NetSuite is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that provides various functionalities, including warehouse management through its Warehouse Management System (WMS) and wave-picking capabilities. Here’s how they are connected in NetSuite:
Warehouse Management System (WMS) in NetSuite:
NetSuite’s WMS is a module that helps manage and optimize warehouse operations. It allows you to efficiently control the movement and storage of inventory within your warehouse. The WMS functionality in NetSuite includes features such as bin management, inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and picking strategies.
Wave Picking in NetSuite:
Wave picking is a method of order picking where orders are grouped into waves and fulfilled together. It involves creating batches of orders that are processed simultaneously, streamlining the picking process, and maximizing efficiency. Wave picking is particularly useful in high-volume warehouses.
The connection between WMS and Wave Picking:
In NetSuite, the WMS module integrates with the wave-picking process. When wave picking is enabled, the system organizes orders into waves based on predefined criteria, such as order priority, location, order date, or other custom rules. The WMS functionality then guides warehouse workers through the picking process for each wave.
Workflow for how WMS and wave picking are connected in NetSuite:
- Order Processing: Customer orders are received and entered into NetSuite’s system.
- Wave Creation: The WMS module analyzes the current order queue and automatically groups orders into waves based on the predefined wave-picking rules. For example, orders going to the same geographical area might be grouped into a single wave.
- Wave Assignment: The system assigns waves to specific pickers or teams responsible for fulfilling the orders in that wave.
- Picking Process: Warehouse workers use handheld devices, barcode scanners, or other technologies that integrate with NetSuite’s WMS. The WMS directs them to the locations of the items to be picked for each order within the assigned wave.
- Confirmation and Fulfillment: As items are picked and scanned, the system updates inventory levels and order status in real time. Once all items in a wave are picked, the wave is confirmed as fulfilled.
- Shipping: After all waves are fulfilled, the picked items are packed and prepared for shipping. The shipping information and tracking details can be updated in NetSuite.