Work Order: Definition, Functions, Types, and How to Create One

To ensure warehouse management runs smoothly, there is a document specifically designed to regulate warehouse staff activities known as a work order. A work order plays an important role in warehouse management efficiency, which is why it needs to be properly created and managed. Therefore, it is essential to understand work orders in greater depth.

Definition of Work Order in Warehouse Management

A work order, also known as a job order, in warehouse management is a formal document or instruction issued to carry out specific tasks or operations within the warehouse. Generally, a work order contains detailed information about the tasks to be completed, including the stock items that need to be processed, stored, moved, or retrieved from storage areas.

Functions of a Work Order

As mentioned above, implementing a work order serves several functions to ensure warehouse management runs effectively and efficiently. Below are some key functions of a work order:

1. Regulating Warehouse Operations

A work order document serves as a guide for warehouse staff to carry out inventory management processes, from goods receipt, storage, picking, packing, to shipping.

2. Monitoring Work Progress

In addition to managing warehouse tasks, a work order also functions as a tool to monitor the progress of inventory management activities and ensure that tasks are completed accurately and on time.

3. Documentation

A work order also serves as documentation for all activities related to inventory management in the warehouse. This is crucial for companies to monitor and improve visibility in warehouse operations.

How to Create a Work Order

To create an effective work order, companies need to understand warehouse management requirements and the type of orders received. Additionally, several key pieces of information must be included in a work order. Below are the steps to create a warehouse work order:

1. Work Order Number

A unique number assigned to identify the work order. This number makes tracking and referencing in the system easier.

2. Date and Time

The work order document should include the creation date as well as the due date for completing the inventory management task.

3. Job Description

A detailed explanation of specific warehouse management processes that must be performed, such as inbound processes, putaway, picking, packing, and shipping.

4. Priority

To ensure each task is completed efficiently and on time, the work order usually includes information about job priority, allowing staff to work based on urgency.

5. Stock Items Involved

Inventory information in the work order includes details such as SKU, quantity required, and storage location within the warehouse.

6. Work Order Assignee

The document includes information about the person responsible for completing the assigned task in the work order.

7. Required Equipment

Detailed information on the equipment needed to complete the task, such as forklifts, barcode scanners, or packing tools that support warehouse management activities.

8. Work Order Status

A work order also includes the job status, such as “open,” “in progress,” or “completed.” It may also contain additional notes on the final results, including any issues encountered during the process.

Types of Work Orders in Warehouse Management

There are several types of work orders commonly used in company warehouse management, including:

1. Inbound Work Order: Instructions for managing incoming stock from suppliers, verifying quantities and quality, and assigning appropriate storage areas in the warehouse.

2. Putaway Work Order: Instructions to place newly received stock into designated storage locations based on the warehouse layout.

3. Picking Work Order: A set of instructions to retrieve stock from storage locations according to customer orders.

4. Packing Work Order: Instructions for packaging the picked stock according to customer orders, ensuring items are ready for shipment.

5. Outbound Work Order: Instructions for organizing the shipment of stock to final destinations, such as customers or other warehouse locations.

6. Replenishment Work Order: Instructions to restock warehouse inventory to avoid shortages.

Automated Warehouse Work Orders with Prieds WMS

To ensure optimal warehouse management, companies need to create and maintain work orders. The purpose of using this document is to monitor inventory management activities and record work documentation, allowing companies to easily track performance.

Through the implementation of a Warehouse Management System (WMS), work orders can be automatically generated after customer orders are received.

As a company that provides WMS solutions, Prieds offers configurable technology tailored to company needs to optimize warehouse management and automate work order creation through hardware and software integration.

Various features of Prieds WMS can help companies manage warehouse work orders efficiently and accurately.

Learn more about managing work orders using WMS through a consultation with our expert team. Get software equipped with complete features, top-notch security, and user-friendly functionality tailored to your company’s needs with Prieds.