We wanted a flexible 3PL WMS solution to meet our customers' requirements, so we developed our own.
Warepak

Direct Picking

The direct picking process uses SKU, inventory location and code date, lot numbers or serial numbers, combined with system operating parameters, to allocate inventory for order fulfillment. After allocation the system creates a pick & load task for movement of the inventory from the reserved storage locations to predetermined outbound staging/shipping locations. Replenishment tasks can be submitted to aid the direct picking process in meeting order demands. The direct picking process considers the following:

  • Rounding up ordered item quantities based upon the standard quantity per (UOM) to increase picking efficiency and to maximize trailer cube utilization
  • Inventory rotation methods (LIFO, FIFO)
  • Pick for speed (pick from last location first)
  • Pick sequence utilization (pick to clean storage location)
  • Alternate user specified pick locations

Within the shipping process WAREPAK/400 provides and/or performs additional processes and procedures such as:

  • SKU Bar Coding - With the use of bar code license plates, inventory accuracy can be greatly improved with the ability to identify and track product movement, by bar code, from and to the loading dock.
  • Real-Time Inventory Updating (with RF) - Inventory is immediately updated with the scanning of a stage location or loading door bar code license.
  • Manual Paper Based Inventory Updating - Inventory can be updated with one keystroke or on a line-by-line basis when using terminals.
  • Forward Pick Area Replenishment - The system views the anticipated shipments and compares the inventory demand with actual inventory. The system then replenishes various storage locations (moves inventory for easier access) to provide more efficient picking.
  • Product Substitutions - Consignee files can be flagged to provide inventory substitutions.
  • Manufacture Date/Lot Picking - The pick sequence for specified consignees can be based upon manufacture date range or lot number.
  • Staging for Shipment - Inventory can be staged in preparation for future loading.
  • Validation - RF assists in the validation process for shipping orders during picking by requiring movement verification at various points.

Pick & Load Task

The pick & load process consists of confirming the picking of inventory from a predetermined storage location, and the loading of the inventory from a designated loading location. WAREPAK/400 supports the performance of the pick & load task via RF or terminals, with the ability to print paper pick & load tickets. The Pick & Load process, via RF, aids in assuring pick and drop-off accuracy by requiring bar code verification.

All finalized pick & load activities are recorded in the Shipping History File for audit trail and reporting purposes.