COURSE OVERVIEW
Efficient warehouse and stores management is crucial to the success of modern organizations. Materials must flow through the supply chain in a fast, controlled, and cost-effective manner to meet customer demands precisely. Today, warehouses are no longer just storage spaces—they are integral components of the supply chain. This interactive training course explores all aspects of warehouse and stores management, including production, inventory, suppliers, and customer service, offering practical strategies to optimize operations and maximize business value.

KEY FEATURES
Participants will benefit from:

• Comprehensive coverage of warehouse operations—from initial planning to day-to-day management
• Guidance on critical design and redesign considerations for warehouses
• Strategic frameworks for superior customer service and inventory management
• Hands-on, real-world techniques to achieve tangible business improvements

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By attending this course, participants will be able to:

• Apply proven, practical techniques in warehouse management immediately
• Understand the strategic role of warehouses within the supply chain
• Make informed decisions on warehouse location, size, and layout
• Determine appropriate storage types and material handling equipment
• Implement time-phased ordering systems for low investment and high service levels
• Manage daily warehouse operations effectively
• Focus on practical, real-world application of modern warehouse management methods

TARGET AUDIENCE
This course is designed for:

• Warehouse and operations professionals seeking to enhance distribution operations
• Material, purchasing, and inventory professionals who oversee or support warehouse operations
• Executives and professionals responsible for cost reduction, productivity improvement, inventory turnover, and customer service through accurate order fulfillment

TRAINING METHODOLOGY
This practical, results-driven course employs adult learning principles, including:

• Engaging lectures with structured lessons from the course manual
• Interactive PowerPoint presentations and videos
• Group discussions, exercises, and action planning
• Ample time for Q&A and hands-on activities to reinforce key concepts
  Pre- and post-course assessments measure learning effectiveness.

COURSE CONTENTS

Module 1 – Strategic Role of a Warehouse

• Introduction to Supply Chain Management
  • Elements of the supply chain
  • Role of warehousing and distribution
  • Functions of warehousing and distribution
• Strategic Decisions in Warehouse & Distribution
  • Decentralized (Pull) vs. Centralized (Push) strategies
  • Location and size considerations for distribution centers
    • Resource-based, customer-based, gravity points
    • Buffer management and transport impact
    • Lead-time considerations

Module 2 – Warehouse Layout

• Layout Types: Dedicated, Random, Hybrid; bin locations and numbering
• Storage Methods: Bulk, unit handling, shelving, and racking
• Materials Handling:
  • Guidelines for designing handling systems
  • Classification: mechanized, semi-automatic, automated, and information-based systems

Module 3 – Warehouse Operations

• Inbound Operations: Receiving, inspection, packing, marking, preservation, documentation, storage
• Outbound Operations: Discrete, zone, and batch picking; picking strategies and methods
• Reverse Logistics: Returns from customers and suppliers; handling empty containers; green SCM principles
• Transport Management: Modes of transport, types of carriage, and transport cost elements

Module 4 – Inventory Management

• ABC Analysis: Purpose, analysis, and application
• Part Numbers, Descriptions, and Commodity Coding: Significance, accuracy, and coding standards
• Inventory Accuracy: Importance and impact on customer service
• Inventory Recording: Periodic stock take, cycle counting, perpetual recording, barcoding, RFID
• Forecasting: Principles, methods, Min/Max system, periodic review
• Re-ordering Material: Min/Max method and periodic review
• Time-Phased Material Plans: MRP matrix, determining what, when, and how much to order, and scheduling deliveries

Module 5 – Performance Management

• Measuring Warehouse & Distribution Performance: Stock turnover rate, customer service levels, operational costs
• Security and Loss Control: Access control, safety, health, and environmental considerations