What You Need to Know Before Migrating Inventory to a New ERP/WMS System

Migrating your inventory to a new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) or WMS (Warehouse Management System) is a major decision that can bring significant operational benefits. However, the process itself can be complex and challenging. At THINK Inventory Solutions, we understand the intricacies of this migration and have helped numerous businesses streamline their operations through successful system transitions. Here are the critical things you need to consider before migrating your inventory to a new ERP or WMS system.

Understand Your Business Needs
Before choosing and migrating to a new system, it’s essential to assess your current business processes and future goals. Ask yourself:

• What challenges are you facing with your current system?
• What are your goals for the new ERP or WMS system?
• Which features are non-negotiable for your industry (e.g., compliance, scalability, reporting)?

Once you have clear objectives, you can select a system that aligns with your business needs, ensuring the migration is beneficial in the long term.

Data Accuracy and Cleansing
Inventory migration involves moving large amounts of data from your existing system to the new one. Ensuring that this data is accurate, clean, and up to date is crucial. Data discrepancies, such as incorrect stock levels or outdated product information, can lead to serious operational inefficiencies after migration.

Best Practices:

• Conduct a full audit of your current inventory.
• Clean up any outdated or inaccurate information.
• Identify and fix inconsistencies in stock levels, product descriptions, and classifications.
• Eliminate obsolete items or SKUs before migration.

Ensure Compatibility
One of the most critical factors to consider before migrating inventory is ensuring that the new system is compatible with your existing infrastructure. This includes hardware, software, and other systems, such as accounting or eCommerce platforms. A lack of compatibility can lead to costly delays and disruptions in operations.

Questions to Ask:

• Will the new WMS integrate seamlessly with other key systems such as your ERP, CRM, or eCommerce platforms?
• Do you need custom development to ensure smooth data flow between systems? 

Working with an experienced WMS provider like THINK ensures that your new system will integrate smoothly with your existing tools and technologies.

Staff Training and Adoption
Even the most advanced WMS or ERP system is only as good as the team using it. Migrating to a new system often requires significant changes in daily workflows, so your staff will need proper training to fully leverage the new system’s capabilities.

Action Plan:

• Plan for a comprehensive training program before and after the system goes live.
• Designate team members to act as “super users” who can support others during the transition.
• Communicate the benefits of the new system to your team to ensure smooth adoption and minimize resistance to change.

Testing and Pilot Runs
Before fully transitioning to your new ERP/WMS, it’s important to run thorough tests and pilot programs. This helps identify any potential issues before full-scale implementation, giving you time to adjust and fix errors.

Steps to Follow:

• Conduct a series of pilot runs with small portions of your inventory to test the system’s capabilities.
• Test all key functionalities such as order fulfilment, stock tracking, and reporting.
• Involve staff during pilot testing to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments.

Minimise Downtime During Migration
A smooth migration should minimise disruption to your daily operations. Planning and scheduling the migration during periods of low activity can help reduce the risk of delays and downtime.

Tips:

• Schedule the migration during a slow period to minimize operational disruptions.
• Ensure that you have backup plans in place in case of unexpected downtime.
• Partner with an experienced migration team, like THINK, to minimise potential risks.

Compliance and Security
If you’re operating in a highly regulated industry like pharmaceuticals or food and beverage, ensuring that your new ERP/WMS meets compliance standards is crucial. In addition, protecting your data during the migration process should be a top priority.

Considerations:

• Ensure that the new system complies with industry regulations such as FDA, MHRA, or ISO standards.
• Work with your IT team and the WMS provider to ensure secure data transfer protocols are in place. 

Plan for Continuous Support
The migration doesn’t end when the system goes live. It’s essential to plan for post-migration support to address any issues that arise and ensure your team is fully comfortable with the new system. Ongoing maintenance, updates, and system optimisation are also crucial for long-term success.

Solutions:

• Choose a provider that offers **post-migration support** and regular updates.
• Schedule periodic reviews to evaluate system performance and make necessary adjustments.

Conclusion
Migrating your inventory to a new ERP or WMS system is a big step, but with proper planning and the right partner, it can be a smooth and rewarding process. At THINK Inventory Solutions, we offer tailored WMS migration services that ensure minimal disruption and maximum efficiency for your business. From data cleansing to seamless integration and ongoing support, we help you every step of the way.

Are you worried that a warehouse management solution will be too expensive, or that you will be trapped in a long contract? To arrange a demo or discuss your requirements, give THINK a call on 0330 350 0715, email enquiries@tkinv.com or complete the Quick Quote form below. We can work with your business to help save you money and drive down costs.