WMS Features You Didn’t Know You Needed

When it comes to warehouse management systems, most people think about the basics: scanning barcodes, tracking inventory, and ensuring orders are shipped on time. Your current system might allow you to scan and store items, but what if your WMS could recommend better storage strategies based on order history, seasonal trends, or product kitting? That’s the kind of optimization you should demand.

Let’s dive into some game-changing WMS features that you probably didn’t know you needed but can’t afford to overlook.

In-Depth Shipment Tracking and Insights

Have you ever wondered how much time is wasted during the loading process? With advanced WMS shipping features, you can track the loading process in real-time to ensure shipments are complete and leave on time.

• Optimize Cut-Off Times: Identify delays and bottlenecks by analyzing wait times and cut-off points, enabling you to make better scheduling decisions.
• Full Shipment Assurance: Monitor every loading step to confirm that all items are accounted for before the truck leaves.

Say goodbye to uncertainties and missed deadlines—your WMS should make every shipment predictable and efficient.

Enhanced Documentation for Incoming Goods

Mistakes in incoming goods can create a ripple effect throughout your supply chain. That’s why a great WMS provides tools to document discrepancies.

• Photo Documentation: Take pictures of damaged or incomplete deliveries directly through the mobile app.
• Detailed Reports: Give your staff pre-selectable reasons to explain why products didn’t arrive as expected. For example, “Damaged packaging” or “Incomplete shipment.”

These features not only streamline internal processes but also give you evidence to address supplier issues more effectively.

Effortless Returns Management with Reason Codes

Returns are a headache for any operation, but the right WMS can transform them into a seamless process.

• Return Label Scanning: Instantly identify the associated order with a quick scan of the return label.
• Detailed Documentation: Capture photos of returned items and assign reason codes like “Incorrect item” or “Damaged in transit.”

This not only streamlines returns but also equips your customer service team with the information they need to resolve issues quickly.

Cut Shipping Costs with Smarter Packing

Shipping costs are a significant expense for any warehouse. Advanced WMS packing features can help optimize this step.

• Box Confirmation: Confirm the size and type of shipping boxes used for each order to avoid unnecessary shipping costs.
• Cost Optimization: Ensure every package is packed in the most efficient way possible to save money and reduce waste.

Packing smarter doesn’t just save money; it also reduces environmental impact.

Comprehensive Management of Loading Units

Traditional WMS systems often overlook the complexities of loading units. PULPO’s approach ensures maximum flexibility and organization.

• Multi-Level Tracking: Each box on a pallet is treated as an individual loading unit, meaning you can track items at every level of packaging.
• Flexible Contents: Loading units can contain products, other loading units, or combinations of both, making it easy to manage complex shipments.

Insights to Demand from Your WMS

Not all WMS solutions are created equal. While many systems offer basic functionalities like scanning and inventory updates, truly advanced solutions go above and beyond to optimize your warehouse operations. Here’s a detailed conversation about what to demand from your WMS:

• Flexibility Without Compromise: Why settle for systems that make you choose between optimization and fixed positions? A great WMS should seamlessly integrate both. For instance, you might have fast-moving products that benefit from fixed storage locations for quicker picking, while slower-moving items might be best suited for dynamic placement. Your WMS should support both strategies without forcing trade-offs.
• Route Optimization Transparency: Ever wondered how a WMS decides the best picking route? Insist on transparency here. Does it account for aisle layouts, cross-path opportunities, and areas that are temporarily blocked? Ask your provider to show you how their algorithm works and whether it adapts in real-time to warehouse conditions. Advanced systems provide clear visualizations of optimized picking routes and adjust as layouts or conditions change.
• Full Feature Consistency: Does your WMS work equally well for all product types, including those with expiration dates, serial numbers, or special handling requirements? A robust WMS ensures that no feature is left behind. For example, managing a product’s lifecycle, from arrival to shipment, is just as critical for serialized inventory as it is for bulk goods.
• Process Optimization: A WMS shouldn’t just support what you’re already doing—it should challenge inefficiencies and offer smarter ways to operate. Look for features like WMS analytics that identify bottlenecks, suggest process improvements, and offer actionable insights to your team.

The Details Matter

A powerful WMS isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about delivering measurable improvements in speed, accuracy, and efficiency. Whether it’s tracking the smallest loading unit or providing photo evidence for returns, every feature should add tangible value to your operations. If your current system isn’t doing this, it’s time to explore better options.

Want to learn how PULPO WMS can help you unlock your warehouse’s full potential?

?? Reach out today—we’re here to help you succeed.