Blogpost
As businesses grow and margins decrease due to competition the need for shipping and receiving software becomes more and more important. With 2024 bringing new features and improvements in this space choosing the right software is more important than ever. If you want to gain complete visibility of your inventory and have improved customer satisfaction, implementing a new shipping and receiving software is a key priority.
Shipping and receiving software is a all in one tool to improve inventory management and resource allocation. By streamlining internal processes businesses can make more profit while having continuous visibility of document and order status. Modern shipping receiving software integrates with user-friendly android devices and terminals and manages the workflows inside your warehouse. Plus it controls the movement of available units based on multiple variables so every aspect of shipping and receiving is under control.
An accurate logging for the quantity and quality of items that are coming into your reception area is a key feature here. If you want to track inventory accurate you have to start with a precise inbound process were you can compare your purchase orders versus the items that actually arrive. Be aware that inventory accuracy problemas ofter arise with a deficient inbound process.
Shipping Process Optimization
You want to be able to streamline your picking, packing and shipping process with a tool that helps you track which item is being packed in which box and send to which customers. Automatic shipping labels generation during the outbound processes is a major benefit in the shipping process.
One of the best features of top shipping and receiving software is automatic shipment confirmation. This is a must have for businesses that use e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, Prestashop etc. By automating these processes you can reduce manual data entry errors and save time.
Shipping and receiving software optimizes inventory and shipping processes. No more manual updates and entries so less human error. This optimizes warehouse operations and overall productivity.
Integration with major courier companies like DHL and FedEx is another must have. This integration streamlines the packing and shipping process so businesses can manage their shipping needs better. With these integrations shipping labels are auto generated and shipping rates are calculated instantly.
Shipping and receiving software gives complete visibility into incoming and outgoing shipments. This visibility is important for generating shipping receipts, sending notifications and real-time status updates back to the business and its customers. So everyone involved in the shipping and receiving process is in the loop and reduces miscommunication.
With automated processes and real-time updates shipping and receiving software improves order fulfillment accuracy. This accuracy is key to high customer satisfaction and avoiding costly mistakes.
By automating and optimizing shipping and receiving businesses can reduce labor costs and improve productivity and warehouse efficiency. Less manual data entry and no errors means big cost savings.
Real-time visibility into inventory and shipment statuses allows businesses to make informed decisions and optimize resources. This visibility is key to maintaining optimal inventory levels and on time order fulfillment.
Shipping and receiving software simplifies compliance with industry regulations by automating documentation. This automates the burden off staff and ensures all documentation is completed and stored correctly.
Fast, accurate and reliable shipping processes means better customer satisfaction. When customers get their orders on time and without issues they are more likely to become repeat customers and leave good reviews.
Inbound and outbound shipment management is key to on time delivery. Shipping and receiving software tracks and updates shipment statuses so businesses can stay on top of their logistics.
With real-time inventory visibility businesses can prevent stockouts and overstocking. This visibility means inventory levels are maintained at optimal levels which is key to meeting customer demand without excess.
By reducing manual data entry shipping and receiving software simplifies the receiving and shipping process. This simplification reduces errors and overall operational efficiency. At the end of the day this will save money for your company.
Shipping and receiving software integration within warehouse management is key to managing and tracking inventory levels accurately. This integration means inventory levels are auto updated and reduces stock discrepancies.
Shipping and receiving software integration with warehouse management systems improves overall warehouse operations and boost efficiency. By controlling inventory and reducing errors businesses can operate multiple warehouses better and more efficiently.
With auto updates and accurate inventory movement tracking businesses can control their stock better. This control reduces the chances of stock discrepancies and ensures inventory levels are always correct. In the majority of cases there are deviations between the stock data in the ERP, accounting system, CRM or Ecommerce platforms and what is actually physically present inside the warehouse. The only way to truly close this gab and reach real time inventory management is with a WMS.
When choosing shipping and receiving software you need to consider your business needs. The software should match your operational goals and have the features to support your processes.
Software features and functionality is key. Businesses need to look for software that has the tools to optimize their shipping processes such as automation, e-commerce platform integration and real-time updates.
Scalability and flexibility is another important factor to consider. As businesses grow their shipping and receiving needs will change. Choosing software that can scale with your business means you won’t have to change systems as you grow.
Good customer support and training options is key to a smooth transition to new software. The software provider should have comprehensive training resources and responsive support to get your team up and running fast.
Easy Implementation
Easy implementation is key to minimal downtime. The best shipping and receiving software should have a simple setup process that integrates with your existing systems.
Customization to Your Needs
Customization allows businesses to make the software work for their specific needs. Whether it’s modifying workflows or integrating with other tools, customization means the software works for your processes. If you deal with a large volume of incoming goods you might want to integrate your ERP, accounting software or whatever tool you use to generate purchase orders.
Ongoing Support and Updates
Ongoing support and maintenance is key to improved productivity and keeping the software running. Regular updates and access to a support team means any issues are resolved quickly and your operations run smoothly.
Training options are key to getting your team to get the most out of the software. Training and support resources such as online tutorials, user manuals and webinars can reduce the learning curve.
An easy to use interface means staff can adapt to the new software faster. Simple design and navigation is key to both improving efficiency and productivity and reducing errors.
Fast response support is key to resolving any issues that may arise. A dedicated support team can resolve problems quickly, reduce costs, minimizes downtime and keep your operations running.
Security is paramount when it comes to shipping and receiving software. The software should have robust security features to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and breaches.
Compliance with industry regulations is key to avoiding legal issues and fines. The software should automate compliance tasks so all processes meet the required standards.
Regular updates are required to keep the software secure and functional. These updates means the software is compliant with the latest regulations and protected from new threats.
PULPO WMS is the top shipping and receiving software for 2024. Fast implementation, e-commerce platform integration and robust inventory management features makes PULPO WMS a solution for businesses of all sizes. Cloud native means scalability and easy to use means users can adopt fast. A big advantage of of PULPO is the use of modern mobile devices that are easier to use and can be integrated to barcode scanners.
Mainly an inventory management system that now belongs to the UK based Linnworks. SkuVault has inventory management and shipping automation. Integrates with e-commerce platforms and real-time stock updates makes it a good option for businesses to streamline operations.
inFlow is easy to use and mobile. Has great inventory control and integrates with multiple carriers makes it good for small to medium sized businesses.
ShipStation is a popular choice for businesses to automate their shipping. Integrates with multiple sales channels and carriers means ShipStation simplifies order processing and shipping. ShipStation is not a warehouse management system but helps aggregate shipping carriers and makes it easy to pull labels from different carriers.
Belonging to Körber, a large WMS owner based in Germany, HighJump is a full warehouse management solution that includes shipping and receiving. Flexible and scalable makes it good for large enterprises and businesses with multiple locations and complex logistics.
Cloud based shipping and receiving software means flexibility and scalability, perfect for growing businesses. Remote access and real-time updates means businesses can manage from anywhere. Implementing a Cloud-Native solution is a great way to save money when implementing a shipping management tool.
On-premise means mobile access with more control and security, good for businesses that need to manage sensitive data in-house. But requires more resources for maintenance and updates.
When choosing between cloud and on-premise, businesses should consider their needs, including security, budget and scalability.
Grow with Your Business
Scalability is a critical factor when selecting the best shipping and receiving software. As your business grows, the software should be able to handle increasing volumes of shipments, expanding operations, and additional sales channels without any performance degradation. This capability is essential for businesses aiming to boost efficiency and reduce costs in their logistics operations.
Ability to Configurate for Your Needs
Configuration, personalization or customization to meet your specific requirements is another crucial consideration. By allowing custom reports and tailored workflows, the software can align perfectly with your business processes and support your operational goals. Whether it's adapting to specific packing stations or integrating barcode scanners into your workflow, the ability to customize ensures the software fits your unique needs.
Integrates with Your Systems
Seamless integration with existing systems, warehouse management software, and e-commerce platforms is key to ensuring smooth operations. The software should seamlessly connect with other tools to act as a central hub for managing your entire supply chain. Having purchase orders data available for the reception process and being able to pull shipping labels during your outbound process will increase productivity. Integration facilitates real-time tracking of shipments, order management, and stock levels, providing valuable insights and data-driven decisions that can reduce costs and enhance overall efficiency.
One of the most common pitfalls, especially for small businesses, is not investing enough time in planning and researching before selecting shipping and receiving software. Proper planning ensures that the chosen software not only meets your current business needs but also integrates smoothly with your existing systems, including sales channels and inventory management tools.
A poorly executed implementation process can lead to significant operational disruptions. It is essential to choose software that offers a smooth and well-supported implementation process, including robust incident reporting features to address any challenges that arise. By doing so, businesses can avoid costly delays and ensure that their receiving operations and order processing run efficiently from day one.
Not Enough Training and Support
Not enough training and support means underutilization of the software. Training resources and ongoing support is key to your team being able to use the software effectively.
Not Considering Scalability and Flexibility
Choosing software that is not scalable and flexible limits your business growth. Choose a comprehensive solution, that can adapt to your changing needs.
Shipping and receiving software is key to warehouse operations and inventory management. With features like auto shipment confirmation, inventory optimization and courier integration this software is the backbone of logistics. Businesses looking to improve order fulfillment accuracy, reduce costs and get full visibility into their operations should evaluate their options and choose the software that fits their needs.
In 2024 PULPO WMS is the top choice for businesses looking for a full, scalable and user friendly solution. Fast implementation, seamless integration and robust features makes it the perfect software for shipping and receiving.
A warehouse management system is software that helps organizations manage inventory, orders, and logistics in their warehouse operations.
