WMS can benefit B2B companies in so many ways, including web-based ASNs, ARNs, and even EDIs. IT isn’t a requirement for a successful FIFO business; contact ASPGS should you require an RFI.
Did that sentence completely baffle you? You’re not alone. Having a high-quality WMS to manage your warehouse is a huge plus, but it’s not good for much if you don’t know how to decipher what’s going on behind the scenes. We have broken down the most common acronyms in the wonderful world of WMS—ahem—Warehouse Management Systems.
WMS: Warehouse Management System
A high-end WMS is crucial to a well-run company. Using the most advanced software available, it tracks everything about every single customer, constantly and accurately.
3PLs: Third-Party Logistics Providers
A 3PL is a firm that provides services to its clients of outsourced services. Warehouse management for third-party logistics providers – be it a single site or a multi-client/multi-site operation – is complex but doable.
B2B: Business-to-Business
B2B is shorthand for business to business. B2B is shorthand for business to business. Simply put, it means one company has products and/or services that are, in turn, marketed to other businesses that need them.
B2C: Business-to-Consumer
The final customer is the consumer with a B2C business, meaning the sales cycle is much shorter. The middleman isn’t needed.
SaaS: Software as a Service
SaaS is a method of software delivery that allows data to be accessed from any device with an Internet connection application.
Ad Hoc Reports: As the occasion requires
Ad-hoc is Latin for “as the occasion requires.” SphereWMS’s Ad Hoc Reports provide self-service access to data your company needs to make well-informed decisions, reduce risk, and increase productivity. Translation: We provide an easy-to-use system that frees you from the hassle of internal or external IT department.
RFI: Request For Information
If a potential client makes a RFI, you better act fast! Most likely they are trying to compare notes on suppliers, and you want to prove that yours is unsurpassed.
EDI: Electronic Data Interchange
If you are a successful company, you know that manually entering data takes much too long. EDI allows you to communicate with customers using common platforms such as XML. It actually allows you to connect your own WMS to your customers’ systems.
WLAN: Wireless Local Area Network
A WLAN is a wireless computer network that links multiple devices within a particular area, such as your company’s office building.
ASNs: Advance Shipment Notices
Also referred to as an Advance Ship Notice, these are basically a notification that a delivery is pending. (It’s similar to a packing list.)
ARN: Advance Receipt Notice
SphereWMS goes the extra mile with this feature-An ARN lets the recipient know that their product has been received, processed and put away in the most efficient way possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WMS stand for?
WMS stands for Warehouse Management System, software that controls and optimizes warehouse operations. WMS manages receiving, storage, picking, packing, and shipping processes. The system tracks inventory locations, directs worker activities, and provides operational visibility. Modern WMS integrates with other business systems to coordinate fulfillment across the supply chain.
What is the difference between WMS and ERP?
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) manages company-wide business processes including finance, HR, and procurement. WMS specializes in warehouse operations with deeper functionality for inventory management and fulfillment. Many organizations use both—ERP for business management and WMS for warehouse optimization. Integration between systems ensures data flows seamlessly between warehouse operations and financial records.
What does SKU mean in warehouse management?
SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is a unique identifier for each distinct product in inventory. SKUs enable precise tracking of individual items including variations like size and color. Well-designed SKU systems use meaningful codes indicating product attributes. Consistent SKU assignment across systems prevents confusion and enables accurate inventory management throughout the supply chain.
What is a pick list in warehouse operations?
A pick list directs warehouse workers to retrieve items for orders from storage locations. Lists specify item descriptions, quantities, and bin locations. WMS-generated pick lists optimize route efficiency, reducing travel time between picks. Modern systems deliver pick lists to mobile devices with barcode verification ensuring accuracy. Batch pick lists combine multiple orders for efficient picking.
What does FIFO mean for inventory management?
FIFO (First In, First Out) ensures oldest inventory ships before newer stock. This approach prevents product expiration and obsolescence by rotating inventory systematically. WMS enforces FIFO through directed picking from appropriate locations. FIFO is essential for perishable goods, dated products, and items subject to shelf life requirements. Proper FIFO execution reduces waste and maintains product quality.
