Supply chain leaders around the globe are working to refine their processes and plan for a successful 2019 peak shopping season. Unfortunately, many leaders fail to take advantage of the low-hanging fruit; supply chain visibility and integrated systems. Integrated WMS and supply chain management improve critical processes and contribute to success. Supply chain leaders need every advantage possible to truly reap a reward this holiday season, as it is expected to fall short of the 2018 shopping season, reports Supply Chain Dive. As a result, it is crucial to understand the typical supply chain challenges associated with peak season, how integrated systems promote better peak season performance, and a few tips for ensuring proper integration.

Common Supply Chain Challenges During Peak Season

The most common supply chain challenges of peak season mirror those that exist throughout the remainder of the year. However, shortcomings within the supply chain become much more evident as demand increases. As explained by FedEx Supply Chain, top supply chain challenges of peak season include:

• SKU proliferation. SKU proliferation is especially prominent during peak season. The latest fads and trends continue to change, and more SKUs are added each day as the holidays approach. 
• Consistent quality control. Maintaining consistent quality control is another issue. Supply chain leaders have an increasingly larger global footprint to address. With e-commerce growth continuing, demand for the 2019 peak season could surpass 2018, despite overall projections for a less successful season.
• Fraud prevention and detection. Fraud and counterfeit products present another critical issue. Today’s consumers have access to information, but misinformation still exists. Supply chain leaders must work to identify cases of fraud and prevent it, adding to overhead expenses and demand as the season continues.
• Poor inventory visibility. Subpar inventory visibility also makes omnichannel fulfillment more difficult.

Integrated WMS and Other Systems Enable Better Peak Season Performance

By integrating WMS and other supply chain systems, leaders can position their supply chain to perform better during peak season. Since supply chains rely upon one another for success, collaboration becomes critical. A modern WMS integrated with other systems eliminates risk with lost data or inaccurate shipments, but again, the system is only as strong as the weakest link. Integration helps to strengthen the supply chain and avoid problems. For instance, integration between systems also reduces the number of touches per shipment and item. According to Supply Chain Brain, fewer touches mean fewer errors and lower operating costs; two
critical concerns for today’s supply chain leaders.

How to Ensure Proper Integration and Launch Before Peak Season

Supply chain leaders should also follow a few tips to ensure proper integration and launch of new systems before peak season goes into full swing. These include:

1. Use metrics to check system performance.
2. Perform a complete inventory using new systems.
3. Take advantage of microservices-based testing to ensure system function.
4. Train staff on the proper use of the system.
5. Review system functions and modifications to eliminate inconsistencies or errors.
6. Take advantage of third-party resources, such as Veridian, to prepare for peak season fulfillment.

Put the Power of Integrated WMS and Supply Chain Systems to Work Now

Integrated WMS and other supply chain systems and processes will benefit any organization, but their value waxes as peak season approaches. Ensure your organization takes steps to succeed in advance of the holiday shopping season by knowing what challenges exist and how to apply the integration tips. Finally, overcome the obstacles of peak season management with an integrated WMS. Find out what your enterprise needs to succeed by visiting Veridian online now.