Selecting Crossdocking Technology for Your Warehouse

In both small and large warehouses and distribution centers crossdocking can be a complex operational process. To help simplify the complexity many supply chain service providers have begun to utilize warehouse management software, but all WMS are not created equal. To support your business’ omni-channel retail growth your WMS must be able to provide granular detail into inventory activity and availability throughout the order fulfillment process. A WMS designed to facilitate crossdocking operations will address issues related to: inventory and data visibility, traceability, supply chain agility and operational adaptability. To address these key areas specific system functionality is needed. Electronic ASN transmission is a key element of any warehouse management software system due to its ability to provide accurate, real-time data on incoming inventory as well as outbound orders. This facilitates crossdocking within your facility, increasing overall inventory processing rates. Automated Data Collection (ADC) integration is also necessary when searching for a new WMS for your crossdocking facility. Capturing data in real-time, while reducing manual data entry and errors helps to guarantee data accuracy within your facility. This helps to reduce out of stock situations. Consider how seamlessly devices such as mobile computers, barcode scanners and storage/retrieval systems integrate with your WMS. Pairing ADC devices such as mobile computers with barcode parsing functionality is also a key element that can optimize your crossdocking facility’s efficiency. Barcode parsing functionality will break down the barcode structure and fill the necessary fields within your WMS with no manual entry required. This, like ADC helps to increase data visibility and reduces manual data entry. Storage of this parsed data is also an integral aspect of effectively running your crossdocking facility. Storing inventory data helps in instances of recalls or customer order inquiry as data can be traced throughout the supply chain to its original source. Other functions such as barcode label printing, shipping management software integration, reverse logistics functionality and custom reporting are vital to operating a distribution center fulfilling orders for omni-channel retailers. View this brief presentation to learn more about how these vital pieces of WMS functionality can improve your facility’s crossdocking processes. Contact Datex logistics experts today to learn more about crossdocking or other industry related topics here: www.datexcorp.com or marketing@datexcorp.com.