WMS Features

Warehouse Management System (WMS) Software Features Overview
Detailed WMS Software Functionality Reports
Key WMS Features & Modules
Workflow Automation Drives Efficiency Gains in Functionality Module
     Automating Inventory Control, Tracking, and Visibility
     Streamlining Inbound Receiving Processes with Automation & Other WMS Features
     Put-Away Processes Help Bolster Warehouse Operations Across DCs
     Intelligent Pick Path Directives Optimize Order Fulfillment
     Streamlining Last-Mile Operations with Automated Packing and Shipping
     Automating Layouts and Processes via Warehouse Configuration
     Bin Location Setup Facilitates Tailored Inventory Storage
     Configuring Products and Attributes for Optimization with Product Setup Tools
     Enabling End-to-End Supply Chain Visibility via License Plate Tracking
     Enforcing Product Quality Standards and Automating Inspection Workflows
     Supporting Warehouses with Essential Cross-Functional Capabilities
Configuring WMS for Agile, Adaptable Operations
     Configuring Flexible Business Processes for Agile Operations
     Advanced Analytics, Support & Reporting Drive Warehouse Optimization
Future-Proofing Warehouse Management with Advanced Technology Configuration
     Flexible System Configuration Enables Seamless Warehouse Management
     Seamless Integration Enables Real-Time Warehouse Data Exchange
     Ensuring Secure Warehouse Data and Operations with Robust Access Controls
     Seamless WMS Upgrades Facilitating Continuous Enhancement
     Reporting and Querying Lead to Operational Insights
     Leveraging RFID for Real-Time Supply Chain Visibility and Tracking
     Transcending Borders with Multi-Region WMS Support
Third-Party Logistics Functionality Powers Flexible, Efficient Warehousing
     Flexible Billing and Invoicing Tools Optimize Cost Recovery and Margins
     Centralizing Multi-Client Warehouses with Content Management
     Operations Tools Unify Visibility, Optimize Workflows in Multi-Client Warehousing
     Transportation Integration Fosters End-to-End Third-Party Logistics
Ensuring Timeless Warehouse Operations via Cutting-Edge System Architecture
     Reporting Tools Drive Data-Backed Warehouse Decisions
     Streamlining Warehouse Management Through Integrated Development Tools
     Intuitive, Responsive User Interfaces Enhance Productivity
     Multi-Platform Support Unifies Warehouse Management Across Devices
     Flexible and Scalable Architecture Enables Next-Gen Warehouse Management
Types of WMS Software and Industry-Specific WMS Systems
     Enterprise Size and Other Factors Influence WMS Features
Selecting the Best WMS Software for Your Business Needs
 

Warehouse Management System (WMS) Software Features Overview

Warehouse management systems (WMS) are critical software solutions for modern supply chain operations. By automating and optimizing warehouse workflows, WMS software provides visibility into inventory tracking, order fulfillment, shipping and receiving, labor management, and more. Key benefits of warehouse management system features include reduced operational costs through improved efficiency, real-time data for better decision-making, and scalability to support business growth. There are a wide variety of WMS solutions on the market catering to different industry verticals, warehouse sizes, and types of operations. For example, solutions like Manhattan Associates’ Manhattan Active Supply Chain and Logility offer advanced capabilities for large, complex distribution centers (DCs), while Cadre Technologies’ Accuplus and Korber Supply Chain meet the needs of small-to-midsize warehouses. When evaluating WMS solutions, it’s important to understand the differentiators around inventory and order processing, analytics and reporting, user experience (UX), integration, and configurability based on your unique requirements. Leading WMS systems deliver specialized capabilities like batch traceability, cross-docking, zone picking, and temperature monitoring, enabling customers to optimize workflows in their specific vertical.

Detailed WMS Software Functionality Reports

Evaluating WMS solutions is a major undertaking for any organization. Sifting through hundreds or thousands of warehouse management features and modules to create your requirements list, contacting vendors for product information, and discovering the best-fit WMS solution can take months. One effective approach is to start by identifying the warehouse management system features that are most relevant for your industry and warehouse operations. But when you’re ready to evaluate specific solutions in depth, you need to examine the full range of warehouse management features and functionalities offered. WMS software functionality reports provide that comprehensive level of detail.
 
With over 30 years advising companies on business software selections, we have compiled an unmatched database of WMS functionality reports across thousands of solutions. We have also established impartial industry benchmarks for WMS features and a rigorous methodology for comparing solutions. You can see our high-level benchmarking in our free WMS product summaries, while our detailed features and capabilities reports drill down into specific systems. These Excel-based reports outline the full spectrum of warehouse management system features competitive solutions can offer, organized into intuitive modules like inventory management, order processing, analytics and reporting, user experience, and more. We then indicate the level of support offered for each capability by the individual WMS system under evaluation. This provides visibility into both how well that product supports specific warehouse management features, and how fully it covers broader functional areas critical for your operations. For example, our Warehouse Management for Open Systems report comprises over 500 features. Each capability listing includes a rating indicating the system's level of support, from out-of-the-box to configuration required to unavailable. This enables easy understanding of both granular and high-level functionality coverage. With TEC's WMS features and capabilities reports, you can efficiently evaluate solutions against your unique requirements and make a confident software selection.

Key WMS Features & Modules

WMS software offers a wide range of modules and features to optimize warehouse operations. Key warehouse management system features span inventory, order and labor management, analytics and reporting, UX, and configurability, with leading solutions leveraging innovations like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and robotics to drive greater efficiency and visibility.

For example, Manhattan Associates’ Warehouse Management for Open Systems uses advanced algorithms to optimize pick paths and inventory slots based on real-time data. This reduces travel distance for pickers by up to 40%. As WMS features continue to evolve, we can expect more intelligent automation and prescriptive recommendations to simplify workflows.

In the following sections, we'll explore WMS features and modules in detail. Our benchmarking covers hundreds of capabilities across five modules: Functionality, Adaptability, WMS Technology Configuration, Third-Party Logistics, and Product Technology. Key submodules include Inventory Management, Labor Management, Analytics & Reporting, and User Experience, among others.

To evaluate specific solutions and select the best fit, download one of our full warehouse management system features and capabilities reports. With exhaustive feature listings and impartial benchmarks, these enable efficient comparisons to pinpoint the right WMS based on your unique requirements.

Workflow Automation Drives Efficiency Gains in Functionality Module

The Functionality module contains the core warehouse management system features that enable systems to optimize distribution center operations. With 381 features spanning inventory and both order and labor management, WMS solutions aim to automate every workflow from receiving to shipping.

This core WMS module includes 11 submodules focused on configurations to match unique warehouse layouts and processes. Key areas include License Plate Tracking for supply chain visibility, Quality Control for verifying product condition, and Packing and Shipping for final stage fulfillment. There are also cross-functional WMS features like Reporting and Analytics to inform better decisions. With 29 Warehouse Configuration features, 40 Bin Location Setup capabilities, and 72 Picking functionalities, this WMS module delivers end-to-end workflow support.

Automating Inventory Control, Tracking, and Visibility

The Inventory Control submodule enables WMS software to provide real-time visibility and control over warehouse inventory. With 20 key features, solutions can automate cycle counting workflows, track inventory attributes like serial numbers and expiration dates, and support detailed reporting of on-hand balances by location and product. This brings value across industries like retail, manufacturing, and food and beverage by optimizing inventory accuracy, reducing carrying costs, and improving order fulfillment rates.

Key Inventory Control Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Serial/Lot Number Tracking	Traces inventory by serialized batches or lots, crucial for recalls and expiration date management in food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.
Cycle Counting Workflows	Automates routine cycle counting based on velocity and last count date to verify inventory accuracy and meet target confidence levels.
Expiration Date Management	Assigns shelf life to date-sensitive items and triggers workflows to ensure first in, first out (FIFO) picking and avoid expired product shipping.

Streamlining Inbound Receiving Processes with Automation & Other WMS Features

An effective WMS solution optimizes the entire inbound supply chain, from advanced ship notifications to put-away directives. The Receiving submodule comprises 67 warehouse management features to automate and enhance visibility across arrival, inspection, and product intake workflows. For industrial manufacturers, retail distribution centers, and ecommerce fulfillment, these warehouse management system features can help reduce receiving labor by over 30% while ensuring inventory accuracy for downstream order processing. With seven additional submodules focused on inbound logistics, WMS solutions deliver comprehensive receiving automation. This brings value to warehouse managers through operational efficiency, real-time inventory updates, and data to proactively manage supplier performance.

Key Receiving Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
ASN Processing	Automates advanced ship notice (ASN) data to pre-allocate storage locations and plan labor, enabling rapid receiving and put-away of inbound inventory.
License Plate Scanning	Supports barcode scan of supplier license plates during unloading for immediate inventory visibility and reconciliation against ship notices.
QC Workflow Integration	Triggers quality assurance workflows based on item batches or serial numbers to inspect products, ensure compliance, and limit goods movement for failed inspection.

Put-Away Processes Help Bolster Warehouse Operations Across DCs

Put-away is a critical function of warehousing that matches received inventory to available storage locations. By automating put-away directives, WMS solutions guide warehouse staff to rapidly intake goods after inspections. This brings value to manufacturers, distributors, and ecommerce companies, enabling inventory visibility for downstream order fulfillment while helping reduce labor costs. With four additional submodules and 25 granular functions, put-away warehouse management system features deliver comprehensive capabilities, from graphical slotting to radio frequency directed workflow. In essence, these WMS functions can optimize travel distance and storage density while providing the data and tools to continuously improve operations.

Key Put-Away Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Graphical Slotting	Drag-and-drop warehouse mapping for visual slotting optimization based on product dimensions, velocity, and storage constraints.
RF-Directed Put-Away	Guides workers to optimal storage locations via mobile devices for efficient workflow and inventory tracking in real-time.
Cluster Put-Away	Groups inventory by product family or shipment to reduce travel distance during put-away for greater efficiency.

Intelligent Pick Path Directives Optimize Order Fulfillment

The Picking submodule enables WMS software to guide warehouse staff along system-calculated optimal routes to complete order fulfillment efficiently. Up to 72 granular pick path configuration and execution features span eight additional submodules, with these WMS features aiming to minimize travel distance and labor time per order. Additionally, advanced algorithms factor in aisle configurations, storage locations, and inventory availability to plot intelligent pick paths tailored to each facility's layout. Mobile devices then direct pickers in real time for rapid workflow. For warehouse managers, optimized picking facilitates meeting demand peaks cost-effectively while analyzing worker performance.

Key Picking Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Batch Picking	Groups multiple orders by product family or location to minimize travel distance between picks, increasing throughput.
Cartonization Rules	Defines packaging rules and box dimensions to calculate optimal assortments, quantities, and sequences to pack picked items efficiently.
Pick Validation	Requires worker confirmation via mobile scanner or voice pick to validate location and quantity accuracy before product removal, improving quality.

Streamlining Last-Mile Operations with Automated Packing and Shipping

Packing and shipping are integral warehousing functions that orchestrate the final mile of order fulfillment. Offering 27 functions over another five submodules, these warehouse management features guide warehouse staff to consolidate picked items, apply shipping labels, validate orders, and load carriers for dispatch. For manufacturers, distributors, and retailers shipping thousands of orders daily, this module can automate the most labor-intensive workflows to improve efficiency. By interfacing with parcel carriers and planning optimal transport routes, these warehouse management system features also reduce freight costs and damages while providing shipment visibility. This enables supply chain managers to delight customers and optimize last-mile delivery performance.

Key Packing and Shipping Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Shipping Consolidation	Enables logical grouping of multiple orders or packages by destination zone, carrier service, or vehicle load efficiency to optimize last-mile delivery.
Parcel Integration	Automates shipment data exchange with major parcel carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS to generate compliant shipping labels, confirm pickups, and track in real time.
Ergonomic Workflow	Minimizes unnecessary movement and heavy lifting by optimizing consolidation, staging, and load sequencing based on packaging rules and operator limitations.

Automating Layouts and Processes via Warehouse Configuration

The Warehouse Configuration submodule enables WMS software to model unique warehouse layouts and match software workflows to existing processes. Comprising 29 warehouse management system features, this submodule can configure storage locations, pick paths, license plate tracking, and more based on facility design. This tailors WMS to drive maximum efficiency for each operation. For third-party logistics (3PL) providers serving multiple clients, it also enables configuring the system for each customer warehouse. Key industries benefiting include industrial manufacturing, retail and ecommerce, food and beverage, and 3PL.

Key Warehouse Configuration Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Slotting Optimization Rules	Enables configuring put-away logic based on product dimensions, velocity, compatibility, and other factors to minimize picker travel distance and increase storage density.
Graphical Warehouse Mapping	Provides visual drag-and-drop warehouse layout modeling to assign storage locations, pick zones, dock doors, and other physical elements to match real-world facility constraints.
Custom Process Workflows	Allows tailoring workflows for receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and shipping to match warehouse processes and standard operating procedures before optimizing them over time.

Bin Location Setup Facilitates Tailored Inventory Storage

WMS’ Bin Location Setup submodule allows systems to model inventory storage locations tailored to unique warehouse layouts and constraints. Up to 40 features enable users to define item master data, storage types, bin dimensions, slotting rules, and other elements to optimize bin setups. This maximizes storage density, minimizes picker travel distance, and improves overall warehouse efficiency. Leading WMS solutions leverage advanced algorithms to recommend optimal slotting based on product velocity, dimensions, and compatibility. The ability to configure bin locations to match real-world warehouse layouts simplifies WMS deployment. It also ensures the system can optimize based on existing infrastructure constraints before reengineering over time.

Key Bin Location Setup Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Graphical Slotting	Provides drag-and-drop warehouse map for modeling storage locations, enabling visual slotting optimization tailored to unique layout constraints.
Storage Type Rules	Defines storage types like bulk, racking, shelving, and rules for assigning items to each type based on velocity, turnover, hazards, and other factors.
Item Dimension-Based Slotting	Matches items to available bin dimensions based on size, weight, and volume to maximize storage density and space utilization.

Configuring Products and Attributes for Optimization with Product Setup Tools

A Product Setup WMS submodule allows configuring product master data and attributes within the WMS solution to match unique inventory profiles. With 13 granular features, solutions can define items, product families, units of measure, lot attributes, and other variables that impact slotting, storage, and handling. This tailors put-away logic and inventory tracking to optimize workflows.

Key Product Setup Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Product Families/Groups	Allows defining item groupings by product line, subtype, velocity, or other variables for tailored slotting rules, reporting, and workflow optimization.
Lot Number Tracking	Supports batch, lot, and serial number tracking and tracing required in food, pharmaceuticals, and other regulated industries.
Unit of Measure Conversions	Enables stock tracking and order processing using multiple units of measure per item, converting between units for inventory visibility.

Enabling End-to-End Supply Chain Visibility via License Plate Tracking

License Plate Tracking is a crucial warehouse management function that assigns unique identifiers to inventory batches, shipments, and other logistics units. By tracking license plates across the supply chain, these 17 warehouse management system features provide real-time visibility into inventory location and status from manufacturing to delivery, enabling efficient tracking of goods in transit and rapid issue resolution. With this submodule, WMS solutions can also automate license plate generation, scanning, and tracking across warehouse workflows.

Key License Plate Tracking Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Auto License Plate Numbering	Automatically generates unique license plate IDs for inventory batches, shipments, and other logistics units for efficient tracking across the supply chain.
License Plate Scanning	Supports barcode scanning of license plates during put-away, picking, packing, and shipping to provide system-wide visibility into inventory location and status.
Shipment Consolidation	Associates multiple license plates containing distinct items to a single shipment for aggregated tracking from dispatch to proof of delivery.

Enforcing Product Quality Standards and Automating Inspection Workflows

Eight Quality Control warehouse management system features and two additional submodules can help configure rules-based inspection procedures and integrate them with receiving, put-away, and order processing.

Key Quality Control Features

• QC Workflow Triggers—Initiates quality assurance workflows based on business rules, random sampling, or high-risk batches to inspect and limit movement of non-compliant inventory.
• Automated Test Integrations—Interfaces with instrumentation data from scales, thermometers, and pressure sensors to automatically verify product condition and compliance.
• Operator Alerts and Notifications—Alerts warehouse staff via mobile devices when quality verification is required during receiving, put-away, and order processing based on configurable rules.
• Compliance Reporting—Generates reports detailing performance against quality metrics like first-pass yields, inspection rates, and defect densities for continuous improvement.
• Vendor Scorecarding—Rates supplier performance on quality and compliance KPIs, enabling data-driven decisions on sourcing and supplier relationship management.

Supporting Warehouses with Essential Cross-Functional Capabilities

An Other Functions submodule encompasses 52 warehouse management features supporting crucial workflows, delivering cross-cutting capabilities like reporting, analytics, forms, and label printing that integrate workflows enterprise-wide. This brings value by providing data visibility to optimize operations, automating documents for regulatory compliance, and interfacing with peripheral devices.

Key Cross-Functional Features

• Custom Report Builder—Enables end users to generate reports spanning warehouse modules without IT help for self-service analytics.
• Paperless Workflow—Supports electronic forms, sign-offs, and label printing tailored to paperless processes for greater efficiency and compliance.
• Parcel Carrier Integration—Automates data exchange with shipping providers for label printing, tracking, and freight audits to reduce last-mile costs.
• Internet of Things (IoT) Data Interfaces—Ingests sensor telemetry from warehouse equipment like conveyors and AGVs into the WMS for monitoring, alerts, and predictive maintenance.
• Voice Picking Interaction—Allows pickers to interact verbally with the WMS via headset for paperless, hands-free order fulfillment and confirmation.

 

Configuring WMS for Agile, Adaptable Operations

The Adaptability module encompasses warehouse management system features enabling companies to model unique business processes and evolve with emerging supply chain requirements. This WMS module comprises nearly 30 capabilities designed for process configuration and analytics, providing users the flexibility to optimize workflows without requiring custom code.

For industrial manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and 3PLs, this simplifies deploying a WMS aligned to current operations and changing them over time. Adaptable systems also facilitate detailed reporting to uncover optimization opportunities, while tools like AI and machine learning allowing WMS software to leverage predictive analytics and recommend process improvements.

The module contains two submodules: Business Processes for configuring workflows and Decision Support & Reporting for data visibility. Together, they provide the adaptability and warehouse management functions to match diverse operational needs out of the box and continuously drive greater efficiency.

Configuring Flexible Business Processes for Agile Operations

The Business Processes submodule enables WMS systems to model unique workflows aligned to existing standard operating procedures. Its slate of 13 warehouse management features gives users flexibility to optimize deployments without custom coding requirements. For supply chain and warehouse managers, the ability to adapt WMS to real-world process constraints simplifies system rollouts and simplifies configurations as company needs, size, and demands change over time.

Key Business Process Configuration Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Graphical Workflow Mapping	Enables visually mapping workflows to match existing processes, simplify user adoption, and identify optimization opportunities.
User-Defined Business Rules	Allows configuring system behaviors and process triggers tailored to unique business policies without changes to core code.
Custom Document Templates	Supports configuring electronic forms, reporting templates, and label formats aligned to operational requirements for efficiency and compliance.

Advanced Analytics, Support & Reporting Drive Warehouse Optimization

This module’s Decision Support & Reporting submodule facilitates capture of comprehensive operational data and generation of insights to drive continuous improvement. With 12 key features, WMS solutions deliver advanced analytics and customizable reporting for all functional areas, from inventory and orders to labor and quality control. Additionally, these warehouse management system features offer detailed visibility into KPIs and empower fact-based process changes to increase efficiency.

Key Decision Support & Reporting Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Custom Report Builder	Enables end users to generate reports spanning warehouse modules by selecting fields, filters, grouping, and output formats without IT help for self-service analytics.
Real-Time Dashboards	Provides operational visibility through role-based KPI dashboards that refresh with live data on orders, inventory, labor, shipments, and more to drive rapid decisions.
Data Warehouse Integration	Interfaces analytical data to existing enterprise data warehouses and business intelligence (BI) tools to combine operational, financial, and sales data for holistic insights.

Future-Proofing Warehouse Management with Advanced Technology Configuration

A Technology Configuration module includes 296 warehouse management system features enabling companies to leverage the latest IT infrastructure for security, scalability, and emerging innovations. With seven submodules spanning integration, radio frequency identification (RFID), and customization tools, solutions gain flexibility to adopt new technologies without added complexity. For industrial manufacturers, retail distributors, and 3PLs managing growth, this simplifies expanding WMS across facilities and supply chain partners. As warehouse automation advances, seamless IoT integration will also enable leveraging robotics and AI-driven insights.

Key technology configuration submodules include Security, Configuration, Reports, Documents and Queries, and RFID. This technology foundation simplifies scaling operations, securing data, and integrating predictive analytics for next-generation optimization.

Flexible System Configuration Enables Seamless Warehouse Management

The Configuration submodule allows users to adapt to changing business needs through an agile system architecture. Its 43 key warehouse management features span seven additional submodules, giving companies the flexibility to modify workflows, integrate new technologies, and scale operations without added complexity, thus simplifying expansion across facilities and supply chain partners.

Key Configuration Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Custom Workflow Tools	Enables modifying workflows without changes to core system code, providing flexibility to reconfigure processes as operational needs evolve over time.
Scalable Cloud Infrastructure	Leverages auto-scaling cloud platform for computing flexibility that supports business growth by rapidly provisioning resources to manage usage spikes.
Open API Framework	Provides well-documented APIs for simple integration with emerging technologies like IoT sensors, robotics, and AI engines to future-proof innovation capabilities.

Seamless Integration Enables Real-Time Warehouse Data Exchange

The Host Interface submodule’s 14 features allow WMS software to connect bidirectionally with enterprise resource planning (ERP), order management, transport management, and other legacy systems for seamless data flows. By providing flexible integration methods spanning real-time APIs to batch data transfer, WMS solutions integrate warehouse execution with broader supply chain technology landscapes.

Key Host Interface Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Real-Time Web Services	Enables API-based integration for instant data exchange across order, WMS, and transport management systems for rapid decision making.
Scheduled Batch Processing	Allows configuring timed bulk data transfers with legacy systems on a defined cadence to meet intermittent integration needs.
Transactional Integrity	Ensures data consistency across integrated systems using transaction logging, checkpoint restart, and synchronization to maintain warehouse accuracy.

Ensuring Secure Warehouse Data and Operations with Robust Access Controls

A Security submodule encompasses 20 warehouse management features enabling granular user access management. Multi-tier permissions allow solutions to safeguard sensitive supply chain data while optimizing usability for warehouse staff roles.

Key Security Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Role-Based Access Levels	Enables configuring granular user permissions by staff function and seniority, optimizing usability while restricting sensitive system capabilities.
Active Directory Integration	Allows single sign-on access with existing enterprise active directory and lightweight user provisioning leveraging validated credentials.
Two-Factor Authentication	Adds extra identity verification requiring users to provide secondary credentials through email, SMS, or biometrics when accessing restricted WMS functions.

Seamless WMS Upgrades Facilitating Continuous Enhancement

This Upgrades submodule’s three capabilities allow WMS software to continuously adopt new features and functionality over time through seamless system updates.

Key Upgrades Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Automated Testing Suite	Enables running simulated transaction data across modules to validate system performance, data integrity, and output accuracy following upgrades.
Upgrade Impact Reporting	Provides detailed documentation on new features and configuration changes when upgrading to optimize planning, user adoption, and realization of benefits.
Rollback Procedures	Allows reverting easily to the previous stable system version if issues emerge for rapid restoration of full operations.

Reporting and Querying Lead to Operational Insights

WMS software’s Reports, Documents, and Queries submodule includes 18 features to help generate operational insights through structured data queries, custom reports, and documentation. Supply chain managers and warehouse managers can slice this data to uncover trends, analyze new opportunities and track process performance.

Key Reports, Documents, and Queries Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Custom Report Builder	Enables end users to generate reports spanning warehouse modules by selecting fields, filters, grouping, and output formats without IT help.
Saved Queries	Allows creating reusable queries on warehouse data for efficiency and consistency when accessing key reports.
Scheduled Report Delivery	Automates report generation and email delivery on a defined cadence to distribute KPIs without manual effort.

Leveraging RFID for Real-Time Supply Chain Visibility and Tracking

RFID comprises 185 warehouse management system features enabling granular, real-time product tracking. By assigning unique RFID tag IDs to inventory units and placing readers across a facility, WMS solutions gain end-to-end visibility into item genealogy and status. RFID integration facilitates compliance with traceability and recall regulations in food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. It also unlocks data for advanced analytics to uncover process optimization opportunities.

Key RFID Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
RFID Tag Encoding	Supports encoding RFID tags with serialized item data during production or receiving for downstream supply chain visibility after shipment.
RFID Reader Integration	Interfaces with fixed, handheld, and gate RFID readers to automatically capture tagged inventory movement across zones, enabling real-time location and status updates.
RFID-Triggered Workflows	Initiates workflows like cycle counts, replenishment, and quality assurance based on configurable RFID reader events to automate and optimize warehouse processes.

Transcending Borders with Multi-Region WMS Support

An Internationalization and Localization submodule’s six warehouse management features allow companies to adapt for global business needs across regions. WMS solutions gain flexibility to modify data formats, languages, regulatory rules, and other attributes when operating distribution centers worldwide.

Key Internationalization Features

• Multi-Language Interface—Provides built-in translations to localize the user interface into foreign languages for international worker productivity.
• Multi-Currency Transactions—Supports processing monetary transactions in distinct currencies per warehouse location, including currency conversion for financial reporting consistency.
• Configurable Unit of Measure—Allows defining warehouse weights, dimensions, and capacities in preferred units of measure per region to align with local workflows.
• Country-Specific Label Formats—Adapts shipping and product label templates to match regulatory and customer requirements in target export countries.
• Regional Data Residency—Provides options to store warehouse data within geographic bounds to facilitate compliance with data privacy regulations across operating countries.

 

Third-Party Logistics Functionality Powers Flexible, Efficient Warehousing

The Third-Party Logistics (3PL) module’s 106 features are tailored to the needs of contract warehouse providers managing operations for multiple clients, with dedicated capabilities for invoicing, service level agreement (SLA) monitoring, yard management, and transportation integration. Leading solutions provide pre-configurations to model multi-tenant warehouses with associated business rules, reporting, and workflows, simplifying setup to meet distinct distribution needs.

This module delivers vital warehouse management system features across submodules for Invoicing, Content Management, Operations, and 3PL TMS Integration.

Flexible Billing and Invoicing Tools Optimize Cost Recovery and Margins

The Invoicing submodule offers 26 warehouse management features to calculate client billing and automate invoicing based on usage. With support for varied costing models like per-order fees, monthly subscriptions, and labor-based pricing, 3PLs can configure accurate charge capture aligned to contracts. For 3PL executives and account managers, flexible invoicing tools are vital to recover operating costs for profitability. Granular tracking of transactions, resource consumption, and value-added services provides data to optimize margins.

Key Invoicing Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Custom Billing Rules	Supports configurable billing policies like tiered pricing and minimum order fees aligned to individual client contracts.
Automated Invoice Generation	Produces ready-to-send invoices on a defined schedule, consolidating charges across warehouse activities for each client.
Margin Analysis Reporting	Provides real-time visibility into cost recovery, resource allocation, and overall profit margins per client for optimization.

Centralizing Multi-Client Warehouses with Content Management

A Content Management submodule’s 21 features allow 3PL providers to centrally publish warehouse data across clients. This includes sharing standard operating procedures (SOPs), product details, compliance documentation, and training materials maintained in a single content repository. Easy distribution of new guidelines, videos and graphics also aids training and onboarding new sites.

Key Content Management Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Multi-Format Documentation	Supports uploading, managing, and distributing documents, images, videos, and rich media to users across client warehouses.
Automated Distribution	Enables configuring rules to push new or updated content to applicable client sites for streamlined change management.
Access Permission Rules	Provides granular controls restricting sensitive documents like floorplans and contracts to authorized client users for security.

Operations Tools Unify Visibility, Optimize Workflows in Multi-Client Warehousing

Up to 47 features combine for an Operations submodule tailored for warehouse management requirements across clients. With unified visibility into inventory, orders, billing, and performance, 3PLs gain flexibility to optimize workflows across facilities based on centralized data. Aggregated KPIs and benchmarking enable continuous improvement by applying learnings across client sites, while easily adapted processes also aid with consistency.

Key Operations Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Multi-Client Inventory Tracking	Provides real-time visibility into consolidated or independent inventory balances across multiple client warehouses.
Unified Billing and Invoicing	Centrally administers billing policies, usage data, and invoice generation for all contracted warehouses.
Scalable Cloud Infrastructure	Leverages auto-scaling architecture to seamlessly provision resources for onboarding new warehouses and managing seasonal peaks.

Transportation Integration Fosters End-to-End Third-Party Logistics

3PL TMS Integration’s eight features facilitate coordination between warehouse and transportation management systems (TMS) for streamlined contract logistics operations.

Key 3PL TMS Integration Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Unified Shipment Visibility	Provides real-time tracking of shipment status from dispatch to proof of delivery across integrated TMS and WMS solutions.
Cross-Docking Execution	Triggers seamless workflows to coordinate inbound and outbound loads for consolidated freight movements without warehousing.
Integrated Invoicing	Synchronizes warehouse usage and transport mileage data to generate unified client billing for services.

Ensuring Timeless Warehouse Operations via Cutting-Edge System Architecture

Product Technology pertains to 378 warehouse management system features for next-generation capabilities through robust and adaptable architecture, with its five submodules spanning infrastructure, analytics, interfaces and more. Leading solutions provide the foundation for stability, scalability, and innovation integration. As warehouse automation evolves, seamless integration of robotics, wearables, and other capabilities will drive the next level of optimization, while top WMS systems leverage cloud platforms to rapidly adopt innovations.

The module’s granular architectural capabilities support warehouses of the future, its user experience features are designed for convenient usability, with multi-platform support and application development tools rounding out its functionality.

Reporting Tools Drive Data-Backed Warehouse Decisions

Reporting’s six WMS features enable comprehensive analytics and inform better decisions. By centralizing data flows from all modules and providing intuitive reporting tools, WMS solutions transform operational insights into action.

Key Reporting Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Custom Report Builder	Enables end users to generate reports spanning warehouse modules by selecting fields, filters, grouping, and output formats without IT help.
Scheduled Delivery	Automates report generation and email delivery on a defined cadence to distribute KPIs without manual effort.
Mobile Analytics	Provides real-time visibility into role-based KPIs like order fill rates, receiving status, and inventory accuracy via mobile dashboards.

Streamlining Warehouse Management Through Integrated Development Tools

The Application Tools submodule’s 23 features simplify expanding and enhancing WMS software to meet emerging business needs. Integrated development environments (IDEs), metadata management, and reusable component libraries provide flexibility to customize workflows, reports, and integrations without requiring extensive coding expertise.

Key Application Tools Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Drag-and-Drop Workflow Designer	Enables visually mapping workflows to match processes using a graphical interface, agile for adapting to changing requirements without coding.
Connected Metadata Repository	Centralizes definitions of database objects like tables and columns used across integrated systems, simplifying unified changes.
Reusable API Code Libraries	Provides pre-built API functions and connectors for rapid integration with sensors, devices, and analytics engines.

Intuitive, Responsive User Interfaces Enhance Productivity

A User Interface submodule comprises 25 warehouse management features focused on optimizing human-computer interactions. With adaptable layouts for desktop and mobile, role-based dashboards, intuitive software ergonomics, and voice-directed workflows, leading solutions bolster staff productivity and adoption, simplify training, and minimize errors.

Key User Interface Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Personalized Dashboards	Presents prioritized workflows, KPI graphs, and reminders matched to individual roles like receiving clerks and pickers for productivity.
Multi-Modal Interaction	Allows toggle between graphical, text, and voice-directed interfaces to meet varied worker skills and optimize accuracy.
Responsive Design	Dynamically adapts application layouts for desktop and mobile devices to enable uninterrupted workflows across workstations and RF equipment.

Multi-Platform Support Unifies Warehouse Management Across Devices

The Platforms submodule’s 29 WMS features focus on delivering consistent functionality across user devices. Support for desktop, mobile, and wearables running operating systems like Windows, Android, and iOS means solutions can foster unified workflows, whether staff are at a workstation or RF scanner. Additionally, workers can seamlessly switch between desktop and mobile devices while leveraging hands-free workflows aided by voice-direction and augmented reality.

Key Platforms Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Unified Interface	Delivers consistent workflows and navigation across desktop computers, mobile devices, and wearables to minimize retraining needs as workers leverage multiple platforms.
Bring Your Own Device	Enables WMS access from employee-owned mobile devices and tablets, increasing flexibility without requiring company-provisioned equipment.
Voice-Directed Work	Allows hands-free interaction using headsets so workers can receive and confirm directives without referencing device screens.

Flexible and Scalable Architecture Enables Next-Gen Warehouse Management

With 290 warehouse management features, an Architecture submodule provides a robust, adaptable foundation for stability, scalability, and integration of emerging innovations. Its functions give companies the framework to optimize current distribution operations and quickly adopt advancements like AI, robotics, wearables, and machine learning. Key WMS features like auto-scaling cloud infrastructure, open API integration, and failover data redundancy both facilitate and future-proof optimization.

Key Architecture Features

Feature	Purpose / Benefit
Auto-Scaling Cloud Infrastructure	Provides flexible computing resources that instantly scale up during peak periods and down during slower times, reducing costs while supporting growth.
Open API Framework	Allows easy integration of innovations like IoT sensors, robotics, wearables, and AI through APIs to future-proof capabilities.
Failover Data Redundancy	Maintains backup failover database instances with real-time data mirroring to enable rapid disaster recovery and minimize downtime risks.

Types of WMS Software and Industry-Specific WMS Systems

WMS solutions offer warehouse management features tailored to the unique needs of different industries. Requirements can vary significantly based on the products handled, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory policies across sectors.

For example, food and beverage organizations require robust quality control, expiry date management, and lot traceability. These warehouse management functions are vital for recall prevention and compliance. To those ends, industry-leading systems provide specialized support for batch coding, quarantine workflows, and serial number tracking across the supply chain.

Similarly, life sciences companies depend on stringent validation protocols, climate monitoring, and chain of custody documentation aligned to regulations. Top industry-specific WMS systems should thus deliver validated workflows, sensor integrations for conditions like temperature and humidity, and electronic signatures and records.

On the retail and ecommerce side, omnichannel order fulfillment, high-speed picking, and seamless returns management are key WMS features. Manhattan Associates’ WMS software optimizes store replenishment, zone picking, and automated parcel carrier integrations to excel in retail and direct-to-consumer operations.

Understanding these differences allows organizations to select warehouse management systems aligned to their vertical requirements. While core inventory, labor, and analytics functionalities are consistent, tailoring workflows and data to industry norms simplifies adoption and optimization.

Enterprise Size and Other Factors Influence WMS Features

WMS features and software requirements can vary significantly based on business size and other factors like warehouse type, order volume, and seasonality. Assessing these differences allows organizations to select solutions aligned to their unique needs.

For small businesses, ease of use, affordability, and rapid implementation are key WMS selection criteria. Solutions like Fishbowl Inventory and Vin eRetail WMS cater to these needs with intuitive interfaces, scaled-down capabilities, and cloud-based deployment. Key features like inventory control, order processing, and basic reporting provide essential functionality without unnecessary complexity.

Midsize operations require more advanced optimizations like wave planning, labor management, and slotting tools while still needing flexible systems that adapt to growth. HighJump Warehouse Advantage offers tailored capabilities for coordinated bulk picking, automated workforce scheduling, put-to-light technologies, and control over warehouse layouts in a scalable platform.

Large enterprises depend on high-volume automation, real-time visibility across facilities, and predictive analytics grounded in machine learning algorithms. Manhattan Associates leverages the latest innovations in robotics, IoT sensors, and AI-powered optimization engines to drive efficiency at scale while providing unified control towers for inventory, orders, and shipping across the global supply chain.

3PL providers serving multiple clients require multi-tenant WMS platforms with centralized billing, security controls, and content publishing tools tailored to their business model. Solutions like SnapFulfil provide pre-configurations for key 3PL needs like automated invoicing, permission-based document access, and inventory segmentation across contracted warehouses.

High-volume ecommerce order fulfillment demands specialized capabilities like zone-based wave planning, dynamic slotting assignments leveraging predictive data, and integration with parcel carrier systems for smooth peaks. Manhattan Associates offers advanced algorithms, machine learning-enabled recommendations, and seamless connectivity for retail and direct-to-consumer brands shipping thousands of orders daily.

Selecting the Best WMS Software for Your Business Needs

Selecting the optimal warehouse management system is crucial yet complex, with solutions varying widely in their capabilities and ideal use cases. Key factors to consider include:
 

• Industry vertical fit—Prioritize capabilities like batch traceability, climate monitoring, and omnichannel order fulfillment that align to your sector.
• Business size match—Evaluate ease of use, affordability, scalability, and implementation timeframe based on current warehouse volumes and growth plans.
• Core feature alignment—Assess support for essential inventory, order and labor management functionalities using our detailed WMS features checklist.
• IT landscape integration—Review ERP, TMS, and other system connectivity methods to enable holistic data flows across technologies.
• Total cost of ownership (TCO)—Consider upfront licensing, implementation, and ongoing costs in a total cost analysis when comparing solutions.

To simplify WMS evaluation, leverage our software selection resources spanning vendor comparison charts, request for proposal (RFP) templates, and our advisory services. Over our 30 years in the enterprise software sector, TEC has guided countless organizations throughout their software evaluation, selection, and implementation projects, positioning us to efficiently match solutions to your needs. Contact us today to get started on your warehouse optimization journey.