Why standard WMS solutions fall short in manufacturing – and which systems actually support production, WIP tracking, and shop floor realities.

Trends That Will Transform the Industrial Landscape in 2025

Most Warehouse Management Systems are designed to control storage locations, stock balances, and outbound shipments. That works well for distribution centers, but manufacturing warehouses operate under different rules.

In manufacturing, materials do not simply arrive, sit on racks, and leave. They move into production, return as semi-finished goods, split into batches, and change status several times before becoming finished products. A generic WMS treats these movements as exceptions. For a plant, they are daily operations.

This difference creates practical problems. Production planners lose visibility of Work-in-Process. Warehouse teams rely on manual confirmations to keep stock data aligned with the shop floor. Inventory accuracy drops during shift changes, rework, or material substitutions.

A manufacturing-focused WMS addresses these issues by tracking materials across their full lifecycle. It connects raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods within one operational flow. It also supports operational resilience. The system can react to unplanned production delays, material shortages, and last-minute schedule changes. This matters in volatile supply conditions where steady-state planning rarely reflects reality.

The warehouse stops being a separate system and starts supporting production execution directly.

This article explains how to evaluate WMS software through that lens and helps you select a WMS that works with your production processes.

WMS Platforms for Large-Scale Manufacturing Operations

Warehouse Management Systems for manufacturing are not interchangeable. Their suitability depends on several factors, including production complexity, regulatory requirements, and system landscape. Company size remains the most decisive factor.

For this reason, let’s distinguish solutions for large enterprise manufacturers and mid-sized manufacturers.

SAP Extended Warehouse Management

SAP Extended Warehouse Management is a warehouse management system designed for complex logistics environments. It is part of the SAP supply chain portfolio and integrates natively with SAP S/4HANA.

SAP EWM manages warehouse operations at a granular level. It controls inbound, internal, and outbound processes. It supports high transaction volumes and complex process logic. The system is typically deployed in manufacturing enterprises with integrated production and logistics landscapes.

Core capabilities

SAP EWM provides detailed control over warehouse execution. Key capabilities include:

• Management of inbound deliveries, staging areas, and goods receipt posting
• Storage bin management with fixed, dynamic, and mixed storage strategies
• Handling unit management for pallets, containers, and production-specific packaging
• Warehouse task creation and confirmation for picking, putaway, and internal movements
• Integration with labor management and warehouse automation equipment

These capabilities allow warehouse processes to follow defined rules rather than manual decisions.

Manufacturing focus

SAP EWM is designed to operate as part of an integrated manufacturing environment. It connects directly with SAP Digital Manufacturing and SAP Quality Management.

This integration supports production staging based on production orders. Raw materials can be staged directly to production supply areas. The system tracks material consumption against specific orders. Work-in-process inventory is recorded with status and location.

Quality processes are embedded in warehouse flows. Inspection lots can be triggered at goods receipt or during internal movements. Stock can be blocked, released, or scrapped based on inspection results. These actions are reflected immediately in both warehouse and production systems.

The result is a shared view of inventory across warehouse and production. Materials are tracked through their full lifecycle, from receipt to consumption and finished goods storage.

Features for a 2026 manufacturing strategy

SAP EWM continues to expand its support for production-driven warehousing. The following features are particularly relevant for manufacturers planning system stability and process control beyond short-term upgrades.

• Advanced Production Integration (API): API uses Production Material Requests to trigger warehouse tasks based on actual production demand. This allows staging, replenishment, and consumption posting to follow the shop floor schedule instead of fixed warehouse rules.
• Material Flow System (MFS): MFS enables SAP EWM to control conveyors, cranes, and automated storage systems directly, without any middleware. Warehouse movements are executed without external middleware, which reduces integration points and simplifies error handling in automated environments.
• Warehouse robotics integration: SAP EWM supports direct integration with autonomous mobile robots and automated picking systems through standard interfaces. Robots can be assigned warehouse tasks such as pallet transport, line-side replenishment, and goods movement. Task status is updated in real time, allowing coordinated execution between human workers and automation equipment.
• Embedded analytics: SAP EWM includes real-time monitoring tools for warehouse execution. The Warehouse Management Monitor highlights dock congestion, delayed staging, and raw material shortages that can affect production orders.

SAP EWM deployment options: Basic and Advanced

SAP EWM is available in two functional scopes: Basic and Advanced. The distinction affects both functionality and licensing.

• SAP EWM Basic is included with SAP S/4HANA. It covers standard warehouse processes, such as inbound and outbound handling, storage control, and basic picking and putaway. It is typically used in manufacturing sites with moderate warehouse complexity and limited automation.
• SAP EWM Advanced is licensed separately. It extends the Basic scope with advanced features. These include labor management, yard management, slotting and rearrangement, wave management, and advanced automation integration. It is commonly used in large manufacturing plants with high throughput, multiple production supply areas, and automated warehouse equipment.

The choice between Basic and Advanced depends on process complexity rather than company ambition. Read a detailed comparison in our article.

SAP EWM Interface. Source: SAP

Oracle Warehouse Management Cloud (Oracle WMS Cloud)

Oracle Warehouse Management Cloud is a cloud-native warehouse management system delivered as part of Oracle Fusion Cloud Supply Chain & Manufacturing. It is designed for large enterprises that require standardized warehouse execution across multiple sites.

The system runs as a software-as-a-service platform. Oracle manages infrastructure, updates, and security. Customers configure warehouse processes within defined system parameters. Oracle WMS Cloud is commonly used in manufacturing environments with distributed warehouses and centralized IT governance.

Core capabilities

Oracle WMS Cloud controls warehouse execution through configurable process flows. Its core capabilities include:

• Inbound receipt processing with ASN validation and appointment scheduling
• Directed putaway based on item attributes, storage constraints, and warehouse zones
• Task-based picking, packing, and shipping with priority and rule management
• Inventory status management for available, reserved, damaged, and quality-hold stock
• Lot and serial tracking to support regulated manufacturing environments

These functions are executed through radio frequency (RF) devices and web-based user interfaces. All transactions are recorded in real time.

Selected platform features

Oracle WMS Cloud includes features designed for large-scale operations:

• Built-in task interleaving to reduce travel time between warehouse activities
• Labor standards and performance tracking based on measured task completion
• Support for cross-docking and flow-through processing
• API-based integration framework for ERP, transportation, and manufacturing systems

The system follows a quarterly release cycle. New functionality is delivered through scheduled updates rather than custom code.

Manufacturing focus

Oracle WMS Cloud supports manufacturing logistics through integration with Oracle Manufacturing and Oracle Inventory Management. The system exchanges data on production orders, material requirements, and inventory balances.

Material staging can be aligned with production schedules. Components can be issued to work orders from defined staging locations. Inventory movements are reflected at both warehouse and production levels. This supports visibility into raw materials and work-in-process inventory.

Quality controls are applied through inventory status and lot management. Materials can be placed on hold based on inspection results or process rules. This status is enforced during picking and staging, which prevents unapproved materials from reaching production lines.

Oracle WMS Cloud fits manufacturing enterprises that prioritize standardized processes, centralized control, and cloud-based deployment. It supports warehouse execution as part of a broader Oracle manufacturing and supply chain environment rather than as a standalone system.

Manhattan Active® Warehouse Management

Manhattan Active Warehouse Management is a cloud-native warehouse management system developed by Manhattan Associates. It is designed for large enterprises that operate high-volume and process-intensive warehouses.

The solution is delivered as a single-tenant cloud service. Manhattan Associates controls system updates and platform maintenance. Customers configure workflows within the system’s process framework. Manhattan Active WMS is commonly deployed in manufacturing environments with complex distribution and production supply requirements.

Core capabilities

Manhattan Active WMS provides detailed control over warehouse execution. Core capabilities include:

• Inbound receipt processing with rule-based validation and directed putaway
• Inventory management at location, container, lot, and serial levels
• Task-based picking, replenishment, and internal movements
• Wave and waveless order release to manage throughput and labor capacity
• Native support for warehouse automation and material handling equipment

These capabilities allow warehouses to operate with defined execution logic rather than manual task assignment.

Manufacturing focus

Manhattan Active WMS supports manufacturing logistics through integration with ERP and manufacturing execution systems. The platform manages material flows that support both production supply and finished goods distribution.

The system supports line-side replenishment and production staging. Materials can be issued to production locations based on demand signals and inventory thresholds. Inventory status controls prevent restricted or nonconforming materials from being released to production.

Lot and serial tracking support traceability requirements. This is relevant for manufacturers operating under regulatory or customer audit constraints. Inventory movements are recorded with time, location, and transaction context.

Manhattan Active WMS is typically selected by manufacturing enterprises that operate complex warehouses and require strong execution control, automation integration, and standardized processes across sites.

How Manhattan Active® Warehouse Management differs from SAP EWM?

Read our article to find this out.

learn more

Blue Yonder Warehouse Management

Blue Yonder Warehouse Management is an enterprise warehouse management system developed by Blue Yonder, formerly JDA Software. It is part of the Blue Yonder Luminate platform for supply chain execution and planning.

The system is available as a cloud-based solution and as an on-premises deployment, depending on the version and customer requirements. Blue Yonder WMS is commonly used by large manufacturers with complex supply chains and a focus on coordinated planning and execution.

Core capabilities

Blue Yonder WMS manages warehouse operations through configurable process rules. Core capabilities include:

• Inbound receiving with appointment scheduling and quality checks
• Directed putaway and replenishment based on inventory attributes and demand
• Order picking and packing with task optimization
• Inventory tracking by location, lot, serial number, and status
• Support for cross-docking and flow-through operations

These features support controlled execution across high-volume warehouse environments.

Manufacturing focus

Blue Yonder WMS supports manufacturing operations by connecting warehouse execution with production planning and demand signals. It integrates with manufacturing and ERP systems to align material availability with production schedules.

The system supports material staging and replenishment for production areas. Inventory can be allocated to work orders or production demand. Work-in-process inventory can be tracked as it moves between warehouse and production locations.

Quality controls are enforced through inventory status management. Materials that fail inspection or await approval can be restricted from use. These restrictions apply consistently across warehouse and production supply processes.

Blue Yonder WMS is typically used by manufacturing enterprises that require coordination between warehouse execution, production planning, and supply chain visibility at scale.

Choosing between SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) and Blue Yonder WMS?

Our detailed comparison guide will help you make the right decision.

learn more

Infor WMS

Infor WMS is a software for complex, high-volume operations. It is part of the Infor Supply Chain suite and is commonly deployed in manufacturing, distribution, and third-party logistics environments. The solution supports both cloud and on-premises deployment models.

Infor WMS is often used by manufacturers that require configurable workflows without deep custom development.

Core capabilities

Infor WMS provides detailed control over warehouse execution:

• Inbound and outbound processing with task-based execution
• Inventory tracking by lot, serial number, and container
• Wave, waveless, and order-based picking strategies
• Labor standards and performance measurement
• Dock scheduling and yard visibility

Warehouse activities are driven by configurable rules, which allows consistent execution across shifts and sites.

Manufacturing-oriented capabilities

Infor WMS supports production-driven warehouse processes through integration with Infor ERP and manufacturing modules.

Key manufacturing functions include:

• Material staging to production orders and work centers
• Component issue and return processing
• Handling of Work-in-Process inventory within warehouse-managed areas
• Lot and serial traceability from raw materials through finished goods

These functions help maintain inventory accuracy during production changes, rework, and partial consumption.

Platform characteristics

Infor WMS includes an embedded configuration layer that allows process changes through parameter settings rather than code changes. This approach is commonly used to adapt staging rules, picking logic, or labor standards when production layouts change.

The system also provides role-based dashboards for supervisors to monitor workload, labor utilization, and pending warehouse tasks.

Körber WMS (formerly HighJump)

Körber WMS, previously known as HighJump WMS, is a configurable warehouse management system designed for complex and variable warehouse operations. It is used by manufacturers that require flexible process design and frequent workflow adjustments. The solution supports cloud and private deployment models.

Körber WMS is often selected in environments where warehouse processes evolve alongside production models.

Core capabilities

Körber WMS supports detailed warehouse execution with an emphasis on adaptability:

• Inbound, outbound, and internal movement control
• Inventory management by lot, serial, and license plate
• Task management for picking, putaway, and replenishment
• Support for automation and material handling equipment
• Labor tracking and productivity reporting

Processes are executed through configurable workflows rather than fixed transaction paths.

Manufacturing-oriented capabilities

Körber WMS supports manufacturing supply processes through ERP integration and event-driven workflows.

Manufacturing-related functions include:

• Production order–based material staging
• Just-in-time replenishment to production areas
• Handling of returns, rework, and component substitutions
• Tracking of materials across raw, WIP, and finished states

These capabilities help warehouse teams respond to production changes without manual re-planning.

Configuration and extension model

Körber WMS uses a configuration-first approach that allows business users to adjust workflows, data fields, and task logic. This reduces reliance on custom code when production layouts or staging strategies change.

The platform also supports extensions through APIs, which are commonly used to connect shop floor systems, automation controllers, and reporting tools.

WMS Platforms for Mid-Size Manufacturing Companies

Not all manufacturing operations require enterprise-scale warehouse systems. Medium-sized manufacturers often face a different balance of process complexity, IT resources, and budget constraints.

This makes it important to evaluate WMS platforms that support production-driven warehousing without the overhead of large enterprise deployments.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management (SCM)

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management provides warehouse management capabilities for mid-sized and upper mid-market manufacturers. The system is delivered as a cloud service, and it also integrates tightly with Dynamics 365 Finance and manufacturing modules.

Key capabilities

Dynamics 365 SCM supports structured warehouse operations with a focus on process consistency:

• Advanced warehouse management with license plate tracking
• Wave and batch picking for outbound and internal movements
• Mobile warehouse execution using handheld devices
• Integration with demand planning and production orders
• Built-in support for quality orders and quarantine inventory

The system also supports advanced features such as warehouse work templates and location directives to control task creation and execution.

Manufacturing focus

Dynamics 365 SCM connects warehouse activities directly to production orders. Materials can be staged to production locations based on bill of materials requirements and scheduled order quantities. Consumption and returns are posted against production orders, which keeps inventory levels aligned with shop floor activity.

The system supports quality checks during inbound and production-related movements. It also allows manufacturers to manage Work-in-Process inventory within warehouse-controlled locations, which improves visibility during multi-step production.

NetSuite Warehouse Management System

NetSuite Warehouse Management System is a WMS module within Oracle NetSuite ERP. It is delivered as a cloud-based solution and designed for mid-sized companies with centralized warehouse operations.

The system extends NetSuite inventory management with task-based warehouse execution. It is commonly used by manufacturers seeking a unified ERP and warehouse platform without separate infrastructure.

Key capabilities

NetSuite WMS provides warehouse control through features including:

• Bin-level inventory management and directed putaway
• Mobile RF workflows for picking, packing, and replenishment
• Inventory tracking by lot and serial number
• Cycle counting and inventory adjustments
• Advanced capabilities such as wave picking and order prioritization

These features support structured warehouse processes while remaining lighter than enterprise-grade WMS platforms.

Manufacturing focus

NetSuite WMS supports manufacturing operations through native integration with NetSuite manufacturing and work order management. Materials can be allocated and issued to work orders directly from warehouse locations.

The system tracks inventory movements related to production consumption and finished goods completion. This provides visibility into material usage without separate reconciliation.

Lot tracking supports traceability requirements for regulated or customer-driven manufacturing. Inventory status controls help prevent the release of restricted materials to production or shipment.

Epicor Kinetic (WMS)

Epicor Kinetic is a warehouse management module integrated into the Epicor Kinetic ERP platform. It is a cloud-enabled or on-premises solution designed for mid-sized manufacturers with moderately complex warehouses.

The system emphasizes real-time inventory visibility and integration with production operations, reducing manual tracking and paperwork.

Key capabilities

Epicor Kinetic WMS provides warehouse execution and inventory management features, including:

• Directed putaway and picking with zone and location control
• Mobile device support for RF scanning, counting, and order processing
• Lot, serial, and expiration date tracking
• Task-based replenishment and work order fulfillment
• Advanced functionality such as wave picking, cross-docking, and demand-driven replenishment

These capabilities allow warehouses to coordinate stock movements closely with production and shipping requirements.

Manufacturing focus

Epicor Kinetic WMS is tightly connected to job-based manufacturing processes. Materials are issued directly to jobs, which allows inventory consumption to follow actual production progress. Returns, scrap, and substitutions are recorded against the same job records.

The system supports tracking of Work-in-Process through production operations rather than separate warehouse tasks. This approach fits manufacturers that need clear job costing and material traceability without managing highly automated warehouses.

Aptean WMS

Aptean WMS is a warehouse management system for mid-market manufacturers and distributors. It is offered as part of Aptean’s industry-focused ERP and supply chain solutions. The system supports both cloud and on-premises deployments, depending on the selected Aptean platform.

Key capabilities

Aptean WMS provides structured warehouse operations with a focus on operational control:

• Inbound and outbound warehouse processing
• Inventory tracking by lot, serial number, and location
• Task-based picking, putaway, and replenishment
• Barcode scanning and mobile execution
• Basic labor tracking and performance visibility

The system emphasizes configurable workflows that align with industry-specific requirements.

Manufacturing focus

Aptean WMS supports manufacturing supply processes through work order integration. Materials are staged and issued based on production requirements defined in the ERP. Finished goods and by-products are received back into inventory with traceability preserved.

The system handles rework and returns within standard warehouse processes. This makes it suitable for manufacturers with stable production flows that still require control over lot tracking and material status changes.

Warehouse Management Systems for Small and Growing Manufacturers

Smaller manufacturers face a different starting point. Many of them often manage warehouse and production processes manually or with spreadsheets. At this stage, WMS requirements focus on simplicity, visibility, and operational control without unnecessary complexity.

The following tools are commonly selected by SMB manufacturers.

Odoo Inventory

Odoo Inventory is part of the Odoo ERP suite and targets small manufacturers that want basic warehouse control within a single system. It supports barcode-based receiving, internal transfers, and picking through a web and mobile interface. The module integrates directly with Odoo Manufacturing and Odoo Accounting, which allows stock movements to update work orders and financial records without manual reconciliation.

Fishbowl Inventory

Fishbowl Inventory is a standalone inventory and warehouse system commonly used by small manufacturers. It supports bin-level tracking, order management, and production work order processing. Also, Fishbowl offers mobile-friendly interfaces for shop floor staff to manage picking, receiving, and cycle counts. The solution is commonly adopted by manufacturers who need structured inventory control without the complexity of enterprise platforms.

Katana MRP

Katana MRP is a cloud-based production and inventory system designed for small manufacturers with simple production flows. It provides real-time inventory visibility tied to production orders and sales orders. Katana integrates with accounting platforms such as QuickBooks and Xero, which allows inventory consumption and finished goods to be reflected in financial reports with minimal setup.

Is it Really Worth it? Comparing Standard and Manufacturing WMS

Manufacturing-focused WMS platforms are often seen as heavier choices. They require tighter system integration, longer implementation timelines, and higher upfront effort. These concerns are valid and are usually visible early in the project.

Generic WMS tools reduce initial setup effort, but they shift complexity into daily operations. In manufacturing, those trade-offs appear as manual corrections, delayed production supply, and limited visibility once materials leave standard storage.

The following grey zones explain where standard logistics-oriented WMS solutions typically fall short in factory environments.

Inventory focus

Standard WMS platforms treat inventory as static stock stored in locations. Manufacturing requires inventory to change state as it moves through production. Raw material, WIP, and finished goods carry different rules, and a system must track these changes without manual reclassification.

Replenishment

In a generic WMS, replenishment is driven by warehouse thresholds or outbound demand. In manufacturing, replenishment must follow production schedules, order priorities, and line-side consumption rates. When this link is missing, warehouse teams rely on manual signals from the shop floor.

Traceability

Manufacturing traceability goes beyond inbound and outbound movements. It requires tracking which batch or serial was consumed by which production order. Standard WMS often record inventory history, but they do not link material usage to production execution in a usable way.

Work-in-process visibility

Many logistics-focused WMS tools lose visibility once materials are issued to production. Manufacturing environments need to know where WIP is, what operation it belongs to, and what quantity remains. Without this, production planning relies on estimates rather than confirmed data.

Production staging

Production staging is not the same as outbound picking. Materials must arrive in the right sequence, at the right location, and at the right time. Standard WMS solutions usually support staging as a warehouse task, not as a production-driven process.

Exception handling

Production changes are common. Orders are split, components are substituted, and rework is introduced. Manufacturing WMS platforms are built to record these changes within standard processes. Generic systems often handle them as manual adjustments.

Data ownership between systems

In manufacturing, warehouses and production share responsibility for the same materials. A manufacturing WMS defines clear system ownership for quantity, status, and consumption. Without this clarity, mismatches appear between ERP, WMS, and shop floor systems.

How to Choose the Right Warehouse Management Service Partner for Your Business in 2026

Choosing a WMS is not just a software decision. It is a decision about how tightly your warehouse should work with production, planning, and quality processes. The more manufacturing-driven your operations are, the more visible system gaps become after go-live.

This is where the role of a service partner matters. A reliable partner helps you define what type of WMS you actually need before talking about platforms, licenses, or timelines. The goal is not to adopt the most complex system, but the one that fits your production reality.

Start with the right questions

Before selecting a WMS, it is important to assess your current and future setup. These questions usually expose the real requirements:

Clear answers help narrow the solution space. They also prevent over-investing in features that will never be used.

Just as important, they align expectations between IT teams and shop floor users. Many WMS implementations fail because operational realities were never fully considered, not because of software defects. Early involvement of warehouse supervisors and production planners reduces this risk and improves adoption after go-live.

Why the partner matters as much as the platform

Even a well-chosen WMS can fail if it is implemented as a warehouse-only system. Manufacturing environments require coordination across production, quality, inventory, and planning. A service partner must understand how these areas interact in real operations.

LeverX works with manufacturers to analyze warehouse processes in the context of production goals and system landscapes. This includes reviewing material flows, production supply logic, data ownership, and future automation plans. The outcome is a solution design that reflects how the factory actually runs.

Our experience is built on practical delivery. Recent projects include:

• Rolling out a global SAP EWM template across three continents for an industrial manufacturing group
• Migrating SAP WM to SAP EWM as part of an S/4HANA transition for a chemical manufacturer, with a focus on batch handling and compliance
• And other success stories.

Bottom Line

Manufacturing WMS platforms are not about warehouse efficiency alone. They define how materials move through production, how accurately inventory reflects reality, and how well systems support change.

Choosing the right partner helps ensure that early design decisions support long-term operations. A structured assessment reduces risk and clarifies where investment brings real operational value.

If you want to evaluate your warehouse setup and understand which WMS approach fits your manufacturing model, book a warehouse assessment with LeverX.

Our experts will review your processes, system landscape, and growth plans, and help define a clear next step.