Warehousing logistics is the process of storing goods and managing inventory before it is distributed to end customers. This is a crucial in supply chain management. It ensures goods are stored efficiently, inventory is handled correctly and delivery to customers is timely. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and higher customer expectations, warehousing has transformed into an industry which relies heavily on technology. Businesses must understand warehousing concepts to optimise operations. 3PL warehouse helps businesses to streamline operations, save costs and improve efficiency. In this article, we will explore the main warehousing processes.

1. Receiving

The warehousing process starts with receiving goods from suppliers or manufacturers. It involves checking conditions, verifying quantity and quality of goods against purchase orders and storing. The key steps of the receiving process are as follows:

1. Unloading the goods
2. Inspection of the goods for any damages
3. Comparing data with purchase orders
4. Input data into WMS
5. Labeling of goods for tracking.

2. Put-away

Put away is the process of movement of goods from the receiving area to the designated area in the warehouse. It ensures goods are stored efficiently and space are optimised. The key steps of put away process are as follows:

1. Verification of goods against track records.
2. Determine location based on product type, size, demand and warehouse location.
3. Moving the goods by using forklift or pallet to their location.
4. Updating inventory records.

An effective put away process can enhance warehouse operations, improve productivity and meet customer expectations. For example, goods that are fast moving should always be stored in locations where it is easy to access for picking and replenishment.

3. Storage

Storage is the process of keeping goods in specific locations in warehouses. The goal of storage process is to ensure that goods can be easily tracked and retrieved. A structured storage system helps save time, minimize errors and enhance warehouse productivity.

4. Picking

Picking is the process of retrieving goods from inventory to fulfill customer orders. There are several picking types such as single order, batch, zone and wave picking. In warehouse logistics, the picking process is a key factor in operational costs. Efficient picking strategies help minimize labor expenses, enhance order accuracy and save time. Therefore, businesses can increase profitability and fulfill customer expectation.

5. Packing

Packing is the process where picked goods are securely prepared for outgoing shipments. This process helps to prevent damage, saving shipping costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. The key steps in the packing process include:

1. The picked goods are checked against purchase order. This is a crucial step to ensure accuracy order.
2. Selecting packaging materials and labeling with shipping labels.
3. Inspect packed goods to ensure they are secure and fulfill quality standards.

6. Dispatch

Dispatch is the process where goods are prepared and delivered to customers. It focuses on preparing goods before handover to shipping. This process ensure order are fulfilled accurately and efficiency. The key step of dispatch process include:

1. Ensuring goods are ready for delivery by carrier
2. Sorting orders by destination
3. Handing the goods over to the carrier
4. Inspection to ensure the goods are sent to the right destination
5. Updating the goods in inventory system

7. Shipping

Shipping is the final process of goods movement from the warehouse to destination. This involves sorting packages by carrier, carrier pickup and delivery to customers. The goal in the shipping process is to ensure the goods are delivered to customers on time.

8. Return

Return is the process of handling goods returned by customers. This process involves refund, repair and replacement. Managing returns is a crucial part of operation as it improves customer satisfaction. The key steps of the return process include:

1. Receiving returned goods
2. Inspecting goods for quality and condition
3. Processing refund and sorting goods 
4. Updating record in inventory management

 

Executing warehousing processes is important for seamless supply chain management. This enables the goods to be stored, handled and delivered safely to customers. The warehousing process help businesses to improve operational efficiency, fulfill customer satisfaction and reduce costs.

We understand that the warehousing process is the backbone of a successful supply chain. With a warehouse space of 14000m2 and an experienced team equipped with advanced technology, ACL Australia is confident in handling your goods. We ensure that your goods are stored securely, handled with care and delivered to customers on time. Partner with ACL Australia today to enhance your logistics efficiency and accuracy.