Faster to market, thanks to Panalpina’s new IT system

Freight forwarder Panalpina says deployment of its planned single warehouse management system (WMS) is ahead of schedule. To date, the JDA WMS has been rolled out to over 30 of its global sites and has helped improve service and optimise its customers’ inventory.
Panalpina says that the driving force of the new system is to help its customers increase asset velocity – that is, move products more quickly and reduce stock in the warehouse.
JDA WMS provides scan-and-validate check points throughout the warehousing process, which gives a highly customisable solution. Panalpina also uses the system to track and compare the performance of its four-wall operations globally and then works towards benchmarks, for example in terms of very high inventory accuracy.
Panalpina has developed a rapid deployment model for the system to give its customers a standardised approach and consistent implementation process across the globe. This unique model is particularly useful to international customers whose products have short life cycles.
The system also includes sophisticated analytics to help customers plan their inventory holding.
Panalpina has so far implemented the program mainly for its fashion and technology customers, for whom speed to market is especially important. It Mendrisio fashion hub in southern Switzerland uses JDA WMS to provide the customer with inventory management and distribution services around the world.