Question 1

What Does a WMS Evaluation Include?

Accepted Answer

A WMS evaluation includes requirements gathering, a current-state operational audit, vendor and system scoring, integration assessment, and an implementation roadmap. The purpose is to define what the warehouse management system must do, compare suitable options consistently, and prepare the operation for a controlled rollout. Warehouse Cubed performs the evaluation, helps select the right WMS, and carries the project through configuration, integration, testing, training, launch, and post-launch optimization.

We use the evaluation to build a practical WMS implementation plan around five connected stages:

Assess the operation: We review warehouse workflows, data accuracy, system performance, reporting needs, users, service levels, and operating problems. This establishes the WMS requirements and identifies process gaps that the new or updated system must address.
Design and configure the solution: We translate the requirements into improved workflows, system roles, settings, rules, and reporting needs. When WMS selection is required, we compare suitable options against the documented requirements and implementation priorities.
Implement and connect the WMS: Our team configures and tests the system and connects it with ERP platforms, automation, scanners, printers, reporting tools, and other warehouse technology. Integration responsibilities, data flows, and acceptance criteria are defined before launch.
Prepare employees and launch: We develop documentation, train users, complete testing, and support cutover and go-live. The WMS implementation checklist assigns responsibilities and confirms that the system, data, integrations, and employees are ready.
Improve performance after launch: We review system performance, user feedback, workflow results, and unresolved issues after implementation. Configuration and process adjustments help keep the WMS aligned with changing products, volumes, facilities, and operating requirements.

Warehouse Cubed manages this process from the initial evaluation through implementation and ongoing improvement. Visit our WMS evaluation and implementation services page to see how we approach the full project. Contact us to discuss your WMS requirements and implementation goals.

Question 2

What Is Warehouse Slotting?

Accepted Answer

Warehouse slotting is the process of assigning each SKU to a storage and picking location based on demand, dimensions, weight, handling requirements, and replenishment needs. The goal is to place inventory where employees and equipment can store, replenish, and pick it efficiently.

Slotting assigns products to pallet positions, shelves, bins, or flow lanes. The analysis uses order history, velocity, dimensions, inventory, item affinity, handling constraints, and location capacity.

Placement affects warehouse travel time because employees and equipment repeatedly move between product locations and packing, staging, or shipping areas. Fast-moving items often benefit from accessible pick positions, while slower products can use less convenient storage. Products commonly ordered together may also be placed within a practical picking sequence.

Pick-face size matters as well. A location that holds too little inventory may require frequent replenishment or cause stockouts. An oversized location consumes valuable space. Weight, reach, product stability, equipment clearance, and safety requirements also affect placement.

When Should a Warehouse Be Re-Slotted?

Review warehouse slotting when:

SKU velocity or the order mix changes
Seasonal demand or promotions shift product activity
New products, customers, or sales channels are added
Pickers travel farther or encounter repeated congestion
Pick faces require excessive or emergency replenishment
Storage equipment, layout, automation, or WMS rules change

Stable operations may re-slot on a scheduled cycle. Warehouses with volatile demand may use dynamic slotting rules or review high-activity products more often. The labor required to move inventory should be compared with the expected improvement in travel, replenishment, space use, and throughput.

Warehouse Cubed provides warehouse slotting analysis as part of our consulting and optimization services. We combine operating data with floor observations to recommend SKU locations, pick-face sizes, storage strategies, and a practical move plan. Read our complete warehouse slotting guide for the methodology and deliverables.