SkuVault starts at $269 per month, billed annually.

Advantages

• Timely and helpful customer service
• Seamless integrations

Disadvantages

• No integration with Wayfair

7.Rackbeat

A powerful inventory management system for small and medium-sized businesses.

Rackbeat is a cloud-based warehouse management platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses across many industriesoffers easy integrations with ERP, e-commerce, POS, freight and communication systems.

Rackbeatsimplifies inventory management and operations by eliminating many time-consuming taskswhich are usually done manually. It is compatible with mobile devices and available in multiple languages.

With the order management system, companies can streamline sales processes. You can add packing slips, create invoices and access digital and physical shipping labels.

The platform supports multiple currencies and integrates with any existing accounting systems you may have.

You can also set up Rackbeat this waySend automatic notifications when stock levels run out. You can access custom data like Value Reports Android Quantity, Estimated Value, Cost and other such data.

Customer support is available via email, phone or helpdesk.

pricing

Rackbeat pricing starts at $50/user/month and goes up to $100/user/month.

Advantages

• Super quick and easy to set up
• Fast and serious support team

8.ChannelAdvisor

An all-in-one warehousing and inventory management platform that improves competitiveness.

ChannelAdvisor Enterprise is a cloud-based platform thatoffers a range of e-commerce solutions that help businesses connect with consumers around the world, streamline operations, expand sales channels and improve their online performance.

It provides actionable insights that enable businesses to increase fulfillment and increase sales across multiple marketplaces such as Walmart, Facebook, Amazon, Google eBay and many more.

ChannelAdvisor Enterpriseenables e-commerce businesses to operate at peak performance,enabling improved competitiveness. It's a truly borderless platform and an all-inclusive solution that lets you manage everything from product listings to stock levels, SEO to pricing rules and models.

In other words,ChannelAdvisor Enterprise is a complete inventory management system that streamlines sales, marketing and fulfillment.It is a reliable ecommerce platform that follows the latest ecommerce trends and technologies.

By offering an all-in-one platform that enables you to sell, market, and fulfill orders with unprecedented ease, ChannelAdvisor eliminates the cost and hassle of setting up multiple complex integrations with third-party systems.

In addition, ChannelAdvisor includes a powerfulBusiness Rules Engine (BRE)With it you can create dynamic product prices. You can price your products based on demand and performance. In other words, your price will be automatically adjusted according to the latest sales trends. When demand falls, prices fall and vice versa.

Channel Advisor toocomes with a shipping management module. This module allows you to speed up deliveries by staying connected with reliable shipping partners. From a central interface you can optimize picking lists, process bulk orders, print labels and create personalized delivery notes.

Seamless integration with popular marketplaces lets you easily manage orders and automate tasks to speed up deliveries.

pricing

ChannelAdvisor is charged on a quote basis; So you need to contact the provider for pricing information.

Advantages

• Highly customizable
• Nice interface

Disadvantages

• Setup can be tedious

9.Aptean IRMS360

Best Stock Management System for Reporting.

Available as both cloud-based and on-premise solution, Aptean IRMS360 is a warehouse management system thatprovides companies with a 360-degree view of their supply chain, regardless of whether they operate from a single location in multiple locations.

Through custom performance dashboards, the system provides real-time visibility of all processes, people and products as they move through your supply chain facilities.

There areMobile apps available for iOS, Android and Windows devices. There are also extensive integrations with various third-party systems. Some of these integrations include Oracle, QuickBooks, Salesforce.com, SAP, Amazon RDS, Amazon Redshift, Amazon S3, Derby DB, Google Storage, JavaDB, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL and many more.

The systemcontains functions for receiving, storing and moving personnel and inventory within the warehouse.There are also advanced features for yard management, third-party billing, transportation management, labor management, and demand planning.

Aptean WMS issuitable for wholesale, healthcare, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, automotive and aftermarket parts, third party logistics, metals, publishing organizations, and other such companies that require inventory management of any kind.

pricing

Pricing is available upon request and a free demo is available.

Advantages

• Awesome reports and performance dashboards

Disadvantages

• Limited number of characters for document naming
• Weak search function

10.high jump

Best warehouse management software for warehouse automation.

With HighJump WMS, companies can manage complex supply chains more effectively and efficiently while keeping operational costs low.The platform was designed to seamlessly handle the complexities that come with the shift toward omnichannel retail and e-commerce growth, both of which complicate logistics.

The platform isconsistently scalable and mobile-capable, meaning that HighJump's agile and innovative capabilities can help companies respond faster and smarter to market demands. Its functionalities prioritize both the customer, experience and regulatory compliance.

While fast and easy to use, HighJump WMS doesn't compromise on large volume and enterprise-level complexity capabilities. There are requirements for industry regulations, business objectives, sales model and operational complexity, all available within the platform.

The solution can be scaled according to the needs of organizationsof all sizes, from companies operating from a single location to multinational companies with multiple locations. It integrates with everyonemost important ERP systems, with integration upgrades being done carefully so as not to compromise the quality of work.

pricing

Prices are available upon request.

Advantages

• Works just as well for small businesses as it does for large companies

Disadvantages

• Steep learning curve

11.Hellperle

Best stock management system for fast growing and larger retailers.

Brightpearl is an omnichannel management solution that enables retailers to manage inventory, orders, real-time accounting, customer data and reports in a single place.

The platform tooprovides real-time insights into customer buying behavior, profitability by SKU and channel, inventory and cash flow, and more.

Hellperleseamlessly integrates into the retail tech ecosystem,including shopping carts like Shopify, Magento, and Bigcommerce, and marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. This gives businesses access to many new channels to grow into.

With its powerful marketplace and ecommerce connectorsBrightpearl can process 25,000 orders per hour.

In addition, the platformensures accurate and timely shipments through integrations with major shipping service providers such as Shipstation and Shiptheory. You also get a built-in iOS point of sale.

Brightpearl is designed to reliably handle trading spikes. Ongoing technical support and business advice is provided by an in-house team. The platform is designed for merchant use, not IT staff.

You get real-time accounting with multi-currency support. The system provides a clear overview of your inventory across all your sales channels and you get full automation of key processes.

pricing

Contact the vendor to discuss your specific needs and receive a quote for a solution that meets your needs.

Advantages

• The available integrations are extensive

Disadvantages

• Steep learning curve

12.Blue Link-ERP

Best warehouse management system for SMBs.

Blue Link ERP is a cloud-based, all-in-one inventory management and accounting solution aimed at small and medium-sized businesses.From handling the back office to managing logistical and operational needs, this software has you covered. It can also be deployed as an on-premise solution.

The tool has oneclear interface,with details and images sensibly organized for better readability and accessibility. The user interface is designed to be familiar enough for users of all skill levels to easily navigate the system.

The systemintegrates with tablets and barcode scanners, installment purchase applications and major carriers.

A key feature that makes it useful for companies in the food and beverage, medical care and pharmaceutical industries is thisit tracks lot numbers and expiration dates of products.

TheThe accounting component of Blue Link ERP has internal payroll, multi-location, multi-currency and multi-language support capabilities. The solution has built-in standard accounting modules – such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, returns authorization and job costing.

On the inventory tracking page is the systemincludes functions for order entry, inventory management as well as purchasing and procurement.

Support is available via email and phone.

pricing

The cloud-based version of Blue Link ERP is available as a monthly subscription, while on-premises deployment requires an upfront investment.

Advantages

• Full service ERP solution for retailers and wholesalers

Disadvantages

• Difficult onboarding process with little vendor support during this time

13.Clear Spinne

A cloud-based warehouse management system with order management, inventory control, mobile solutions, 3PL and more.

Clear Spider is a flexible cloud-based warehouse management system that enables small and medium-sized businesses to do thisstreamline their inventory management processes and provide functionalitiesnot provided by most inventory management systems today.

Clear Spider allows users to monitor their customers' inventory and automatically replenish their inventory.Customers can also place new orders quickly and easily at the push of a button.The platform is used by over 100,000 companies worldwide.

Because the system is cloud-based, inventory can be managed without geographic restrictions, including from the warehouse, office, storage location, or even on the go. Being cloud-based is also beneficial for maintenance and updates.

Over and beyond,The system is fully customizable. The backend processes can be designed to reflect your company's workflow. By eliminating non-value-adding functionalities, the system enables intuitive navigation. Users can quickly and easily find the tools they need to do their jobs.

Clear Spider offers new users access to a project manager from initial demo to post-implementation. This makes the onboarding process smooth and efficient. The mobile app gives users real-time visibility and inventory accuracy on the go. You can even use your smartphone camera to scan items efficiently.

pricing

Clear Spider is available in three plans: Basic, Premium, and Ultimate. Contact the vendor for pricing information and other product details.

Advantages

• Streamlined onboarding with dedicated project managers

Disadvantages

• Has some strange limitations; For example, a system-generated order can be automatically sent to just one supplier email address instead of multiple.

14.Fishbowl-Lager

Warehouse and manufacturing operations management system that automatically updates inventory and accounting records with simple integrations.

Fishbowl provides a holistic view of your manufacturing and inventory management operations. It works across multiple warehouse locations, meaning you get real-time updates on stock levels of all materials at each location.

This means your manufacturing operations run smoothly and seamlessly by ensuring you have ample supplies and all your tooling is in perfect condition. The solution is ideal for companies of all sizes.

Besides the manufacturing and inventory management components, Fishbowl also has other modules.It has a shipping moduleThis connects you with your various shipping partners and makes it easier to ship and track the delivery of customer orders.

Fishbowl can also be customized to fit your business processes with custom fields in different parts of the interface. And you can request custom reports if you can't find the report you want in the 100+ report options available in the system.

Additionally,You can get retail software and hardware with Fishbowl's checkout offering if you need a sales and payment processing system. This allows you to seamlessly process payments and orders as the order information is sent directly to your Fishbowl platform account.

There is alsoExtensive 3rd party integrations available with Fishbowl, including integrations with Xero and QuickBooks, all types of CRMs, payment gateways and merchant services.

Mobile devices are not left out as Fishbowl offers support for mobile, retail and pocket scanners.

pricing

Fishbowl Warehouse pricing starts at a one-time fee of $4,395. The amount to be paid depends on the number of user licenses required.

Advantages

• Amazing customer support

Disadvantages

• Some reports are paid

15.Manhattan WMS

Best supply chain management tool for proprietary AI and machine learning.

Manhattan Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a highly flexible and mobile platform that applies proprietary AI and machine learning algorithms to supply chain management.

what manhattanSupply chain managers can perform all kinds of inventory management tasks and fulfill orders. You can max out all kinds of house resources, from robotics to employees and automation.

The platform hasJob optimization features that optimize throughput and fulfillment at the same time. It uses advanced proprietary algorithms to optimize and organize supply chain operations.

With the intuitive user interface, users canEasily optimize and manage all aspects of fulfillment centers, including inventory, labor and space. The system also ensures compliance with regulations and standards while maintaining system security.

Users get two deployment options:On-premise deployment and cloud deployment. There are also modern mobile applications that allow users to manage omnichannel fulfillment.

The program expedites backordered products by streamlining receiving and shipping. It improves companies' financial performance and increases customer satisfaction by increasing inventory turns and speeding order processing.

pricing

Manhattan WMS pricing starts at $1,000 for a cloud-based license and $2,000 for an on-premises installation.

Advantages

• Applies AI and machine learning to improve supply chain operations

Disadvantages

• No integrations specified.

16.Zoho-Invent

A stock management tool best suited for users who have already invested in the Zoho ecosystem.

A member of Zoho's world-renowned enhanced productivity suite,Zoho helps organizations automate their ordering and inventory management processes,Plus, keep track of deliveries and make smarter business decisions.

Suitable for eCommerce businesses of all sizes, it integrates with multiple cloud merchants and the most popular shipping methods right out of the box.

The softwareprovides end-to-end inventory tracking, by tracking inventory from when a product is ordered until it reaches its final delivery destination. Mobile tracking is provided with Android and iOS apps.

Users also get aPowerful analytics and reporting kit, multiple sales channels, automatic replenishment, billing and invoicing, full order processing and management, etc.

On top of that,Zoho Inventory is compatible with the rest of Zoho's productivity suite,enables a seamless data flow between the individual programs in the ecosystem. This is great news for those who have already invested in the Zoho ecosystem.

This means that with a single account, you can manage your supply chain, sell, manage your team, and manage customer relationships - all with a single Zoho account.

pricing

After the free trial plan, Zoho Inventory is available in five enterprise plans ranging from free to $299 per month.

Advantages

• Integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Zoho ecosystem

Disadvantages

• Could use more out of the box integrations
• Onboarding experience is lacking

17.Information for CloudSuite WMS

A WMS that allows users to manage multiple channels from a single warehouse.

Information for Cloudsuite WMScombines central warehouse management functions with task management, wave management, work management and 3PL management,all on a single, customizable, scalable platform.

Theoffenes API-FrameworkAndmodern user interfaceenable advanced features like web RF, speech processing, and 3D visual warehousing, and you can manage multiple channels (including B2B and B2C) from a single warehouse.

Infor Cloudsuite WMS has proven to be an excellent solution and has been recognized as a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems.

It offers benefits such as reduced operational costs, just-in-time inventory, efficient labor use, improved customer and supplier relationships, enhanced security, inbound and outbound optimization, and enhanced inventory visibility.

The platform is available both as a cloud-based solution and as an on-premises solution.

pricing

Contact the provider for pricing information.

Advantages

• Built-in support for document imports and exports
• Serial number handling available

Disadvantages

• Limited customization options
• Poorly designed user interface

Comparison criteria for warehouse management software

Here is a summary of what we look for when evaluating WMS software:

1. Ease of use

We look for systems that are easy to learn and master. Systems that don't have a steep learning curve are more ideal than those that do.

We also look for systems with excellent customer support, tutorials, training and other materials that can make the onboarding process easier and more seamless.

2. User Interface

We look for systems with clean and attractive user interfaces. We prefer less cluttered user interfaces that not only look good, but also feel intuitive to the user.

3. The integration

Gone are the days when it was common to manually transfer data between computer programs or systems. Today we create and consume so much data that extensibility is a must.

In other words,All the software tools we use need to communicate with each other and exchange data seamlessly and automatically.

For WMS we are looking for systems that can be easily integrated with other tools such as e.gCRMs, Supply chain management,enterprise resource planning, transportation management and retail operations tools, for example. Of course, we prefer systems with more pre-built integrations. Bonus points for systems with open API.

4. Features

We are looking for scalable systems; i.e. we want systems that can grow with your company.

We alsoprefer systems that offer end-to-end transaction management. Such systems manage every step of the warehousing process, from receiving, to purchasing, to tracking, to picking, to shipping, and so on.

Over and beyond,We are looking for systems that can handle multiple business channels(including direct-to-customer, retail, wholesale), especially since most businesses today are adopting an omnichannel strategy.

Last,We choose systems that provide reliable reporting and analysisthat are customizable, flexible, and visually appealing. Preferably, users should be able to export the reports to various file types for review.

5. Value for money

We look for systems that offer the best value for money. They must be reasonably priced for the features, use cases, and capabilities offered. We also prefer clear and transparent pricing.

What is a warehouse management system?

A warehouse management system (WMS) consists ofSoftware and processes designed to enable companies to control and manage warehouse operations and functions, as well as to support and optimize the management of distribution centers from goods receipt in a warehouse to shipping.

A WMS is critical to the success of any business running a warehouse of any type as it connects all aspects of your supply chain. It is a necessity for efficient warehouse operations as it allows you to streamline and consolidate your warehouse processes onto a single platform.

Types of warehouse management systems

The most common types of WMS are as follows:

1. Stand alone system

These systems are the simplest type as they come with limited features. As such, they are generally less expensive and are best suited for smaller warehousing operations or those who want to use them alongside a more advanced supply chain management solution without integrating a new system.

2. ERP-Module

For companies looking to expand and improve their supply chain operations, an ERP module is considered one of the best options. While warehouse management may not be a core component of an ERP module, it's a great way to consolidate operations onto one platform.

This can be especially beneficial for robust companies with large supply chain operations that offer all-in-one solutions for accounting, supply chain operations, project management, customer service, risk management, and purchasing.

3. Cloud-based platform

Businesses that need rapid implementation and added convenience will do well to opt for a cloud-based WMS platform. A cloud-based system also offers other benefits such as less maintenance, increased security, and lower costs. They are also more scalable and highly flexible.

4. Supply Chain Module

Basic warehousing operations are just a small part of the supply chain equation. There are a few other aspects of the supply chain that also need to be monitored. This is where supply chain modules come into play.

In addition to warehouse management functionsSupply chain modules also provide customer service, transportation management, vendor management, inventory control,etc.

Benefits of using warehouse management software

Using a WMS offers many advantages. A good WMS:

• will help you with thatstreamline and optimize your warehouse processes.
• will help you furtherAllocate labor efficiently. It can even do this for you automatically.
• Willeincrease employee moraleby bringing structure to your organization as employees have more clarity about what to do, when and where.
• WilleReduce delivery times and improve order accuracy, improving customer satisfaction and supplier relationships.
• can helpreduce operating costsby avoiding waste of labour, space and materials.
• Willegive you a clearer view of your entire businessin one place, eliminating issues like shipping issues and the like.
• mayimprove security and reduce theftand other forms of shrinkage. It does this by requiring employees to enter transactions using their unique user accounts, making them more accountable.
• can help you furtherimprove your business operationsby providing reports and analytics.

What features should I look for in inventory management software systems?

At its core, a good WMS should be able to handle goods receipts and returns, third-party software integrations and warehouse logistics, and provide robust reporting and forecasting tools.

1. Receipt and Returns

One of the main purposes of WMS is to maintain proper inventory balance. The best WMS will track shipments and returns to your warehouse facilities. Such a WMS can increase inventory efficiency by preventing overstocking. It also prevents stockouts and overselling by monitoring product quantities in real-time.

2. Third Party Integrations

You want to limit manual inventory management work as much as possible. This is especially true when scaling. A time-consuming aspect of running a business is the manual transfer of data between software or systems.

You need a system that integrates seamlessly with order processing and logistics management to efficiently pick, pack, and ship orders to and from your facility.

Ideally, your inventory management software should integrate with channel management software to track sales across all your storefronts and sales channels.

It should also integrate with most if not all of the other software programs you use to run your business, e.gaccounting software,online shop platforms,ERP platforms, etc.

3. Warehouse logistics

The system you choose should also be able to model and manage the logical representation of your physical storage facilities and shelving. This is one of the areas where a WMS will most significantly improve the efficiency of your operation. The efficiencies created here can result in significant cost savings.

With labor accounting for around 65% of most warehouse operations' budgets, increasing the efficiency of your workforce will result in dramatically lower operational costs.

And one of the biggest time wasters for warehouse workers is the travel time to retrieve goods. They spend up to half their time on this part of the picking process.

If you can reduce the time employees spend walking between pickup locations, you can increase their productivity and save time and money. Even the smallest efficiencies created here can mean a lot to your bottom line.

For example, to streamline your warehouse operations, you could place products that are normally sold together physically close to each other. Or you can place your most popular items near the delivery area so they're easily accessible for picking, packing, and shipping to customers.

4. Reporting and Forecasting

The ability to track product locations, warehousing, and supply chains is another must-have feature of warehouse management platforms. This feature allows you to optimize your inventory and maximize your storage space.

Warehouse management systems' reporting and forecasting tools can help you make better business decisions based on data. Such reports show which SKUs are selling best or fastest, predict optimal stock levels and price levels, show historical data and much more.

Frequently asked questions about the warehouse management system

Which inventory management solution should I choose?

There are many factors to consider before deciding on the warehouse management solution that is best for you.You must first consider the current size of your supply chain operations and planned growth.

You'll need to decide whether you need mobile and cloud capabilities, which means you and your team may need to learn new technologies. You also want something that will work with the existing systems you use in other areas of your business.

Here are our recommendations:

• For e-commerce businessesNetsuiteis hard to beat.
• Mobe3 WMSsets the standard for optimizing warehouse layouts and picking routes.
• If you need an all-in-one solution for sales and inventory management,Odoois a great option.
• And for fast-growing or large, established retailers,Hellperleis most likely the best choice.

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