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BladePRO: The Ultimate 3PL Warehouse Management Solutions for Enterprises

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With eCommerce growth leading to a predicted €24.8 billion (10.41% CAGR) increase in the global warehouse automation market by 2026, along with the complexity of multi-channel listing and courier management, the new breed of warehouse management systems is a necessity for warehouses, third-party logistics (3PLs), and eCommerce retailers to compete.  

 The efficient management of inventory, order processing, and fulfillment are key factors that impact customer satisfaction and overall operational efficiency. One such reliable solution is BladePRO: a comprehensive 3PL warehouse management system designed to streamline operations and enhance supply chain efficiency. 

We’ll be covering everything you need to know about Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), including:

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Understanding the Warehouse Management System (WMS)?

Managing a warehouse involves various complex tasks, from inventory tracking and order processing to ensuring timely deliveries. Because all of these processes happen simultaneously and in a different zone of the warehouse, it is prone to become disorganised, data to be lost, mistakes to be made, or unnecessary delays affecting customers’ experience. When businesses use yesterday’s methods of record-keeping, such as spreadsheet methods and outdated software/technology, these complexities are only exacerbated, thereby increasing the likelihood of human error.

Many businesses outsource these operations to 3PL providers like I-Fulfilment, who specialise in managing and optimising supply chains operation. With robust 3PL warehouse management systems like BladePRO, companies can access advanced technologies and expertise that streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

4 Types of Warehouse Management Systems

Familiarity with the various options is essential to make an informed decision when selecting a WMS. Let’s look at the functions and structures of the various WMS available today.

Standalone WMS

A standalone system is good for smaller businesses as it's cost-effective. It is developed to handle a limited number of supply chain processes. Although these systems can manage inventory and oversee warehouse operations, they cannot collaborate with other platforms or technologies for order processing, procurement, or reverse logistics tasks.

While these systems can constrain a business as they don’t always integrate well with other platforms, they offer a more cost-effective solution than an integrated WMS. Due to this reason, standalone WMSs are an excellent choice for smaller businesses in their initial stages and looking for a cost-efficient yet effective solution.

Advantages

  • Cost-effective

Key Features

  • Manages inventory and oversees warehouse operations
  • Limited integration with other platforms or technologies
  • Does not support order processing, procurement, or reverse logistics tasks

Suitable for

  • Smaller businesses are in their initial stages, seeking a cost-efficient solution

ERP Module

An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) module is an excellent choice for warehouses and businesses aiming to expand and enhance their supply chain operations. Although warehouse management is not an ERP module’s central focus, it is a valuable complementary component to dedicated warehouse management systems. Furthermore, it offers the advantage of consolidating various operations into a single platform, which can be highly advantageous for large-scale supply chains.

ERP software provides comprehensive solutions for diverse areas such as supply chain operations, accounting, customer service, project management, risk management, and purchasing. Integrating an ERP module may be ideal for highly complex and robust organisations.

Advantages

  • Complementary component to dedicated warehouse management systems

Key Features

  • Consolidates various operations into a single platform
  • Offers comprehensive solutions for supply chain operations, accounting, customer service, project management, risk management, and purchasing

Suitable for

  • Large-scale organisations with complex and robust supply chain operations

Cloud-Based Platform

A cloud-based platform is optimal for warehouses for efficient integration and added convenience. Cloud technology can bring numerous benefits, including improved security, reduced IT maintenance, and lower costs. Since cloud-based systems operate on servers and systems external to the organisation, the integration and management of the WMS have become significantly more accessible and cost-effective.

In contrast, on-premise systems require much more effort to implement the platform within the existing technology and supply chain processes. By outsourcing the management of their systems to an external IT team, businesses can save money on in-house IT staff or hiring a third-party team. Third-party logistics companies often opt for cloud-based platforms, as they outsource many warehouse operations. The cloud can help unify all business aspects in a user-friendly format.

Advantages

  • Optimised for integration, convenience, and cost-effectiveness

Key Features

  • Improved security and reduced IT maintenance
  • Accessible and cost-effective management
  • Unifies all business aspects in a user-friendly format

Suitable for

  • Businesses of various sizes value easy integration and cost-effectiveness
  • Third-party logistics companies

Supply Chain Module

WMS software is essential for fulfillment services to handle fundamental warehouse operations such as picking, packing, shipping, receiving, etc. However, these operations represent only a fraction of the larger supply chain operations. This is where a Supply Chain Module becomes crucial.

In addition to facilitating the management of typical warehouse tasks, a supply chain module offers an array of capabilities that include customer service functionalities, vendor management, transportation management, material handling, inventory control, an enhanced user interface, and customer relationship management. 3PLs often leverage this comprehensive supply chain management system alongside other warehouse management systems to ensure adherence to their best practices

Advantages

  • Essential for handling larger supply chain operations in addition to warehouse tasks

Key Features

  • Includes
  • Customer service functionalities
  • Vendor management
  • Transportation management
  • Material handling
  • Inventory control
  • An enhanced user interface
  • Customer relationship management

Suitable for

  • Fulfillment services and 3PLs are requiring comprehensive supply chain management capabilities

What Benefits of a WMS Can Provide?

96% of executives say innovation is “extremely important” to business growth. A WMS features advanced functionalities that bring significant benefits to growing businesses. It enhances productivity, optimises asset utilisation, and contributes to streamlining operations.

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Streamlined Inventory Management

A WMS platform utilises barcode readers and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags to track inventory data, continuously updating the information in the software’s dashboard. This ensures that the most up-to-date information is easily accessible to authorised personnel. Additionally, the WMS platform facilitates the smooth movement of products by ensuring they can be located when needed.

Advanced Order Fulfillment Capabilities 

Efficient order fulfillment can build a good brand reputation and customer satisfaction. A WMS can seamlessly integrate with your eCommerce platform, ensuring accurate and timely order processing, picking, packing, and shipping. This integration helps prevent customers from placing orders for items that are out of stock. By reducing inventory errors, the accuracy of order fulfillment improves, enabling orders to move swiftly through the supply chain. 

Real-Time Tracking and Visibility

Most 3PL warehouse management system providers will allow you to connect your existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to their warehouse management system. As a result, you can monitor stock information in real-time and establish immediate communication with transport companies. With access to this information, businesses can proactively address issues, such as delays or route deviations, ensuring a smooth and transparent supply chain.

Efficient Warehouse Operations

Some streamline warehouse operations by optimising layouts, automating workflows, and providing tools for task management. It helps businesses maximise space utilisation, reduce picking errors, and improve overall operational efficiency. The system’s intuitive interface and user-friendly features simplify training and adoption.

Integration and Scalability

The WMS can seamlessly integrate with various platforms used by 3PL providers, such as transportation management systems. It can also connect with external software platforms through electronic data interchange (EDI). This integration extends to popular eCommerce platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and Magento, allowing orders placed on these platforms to flow directly into the WMS. Any subsequent actions taken by the 3PL, such as shipping, are then reported back to the eCommerce platform through the WMS. Furthermore, the WMS can integrate with parcel carrier portals to provide real-time shipping updates.

Challenges of Traditional Systems

Traditional warehouse management systems often face challenges such as:

Limited visibility |

Limited visibility

Traditional systems lack real-time visibility into inventory levels, leading to inaccuracies, stockouts, and inefficient replenishment processes.

Manual Prosesses |

Manual processes

Many legacy systems rely on manual data entry, increasing the risk of errors and slowing down operations.

Lack of integration |

Lack of integration

Traditional systems may not seamlessly integrate with other software or platforms, hindering efficient collaboration and data sharing.

How to choose the right WMS solution for your business?

If you can review the above, there are many different kinds of WMS. Which one you choose depends on the size and needs of your business. Think about how flexible and efficient you need to be and how your business plans will grow in the next five years.

Scalability |

Power of scalability

Prioritising scalability is crucial for your business. An efficient WMS should provide the flexibility to scale up or down based on your business needs. Finding a system with intelligent automation features for various warehouse processes is essential because it can improve business operations and growth. Billing, picking logic, kitting and assembly, and order processing are crucial areas that would benefit significantly from intelligent automation.

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Consider access and management capabilities

An excellent WMS should offer effortless remote access and management capabilities, allowing you to oversee and monitor your warehouse operations from any internet-connected device. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses that operate multiple warehouses or have teams working in different locations. It enables real-time data access and seamless operations management, ensuring smooth and efficient workflow.

Reduce shipping costs |

Cost reduction benefits

Remember that you won’t have to spend as much on hardware, software, maintenance or IT support in the long run when comparing options. And the best WMS providers will handle the management and maintenance for you, so you can put your team’s attention where needed most.

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Seek integration capabilities

Seamlessly integrates with your existing software, including customer relationship management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), eCommerce and marketplaces like Shopify, Amazon, shipping carriers, and third-party logistics providers. This seamless integration facilitates smooth data flow across different systems, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing errors. A well-integrated WMS ensures data synchronisation across various departments, guaranteeing everyone access to the most up-to-date information

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Ease of implementation and training

Consider both the ease of implementation and the availability of training resources when choosing a WMS. Minimising disruptions and downtime during the transition can be achieved with the help of a WMS that is simple to set up and integrate with your current operations. The productivity and efficiency of your team can improve if they are given access to thorough training materials, such as user guides, video tutorials, and live support, which will allow them to learn the new system quickly.

Streamline operations, overcome challenges, and achieve maximum efficiency
with our home-grown WMS (Warehouse Management System)

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How BladePRO WMS Enhances Business Efficiency?

BladePRO is an all-in-one platform that combines the power of a WMS, Inventory Management System (IMS), Courier Management System (CMS), and Marketplace management capabilities. With BladePRO, you get detailed intelligence on all aspects of your fulfilment operations, giving you complete control over your business.

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Inventory Tracking

Are you tired of manually keeping track of your inventory and feeling overwhelmed with the growing demands of your business? Well, worry no more! With BladePRO's real-time inventory tracking, you can effortlessly stay on top of your inventory data across your distribution network. Whether it's monitoring the number of products in your warehouse or having insights into specific SKUs and their storage locations, BladePRO provides you with the visibility you need to make informed decisions and effectively plan your operations.

Multi-Channel connectivity

Speaking of expanding your business, if you want to grow your Marketplace or eCommerce venture, BladePRO's got you covered there too. Our platform offers multi-channel connectivity, seamlessly integrating with popular marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Wayfair and key sales channels such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. This means you can expand your reach, increase your sales, and manage everything from a centralised platform.

Pick, Pack and Dispatch

Now, let's talk about the fundamental functions within your warehouse: picking, packing, and dispatching. BladePRO's intelligent picking sequences and streamlined process workflows are designed to revolutionise the efficiency of your warehouse operations. By seamlessly integrating picking and packing processes, we promote accuracy and efficiency in fulfilling customer orders. No more dealing with mismatched orders or shipping errors, which ultimately saves you costs and keeps your customers happy.

Shipping option

Shipping can make or break the customer experience, right? That's why BladePRO keeps you in the loop with real-time orders, inventory, and shipments update. You'll have complete visibility and control over your fulfillment processes, ensuring that your customers receive their orders on time and without surprises. Our platform automatically reviews a panel of carriers to find you the best shipping price, and if needed, you can override it for specific products. With a courier network that includes Royal Mail, DPD, DHL, FedEx, and UPS, you can trust that your shipments are in good hands.

Reporting & Analytics

Now, let's dive into the realm of data-driven decision-making. BladePRO generates comprehensive reports and analytics, giving you valuable insights into your warehouse operations. Customisable reports on key performance indicators, inventory levels, and order fulfillment rates empower you to identify bottlenecks, make data-driven decisions, and continuously optimise your supply chain processes. After all, knowledge is power, and with BladePRO, you’ll have the ability to take your business to the next level.

Robust Customer Service

Customer satisfaction is key, and BladePRO can help you provide superior customer service and meet delivery expectations. Real-time tracking and visibility features allow companies to keep customers informed about order status, estimated delivery times, and any potential delays. BladePRO enhances customer satisfaction and increases brand loyalty by providing accurate information and prompt updates.

Personalisation and Customisation

We understand the significance of tailoring experiences to align with your brand identity. Every customer is unique, and BladePRO acknowledges this by providing powerful personalisation and customisation solutions. This exclusive feature sets your brand apart from competitors, enabling you to stand out in the market and you can deliver an exceptional level of service.

Scalable Infrastructure

As your business grows, BladePRO's scalable infrastructure ensures consistent performance. You won't have to worry about slow systems or unreliable performance. Our infrastructure can handle increasing volumes of data, transactions, and users without compromising speed or reliability. We continuously monitor and optimise our infrastructure to deliver optimal performance at all times, so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.

Data Security Measures

At I-Fulfilment, we take information security seriously. That's why we are certified ISO 27001 / GDPR compliant, the highest standard for information security. You can feel confident knowing that your data is safe and secure with our platform. BladePRO employs robust security measures to protect sensitive information, including data encryption, user authentication, and role-based access controls giving businesses peace of mind.

Integrating BladePRO with Existing Systems

  • Easy Integration with ERP Systems

BladePRO seamlessly integrates with existing ERP systems, enabling businesses to centralise their operations. This integration ensures data synchronisation, eliminating the need for duplicate data entry and minimising errors. Connecting BladePRO with the ERP system gives businesses a holistic view of the entire operation, enabling better decision-making and process optimisation.

  • Seamless Data Synchronisation

BladePRO’s integration capabilities extend beyond ERP systems. It can integrate with other essential systems, such as order management systems, transportation management systems, and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms. This seamless data synchronisation ensures accurate and up-to-date information across the entire supply chain.

  • Automation of Workflows

BladePRO automates workflows, reducing manual effort and increasing operational efficiency. Businesses can save time and improve accuracy by automating tasks such as order processing, inventory updates, and shipping notifications. The system’s workflow engine allows companies to define custom rules and automate repetitive processes, freeing up valuable resources.

Choosing BladePRO as Your 3PL Warehouse Management Solution

I-Fulfilment has developed a proprietary, multi-tenanted, cloud-based eCommerce management platform with WMS functionality at its core. BladePRO Hybrid Fulfilment’s advanced features, seamless integration capabilities, and focus on security and reliability provide businesses with the tools they need to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction. Your operation can drive continuous improvement through the insights available through both a cloud-based web portal and a mobile app.

  • BladePRO offers a wide range of key features that set it apart as the ultimate 3PL warehouse management solution:
  • Intelligent inventory management with real-time visibility
  • Automated order fulfillment processes
  • Seamless integration with eCommerce platforms, ERP systems, and shipping carriers
  • Available through both a cloud-based web portal and a mobile app
  • Scalability to accommodate changing business needs
  • Customisation options to tailor the system to unique workflows
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At I-Fulfilment, our team of professionals will provide the expertise to envision the long-term strategic implementation of your WMS. We deliver immediate results that enhance the efficiency of your warehouse processes. With BladePRO, you can commence with a single device, streamlining the initial stages of implementation. Contact I-Fulfilment team of professionals to envision the long-term strategic implementation of your WMS. 

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