WMS and Fulfilment Service for Shopify by Nippon Express
WMS and Fulfilment Service for Shopify by Nippon Express
BLOG 2025/03/12
Ecommerce order fulfillment for apparel presents unique challenges: unpredictable demand, high return rates, and the need to manage inventory across multiple channels. To gain insights into the complexities of this industry, we visited a fulfillment warehouse managed by Nippon Express in Japan.
"This facility handles over 120,000 orders monthly for a diverse range of apparel brands. We manage inventory for approximately 27,000 SKUs across 16,000 square meters. Our focus is on speed and accuracy, utilizing a combination of automated systems and skilled personnel."
"It starts with inbound. Goods arrive from various sources, often internationally.
As the primary importer for customers in Japan, we also manage their inbound ocean freight shipments. This allows us to easily track container arrivals and ensure a smooth and efficient import process.
We meticulously check each item against order details to ensure accuracy and quality. Once received, the inventory is meticulously recorded in our WMS and made available for sale on the customer's online platform.”
“Next comes inventory management.
Given the high volume and variety of apparel, efficient storage and retrieval are crucial.
This customer often has more than 5,000 orders a day, so we need to keep each one individually in *Bin for easier picking process. We leverage data analytics to strategically place fast-moving items for quicker access, optimizing our picking processes.”
*Bin: In a warehouse, a bin is the smallest designated storage space. It's where individual items or small quantities of products are kept. Each bin is typically assigned a unique identifier (e.g., Aisle 1, Rack 3, Shelf 2, Bin 5) so that items can be easily located.
“Finally, we have outbound operations.
Orders are picked, inspected, packaged, and labeled with utmost care.
Automation plays a significant role in enhancing efficiency and minimizing errors. We conduct daily cycle counts and continuously refine our warehouse layout to ensure optimal performance."
"Unpredictability is our enemy! Fashion trends are fickle, leading to sudden surges and dips in demand. This makes it extremely challenging to forecast inventory needs and maintain an optimal workforce.”
“Another significant hurdle is the omnichannel environment. We need to accurately track inventory across all sales channels – online and offline – to prevent stockouts and overselling.”
“And of course, returns are constant. We need to efficiently process returns, inspect items for potential resale, and ensure they are quickly reintegrated into the inventory stream."
"Nippon Express utilizes its advanced WMS to provide real-time inventory visibility and track order progress. Our "DCX" platform empowers customers with valuable data, allowing them to make informed decisions. By leveraging our expertise in logistics and a robust network, we strive to deliver fast, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for our apparel clients."
This warehouse visit provided valuable insights into the intricate world of apparel fulfillment. By embracing technology, optimizing workflows, and maintaining a customer-centric approach, this fulfillment warehouse is effectively navigating the challenges of this dynamic industry.
You can contact us to see what we can do if you have any order fulfillment issues.
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