Putaway
Quick answer
The process of storing received goods in optimal locations immediately after receipt.
Key takeaways
- Fixed location - each SKU has a fixed slot
- Random / dynamic - the system picks the optimal free location in real time
- Zone-based - by rotation zones (fast/slow) or temperature
What putaway is
Putaway is the process of moving received goods from the receiving area into optimal storage locations. A good putaway strategy shortens later picking times and maximises space utilisation.
Putaway strategies
- Fixed location - each SKU has a fixed slot
- Random / dynamic - the system picks the optimal free location in real time
- Zone-based - by rotation zones (fast/slow) or temperature
Why it matters
Placing fast movers close to the shipping area dramatically cuts picking distance. Chaotic putaway ('wherever there's room') raises the cost of every later order.
How CRMconnect helps
The CRMconnect WMS suggests the optimal putaway location based on SKU rotation, dimensions and storage rules (batch, expiry, temperature), confirmed by scanning - book stock becomes accurate in real time.
Real-world example
An FMCG distributor used fixed putaway with 40% of prime locations occupied by slow movers. With CRMconnect dynamic putaway based on rotation, fast movers reached the golden zone and average picking time dropped 22%.
Last updated:
Frequently asked
Difference between receiving and putaway?+
Receiving confirms what goods arrived (quantity, batch, quality). Putaway is the next step: physically moving goods into storage locations and recording the location in the WMS.
Fixed or dynamic putaway?+
Fixed is simple but wastes space. Dynamic (WMS picks the location) maximises utilisation and places fast movers optimally, but needs disciplined scanning. Most modern warehouses use dynamic.
How does putaway affect stock accuracy?+
If the location isn't scanned/recorded at putaway, stock becomes 'lost' in the warehouse. The WMS links each unit to an exact location, maintaining accuracy.
Where CRMconnect fits
Related terms
Goods receipt
The process of checking and recording goods entering the warehouse, matched against the purchase order and delivery note.
LogisticsWMS (Warehouse Management System)
The system orchestrating physical warehouse operations: receiving, putaway, picking, packing, shipping.
LogisticsSlotting
Strategically assigning products to warehouse locations based on rotation, size and affinity to minimise picking effort.
LogisticsBin location
The unique physical address of a storage slot (aisle-rack-level-position), the foundation of warehouse organisation.