At a glance
Upgrading from manual administration to cloud-based, paperless administration for inbound and outbound warehouse processes can reduce energy consumption, cut costs and lower CO₂ emissions.
The case in context
Many warehouses still process inbound and outbound deliveries and the corresponding data by hand. This involves cumbersome manual processes with paper documentation and limits traceability, leading to delays and a greater likelihood of errors. In contrast, paperless administration leverages digital technologies to enhance efficiency through automated documentation and real-time tracking.
Conventional manual processing often results in higher operational costs due to resource-intensive paperwork. The paperless approach reduces costs and environmental impact. The latter also offers greater accuracy, speed and transparency, transforming warehouse management into a technologically advanced and sustainable practice. Digital solutions are time- and resource-efficient and enable agility so businesses can meet the demands of a rapidly evolving supply chain landscape.
A closer look: case details and parameters
For this scenario, we compared conventional administration of inbound and outbound processes with a paperless, cloud-based software as a service alternative. Drivers are no longer manually checked in or out by warehouse personnel. Instead, they submit or retrieve necessary documentation via smartphone applications or self-service terminals. This digital solution eliminates the need to print physical waybills and keep a service counter constantly staffed.
Results
Our analysis of paperless administration of inbound and outbound process indicates the following benefits for our reference warehouse:
- No need for a constantly staffed inbound/outbound service counter
- No more paper usage for in- and outbound documentation
- 25% reduction in daily operating costs for inbound/outbound administration
Evaluation: ease of implementation makes this lever appealing in combination with others
Paperless administration of inbound and outbound processes has minimal impact on CO₂ savings and a low impact on OpEx savings compared to other examined cases. However, due to its simplicity and minimal upfront costs, this measure can be implemented easily if all stakeholders are committed and infrastructure is available. When integrated with other measures detailed in this study, it contributes to a significant overall reduction in both CO₂ emissions and OpEx.
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