Introduction

In the intricate and fast-paced world of global shipping logistics, mastering Warehouse Management & Inventory Control is absolutely critical for businesses aiming to optimize operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. This essential training course is meticulously designed to equip warehouse managers, logistics professionals, supply chain planners, inventory controllers, operations supervisors, and distribution center personnel with the specialized knowledge and practical skills required for optimizing storage, inventory accuracy, and flow of goods within maritime logistics. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of modern warehouse design principles, efficient inventory management techniques (including cycle counting and ABC analysis), advanced material handling equipment, and the strategic application of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) to streamline processes and maximize throughput. Our rigorous curriculum emphasizes hands-on application, industry best practices, and real-world case studies pertinent to complex shipping logistics scenarios, empowering you to transform your warehousing operations into a strategic asset.

This logistics inventory optimization course is crucial for individuals and organizations striving to move beyond traditional warehousing towards a proactive, data-driven approach to managing the heart of their supply chain. Mastering warehouse layout optimization, implementing effective inventory accuracy programs, and understanding strategies for leveraging WMS for operational excellence are indispensable for minimizing carrying costs, reducing stockouts, improving order fulfillment rates, and ensuring seamless integration with broader shipping and distribution networks. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your expertise in strategic warehouse operations and inventory control solutions, positioning your organization at the forefront of supply chain innovation and driving significant long-term value creation through enhanced efficiency, reduced waste, and superior service delivery.

Target Audience

• Warehouse Managers & Supervisors
• Logistics Managers & Directors
• Supply Chain Planners & Analysts
• Inventory Controllers & Specialists
• Distribution Center Managers
• Operations Supervisors in Shipping & Freight Forwarding
• Production & Manufacturing Planners (with warehousing oversight)

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles of warehouse management and its strategic role in shipping logistics.
• Learn about the key aspects of efficient warehouse design and layout optimization.
• Master various inventory control techniques and their application for accuracy and efficiency.
• Develop proficiency in utilizing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) for operational excellence.
• Explore best practices for receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and dispatch operations.
• Understand the critical role of material handling equipment and automation in modern warehouses.
• Learn about robust strategies for optimizing warehouse space utilization.
• Identify the critical aspects of safety, security, and compliance in warehouse operations.
• Develop skills in measuring and analyzing warehouse performance using key KPIs.
• Understand the implications of technology (e.g., IoT, AI) on future warehouse management.
• Explore strategies for integrating warehouse operations with transportation and port logistics.
• Drive the implementation of a comprehensive warehouse management and inventory control framework.
• Position yourself as a leader in optimizing storage, inventory accuracy, and the flow of goods within maritime logistics.

Duration

10 Days

Course Content

Module 1. Introduction to Warehouse Management & Logistics

• Defining warehouse management and its vital role in the supply chain
• The importance of efficient warehousing for shipping and logistics
• Types of warehouses and their functions (e.g., distribution centers, cross-docking, bonded warehouses)
• Key challenges and opportunities in modern warehousing
• Strategic contribution of warehouse operations to business success

Module 2. Warehouse Design & Layout Optimization

• Principles of effective warehouse layout: flow, space utilization, accessibility
• Designing receiving, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch areas
• Factors influencing layout decisions: product characteristics, volume, equipment
• Space utilization techniques: vertical storage, narrow aisle, mezzanines
• Future trends in warehouse design: modularity, flexibility

Module 3. Inventory Control & Management Techniques

• Types of inventory and their costs (carrying costs, ordering costs, stockout costs)
• Inventory accuracy methodologies: cycle counting, physical inventory
• ABC analysis and Pareto principle for inventory categorization
• Demand forecasting basics for inventory planning
• Safety stock calculation and reorder points

Module 4. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) & Technology

• Functions of a WMS: receiving, put-away, picking, shipping, inventory tracking
• Benefits of implementing a WMS: efficiency, accuracy, visibility
• Integration of WMS with ERP, TMS, and other supply chain systems
• Selection and implementation considerations for WMS
• Cloud-based WMS solutions and their advantages

Module 5. Receiving & Put-away Operations

• Best practices for efficient inbound logistics and receiving processes
• Quality inspection and verification of incoming goods
• Palletizing and unit load formation
• Put-away strategies: random vs. fixed slotting, closest open location
• Cross-docking operations and their benefits

Module 6. Picking & Packing Strategies

• Different picking methodologies: discrete, batch, zone, wave picking
• Order picking technologies: pick-to-light, voice picking, RFID, robotics
• Optimizing picking routes and sequences for efficiency
• Principles of effective packing for shipping: protection, cube utilization
• Custom packaging solutions for fragile or oversized items

Module 7. Material Handling Equipment & Automation

• Types of material handling equipment (MHE): forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyors, AS/RS
• Selection of appropriate MHE based on warehouse type and operations
• Principles of automation in warehousing: robotics, AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles)
• Benefits and challenges of warehouse automation
• Safety considerations for MHE operation

Module 8. Shipping & Dispatch Operations

• Staging, loading, and consolidation of outgoing shipments
• Freight calculation and carrier selection
• Bill of Lading (BOL) and other shipping documentation
• Yard management and dock scheduling for efficient loading
• Last-mile delivery considerations and integration

Module 9. Warehouse Space Utilization Optimization

• Calculating and maximizing warehouse capacity
• Vertical space utilization techniques: high-bay racking, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS)
• Aisles and layout optimization for efficient movement
• Seasonal inventory management and overflow strategies
• Pallet rack configurations and their impact on space

Module 10. Performance Measurement & KPIs in Warehousing

• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for warehouse operations: inventory accuracy, order fulfillment rate, put-away time
• Labor productivity metrics: lines picked per hour, cases shipped per person
• Measuring storage efficiency: cube utilization, storage cost per unit
• Analyzing warehouse costs and identifying areas for reduction
• Continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) in warehousing

Module 11. Safety, Security & Compliance in Warehousing

• Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) regulations for warehouses
• Fire safety and emergency preparedness plans
• Warehouse security measures: access control, surveillance, anti-theft
• Compliance with dangerous goods storage regulations
• Environmental regulations for waste disposal and energy consumption

Module 12. Technology Trends in Warehouse Management

• Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time inventory tracking and asset monitoring
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for demand forecasting and optimization
• Robotics and autonomous systems in warehousing
• Big data analytics for operational insights and predictive maintenance
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) for training and operations

Module 13. Integration with Shipping & Port Logistics

• Seamless flow of goods between warehouse, port, and transportation
• Understanding port terminal operations and their impact on warehousing
• Optimizing drayage and intermodal connections
• Customs procedures and bonded warehousing considerations
• Collaboration with freight forwarders and shipping lines for end-to-end efficiency

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre.

We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.