QC Software Facilitates Cross Docking for a Leaner Distribution Environment


More companies are implementing cross docking as a cost-effective way to improve warehouse efficiency. The basic concept is simple. When inventory is received, you consolidate orders and ship the product, eliminating storage, replenishment, picking and sorting activities.

Automated cross docking adds speed and flexibility to the supply chain while reducing operating costs. Consolidation of orders from different suppliers is a targeted approach that provides customers with the inventory and quantities needed in the same shipment. Large and small manufacturers, retailers, distributors and transportation companies are realizing the benefits.

With an automated process, you can take advantage of your warehouse control system or warehouse management system to efficiently receive and process inventory for shipping. Besides a dedicated conveyor, you need vendors who can provide advance shipping notices, appropriate packaging to accommodate your equipment, and barcode or RFID labeling with the necessary order information. When providing prepackaged items, vendors must be sure to meet the customer's specifications.

QC Software's Warehouse Control System facilitates cross docking by providing automated receiving and shipping functions which can be customized to accommodate your changing business environment. QC Software's inventory management application accurately processes advanced shipping notices. As inventory is received, the system already has the product and shipping information. When cartons are scanned, the system quickly receives, validates and directs the orders to the appropriate area for consolidation and shipping. If additional inventory is needed, this application accurately tracks inventory throughout the warehouse and can quickly flag items to be picked.

QC Software's shipping application streamlines the shipping process by providing multi-carrier compliance and electronic manifesting. There is a check and balance system to ensure shipping accuracy and efficiency. This application provides end-to-end shipment visibility to increase on-time deliveries and an advanced shipment notification for enhanced customer support.

Benefits of Cross Docking:

Reduces labor and shipping costs.

Reduces the need for warehouse space.

Improves shipping accuracy and delivery lead times.

Improves product availability.

Enhances green initiatives through resource optimization.

Quicker cash flow.

According to Rich Hite, President of QC Software, a leading provider of warehouse control solutions, "Our clients have been extremely pleased with the results. They're able to ship more orders in less time, using less resources. When you can increase product availability for the customer while improving your profitability, that's a win-win situation for everyone."

QC Software is recognized as an industry leader in providing innovative and adaptive software solutions for order fulfillment and distribution centers. Their Warehouse Control System software provides advanced management capabilities for inventory control, resource scheduling and order management. For over 15 years, their solutions have enabled customers to streamline their warehouse operations with the lowest total cost of ownership in the industry.

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