Third-party logistics providers, warehouses, or distribution hubs require robust logistical strategies for daily order fulfillment, especially when dealing with large scale operations.
Each aspect—ranging from receiving goods at the warehouse, processing orders, to the last-mile delivery—must be extremely coordinated to avoid delays, inventory loss or unnecessary costs.
Intralogistics is precisely the sophisticated orchestration of these operations within a facility.
In this article, we will explore the mechanisms behind intralogistics and how to maximise efficiency across the supply chain.
What is intralogistics?
Intralogistics or internal logistics is the process of organising and managing supply chain information and materials within a company, from receiving raw materials to delivering the finished products.
Intralogistics processes categories
Processes related to intralogistics are typically grouped into the following categories:
Internal material flow
This process encompasses the flow of materials within a single facility or across multiple sites.
Data flow and inventory management
Accurate flow and access of information is an essential aspect of intralogistics and modern ecommerce. This is usually obtained thanks to high-tech automated equipment and software systems that enable the tracking of goods movement across the supply chain.
Warehouse management and logistics
This refers to all logistics operations that happen within a warehouse. There are different advanced intralogistics solutions that enhance efficiency in warehouse management, like Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Storage Retrieval Systems (AS/RS).
The role of Warehouse Management System (WMS) in intralogistics
A Warehouse Management System (WMS) becomes instrumental in coordinating the flow of products and information across the supply chain, as it allows tracking of goods from receiving to delivery to final customers. This system is an essential feature for ecommerce businesses and handles many functions in warehouse management operations.
The primary operations in warehouse management in intralogistics are:
- Reception of goods: The process begins with the reception and registration of all goods that arrive, while checking item type, quantity, quality, and timing.
- Storage: Items are safely stored and systematically organized to streamline picking operations.
- Picking: This step involves selecting items related to customer orders.
- Packing: Items are prepared for dispatch, meaning they are packed safely for transit and included in packing slips.
- Inventory tracking: This process involves constant tracking and management of inventory levels, knowing exactly where and how much stock is present and at which storage location.
- Shipping: Orders are now dispatched. They must have the right labels and documentation and must be loaded onto the right vehicle to be punctually delivered to the customer.
- Analytics and reporting: One of the most important features of a WMS is to generate detailed reports on warehouse operations and inventory management, highlighting metrics related to order fulfillment, efficiency of operations, punctuality of deliveries, as well as operational expenses.
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What is the difference between intralogistics and logistics?
Intralogistics and logistics, although related, cover different aspects and purposes within the management of the supply chain. Intralogistics refers to the process of managing materials or goods within a single warehouse or distribution centre. Its focus is on optimising processes like picking, packing, delivery etc., using technology like WMS Systems. Logistics, on the other hand, is the broader process of managing the flow of goods from suppliers to end customers.
Benefits of advanced intralogistics solutions with eLogy
Intralogistics and technology are closely bound. With eLogy you can master the daily complexities of warehousing and fulfillment by integrating advanced software with physical means. This leads to better resource utilization, resulting in significant cost reductions and enhanced operational efficiency. Thanks to the use of advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), automation technologies, and sophisticated analytics tools businesses can streamline processes, enhance decision-making with data-driven insights, and automate their daily fulfillment tasks.
