In today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, efficient warehouse management is crucial for the success of eCommerce and retail operations. A robust WMS system can optimise warehouse processes, enhance order fulfilment, and streamline inventory management, ensuring businesses meet customer demand while maximising operational efficiency. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about warehouse management systems, along with a list of the top WMS providers out there. Let’s get into it!
What is a warehouse management system and how does it work?
Before we dive into the top WMS solutions of 2024, let’s take a moment to understand what warehouse management systems are. A warehouse management system is a software application or platform designed to support and optimise warehouse operations. It provides comprehensive visibility, automation, and control over key aspects of warehouse management, such as inventory tracking, order processing, picking, packing, and shipping.
The Role of a WMS in eCommerce and Retail
In the dynamic and rapidly evolving eCommerce landscape, efficient warehouse management is essential for meeting customer expectations and securing a competitive edge. A warehouse management system plays a vital role in ensuring smooth order fulfilment, accurate inventory management, and timely shipment processes. By leveraging a WMS system, distributors and retailers can efficiently manage picking, packing, and shipment processes, providing customers with a seamless post-purchase experience.
Warehouse management systems also offer advanced functionality to aid in stock management, replenishment, and returns, enabling businesses to adapt to market conditions and customer demand. With real-time visibility into inventory levels, businesses can make data-driven decisions, ensuring optimal stock levels, reducing carrying costs, and minimising stockouts.
Evolution of WMS over the Years
Warehouse management systems have come a long way since their first introduction to the market, evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of modern supply chain operations.
In the past, warehouse management was primarily manual, with basic systems focusing on storage management and order tracking. However, with the advent of technology, WMS systems now integrate IT systems, logistics processes, and warehouse operations, revolutionizing the way warehouses are managed.
Over the years, WMS systems have developed sophisticated features and functionalities to optimize warehouse operations. The historical development of warehouse management systems brought about advancements such as machine learning, automation, and voice-picking technology, improving operational efficiency, and reducing labour costs.
Today, warehouse management systems have gone beyond basic inventory control and order management, integrating with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to provide a holistic approach to warehouse operations. The latest WMS solutions also leverage cloud-based platforms, enabling businesses to access real-time data and enhance operational efficiency. These cloud-based systems offer flexibility, scalability, and accessibility, making them an emerging trend in warehouse management.
With the evolution of warehouse management systems, functionality has expanded to include dock management, yard management, labour management, transportation management, and more, catering to the diverse needs of warehouses and distribution centres of all sizes. The primary focus of WMS systems in recent years has been on meeting the demands of larger enterprises, ensuring the right products reach the right customers at the right time and right place.
What are the different Types of Warehouse Management Systems in 2024
Now, let’s explore the different types of warehouse management systems that are prevalent in 2024. Warehouse management systems can be broadly categorized into three types: standalone WMS, integrated WMS, and cloud-based WMS. Each type has its own set of advantages and considerations, catering to the specific needs and constraints of different businesses.
Standalone WMS: Pros and Cons
Standalone WMS systems are independent software applications specifically designed for warehouse management. They offer basic functionality and are generally more cost-effective, making them an ideal choice for smaller warehouses. However, standalone WMS systems may lack the extensive functionality and scalability of integrated systems, limiting their suitability for larger enterprises.
Pros of Standalone WMS:
- Cost-effective solution, suitable for smaller warehouses
- Independent system, not reliant on other software
- Relatively easy to implement and use
Cons of Standalone WMS:
- Limited functionality compared to integrated systems
- Scalability may be a challenge as the business grows
- Customisation options may be limited
Integrated WMS: Pros and Cons
Integrated WMS solutions, on the other hand, offer a seamless integration with other software systems, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This integration enables efficient data exchange, real-time visibility, and automation, optimising warehouse processes and enhancing operational efficiency. While integrated WMS systems provide extensive functionality, they may require higher investment and customisation. However, for larger enterprises with complex warehouse operations, integrated WMS systems provide a comprehensive solution.
Pros of Integrated WMS:
- Seamless integration with other software systems, such as ERP
- Extensive functionality, including order management, inventory control, and demand planning
- Scalable solution catering to the needs of growing businesses
Cons of Integrated WMS:
- Higher investment and customisation requirements
- Implementation may be more complex compared to standalone systems
- Reliance on other software systems for full functionality
Cloud-based WMS: An Emerging Trend
Cloud-based warehouse management systems have emerged as a popular trend in 2024. These systems offer the flexibility, scalability, and accessibility required by modern businesses. By leveraging cloud technology, businesses can access real-time data, collaborate across locations, and optimise warehouse processes without the need for extensive IT infrastructure. Cloud-based WMS solutions provide convenience, cost-effectiveness, and operational efficiency, making them highly desirable for businesses looking to streamline their warehouse operations.
Advantages of Cloud-based WMS:
- Flexibility and scalability to adapt to evolving business needs
- Accessibility from anywhere, allowing for collaboration across locations
- Reduced upfront costs and maintenance, as infrastructure is managed by the cloud provider
- Automatic updates and system enhancements, ensuring businesses always have access to the latest features
Key Features of Cloud-based WMS:
- Real-time inventory tracking and visibility
- Seamless integration with other cloud-based solutions, such as transportation management systems
- Customisable modules and workflows to fit the specific needs of each business
- Enhanced operational efficiency, as multiple locations can be managed from a single platform
What are the Benefits of Using a WMS for eCommerce and Retail?
A well-designed and effective WMS solution can unlock numerous advantages, improving order fulfilment, inventory management, and overall customer satisfaction.
Data-Driven Decision Making
A WMS system provides businesses with valuable insights into warehouse operations, inventory management, and order fulfilment processes. By leveraging this data, businesses can make informed decisions to reduce labour costs, improve inventory control, and optimise order-picking processes.
Faster Order Fulfilment
With a WMS system in place, businesses can expedite their order fulfilment processes, ensuring efficient picking, packing, and shipment processes. By automating repetitive tasks and streamlining warehouse operations, WMS systems enhance order fulfilment speed and accuracy, leading to improved customer satisfaction. With faster order processing, businesses can meet customer demand and maintain a competitive edge in the eCommerce and retail market.
Reduce Costs and Improve Accuracy
Implementing a warehouse management system can result in significant cost savings and error reduction. WMS systems optimise inventory management, reducing carrying costs and minimising errors caused by manual processes. The automation and visibility provided by WMS solutions ensure accuracy, reducing the risk of errors in order fulfilment, inventory management, and shipping processes. It also helps improve productivity in your warehouse, reducing labour costs.
Who are the Top Warehouse Management System suppliers in 2024?
Now, let’s look at some of the top warehouse management system vendors that businesses should consider in 2024. These vendors provide cutting-edge solutions, competitive features, and customisation options, catering to the diverse needs of retailers, warehouses and distribution centres:
Despatch Cloud: Features and Benefits
Armed with cutting-edge technologies, Despatch Cloud Warehousing is an advanced warehouse management system (WMS) designed specifically for eCommerce businesses looking to streamline and scale their post-purchase and integrate with more platforms and systems.
Key features include instant connection and real-time syncing with 80+ eCommerce platforms and 120+ couriers around the globe from one central hub, a scanning app accessible from any Android device, a dedicated returns portal, and a built-in email template builder for timely, on-brand customer communications.
Learn more: https://despatchcloud.com/products/warehouse-management-system-wms/
Mintsoft: Features and Benefits
Mintsoft provides a unified platform for selling, fulfilling and despatching orders. Their software offers powerful order, inventory and warehouse management solutions for fulfilment businesses and online retailers, along with extensive integration capabilities, including 89+ couriers and 67+ online shopping platforms.
Check out their website to learn more: https://www.mintsoft.com/
Brightpearl: Features and Benefits
Brightpearl is a retail operating system that helps businesses automate operations and plan their inventory more efficiently.
Top features include inventory planning, multichannel order and stock management, a retail-focused CRM and a POS system, helping you sync your online and offline channels in real-time. They also offer full training of your team, as a standard part of the onboarding process.
Check out their website: https://www.brightpearl.com/
Peoplevox: Features and Benefits
A renowned, UK-based WMS software provider, Peoplevox specialises in tailored solutions for larger retailers with intricate warehouses. Their focus lies in omnichannel retail, delivering personalised solutions seamlessly integrated across diverse systems.
Check out their website: https://www.peoplevox.com/
Boxwise: Features and Benefits
Boxwise is a Warehouse Management System designed for easy integration with your ERP, such as Exact Globe or AFAS Profit. This system enables your warehouse staff to handle tasks like picking, packing, and scanning with confidence. It ensures that your deliveries reach customers on time and in full.
Check out their website: https://www.boxwise.nl/
ShipHero: Features and Benefits
ShipHero’s Warehouse Management System streamlines warehouse operations, making picking, packing, and shipping hassle-free. Their WMS integrates seamlessly with top eCommerce systems, helping you save time and costs while boosting customer satisfaction. ShipHero offers three subscription plans: ShipHero Standard, ShipHero 3PL, and ShipHero Enterprise.
Check out their website: https://shiphero.com/
SAP WMS: Features and Benefits
A global organization with vast supply chain experience, SAP provides a Warehouse Management System (WMS) as part of its comprehensive ERP software. This dynamic and flexible solution focuses on essential dashboards and built-in KPIs for efficient warehouse management.
Check out their website: https://www.sap.com/
BlueYonder: Features and Benefits
An American software company, BlueYonder stand as a leader in the 2022 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems. They offer a global supply-chain operating system, helping automotive and industrial customers transform their planning, scheduling and production capabilities.
Check out their website: https://blueyonder.com/
Oracle Fusion Cloud Warehouse Management: Features and Benefits
Market leader in the 2023 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems, Oracle’s Warehouse Management solution enables users to combine the benefits of the cloud with warehouse management functionality. Key features and offerings include support for omnichannel fulfilment, as well as end-to-end inventory management, from manufacturer to distribution centre and from store to consumer.
Learn more: https://www.oracle.com/uk/scm/logistics/warehouse-management/
Centric WMS: Features and Benefits
Centric WMS is a versatile solution designed to enhance logistics efficiency. Regardless of your industry or company size, Centric WMS offers comprehensive tools to optimize goods flows and boost warehouse capacity. It empowers users to take control of their logistics performance with a reliable and adaptable system that caters to diverse business needs.
Learn more: https://www.centric.eu/en/solutions/optimising-processes/warehouse-management-system/
Boltrics: Features and Benefits
Boltrics offers powerful software for logistics service providers. With extensive industry experience, they lead the market in Transport and Warehouse Management, Freight Forwarding, Finance, and ERP. From scanning and setting up connections with external platforms to billing and contracting, they have got you covered.
Learn more: https://www.boltrics.com/en/
WMS Manhattan: Features and Benefits
Manhattan is best known for its supply chain and omni-channel e-commerce solutions, which combine information from across the entire organisation. Their WMS is customised and used by major players like Argos, Crocs, and Scotch and Soda.
Learn more: https://www.boltrics.com/en/
Oracle: Features and Benefits
Oracle was also named a market leader in the 2022 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems. Their Warehouse Management solution makes it easy to combine the benefits of the cloud with warehouse management functionality.
Learn more: https://www.oracle.com/
Shipbob: Features and Benefits
ShipBob offers best-in-class supply chain and fulfillment capabilities for thousands of brands. ShipBob has an international fulfillment network across the US, Canada, UK, EU, and Australia. ShipBob’s proprietary technology combines order and inventory management, warehouse management, predictive data and analytics, as well as optimized shipping for ecommerce companies.
Learn more: https://www.shipbob.com/en/
Orderwise: Features and Benefits
Orderwise is a comprehensive ERP solution that provides wholesalers, distributors, retailers and manufacturers with a powerful platform for growth. Stock-focused businesses throughout the UK implement the software because it enables them to bring their teams, data and technology together to automate order management, stock management, warehouse management, ecommerce, point of sale, business intelligence, transport management, financials and more.
Learn more: https://www.orderwise.com/en/
Clarus WMS: Features and Benefits
Manhattan is best known for its supply chain and omni-channel e-commerce solutions, which combine information from across the entire organisation. Their WMS is customised and used by major players like Argos, Crocs, and Scotch and Soda.
Learn more: https://www.claruswms.com/
Key Considerations When Choosing Your WMS Software
There are several key elements to keep in mind when choosing the right warehousing solution for your business.
Our experience with our own test-bed warehouse facility as well as working with eCommerce businesses of all industries and sizes has allowed us to identify the following general considerations:
- Scalability: Ensure the WMS can grow with your business, accommodating increased inventory and order volumes.
- Integration Capabilities: Opt for a system that seamlessly integrates with your existing tools, ERP, and eCommerce platforms.
- User-Friendly Interface: Prioritize a WMS with an intuitive interface to enhance user adoption and reduce training time.
- Real-time Analytics: Access to real-time data is essential for informed decision-making. Look for WMS solutions offering robust analytics.
- Customization: Choose a WMS that can be tailored to your specific warehouse needs, ensuring a perfect fit for your operations.
- Implementation Support: Check for comprehensive support during the implementation phase to facilitate a smooth transition.
- Futureproofing: Select a WMS that adapts to industry changes and technological advancements, ensuring long-term relevance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Warehouse Management System (WMS) is crucial for the success of any eCommerce or retail business. With the evolution of technology, WMSs have become more efficient and capable of meeting the demands of the industry, leveraging AI, automation and IoT to introduce new, powerful features and help businesses stay ahead in the competitive eCommerce landscape. Whether you opt for a standalone, integrated, or cloud-based system, the benefits of using a WMS are undeniable. It allows for data-driven decision-making, faster order fulfilment, and cost reduction. By implementing best practices such as efficient processes, barcode scanning, and data-driven inventory planning, businesses can optimize warehouse operations. Finally, keep an eye out for the top WMS vendors in 2024 to ensure access to the latest features and technological developments.