10 Yard Management System Benefits: How It Bridges WMS Gaps

For a good while now, warehouse management systems have been the workhorses of supply chain management. They’ve shouldered the weight of the entire warehouse. However, the reality is that WMS has historically overlooked yards in the grand scheme. But it’s high time that everyone realizes how the yard management system benefits complete the grand supply chain picture.

Every package, every pallet, every shipment begins and ends its journey in the yard. It’s where the action starts, where things get sorted, and where the last-mile magic happens. The YMS doesn’t just close the gap left by WMS; it builds a strong bridge between the backstage and the main event.

If this discussion has already sparked your interest, then you’re definitely in the right place with this guide. Here’s a glimpse of what we are going to discuss:

• What advantages do WMS offer
• Places where they show limitations
• Why you need a YMS that can help you in areas where WMS don’t quite measure up

7 Benefits Of A Warehouse Management System

Let’s zoom in a bit on 7 areas where a warehouse management system works its magic.

01

Streamlined Operations & Enhanced Efficiency

When goods arrive, the WMS knows exactly where they should go in the warehouse. It factors in various parameters like product type, size, and turnover rate. This smart organization reduces unnecessary movement, making every step count.

Picking items for orders becomes a breeze with a WMS. It charts out the shortest path for pickers to minimize travel time and prevent bottlenecks. This means faster order fulfillment and happier customers.

02

Real-Time Inventory Visibility & Accuracy

A good WMS offers real-time visibility into your inventory. It updates as soon as goods are received, moved, or shipped. This means no more manually tracking items or relying on spreadsheets that are prone to errors.

The inventory data accuracy shoots up too. Misplaced items? No more. Overstocked products? A thing of the past. A WMS ensures that your operational status is based on concrete, up-to-date information. So whenever you need to know stock levels, you don’t have to scramble – you can provide accurate numbers at the drop of a hat.

03

Efficient Order Fulfillment & Customer Satisfaction

Order fulfillment becomes a breeze with a WMS in place. It systematically assigns orders to pickers, optimizing their routes for maximum efficiency. As items are picked, the system updates the order status in real-time so you know exactly where each order stands.

The packing process becomes a no-brainer too. The WMS guides packers on the right packaging materials and methods. This reduces errors and ensures the order reaches the customer intact.

When orders are shipped promptly and accurately, customer satisfaction skyrockets. Happy customers mean repeat business and positive word-of-mouth, all thanks to the operational efficiency a WMS brings.

04

Inventory Optimization & Demand Forecasting

A WMS analyzes historical data, sales trends, and even external factors like seasonality to optimize inventory levels. It gives you recommendations on reorder points and quantities so that you have just the right amount of stock to meet customer demand without tying up excessive capital.

Moreover, a WMS helps in demand forecasting. It crunches numbers to predict future demand patterns so you can proactively adjust your inventory strategy. This prevents stockouts during peak periods and minimizes holding costs during slower times.

05

Error Reduction & Returns Management

A WMS guides pickers step by step to minimize human errors. It ensures the right items are picked and packed, reducing the chances of shipping the wrong product or quantity. Barcode scanning and RFID technology further enhance accuracy.

Returns management becomes less of a headache too. When a customer needs to return an item, the WMS streamlines the process. It provides clear instructions on where to send the return and ensures it’s properly documented and restocked. This means fewer returns slipping through the cracks and more satisfied customers.

06

Performance Analytics & Continuous Improvement

A WMS tracks key performance metrics, from order processing times to resource utilization. It compiles this data into easy-to-understand reports that highlight areas of improvement. With these insights, you can identify bottlenecks, allocate resources more effectively, and fine-tune your processes.

Continuous improvement becomes a natural part of your warehouse operations. Your distribution center becomes more streamlined and always strives to be more efficient, thanks to the insights derived from your WMS.

07

Efficient Warehouse Space Utilization & Layout Optimization

A WMS doesn’t just help manage inventory; it also optimizes how that inventory is stored. It analyzes product dimensions and characteristics and suggests the best storage locations. This means smaller items can be stored on higher shelves while larger items can be placed on lower shelves for easy accessibility.

Also, the WMS constantly adapts to changes in your inventory and order flow. If certain products are selling like hotcakes, the system can dynamically rearrange the layout to accommodate higher-demand items closer to the packing area. This agility in layout optimization minimizes travel time, reduces congestion, and maximizes your warehouse’s storage potential.

4 Areas Where A Warehouse Management System Lacks

Sure, WMS are powerful tools that streamline warehouse operations and enhance efficiency in managing inventory. However, like any technology, they’re not without their limitations. Let’s look at 4 major pitfalls in warehouse management systems.

01

Yard Visibility & Management

While a WMS is great at managing inventory within the warehouse walls, it often falls short when it comes to providing comprehensive visibility and control over activities in the yard. The real-time tracking of vehicles, trailers, and containers as they move in and out of the yard can be a challenge.

Without accurate and up-to-the-minute data, it’s tough to optimize yard space, allocate resources efficiently, and minimize unnecessary delays. WMS lacks advanced features for yard management, causing a disconnect between what’s happening on the ground and what’s reflected in the system.

02

Complex Transport Optimization

WMS systems usually handle internal warehouse tasks like picking, packing, and inventory management impressively. However, when it comes to managing the complex tasks of transport and distribution, these systems stumble.

Coordinating the optimal routes for multiple deliveries, considering factors like traffic, weather, and delivery windows, requires a different level of sophistication. WMS doesn’t provide advanced route optimization capabilities, potentially causing inefficient delivery schedules, missed deadlines, and increased operational costs.

03

Last-Mile Delivery Challenges

The last leg of the delivery journey, known as the “last mile,” is notorious for being complex and costly. It involves navigating dense urban areas, dealing with traffic congestion, and meeting tight delivery windows.

Unfortunately, most WMS solutions don’t provide the granular level of detail needed to optimize last-mile logistics. The results are inefficient routing, missed deliveries, and dissatisfied customers. Effective last-mile management requires real-time data and advanced routing algorithms – features that not all WMS systems offer.

04

Adapting To Regulatory Changes

The world of logistics is subject to various regulatory requirements which can change frequently. A limitation of some WMS solutions is their inability to quickly adapt to new regulations or compliance standards.

This is especially true when it comes to international shipping where customs regulations, tariffs, and documentation requirements can change unexpectedly. A WMS that can’t swiftly incorporate these changes into its processes can cause compliance issues, delayed shipments, and potential legal complications.

How Can A Best-Of-Breed Yard Management System Overcome WMS Shortcomings

Let’s now discuss how YMS takes the challenge head-on to address WMS limitations in the most innovative ways.

01

More Real-Time Visibility

WMS Shortcoming

While traditional warehouse management systems are proficient at managing inventory and orders within the warehouse, they fall short in providing comprehensive real-time visibility into yard operations.

YMS Solution

• Real-Time Tracking: An advanced yard management system offers real-time visibility into yard operations to bridge this gap.
• Digital Mapping: It employs digital maps of the yard that shows the exact location of each trailer, container, and asset in real time.
• Status Updates: Yard staff can easily update the status of each unit, whether it’s loaded, unloaded, in transit, or waiting, to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Benefits

• Enhanced Efficiency: With instant insights into yard activities, you can optimize workflows, allocate resources better, and reduce idle times.
• Accurate Planning: Real-time data helps in precise planning for labor allocation and prioritization of tasks.
• Reduced Delays: Instant awareness of any hold-ups or issues lets you intervene quickly to minimize delays and disruptions.
• Data-Driven Decisions: You can make informed decisions based on real-time analytics which improves overall yard management processes.

02

Efficient Dock Door Management

WMS Shortcoming

Managing the flow of trailers and containers at dock doors is challenging for any WMS since traditional systems lack the tools to streamline this critical process.

YMS Solution

• Dock Scheduling: The YMS provides a centralized platform for scheduling and managing dock doors efficiently.
• Appointment Setting: Carriers can request appointments and the system automatically allocates the vacant docks to prevent congestion.
• Communication: The system sends automated notifications to carriers and yard personnel about appointment details, changes, or delays.
• Prioritization: Yard management systems assign priority to shipments based on predefined rules so that high-priority loads get preferred slots.

Benefits

• Reduced Waiting Times: Efficient dock scheduling minimizes wait times for yard trucks for quicker loading and unloading.
• Optimized Resource Utilization: Proper scheduling prevents overloading of resources and prevents bottlenecks, optimizing labor and equipment usage.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Automated notifications and centralized data improve communication between carriers, drivers, and yard staff.
• Streamlined Operations: When you dock doors effectively, the YMS improves the overall yard process flow to increase productivity.

03

Improved Appointment Scheduling

WMS Shortcoming

Conventional WMS will leave you hanging when it comes to effectively scheduling appointments. Coordinating with carriers and yard truck drivers can become chaotic, often causing unnecessary delays and confusion.

YMS Solution

• Automated Scheduling: YMS steps up the game and automates the whole appointment scheduling process.
• Carrier Self-Service: Carriers can access the system to request appointment slots based on availability, making the process streamlined and efficient.
• Smart Allocation: The system intelligently allocates time slots while considering factors like yard capacity, dock availability, and load priorities.
• Real-Time Updates: Truck drivers and carriers receive real-time notifications about appointment confirmations, changes, or delays.

Benefits

• Reduced Downtime: Efficient scheduling means less waiting around for yard truck drivers and quicker turnarounds.
• Time Savings: No more back-and-forths on the phone – automated scheduling saves time for both yard staff and carriers.
• Predictable Operations: Predictable scheduling creates a smooth flow of activities and prevents overcrowding and bottlenecks.
• Enhanced Relationships: Transparent communication through the system helps build stronger relationships with carriers and drivers.

04

Accurate Yard Inventory Tracking

WMS Shortcoming

Keeping tabs on inventory within the warehouse is one thing but tracking it accurately once it hits the yard can be a major headache with traditional systems. Lack of real-time updates and visibility causes incorrect allocation and inefficiencies.

YMS Solution

• Real-Time Visibility: Yard management software brings the yard into the digital age with real-time inventory tracking.
• Digital Documentation: All yard movements are digitally recorded to reduce the risk of manual errors and improve accountability.
• Zone Management: The yard is divided into zones for precise tracking of where items are stored, whether they’re for shipping, receiving, or storage.
• RFID and Barcode Integration: Using RFID and barcode technologies, the system provides accurate, up-to-the-minute location and status information for each item.

Benefits

• Faster Audits: Real-time inventory data makes audits easy, saving time and reducing operational disruptions.
• Optimized Space: Knowing exactly where each item is located optimizes space utilization, reduces congestion, and improves yard layout.
• Higher Accuracy: No more “missing” items because of manual record-keeping – the system’s accuracy improves overall operational efficiency.

05

Better Communication Between Warehouse & Yard Operations

WMS Shortcoming

The communication gap between warehouse operations and yard activities can be frustratingly wide with traditional systems. Lack of real-time data sharing and collaboration causes confusion and missed opportunities.

YMS Solution

• Real-Time Sync: The yard management solution syncs up with the WMS to provide up-to-the-minute information about orders, inventory, and shipments in the yard.
• Collaboration Hub: Yard managers, warehouse supervisors, and other stakeholders can access a centralized platform to stay on top of operations.
• Instant Alerts: Real-time notifications about order releases, shipment arrivals, and load statuses keep everyone in the loop.

Benefits

• Enhanced Coordination: Warehouse and yard teams work hand in hand which minimizes miscommunications and operational hiccups.
• Maximized Productivity: Tight integration increases overall operational efficiency, allowing for better resource allocation and task prioritization.
• Faster Responses: Immediate updates mean quicker reactions to changes. This ensures smooth transitions between the warehouse and the yard.
• Optimal Resource Utilization: With accurate, real-time information, yard and warehouse operations can optimize labor, equipment, and space utilization.

06

Automated & Error-Free Yard Task Assignments

WMS Shortcoming

WMS can’t always keep up with the dynamic nature of yard tasks and assignments. Manual task allocation causes errors, delays, and a lot of head-scratching.

YMS Solution

• Rules-Based Assignments: Yard management solutions follow predefined rules to allocate tasks based on factors like load type, priority, and equipment availability.
• Optimization Algorithms: Advanced algorithms ensure that tasks are assigned in the most efficient sequence to minimize movement and wait times.
• Real-Time Adjustments: If circumstances change, the system adapts on the fly and reassigns tasks and resources accordingly.

Benefits

• Adaptability: As situations change, the system adjusts rapidly to maintain optimal efficiency even in dynamic environments.
• Reduced Errors: Automated task assignments eliminate human errors and ensure that the right tasks go to the right people or equipment.
• Resource Efficiency: Smart allocations optimize the use of yard trucks, loaders, and other equipment, preventing congestion and underutilization.
• Faster Turnarounds: Efficient assignments mean quicker task completion. It speeds up load/unload times and improves overall yard operations.

07

Automated Data Entry & Reduced Paperwork

WMS Shortcoming

The era of clipboards and stacks of paper is long gone, yet some traditional systems insist on clinging to paper-based data entry that is prone to errors and causes an unnecessary mountain of paperwork.

YMS Solution

• RFID & Barcode Scanning: Using advanced scanning technologies, the system captures data accurately and instantly.
• Real-Time Sync: The system syncs data across platforms which ensures everyone has access to the most current information.
• Paperless Documentation: All information, from shipment details to task updates, is recorded digitally, eliminating the need for manual paperwork.
• Electronic Document Conversion: The system seamlessly converts paper-based documents like Bills of Lading (BOL) and waybills into electronic format.

Benefits

• Error Reduction: Automated data entry minimizes the risk of human errors that often plague manual data recording.
• Time Savings: No more decoding handwritten notes – data is captured and accessible in real-time to improve operational speed.
• Cost Efficiency: The paperless approach saves money on printing, storage, and the labor associated with manual data handling.
• Data Accuracy: Accurate, real-time data empowers better decision-making which helps in more efficient yard management processes.

08

Lower Detention & Dwell Times

WMS Shortcoming

WMS is not at all designed to efficiently manage detention and dwell times for trucks and trailers. When there are delays in loading/unloading because of inadequate scheduling and coordination, costs go up and resources are wasted.

YMS Solution

• Dynamic Scheduling: YMS introduces dynamic scheduling capabilities for optimized use of yard resources.
• Automated Notifications: Yard truck drivers receive notifications about dock availability which reduces their idle time.
• Detention Alerts: The system sends alerts to yard managers when detention times approach to help them proactively intervene.
• Digital Gate Check-Ins: Yard truck drivers can digitally check in upon arrival. This helps avoid gate congestion and eliminates manual paperwork.
• Self-Service Appointment Booking: Carriers can use the system to book appointment slots. This reduces communication delays and streamlines the scheduling process.

Benefits

• Cost Reduction: Lower detention times mean fewer penalties and charges for exceeding allotted time windows.
• Enhanced Predictability: Predictive analytics improve scheduling accuracy, reduce uncertainty, and streamline workflow.
• Operational Efficiency: Dynamic scheduling reduces wait times and gives you faster turnarounds and smoother yard operations.
• Streamlined Operations: Self-service appointment booking and digital gate check-ins eliminate unnecessary delays and administrative tasks and keep the yard moving smoothly.

09

Cohesive Yard Performance Metrics

WMS Shortcoming

Traditional systems might provide basic metrics but they don’t give a holistic view of yard performance. Without comprehensive metrics, identifying areas for improvement and making data-driven decisions becomes challenging.

YMS Solution

• Integrated Performance Dashboard: YMS integrates various performance metrics into a single dashboard.
• Customizable Analytics: You can customize reports and analytics based on specific yard operations and goals.
• Trend Analysis: Historical data analysis helps identify patterns and trends that facilitate proactive decision-making.
• Real-Time Monitoring: The system provides real-time monitoring of key yard performance indicators, including truck arrival times, task completion rates, and resource utilization.

Benefits

• Proactive Operations: Real-time monitoring lets you promptly identify and resolve operational bottlenecks.
• Optimized Utilization: Accurate performance data helps in better resource allocation and reduces downtime and congestion.
• Strategic Insights: Comprehensive performance metrics give you valuable insights for strategic decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Transparent Communication: Sharing detailed performance metrics improves communication with stakeholders and strengthens collaboration.

10

Greater Integration With Overall Supply Chain Processes

WMS Shortcoming

Even though WMS is capable of integrating with other systems, it can sometimes operate in isolation, detached from the broader supply chain processes. This lack of integration can cause limited visibility, reduced responsiveness, and missed opportunities for coordination.

YMS Solution

• Seamless Integration: YMS breaks down silos and seamlessly integrates with the entire supply chain ecosystem.
• API Connectivity: The system connects with various systems, like WMS, TMS (Transportation Management Systems), and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), allowing for real-time data sharing.
• Centralized Control: A centralized platform ensures consistent and synchronized operations and streamlines decision-making and execution.
• End-to-End Visibility: With integration, stakeholders get end-to-end visibility into the movement of goods, from warehouse to yard to transportation.

Benefits

• Reduced Delays: Integrated processes eliminate delays caused by information gaps or manual data transfers.
• Real-Time Insights: Real-time data sharing increases visibility and provides quick responses to changes and disruptions.
• Enhanced Coordination: Integrated systems provide better coordination between warehouse, yard, and transportation operations.
• Optimized Supply Chain: When you integrate supply chain processes, the yard becomes a finely tuned component that increases the overall efficiency of the supply chain.

Vector’s YMS: Optimize Efficiency & Bridge The Gaps

The world of logistics and supply chain management, where every second counts and every hiccup can cost you time, money, and customer trust. We at Vector are on a single mission – to optimize efficiency and fill in the gaps that those traditional WMS have left.

Vector’s YMS is your logistical command center designed to streamline the movement of goods within your yard or distribution center. From the moment a truck enters your yard to the time it leaves, the YMS coordinates movements to minimize wait times and prevent bottlenecks so that your valuable assets are always on the move.

Here’s what Vector’s YMS brings to the table:

Task Prioritization:

Vector directs each asset to its appropriate destination. It assigns tasks based on priority so that urgent shipments are handled promptly.

Real-Time Visibility:

Vector shows you exactly where each truck, trailer, or container is in your yard, right at the very moment. That’s the level of visibility our YMS offers. You can track assets, monitor their dwell times, and spot potential congestion points in real-time.

Seamless Collaboration:

Vector’s YMS bridges the gap between your yard operations and your broader supply chain ecosystem. Whether it’s communicating with your WMS, TMS, or ERP, it ensures that everyone’s on the same page, reducing miscommunication and increasing overall efficiency.

Optimized Dock Scheduling:

Vector YMS lets drivers schedule appointments for loading and unloading. This creates a well-organized flow that keeps things moving smoothly. It prevents overcrowding and ensures that resources are used efficiently. As a result, you’ll cut down on idle time and increase your overall productivity.

Data-Driven Insights:

Our YMS isn’t just about managing the here and now. It’s also your data powerhouse. It collects and analyzes information on asset movements, dwell times, and operational patterns. These insights empower you to make data-driven decisions, optimize processes, and identify areas for continuous improvement.

Efficient Gate Management:

Vector’s YMS takes the headache out of gate operations. It automates the check-in and check-out process so that the trucks are processed swiftly and accurately. Drivers can receive instructions and paperwork digitally which reduces manual paperwork and long lines. Plus, it integrates with your existing systems, making data entry errors a thing of the past.

Conclusion

The yard management system benefits stretch out in all directions, bringing goodness everywhere. With a YMS in your corner, you’re not just fixing the issues WMS leaves behind. You’re turning yard management into a powerhouse of efficiency where real-time visibility guarantees smooth operations. No more confusion, no more unnecessary delays.

This is what Vector offers and there’s even more to it. Our YMS goes beyond the basics. It optimizes space, cuts down costs, and makes the most of your resources. You don’t have to imagine any longer – our experts at Vector are ready to guide you through the incredible transformation that our YMS can bring to your business.

Curious to see how it all works? Let’s set up a consultation.