As e-commerce continues to expand, so will the use of third party logistics (3PL). To make sure your logistics business is the one chosen by retailers, what are the expected market trends to watch for in 2019?

Selecting a warehouse management system (WMS) supplier is an important process, so it's worth taking the time to get it right.

However, you'll still have plenty to do after that in order to get your system up and running. The first job on your list should be to work with your new vendor to produce a project plan.

So, what does this involve?

Implementing a new warehouse management system (WMS) could revolutionise your business and improve your bottom line.

However, it's essential to choose a suitable system and vendor. Here are five things to consider when sourcing a new WMS.

When you're assessing the cost implications and potential benefits of purchasing, or leasing, a new Warehouse Management System (WMS), you'll need to consider its likely lifespan. So, when will your new WMS need to be replaced, and how can you find one that will stand the test of time?

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Warehouse management is critical for keeping your business moving. While stock control can be achieved by ERP system modules or spreadsheets, many businesses now understand the benefits of an optimised, scalable Warehouse Management System (WMS). When considering whether your company could benefit from a WMS, or an updated system, factors to assess include:

Let's turn that title on its head. The ideal is to work out your materials handling system first, and only then fit the building design around it. In an existing building, you may be limited in your ability to do this – but designing from the inside out as far as possible is key to maximising efficiency.

A new product comes into the warehouse. Which pick face do you give it? Let me guess, one which is empty! Is it the most suitable for the number of times you are going to access it or replenish it? You have no idea as you don’t have any history.

A period has passed and you now have some history as to how it is moving. However, can you see it in comparison with all the other products you are picking? Is it an “A” mover or a “B” or a “C”?

An efficient transport, warehousing and distribution network delivers a competitive edge and crucial customer satisfaction. It’s the part of the operation that fulfils the sales contract and the needs of customers. Therefore it must be constantly monitored to keep it lean and streamlined.

The fact that Amazon was considering drones as a delivery channel highlights how important that giant considers retail supply chain management to be. That particular innovation focused on only one aspect of the process – speed of delivery to customers (at as low a cost as possible). Optimising the supply chain is not just about reducing costs. It also enhances competitiveness by making your proposition more attractive and winning market share. In the fiercely competitive retail and eCommerce space, winning often equates to faster and cheaper delivery. How well those costs are absorbed into product pricing depends on smart and proactive supply chain management.

As a logistics or warehouse manager, you appreciate that you have an expensive but critical facility at your command. Is there scope for improvement? Have you considered every avenue of exploration to realise even greater efficiencies, productivity and cost savings?