Many companies today are opting to do away with paper and create a paperless warehouse environment. The various types of technology that are readily available help to eliminate the need to use paper. Most things today can be digital when it comes to records, accounting, tracking, etc. If your warehouse is still using an antiquated paper-based system, it is time that you started to think about some of the major benefits that can be had when you start to reduce all of that paper waste.
Paper-Based vs. Less Paper vs. Paperless Warehouse
Paper-based businesses are still using the “old school” methods where everything needs to be done on paper and often with multiple copies. Fortunately, these companies are starting to come around to the idea of reducing the amount of paper they are using. Some warehouses have started to take the “less paper” approach. They have eliminated some of the physical paperwork used in their business.
While this is a step in the right direction, it is important that you take yet another step and eliminate paper altogether. When you go paperless, your warehouse will experience quite a few benefits.
6 Benefits of a Paperless Warehouse
Although some companies might still be reticent about having a paperless warehouse, it is important to think about all of the advantages it can provide.
1. Improved Warehouse Efficiency
Going paperless will help to improve the efficiency of the warehouse. Keeping track of inventory, orders, and returns can be difficult when trying to do it all on paper. As the number of customers grows, it becomes even more difficult. Choosing to use a warehouse management system that can handle all of these processes and keep everything digital and easily accessible will help to improve visibility and efficiency. Another benefit is that the data will always be up to date, and you do not have to worry about lost paperwork.
2. Improved Productivity
The amount of time and resources that go into a paper-based warehouse system can be immense. It takes paper, printers, and a team that can handle and keeps track of the paperwork. It would also require manually finding individual pieces of paper and files if there is a question or issue with an order. This takes a lot of time, which could be better elsewhere by your employees. Going digital using a warehouse management system provides more time to focus on other aspects of running the warehouse.
3. Better Customer Service
With a paperless warehouse system in place, it becomes possible to track the location of packages on a digital system. This makes it easier to track and manage the flow of items between various locations. If a customer calls wondering about the status of their order, it can be found and handled in a matter of minutes. There is less risk of making an error, as well. This makes the customers happy, and they are more likely to continue doing business with your company.
4. Save Space
Consider how much space all of that paperwork takes up in your warehouse. If you have physical paperwork, you need to have space for all of those files. You could find better ways to use that space. It could be used to store additional goods, become an office, etc.
5. Reduce Costs
There is the potential for substantial cost reductions when you opt for a paperless warehouse. You won’t be spending money on paper, ink, and extra printers. You won’t need additional filing cabinets or storage space for them. Instead, everything will be digital, so it doesn’t eat up any of those other resources. Even with the cost of adding a paperless system and software, the price is still better than continually spending on those other expenses each month.
6. Environmental Impact
When you go paperless, you are also becoming more environmentally conscious. It allows your company to become greener and lower its carbon footprint. Going green is important for companies today that want to show their customers their commitment to the environment.
Paperless Warehouse Technology for SAP Business One and Macola Software
As you can see, going paperless offers a range of benefits for your warehouse. Implementing the right software and technology is easier today than it has ever been before. It is also more affordable. Take the initiative and help your warehouse go paperless. Contact us today to learn more about creating a paperless warehouse.