One of the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business world is the boom of small businesses. Forecasts for 2022 are that 17 million small businesses will be opened by the end of the year. Small companies must upgrade their management and evolve to endure such rivalry in crowded markets. This also applies to the way of data storing and processing, and the logistical aspect of the work, too. Shipping and storage most of all must be optimized to shorten delivery times and improve customer service. In Saudi Arabia, shipping and logistics companies have boomed in recent times, especially freight forwarding. This is largely due to warehouse management systems for small business. Below, we will introduce you to warehouse management systems (WMS). We answered the questions like which are the best systems, what their perks are, and what the results of the new way of doing business are.
What is WMS?
We’ll start from the basics for those of you unfamiliar with the term WMS. It’s a software solution that provides transparent management of all business aspects, from distribution centers to the final customers. These systems run warehouse operations such as ingoing and outgoing inventory, organizing, packing, and delivery of goods. By getting a warehouse Saudi Arabia you’ll improve the productivity of your company and save time and money. However, warehouse management today requires modern software systems. Without them, it would simply be impossible to govern huge storages with large and numerous stocks. Although large companies primarily used it, small companies started to use the WMS to run their business as well. WMS contributes to transparency and better organization of the entire business, no matter how big or small the company is.
The significance of the WMS
The value of warehouse management systems is growing bigger with the rising of online shopping. Customers are expecting a flawless shopping experience, in exchange for their loyalty and trust. The four main customer needs are good quality, appropriate price, choice, and convenience. But, to rise up to these standards, companies must adapt to current demand and upgrade their procedures and operations. And that’s where WMS comes in as a help to ensure the movement of the goods and materials through the storage efficiently. Warehouse Riyadh is a part of our entire network of warehouses and distribution points, which provides short and long-term storage services. And appropriate WMS systems help us to organize our business in the best possible way in order to provide high-quality service to our customers. And so, warehouse management systems for small businesses have become necessary for a business to remain competitive.
The future of warehouse management systems for small business
One of the visions is that in the future warehouses will become fully automated, as AI successfully replaces human labor and it takes over all repetitive actions in logistics companies. So-called smart warehouses will become one of the leading trends by 2030. And also digital warehousing, as a way of using digital technology to optimize storage processes and workflow. Predictions say that by then most activities in warehouses will become automated. WMS will become a turning point in every company’s business. All supply chain needs from space utilization to manpower and equipment will be monitored and run by WMS. These new technological innovations are widely applied in the logistics of Saudi Arabia and warehouses in the KSA.
The types of WMS
The scope of your work and needs determine which WMS software you will choose. And to choose the right one, you need to know the types of WMS and the differences between them. We will mention 4 basic types and introduce you to each of them.
- A standalone system is a good choice for companies to monitor day-to-day supply chain flow in and out of the warehouse. Some of the main features of this system are expiration date tracking, replenishment, receiving, picking, packing, slotting, and shipping. This type lacks integration functions, unlike other types.
- Cloud-based systems were originally operating locally. However, today they run only in a cloud, which reduces the expenses of the managing on-premises system.
- The Wms module within an ERP system is software that helps companies manage and automate basic processes for optimal work. However, this one is not functional as a standalone type, so it’s not possible to cross-dock shipments and switch vehicles and storage. But it fits basic storage and distribution processes.
- The Wms module in supply chain management software manages all tasks from production to the final customer. And that includes transport and logistics and running the warehouse. This module may not have all the features of the standalone system, but it is certainly suitable for larger and more complex businesses.
The best warehouse management systems for small business
The outdated way of doing business where data is entered manually has long been overcome. And not only that, but such companies can hardly cope with the challenges imposed by today’s consumer society. Large quantities of goods and data must be processed quickly, which would be impossible without matching software. WMS has become mandatory for companies that strive to remain competitive and expand their business. Needs vary from company to company and their nature and scope of work. In order to meet the various demands of clients, IT experts have developed various software and tools to manage and run warehouses. As an example, we can cite the warehouse Jeddah and our high-tech tools and systems for handling cargo and inventory. Whether you need climate-controlled storage or units for special security units for hazardous goods, we can provide them for you.
Here’s a list of some of the most used WMS software for small companies, which have performed best in the past.
Fishbowl inventory
This most commonly used inventory management software offers some crucial features for warehouse owners and managers. Its key feature is to track each inventory item by its serial number and expiration date. However, it has a lot more to offer, like planning needed materials, managing orders, barcoding, etc. In addition to these basic ones, Fishbowl also offers some more complex functions:
- barcode scanning and printing
- tracking stock in different locations
- conversion in other currencies
- shipping
- online support
- training to get around using the software
Fishbowl is perfect for small businesses and mid-sized companies in the retailing business, but also for manufacturers, distributors, and similar. It can integrate with QuickBooks tool, and Xero, which would improve and extend its functions. The flaws of the Fishbowl are the lack of android mobile applications and providing only basic reports.
Zoho Inventory
Zoho inventory is a tool that helps you increase your sales and track every unit in your stock. It’s a cloud-based WMS for creating and managing your sales and orders. It is easy to integrate it with sales sites and shopping carts like Amazon, E-bay, and Shopify. It is very easy to use, and it simplifies and organizes business. With the help of Zoho Inventory, companies control stock, fulfill orders, supervise warehouses, and facilitate sales channels. Perhaps its most important feature is that it automates many tasks in warehouses. Inventory tracking and order processing are some of those complex tasks. Also, some of its traits are the possibility to identify and sell the older items first, data reporting, items tracking, shipping integrations, etc. If you are looking for a professional ally within the logistics company in Dammam, you’re at the right place.
SkuVault
Another excellent e-commerce software solution is SkuVault, designed to manage and run your inventory. Use SkuVault to sync your sales channels and generate reports. This tool is perfect for small businesses since it’s designed to pick and pack, and then ship orders on time. Thus, it’s saving time and money and improves customer service. Also, it’s easy to integrate this system with many e-commerce sales platforms, and at the same time remains easy to use. Like the previous one, this system also simplifies warehouse management and automates many warehouse activities. Some of its best features are cloud-based data sharing, easy fulfillment of orders, decision-making based on data, real-time detailed reports, and sync of all your stock levels across all your markets. If you add to all that the customer support via phone, e-mail, and on-site or remote training, SkuVault seems like the right choice for your small business.
Cin7
Cin7 is one of the best inventory management platforms on the market, for both, small and large companies. Its basic features are warehouse and inventory management, reporting and forecasting, BtoB sales, etc. It offers a real-time sync of stock levels and automatization of tasks. What sets it apart from the rest is the function of predicting trends in the near future. This helps sellers to predict future orders and to sell the right product at the right time. And it is especially important when dealing with sensitive materials such as medical emergency shipments. In such cases, our company can offer cold chain services in Saudi Arabia. Order flows and sales points, as well as inventory locations, are combined in one platform. All of this makes Cin7 one of the ideal warehouse management systems for small business.
Veequ
This is a multichannel shipping software, ideal for retailers. It manages warehouse tasks and shipping, and it generates orders and reports. It allows users to get real-time inventory status and accurate stock levels. If you opt for Veequ software, you’ll get a two weeks free trial at no charge. The application is suitable for both Android and IOS, unlike Fishbowl. Veequ is a great choice because it filters and sorts orders and finds the shortest possible route. It also allows its users to switch storages, whenever stock becomes low. This warehouse management system connects and synchronizes different warehouses, markets, and vendors in real-time. In doing so, it automatically regulates stock levels after sales. This software makes calculations and forecasts based on previous orders and sales, and then automatically orders new stock. These forecasts are obtained based on detailed reports and analyses.
Warehouse management systems for small business and their benefits
If you are still not convinced that WMS is the right choice for your business, consider the benefits it brings. These systems increase efficiency and productivity by managing and optimizing space and manpower. When it comes to saving space, pallet racking Saudi Arabia is an excellent multi-leveled system for stacking items in horizontal rows. WMS software plan the best possible use of space and the shortest routes, thus shortening the delivery time. In addition, it allows better utilization of resources, monitoring of workflows, and replacing manpower wherever necessary. Not to mention managing huge amounts of inventory in warehouses, packaging, shipping, and sales. And this results in improved customer service and customer loyalty in return. That further results in new orders and new sales.
How to choose the proper WMS for your company?
If you’re still not sure about the proper WMS for your company, don’t hesitate to consult the experts. They can help you to pick the right warehouse management systems for small business. First of all, determine your needs, but also the flaws and strengths. And then determine your short-term and long-term plans. Compile a list of potential partners, and get objective feedback from your customers. Choose a system that will compensate for the shortcomings and make a final decision based on the price and its performance. In addition, always choose reliable partners like Four Winds Saudi Arabia, for international and local relocations, freight forwarding, packing, crating, etc. Our many years of experience and expert teams instill confidence in our customers and partners. Give us your trust and convince yourself of our quality.
