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Types of warehouse management systems

Posted on by candice

Winfreight

Warehouse management systems (WMS) are software that allows for the overall improvement of your warehouse’s operations and processes. A WMS usually covers essential processes, including:

  • Inventory management
  • Supply chain management
  • Freight management

But not all warehouse management systems are created equal. There are three types of WMS available today.

Third-Party WMS

This type of warehouse management system is also often referred to as a standalone warehouse management system. It is a system developed by a company that focuses only on everything related to warehouse management. Often this consists of proprietary hardware and software, so you need to use the WMS company’s hardware to be able to run their software.

The benefit is that since these systems are focused solely on warehouse management operations, they will provide the functionality and value you’re looking for in such a solution. On the downside, you’ll need to invest in both the proprietary software and hardware to get the best value from the system. There’s also no guarantee that you’ll be able to integrate this WMS with other digital systems (e.g., CMS, accounting tools, etc.).

ERP Software

Several enterprise resource planning (ERP) tools offer WMS services as part of their overall software package. Such a package will also include customer relationship management (CRM) software, human resources tools, and accounting services.

The main advantage of using an ERP-based WMS tool is that it can easily integrate and sync data between all tools within the suite. This ensures you won’t need to spend hours inputting the same data into each separate platform.

However, an ERP-based warehouse management system is not a dedicated WMS.

Cloud-Based WMS

Cloud-based warehouse management systems operate through the software as a service (SaaS) model. This means you won’t need proprietary hardware to run the software and you can access it on any modern device – from desktops and laptops to mobile devices and tablets.

A cloud-based WMS is ideal for growing companies looking to integrate their WMS with other digital tools and software and it is a scalable solution.

Cloud-based WMS providers update their software on a regular and frequent basis to ensure you’ve always got the best software your provider has to offer.

Contact Winfreight for details

Winfreight’s warehouse management system (WMS) is a cloud-based solution that can be integrated with their freight management system (FMS)

If you would like to know more about how our warehouse management system can enhance your business or warehouse, get in touch with a representative from Winfreight today.