World Paper-Free Day encourages us to reflect on our paper consumption… and the alternatives. In the logistics sector, where delivery notes, inventory reports and order slips pile up, cutting down on paper is a real challenge. But here’s the good news: the WMS (Warehouse Management System) is one of the most effective tools to digitise warehouse operations and move towards a paperless warehouse.
Why is there still so much paper in logistics?
A deeply rooted administrative habit
Logistics remains one of the sectors where paper is still heavily used:
- printed picking lists,
- manual labels,
- inventory reports,
- proof of delivery slips…
This dependency comes from a need for traceability and security, but also from legacy systems and long-standing habits.
A significant environmental impact
According to ADEME, the tertiary sector uses 70 to 85 kg of paper per year per employee. Scaled to a warehouse, this represents a considerable ecological footprint.
Reducing paper usage in warehouses also contributes to a more sustainable supply chain.
The WMS: a key tool for going paperless
What is a WMS?
A Warehouse Management System helps to manage all logistics operations, including:
- goods receiving,
- storage,
- order picking,
- shipping,
- inventory.
Everything is centralised and digitised.
Less paper, more efficiency
With a WMS like Satelix WMS, staff use barcode scanners and mobile devices instead of traditional paper documents. The benefits include:
- no more printed picking lists,
- fewer errors thanks to barcode scanning,
- real-time traceability,
- fully digitised and synchronised inventories.
By the numbers: A study by Zebra Technologies found that 83% of companies that implemented digital solutions in their warehouses reduced their paper usage significantly.
Taking action: 3 steps to go paperless
How to digitise your warehouse processes
- Audit your current processes: identify the areas where paper is most used.
- Choose the right WMS: like Satelix WMS, tailored for SMEs.
- Support change: train your teams to use the new digital tools effectively.
Are you a SME?
Make the right choice for your logistics
In conclusion
Thanks to tools like Satelix WMS, reducing paper use in logistics is no longer a dream – it’s a realistic, achievable goal. With time savings, improved traceability and a lower environmental footprint, the benefits are clear – for both your business and the planet.
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