3 Ways to Gain Warehousing Advantages in Uncertain Markets

So how’s your warehouse space forecasting doing? If you’re like just about every other operation out there, it’s seen better days. But it’s not just another problem. First, there’s the lingering uncertainty due to the pandemic, and the supply chain issues it’s triggered. They make reliable forecasting a very difficult problem to solve.

Second, depending on how much warehouse space you manage, it can be a very costly problem.

Fortunately, there is a bit of good news.  If you find ways to manage the uncertainty in your warehouse space requirements, it puts you one step ahead of the competition.

You could even give yourself a competitive warehousing advantage.

How to Get a Competitive Warehousing Advantage

All of the market uncertainties we face produce significant pressure on prices. If you can find solutions, like less over- and under-supply of warehouse space, you’ll have less pressure on your pricing.

Warehouse Management Systems

Yes, you already use a WMS. But, you clearly still have a problem or you wouldn’t be so far into this article. WMS technology features and capabilities advance very quickly. Is it time to review your requirements and your system? Could you benefit from retraining on your system to ensure you use it to its best advantage? The right warehousing management system doesn’t just help with space allocation and forecasting, but also with improved labor allocation, processes, and inventory tracking.

Space Utilization

A WMS helps with using the active space in your warehouse. But is there space that isn’t being used? Could a warehouse reconfiguration, or using space higher up in your warehouse, give you more capacity without more cost?

Outsourcing

Straight up: there’s never been a better time for you to reconsider outsourcing some or all of your warehousing services. The reason is simple. Doing so gives you complete flexibility to meet any challenge presented by market and supply chain uncertainty.

Not only can you add or shed warehouse space on demand, but you get the advantage of the latest management systems, better supply chain optimization and control of your warehousing and inventory from anywhere with an internet connection. Advantage: your business!

If you’d like to find out more about what to look for in a WMS, check out our article “5 Considerations When Considering a Warehouse Management System“.

What challenges are you currently facing that are disrupting your supply chain, ultimately impacting how you service your customers? My team and I are ready to help you optimize your supply chain. Contact me today to discuss how we can support your growth.