26.06.25

Smart Steering for Smarter Warehousing

How a New Generation of Warehouse Control Systems Is Powering Efficiency

As operations grow more complex, traditional Warehouse Control Systems (WCS) are reaching their limits. At Katoen Natie, we’re embracing the next generation of WCS—an intelligent, modular platform built to streamline workflows, reduce inefficiencies, and empower operators through intelligent task steering.

From Task Lists to Intelligent Steering

Unlike conventional systems that rely on static task lists, our advanced WCS introduces smart steering: a dynamic method of assigning tasks based on real-time data, operator roles, and operational priorities. Instead of choosing tasks manually, operators are guided through a shared pool of work—receiving clear instructions, one at a time, tailored to their specific role. This ensures that movements are optimized, equipment is used efficiently, and idle time is reduced. Whether handling replenishment, picking, or cycle counting, every task is part of a streamlined, intelligent flow.

A standout feature is the automated workload balancing: the WCS constantly evaluates how tasks are distributed across operators, zones, and machinery—maximizing output while avoiding bottlenecks. This WCS doesn’t generate work—it orchestrates it. The system’s logic is role-based, Reachers reach. Pickers pick. Team leaders gain full visibility of progress and performance, allowing them to shift resources or reprioritize tasks with minimal disruption. This results in less empty driving, more productive time, and a safer, more structured workflow.

Why It Matters

  • Efficiency Gains: Task combinations reduce walking and driving distances, boosting overall productivity.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Simple design makes the system easy to adopt with minimal operator training.
  • Scalable by Design: Modular structure allows new features—like batch picking, returns handling, and advanced receiving—to be rolled out as needed.
  • Improved Safety and Accuracy: Structured flows help reduce human error and improve workplace safety.
  • Real-Time Visibility: Full tracking and live dashboards offer performance insights for continuous improvement.

Real Results on the Floor

Already implemented across multiple customer platforms, this WCS has delivered measurable improvements. Sites have seen a notable increase in combined moves, reduced empty drive time, and consistent productivity gains. It’s not just theory—it’s tested and proven in real operational environments.

Future Focus

This WCS is more than a workflow tool—it’s a foundation for the future of logistics operations. With upcoming modules such as TRI-sorter integration, enhanced receiving, and assembly flows, it is evolving to meet tomorrow’s warehousing needs.

Experience the difference with Katoen Natie’s IT services. Speak with an expert today to learn more about how we can support your business needs.

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  • 17.10.25
    Effortless Document Sharing for Modern Supply Chains
    Logistics runs on information — and documents are a big part of that story. Getting them where they need to go, instantly and reliably, keeps everything else moving. Customers, carriers, and authorities expect immediate access to the right documents, in the right format. At Katoen Natie, we’ve reimagined how documents move through the supply chain, making it easy to share information, eliminate paper, and keep operations running smoothly.

    Simplifying Document Management

    Our document sharing solutions ensure all critical information — from packing lists and invoices to customs declarations and labels — flows seamlessly between all stakeholders. Here’s how we make it work for you:
    • Flexible document intake: Upload documents directly, connect your systems via API, or integrate with existing tools. We adapt to your workflow, not the other way around.
    • Centralized access: All documents are stored securely in one place and linked to their corresponding orders — no more digging through folders or email chains.
    • Automated sharing: Distribute packing lists, delivery notes, or invoices automatically to customers, carriers, or customs authorities through secure digital channels.
    • Connected delivery: Our platform supports multiple connection options — including API, email, and other secure integrations — so your partners receive what they need, exactly when they need it.
    • Digital access anywhere: Using tools like Twintag, a simple QR scan on a parcel or pallet gives authorized users instant, secure access to all relevant documents.

    How It Works in Practice

    Once your documents are in our system, our platform automatically routes them to the right recipients — whether that’s a carrier, customs office, or end customer — based on your preferences. This eliminates manual handling, reduces delays, and ensures compliance across your entire supply chain.

    The Result: Simplicity, Accuracy, and Speed

    By streamlining document management, you’ll experience:
    • Faster setup and smoother operations: Your documents are always where they need to be.
    • Fewer mistakes and delays: Automatic delivery reduces lost documents and manual follow-up.
    • Happier partners and customers: Everyone receives the correct documents on time, maintaining flow and trust across the supply chain.

    From Chaos to Clarity

    At Katoen Natie, our document storage and exchange solutions combine automation, accessibility, and security — giving you full visibility and control over every document that drives your logistics process. Ready to simplify document management? Let’s talk about how we can help your business deliver faster, smarter, and with total confidence — no matter how complex your supply chain.  
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  • 10.09.25
    Unlocking Operational Excellence: APIs as the Backbone of Supply Chains

    Today’s supply chains run on speed, transparency, and agility. APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are at the heart of this, connecting your systems directly with our warehouse operations.

    APIs act as bridges between systems, enabling real-time data exchange across warehousing and transport. Orders can be updated instantly, inbound shipments confirmed on arrival, and inventory kept accurate with automatic notifications when changes occur. This seamless flow of information helps teams respond quickly, reduce errors, and keep customers informed without the back-and-forth.

    At Katoen Natie, we’ve expanded our API program. The result? Our customers enjoy more control, faster responses, and less manual work—helping them deliver on their promises, even when the unexpected happens.

    What Our APIs Offer

    Our API portfolio covers every critical aspect of warehouse and supply chain integration, giving you the tools to connect, automate, and optimize your operations:

    • Orders – Update or cancel order lines instantly.

    • Inbound – Receive confirmations and live updates on arriving goods.

    • Inventory & Stock – Access real-time stock levels, lot numbers, and country of origin.

    • Stock Adjustments – View and track corrections immediately.

    • Notifications – Get alerts when something changes, with the option to retrigger missed messages.

    Our APIs are designed to be intuitive and reliable, supporting everything from day-to-day transactions to exception handling—so your teams can focus on what matters most..

    Built for People, Not Just Systems

    Technology should support people, not complicate their work. That’s why our APIs are:

    • Supported by a developer portal and safe test environment.

    • Backed with clear documentation and examples to speed up setup.

    • Maintained with structured updates to ensure stability as new features are added.

    For non-technical users, the impact is simple: fewer emails, fewer delays, and more focus on customers.

    Reliable by Design

    Our APIs are secure, stable, and supported — even during peak periods. Customers already using them see tangible benefits:

    • Real-time updates enabling faster decisions.

    • Reduced manual work through automated workflows.

    • Greater agility to handle last-minute changes.

    The result is stronger service levels and a more competitive supply chain.

    Ready to Build Smarter?

    As logistics evolves, APIs are more than a technical tool — they are the foundation of connected supply chains. At Katoen Natie, our API program reflects our commitment to long-term partnerships, helping customers adapt quickly and deliver with confidence.

    Speak with an expert to explore our API portal and sandbox environment to start integrating today.

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  • 31.07.25
    Maximizing Warehouse Efficiency with Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)
    As supply chains evolve and warehouse space becomes increasingly valuable, making the most of available warehouse space while improving picking performance is essential. One solution that’s gaining traction? Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) — a smart automation system that optimizes both floor space and productivity.

    What Are VLMs — and Why Do They Matter?

    A Vertical Lift Module is an automated vertical storage system that stores items in trays and retrieves them via an internal lift. It brings the item directly to the operator, reducing walking time and improving overall picking efficiency.

    Key Benefits of VLMs:

    • Space Optimization: VLMs use vertical space rather than horizontal shelving, freeing up valuable floor area and enabling higher density storage.
    • Enhanced Picking Accuracy: Items can be pinpointed using a combination of visual aids like laser pointers or display screens, guiding the operator to the exact product location.
    • Faster Picking Speeds : Operators have considerably reduced walking distances using VLMs compared to traditional aisle picking. By reducing these walking distances, VLMs speed up picking operations. Multiple VLMs per operator can further reduce wait times during peak activity.
    • Improved Security & Inventory Control : Access to the VLM can be restricted and tracked — making it a reliable solution for sensitive or high-value inventory.

    When Are VLMs A Good Fit?

    VLMs are best suited for operations where:
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    • High picking volumes that justify the automation investment
    • Warehouse space is constrained
    • Labor availability is limited
    [video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://www.katoennatie.com/app/uploads/sites/8/2025/07/VLM-v3.mp4"][/video]

    A Few Considerations Before You Automate

    While VLMs offer numerous advantages, they aren’t a perfect match for every logistics operation and are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are a few potential challenges to keep in mind:
    • Not ideal for oversized or irregularly shaped items
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    • Downtime risk: Storing 100% of a product in just one VLM could pose an issue if the system becomes temporarily unavailable

    Making the Right Call: Data-Driven Feasibility

    VLMs should be seen as part of a broader warehouse automation strategy. At Katoen Natie, we approach each case with a data-driven feasibility study, ensuring our customers get the right mix of technologies and storage solutions for their needs.   Interested in exploring automated storage solutions? Let’s start the conversation with an expert and co-create the warehouse setup that supports your business needs.
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  • 15.05.25
    Transforming IT Customer Delivery: Key Elements for Exceptional Service
    Strong IT services aren’t just about technology—they’re about delivering value, clarity, and partnership. At Katoen Natie, we take pride in how we support our customers with reliable, transparent, and tailored IT delivery. Whether it’s supporting daily operations or rolling out new systems, we work with a clear focus: delivering results that matter to our customers. Here are the key elements that set our IT customer delivery apart:

    • Listening to Customer Needs 

    Every successful IT project begins with understanding.  We actively listen to our clients, through regular check-ins, surveys, and feedback sessions. Together with the Key Account Manager  (KAM) we make sure customer needs are captured early and revisited often. Open communication loops and prompt follow up help us stay aligned throughout the project lifecycle. The result? Customers feel heard, supported, and confident in how we respond to their evolving needs.

    • Expertise and Experience

    Behind every delivery is a team of experienced IT professionals who understand both technology and the logistics sector. We build and maintain this expertise through:
      • Clear ownership of tools and systems via dedicated product owners
      • Continuous improvement through feedback and lessons learned
      • A strong track record of successful, real-world implementations
    This approach allows us to deliver smart, scalable, and future-ready solutions—with the know-how to support them long after go-live.

    • Progress visibility

    Transparency is central to how we work. Throughout every implementation or change request, we keep our customers informed with:
      • Regular progress updates
      • Clear timelines and scope definitions
      • Open reporting on milestones and blockers
    This visibility helps manage expectations, reduce surprises, and build mutual trust throughout the IT project lifecycle.

    • On time, on target

    Delivering services on time and within budget is critical to maintaining customer trust. We prioritize efficient project management, resource allocation, and risk mitigation to ensure timely and high-quality delivery. Adhering to agreed-upon timelines and maintaining high standards are essential for successful outcomes.

    • Transparent Budgeting and Value-Driven Delivery

    We understand the importance of staying within budget. Our transparent budgeting practices are clear, proactive, and managed in collaboration with internal stakeholders and our customers. This approach helps us:
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    Our Commitment to IT Service Excellence

    At Katoen Natie, IT delivery isn’t a one-off task—it’s an ongoing partnership built on communication, clarity, and results. By focusing on key elements of transparency, expertise, and customer collaboration, we aim to deliver solutions that not only meet expectations but consistently exceed them. Experience the difference with Katoen Natie's IT services. Speak with an expert today to learn more about how we can support your business needs.
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