Warehousing Glossary

Automated Storage and Retrieval System; computer-controlled equipment that automatically stores and retrieves items from defined storage locations.

A machine-readable optical label containing data about the item to which it is attached, used for identification and tracking throughout warehouse operations.

A picking method where items for multiple orders are collected in a single trip through the warehouse, reducing total travel time.

A legal document issued by a carrier to acknowledge receipt of cargo for shipment, serving as a contract and receipt.

A mechanical handling system that transports materials from one location to another within a warehouse using belts, rollers, or chains.

A logistics practice where products are transferred directly from inbound to outbound vehicles with little or no storage time.

A periodic inventory counting method where a portion of inventory is counted on a rotating schedule rather than performing a full physical inventory.

A warehouse focused on receiving, processing, and shipping orders to customers or retail stores, emphasizing throughput rather than long-term storage.

A loading bay in a warehouse where trucks are loaded and unloaded, equipped with dock levelers, seals, and bumpers.

First In, First Out; an inventory rotation method ensuring the oldest stock is used or shipped before newer stock.

A powered industrial truck used to lift and move materials over short distances, essential for loading, unloading, and storing palletized goods.

A warehouse operation focused on processing individual customer orders, typically for e-commerce, emphasizing pick, pack, and ship speed.

A ratio measuring how often inventory is sold and replaced over a period, calculated as cost of goods sold divided by average inventory.

Assembling individual components into a pre-packaged kit or set before orders are placed, streamlining the fulfillment process.

Machinery and tools used to move, store, control, and protect materials within a warehouse, including forklifts, conveyors, and pallet jacks.

The percentage of orders shipped correctly without errors in items, quantities, or destinations. A critical quality KPI.

A flat transport structure that supports goods in a stable fashion for handling by forklifts, pallet jacks, or conveyors.

The route a picker follows through the warehouse to collect items for an order, optimized by WMS to minimize travel distance.

The process of accepting incoming shipments, verifying quantities against purchase orders, inspecting quality, and entering goods into inventory.

Radio-Frequency Identification; technology using radio waves to read data from tags attached to items for automatic identification and tracking.

Stock Keeping Unit; a unique identifier for each distinct product variant used for inventory management and tracking.

The process of determining the optimal storage location for each product in a warehouse based on pick frequency, size, weight, and product relationships.

An automated system that identifies items on a conveyor and diverts them to designated locations based on destination, carrier, or other criteria.

Warehouse Management System; software that manages all warehouse operations from receiving through shipping with real-time inventory visibility.

A picking method where the warehouse is divided into zones, each assigned to a picker who only retrieves items within their zone.