In the fast-paced world of manufacturing, efficient warehouse operations are essential to meeting production schedules, managing raw materials, and delivering finished goods on time. A robust Warehouse Management System (WMS) designed for manufacturing environments can dramatically improve accuracy, reduce downtime, and streamline the supply chain. If you run a manufacturing company, here are the top features to look for in a WMS.
- Real-Time Inventory Tracking for Raw Materials and Finished Goods
Manufacturers need precise visibility into incoming raw materials and outgoing finished products. THINK’s WMS tracks inventory in real time across multiple locations; receiving, production, and storage areas, ensuring that materials are available when needed and finished goods are ready for shipment. Read how we helped a global supplier of automotive components and systems.
- Bill of Materials (BOM) and Work Order Integration
THINK’s WMS integrates with your Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and ERP to manage Bill of Materials and work orders. This ensures materials are picked and issued accurately for production, reducing errors and production delays. Read how we helped a market-leading supplier of commercial laundry equipment, catering equipment and commercial heating.
- Lot and Serial Number Tracking
Traceability is vital in manufacturing, especially for industries like automotive, electronics, and food processing. A good WMS will offer lot and serial number tracking to support quality control, recalls, and regulatory compliance, and THINK’s WMS can do it all. Read how we helped a soft drinks manufacturer
Manufacturers often rely on Just-In-Time inventory strategies to minimise holding costs. THINK’s WMS will automate raw material replenishment to production lines based on real-time demand, keeping your operations lean and efficient.
- Work-in-Progress (WIP) Tracking
Your WMS should be able to track Work-in-Progress inventory as it moves through the production process. This enables better planning, reduced lead times, and visibility into where bottlenecks are occurring on the shop floor. The experts at THINK can help you with this.
- Seamless ERP Integration
Manufacturers typically rely heavily on ERP systems to coordinate purchasing, production, and financials. THINK’s WMS will integrate tightly with your ERP to synchronise inventory data, streamline procurement, and improve cross-functional visibility.
- Quality Control and Inspection Workflows
Built-in quality control features allow you to flag, isolate, and inspect materials at various stages, from receiving to shipping. This is crucial for preventing defective components from entering production or reaching customers.
- Labour and Task Management
A manufacturing-focused WMS will help optimise warehouse labour by assigning and tracking tasks related to material handling, replenishment, and shipping. Real-time labour analytics can help reduce inefficiencies and improve productivity.
- Returns and Rework Handling
Manufacturers must often deal with returns, rework orders, or defective items. THINK’s WMS can support these processes by managing returned goods, redirecting items for rework, and reintegrating them into the production or inventory flow as needed.
- Compliance, Safety, and Audit Readiness
Whether you’re dealing with ISO standards or industry-specific regulations, THINK’s WMS can help you maintain compliance. Features such as audit trails, access controls, and documentation support are key in regulated environments. Read how we helped a manufacturer in the automotive industry
Are you worried that a warehouse management solution will be too expensive, or that you will be trapped in a long contract? To arrange a demo or discuss your requirements, give THINK a call on 0330 350 0715, email enquiries@tkinv.com or complete the Quick Quote form below. We can work with your business to help save you money and drive down costs.
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