Prepare for Peak Periods with Distribution ERP Software

1. Demand Forecasting for Peak Periods

As a distributor, you need to optimise operations and align stock with demand to avoid shortfalls in inventory and make sure things are prepared for the busy periods.

Distribution ERP software allows distributors to run highly accurate forecasts with far greater accuracy than ever before. Using historical data coupled with machine learning, predicted demand can be calculated based on a previous year’s sales and alongside variables which may affect the level of demand.

Wholesale distribution ERP software analyses historical data to enable you as a distributor to run an accurate demand forecast.
Analysis can show data such as:

• Most popular products
• Items often bought together
• Trending items
• Most popular sizes

You can alter forecasts to tailor in factors which may not be apparent from historical data such as changes in legislation, current affairs or shifts within the industry.

Having more accurate forecasts allows you to better predict your stock levels to ensure that shortfalls or over purchasing is kept to a minimum and that orders can be fulfilled on time.

2. Optimise Stock Management & Resources

Once a demand forecast has been produced, stock inventory levels and resources can be optimised to meet the predicted demand and satisfy customer needs.

An inventory based on data ensures that customer orders can be fulfilled and that wasted products are kept to a minimum. It also allows you to ready your warehouse in advance so that you can rely less on the supply chain running smoothly throughout peak periods.

In addition to optimising stock levels, distribution ERP software can also give visibility into required staff levels and resources, which is also vital in being able to meet the demands of peak periods throughout the year.

Key benefits:

• Reduce wasted stock/inventory
• Eliminate over purchasing of stock/inventory
• Align stock with demand
• Accurately plan required resource levels

Effective inventory management is critical for streamlining the order fulfilment process and reducing time at each step. It prevents extended delivery times and product shortages, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business. Inefficient inventory management can lead to overstocking, wasting space and resources.

3. Reduce Order Fulfilment Times with Automation

The order fulfilment process involves inventory receipt and storage, order processing, picking, packing, shipping, tracking, final delivery, and returns processing. Peak periods can put stress on the whole order fulfilment process – an increase in orders means the process can take longer than usual. ERP software provides comprehensive insight into your entire order fulfilment process, enabling more informed decision-making.

Distribution ERP software automates the sales order process. This can reduce the time from order placement to product delivery as the process is managed so efficiently.

With automation, vital processes within your order fulfilment stages get done without time-consuming manual input, which is susceptible to human errors. Rather than being overwhelmed by multiple orders from different channels, distribution ERP software simplifies complicated procedures to cut down confusion and helps warehouse staff to focus on shipping orders out as soon as possible.

Automating processes can support employees working in a busy warehouse. With ERP software, information will be shared with all staff working on order processing, reducing communication-based errors. This can empower your staff to meet deadlines, adhere to delivery schedules, and manage order quantities efficiently.

Control is not lost – within ERP software rules and credit limits can be set, drop shipping can be managed and multiple warehouses can be handled.

Key benefits:

• Automatic, efficient order management
• Minimise the possibility of human error
• Easily keep track of orders in progress to help improve accuracy

5. Create Positive Customer Experiences

Customers consider reliability to be the top attribute they look for when choosing a brand or retailer to purchase from.

ERP for distribution can help to make sure that the customer is kept up to date with on-demand, real-time communication regarding the status of their order. During a busy period of seasonal demand, it can be critical for developing a reputation amongst your consumer base as a company that can maintain consistent quality even under pressure. Distribution software is key to producing a strong brand reputation within the market - undoubtedly increasing sales.