Warehouse operations are at the heart of every wholesale distribution business. Efficient management can significantly cut costs and boost performance. Here are key tips tailored for the Singaporean market.

1. Start with reporting

• Get accurate data on warehouse costs and performance.
• Use cloud ERP systems for effective reporting and process improvement.

2. Overstocking can be overwhelming

• Implement real-time inventory tracking.
• Understand fast and slow-moving stock for better pricing and management.

3. Forecast ahead

• Use demand forecasting to anticipate fluctuations.
• Adjust re-ordering based on predicted demand.

4. Re-Order automation

• Save administrative time with automated systems.
• Reduce human error and maximise stock efficiency.

5. Consolidate shipping

• Negotiate better shipping rates with suppliers.
• Consider complete order shipments to reduce costs.

6. Step up your stock locations

• Place high-frequency stock closer to picking areas.
• Group items frequently purchased together to streamline picking.

7. Fix your receipting

• Ensure staff can easily confirm purchase orders.
• Prevent incorrect inventory levels with accurate receipting processes.

8. Embrace eCommerce

• Enhance customer experience with a robust eCommerce platform.
• Enable self-service ordering and real-time order tracking.

Summary: with smarter warehouse management, you can reduce warehouse costs

We’ve gone through some of the most important areas to improve processes and reduce warehouse costs, but there even more to be discovered. It all starts with having the right small business software providing the right data and insights, and in-built processes to make it happen.

If you’re not sure whether your current systems are up to the job, talk with a JCurve consultant. They will take the time to understand your business and work with you to reduce costs, increase your profits and grow your business.