The Solution:

Juggling space and talent to accommodate multiple inventories, promotions, shipping schedules, and business rules requires acute flexibility on the part of any 3PL. Our 3PL client services their client fulfillment needs within the current warehouse by allocating dedicated space to each client based on forecasted needs throughout the year, including peak season. This dedicated space model leverages the WMS to configure client-specific processes, where needed, to provide a custom experience for each client and their consumers. To slot the warehouse in the most efficient way, frequently picked items are front and center, and grouped with other items typically sold together. Labor teams work key areas of the warehouse according to fluctuating client demands.

The 3PL began working with Open Sky Group to implement a tier one WMS, WFM and LMS, now the backbone of the company’s operating systems. Positioned in the cloud, the combined systems seamlessly interface with their various customers, carriers, and partners to provide a single version of truth across the enterprise.

With the newly implemented WMS, our 3PL client was able being processing the data surrounding every item stored in the warehouse. As goods come in and flow through the warehouse, floor managers can determine where items are in relation to open customer orders, move product into optimal positions for prompt picking, packing and shipping, and analyze historical information useful in forecasting future inventory events.

The implemented system tracks weight and dimensions of every box and integrates with the company’s enterprise level Transit Management System (TMS) so that shipments can be processed in real-time at the lowest possible cost with the most appropriate carrier for the fastest possible delivery. These requirements can be modified to meet each customer’s unique business rules.

Likewise, the labor side of the equation is managed by the company’s LMS system. Based on data indicating volumes for an average week, shifts are set. The system accounts for various skill sets, tailoring the right combination of pickers, packers, kitters, lumpers, labelers and drivers to economically staff each shift. As each day progresses, it identifies bottlenecks, slow areas and available personnel across the floor to keep the warehouse moving at peak efficiency.