This article provides a comprehensive guide to effectively managing your warehouse inventory using the Gelato Connect platform, covering everything from setting up your warehouse to utilizing the mobile app for streamlined operations.
Setting Up Your Warehouse
Efficient inventory management starts with a well-structured warehouse. Here’s how to set up yours for success:
Create a Warehouse Map: Begin by mapping out your warehouse, clearly marking storage and production areas. A visual representation helps you understand the layout and flow of inventory.
Assign Location Types: Categorize each area on your map as either "storage" (for holding inventory) or "production" (for areas near machines where inventory is used).
Define Locations in Gelato Connect: Once your map is complete, input these locations into the Gelato Connect Procurement system. You can add them individually or import a CSV file if you have a pre-existing list.
Setting Up Location Names
Clear and consistent location names are crucial for efficient warehouse operations. Here’s a guide to setting up location names effectively within Gelato Connect:
Location IDs and Names
Gelato Connect assigns each warehouse location a unique "location ID." This allows you to use the same name for different locations across multiple warehouses. However, we strongly recommend using unique location names within each warehouse to minimize confusion.
Best Practices for Naming Locations
Location Name: A short, unique identifier used in the system and mobile app.
Location Description: A more detailed description is printed on the location's barcode label.
Warehouse Name: The name of the warehouse where the location is situated.
Tips for Effective Location Setup
Use Descriptive Names: Choose names that clearly indicate the location's purpose or position within the warehouse.
Avoid Duplicates: Use unique names within each warehouse to prevent confusion.
Utilize Descriptions: Provide additional context on barcode labels to aid in physical identification.
FAQs
Can I use the same name for multiple locations in different warehouses?
Yes, this is possible but not recommended. We strongly encourage using unique names for all locations to ensure clarity and minimize errors.
Why are unique location names recommended?
Unique location names improve inventory tracking accuracy, especially when viewing information in the inventory table or mobile app, where the warehouse name may not always be visible.
What's the purpose of the location description?
The location description provides additional information about the location and is printed on the barcode label for easy identification within the warehouse.
Assigning Locations to SKUs
Organizing your Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) within your warehouse ensures you always know where everything is:
Default Location: When a new SKU is added to the system, it's automatically placed in an "unassigned" storage location. This means it hasn't been given a specific area yet.
Determine Correct Locations: Refer to your warehouse map to decide the best storage or production location for each SKU.
Transfer Inventory: To move an SKU to its designated location, transfer it from the "unassigned" location. You can do this easily through the Gelato Connect system.
Confirm Assignment: Double-check that the SKU is now listed under the correct location in your inventory system. This ensures accurate tracking.
Training Your Team
Keeping your inventory data accurate requires a team effort. Make sure everyone is on the same page:
Consistent Updates: Emphasize the importance of updating the inventory system whenever new stock arrives or items are moved. Consistency is key for reliable inventory tracking.
Monitor Compliance: Regularly check that everyone is following the correct procedures for updating the system. This helps maintain a smooth and accurate inventory management process.
Utilize the Mobile App: Encourage your team to use the Gelato Connect mobile app. It simplifies updating inventory locations and quantities, making the process easier and reducing errors.
Gelato Connect Mobile App: Your Warehouse on the Go
The Gelato Connect mobile app transforms your smartphone into a powerful warehouse management tool. It’s designed to simplify warehouse tasks and improve accuracy.
Setting Up Barcodes
To use the warehousing mode, you’ll need barcodes for your products and warehouse locations. You can create these in the Gelato Connect desktop app. Once created:
Apply the barcodes to your storage locations.
Share product barcodes with your suppliers to include with the products they send you.
Managing Inventory in Warehousing Mode
With barcodes in place, you can switch to warehousing mode in the mobile app. This mode provides all the tools you need to manage inventory effectively:
Receiving inventory: Easily record incoming stock from suppliers.
Transferring inventory: Quickly move stock between warehouse locations.
Updating stock quantities: Adjust stock levels directly in the app.
Finding products: Scan a product barcode or enter product details to find its location and quantity.
Checking location contents: Scan a location’s barcode to see a list of stored products.
Integrated Barcode Scanning
The app's integrated barcode scanner streamlines warehouse tasks. For example, to check the contents of a storage location:
Go to the Location Check feature.
Scan the barcode on the storage location.
Instantly view the inventory stored there.
You can also scan a product barcode to see its availability and location.
Streamlining Warehouse Processes
The Gelato Connect app streamlines key warehouse processes, such as receiving inventory, transferring stock, and updating stock levels. This reduces the time spent on these tasks and minimizes errors. We recommend training your warehouse operators on how to use these features to maximize efficiency.
For a step-by-step visual guide, watch our video guide here.
Customer Support
Need help or have feedback? We're here for you! Reach out to us at [email protected].