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Warehousing never stands still. Volumes shift, priorities change, and customers expect information and execution that is both fast and reliable. Traditional Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)—fixed, linear, and difficult to adjust—often struggle to keep pace with this level of variability. At Katoen Natie, we’ve moved beyond static processes to a rules-based approach in our Warehouse Management System (WMS). These smart rules translate business logic into clear, consistent actions—helping operations run smoothly even when circumstances change.

Why Smart Rules Matter

A flexible, rule-driven WMS brings structure without rigidity. It enables teams to work predictably and efficiently, while still adapting to new information and operational realities. Here’s what that means in practice:

• Faster decisions, less manual work: Routine checks and validations happen automatically, reducing delays and freeing teams to focus on value-adding tasks.
• Consistency across sites and shifts: The same inputs trigger the same outcomes, creating predictable and auditable processes.
• Adaptability without disruption: When customer needs or priorities shift, rules can be adjusted without redesigning entire workflows.
• Fewer exceptions: Automation handles the standard work; operators focus on the situations where human judgment matters most.

How Our Rule-Based System Works

Our WMS uses a layered decision model to determine what needs to happen and when. These layers guide key operational areas: Process Rules: Define which steps apply to which flows (e.g., inbound, outbound, VAS), ensuring work is executed in the correct sequence. Timing Rules: Calculate target moments—such as staging or loading times—based on commitments, constraints, and planning inputs. Document Rules: Generate and distribute the right documents automatically at the right moment, reducing guesswork and manual intervention. Routing Rules: Recommend the most suitable carrier or route based on service levels, geography, transit times, and constraints. Once the rules are configured, the system evaluates priorities and conditions whenever work is released. Tasks are then assigned to the right team, workstation, or process step—keeping operations coordinated and reducing idle time.

What This Means for Our Customers

A rule-driven WMS creates a more stable and predictable operational environment:

• Clear guidance for teams: Operators always know the next correct action.
• Faster adjustments: Operational changes can be implemented through configuration—not custom development.
• Improved partner experience: Carriers and customers receive accurate, timely information.
• Balanced automation: The system handles repetitive steps so people can focus where expertise is needed.

The Bottom Line

Smart rules turn operational complexity into clear, manageable workflows. They don’t replace people—they empower them. By combining automation with operational control, we provide a warehouse environment that is scalable, reliable, and adaptable across industries, markets, and customer requirements. Speak with an expert today to learn how we can make the difference in your supply chain

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.  

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.

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:

• SKU dimensions are relatively small and uniform
• High picking volumes that justify the automation investment
• Warehouse space is constrained
• Labor availability is limited

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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
• Trays are height-sensitive: A single tall item on a tray affects the total storage capacity, so correct SKU placement is key
• 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.