With a high volume of orders and a small warehouse team, James Enterprise needed a solution to optimize procedures, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs while continuing to fulfill customer orders. By integrating ShipHero’s WMS, they successfully addressed these challenges and realized significant gains in productivity and cost efficiency.
From Regulatory Hurdles to Operational Overhaul
James Enterprise, previously the main distributor for Berky Water Filtration, encountered a significant challenge in late 2022 when its primary brand faced regulatory issues with the EPA. In response, James Enterprise launched its own brand, Boroux.com, and quickly expanded operations to handle 300,000 orders annually across multiple distribution centers.
Before implementing ShipHero, James Enterprise used Skubana, a system plagued with inefficiencies such as batch processing, error-prone paper pick tickets, and latency issues. They needed a robust WMS to support a seamless transition to paperless operations, optimize warehouse layout, and provide intelligent pick paths to boost order fulfillment speed.
Implementing ShipHero
One of the most significant changes was transitioning to paperless operations. Combining tablets and scanners with user-friendly interfaces reduced errors and bolstered worker confidence in order picking. Matt Candrian, James Enterprise VP of Operations, noted, “ShipHero’s intuitive interface and automation rules allow us to reduce errors, save time, and manage our operations more efficiently.”
The warehouse layout was reorganized to minimize walking distances, resulting in faster order picking. ShipHero’s intelligent slotting and inventory bin system introduced efficient pick paths, further streamlining the picking process.
Using sales data and forecasting from their ShipHero WMS, James Enterprise employees set up stations and pre-pack orders, preparing them in advance so that only labels need to be attached later. It took a lot of work to keep up during busy periods, especially when each order had to be picked and packed individually. However, the process has significantly improved the efficiency of bulk shipping during busy times.
“On day 1, a new picker processed 27 orders at 55 seconds per order, and by day 5, they were picking 200 orders at 34 seconds per order. This kind of efficiency was unprecedented for us.” – Matt Candrian, James Enterprise VP of Operations.
Achieving Operational Excellence
The new warehouse employees quickly improved their picking speed, going from 55 seconds per order on the first day to just 34 seconds per order by the fifth day. This translated to a 38% increase in productivity. They achieved this while maintaining operational efficiency with only half the initial workforce.
Implementing AI-generated box size recommendations reduced shipping costs by suggesting the most cost-effective packaging for each order and rate shopping features, reducing shipping costs and timely deliveries.
The transition to ShipHero was seamless, ensuring business continuity during peak shipping. “The whole implementation process with ShipHero was just 3-4 calls and 2 hours of downtime. We didn’t miss a step even in the middle of a shipping day,” added Matt Candrian. Enhanced reporting capabilities provided better tracking of shipping expenses and overall operational performance, giving James Enterprise clearer insight into its logistics and enabling more informed decision-making.
A Blueprint for Success
James Enterprise’s switch to ShipHero’s WMS shows how advanced technology can improve warehouse operations. They adapted to a tough market and set new efficiency and cost savings standards. With ShipHero, James Enterprise got a simpler, scalable solution that supported their growth plans and set them up for ongoing success.
Discover how ShipHero can transform your warehouse. Learn more about our solutions and how they can help you achieve similar operational excellence. Get Started with ShipHero Today!
