How Can You Improve E-Commerce Warehouse Management?
E-commerce warehouse management is an integral part of the order fulfillment process. It involves everything from storing items to forecasting demand. As customers expect speedy deliveries, you need tools to reduce the time these processes take.
Warehouse management systems (WMS) can help streamline processes. The software keeps track of your inventory across locations. It automates parts of your picking and reporting processes. This reduces the amount of labor needed to manage your warehouse. The precise stock levels help you forecast more accurately. This ensures that you always have enough stock to meet demand.
WMS integrates with other e-commerce software. This creates a two-way flow of information. You can use this connection to streamline your logistics. The most important integration is between your WMS and order management system (OMS).
Order details must go through the WMS to start the delivery process. If you sell through multiple channels, standalone OMS software is the ideal choice. This post explains how a strong connection between your software systems improves your e-commerce warehouse management.
Connecting Data Between WMS and OMS Software
The WMS needs to trade information with your OMS in real-time. If there is lag time, fulfillment errors may occur.
With OMS software, the two main ways to pass information to your WMS are APIs and flat files. The best practice is to use an API. Using APIs automates the sync between your systems. On the other hand, flat files require manual steps. Somebody needs to export the orders to CSV files. They then have to import them into the WMS.
APIs create an active connection between your systems. Any changes to the warehouse’s stock during the day are pushed to the OMS. This ensures orders are obtained for products in stock.
Automating Your Receiving Process
Receiving is another essential part of e-commerce warehouse management. You want to receive new inventory as efficiently as possible. For this, automation is key. Receiving new inventory on paper increases how long it takes to make products ready for sale. It also increases errors.
OMS software creates a more efficient workflow. The software notifies you in advance to replenish products. Someone from the procurement team can then create a purchase order (PO) in the OMS. After the PO is sent to the supplier, a notification is sent to the WMS.
The notification tells the warehouse to look out for these particular SKUs. Once the products arrive, you confirm in your WMS. Inventory levels will then adjust accordingly. This process makes products available for sale faster.
Streamline E-Commerce Warehouse Management
A strong connection between your warehouse and OMS sets your business up for success. fabric OMS can provide this connection. The flexible APIs bring cohesion to your orders, inventory, and warehouses. You can then efficiently process orders from any number of channels.
Tech advocate and writer @ fabric.
Related Content
