Glossary

Machine learning refers to artificial intelligence methods in which computer systems identify patterns in data and independently develop models for processing information. These systems continuously improve their results by analyzing large amounts of data.

Machine learning methods are used in logistics to recognize objects, optimize processes, and make predictions. They are employed, for example, in automated image analysis, quality control, demand planning, and predictive maintenance. When combined with sensor technology, camera systems, and digital platforms, they can identify complex relationships and support automated decision-making.

Practical example:

A machine learning model analyzes images of pallets and automatically detects anomalies such as damaged plastic wrap, missing labels, or unauthorized protrusions.

See also: Artificial Intelligence in Logistics, Data Analysis, Deep Learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Object Recognition, Predictive Analytics, Predictive Vision for Logistics, Sensor Technology

Master data comprises fundamental, long-term information about products, customers, suppliers, materials, or processes within a company. It forms a central database for recurring business and logistics processes.

In logistics, for example, master data includes item numbers, dimensions, weights, packaging information, and identification characteristics of goods. High data quality is crucial for reliable planning, inventory management, transportation processes, and automated workflows. Systems such as ERP, WMS, and DWS use master data to efficiently control processes and provide information across various business units. Incorrect or incomplete master data can lead to errors in process workflows.

Practical example:
Before a new item is put into storage, its dimensions and weight are recorded and stored as master data in the ERP and warehouse management systems.

See also: Data capture, DWS, ERP system, freight data, Master Data Management (MDM), measurement data capture, Warehouse Management System (WMS), goods flow

Master data entry refers to the structured collection and maintenance of basic information about products, goods, customers, suppliers, or logistics units. It creates the data foundation for efficient, automated, and error-free business and logistics processes.

In logistics, master data entry includes, for example, item numbers, dimensions, weight, volume, packaging information, and identification characteristics. Modern systems such as DWS systems, MDM solutions, and ERP or WMS systems support the automatic capture and updating of this data. High-quality master data enables reliable storage location planning, precise freight billing, optimized transport processes, and greater transparency throughout the supply chain.

Practical example:
When a new item is introduced, its length, width, height, and weight are automatically recorded and stored as master data in the ERP and warehouse management systems.

See also: DWS, ERP system, freight data, Master Data Management (MDM), measurement data capture, master data, Warehouse Management System (WMS), goods flow

Master data entry refers to the structured collection and maintenance of basic information about products, goods, customers, suppliers, or logistics units. It creates the data foundation for efficient, automated, and error-free business and logistics processes.

In logistics, master data entry includes, for example, item numbers, dimensions, weight, volume, packaging information, and identification characteristics. Modern systems such as DWS systems, MDM solutions, and ERP or WMS systems support the automatic capture and updating of this data. High-quality master data enables reliable storage location planning, precise freight billing, optimized transport processes, and greater transparency throughout the supply chain.

Practical example:
When a new item is introduced, its length, width, height, and weight are automatically captured and stored as master data in the ERP and warehouse management systems.

See also: DWS, ERP system, freight data, Master Data Management (MDM), measurement data capture, master data, Warehouse Management System (WMS), goods flow

Master Data Management (MDM) refers to the centralized management, maintenance, and quality assurance of master data within a company. It ensures that consistent, complete, and up-to-date data is available to all business processes and systems.

MDM creates a reliable data foundation for products, customers, suppliers, locations, and logistics objects. By synchronizing master data across ERP, WMS, TMS, and other IT systems, inconsistencies are avoided and business processes are efficiently supported. In logistics in particular, high-quality master data is crucial for automatic sizing, shipping, freight billing, and the optimization of material flows.

Practical example:

Before implementing a new warehouse management system (WMS), all product master data is maintained centrally in the MDM so that measurement, warehousing, and shipping processes operate using identical information.

See also: Data capture, ERP system, freight data, master data, supply chain management, transport management system (TMS), warehouse management system (WMS), goods flow

Material flow refers to the movement of materials, goods, or merchandise within and between logistics and industrial processes. It encompasses all transportation, storage, handling, and staging operations from goods receipt to goods shipment.

An efficient material flow is crucial for short lead times, low process costs, and high delivery reliability. Conveyor systems, automated warehouses, sensor technology, and digital control systems ensure that materials are available at the right place and at the right time. The continuous collection of process data enables transparent monitoring and ongoing optimization of material movements.

Practical example:
In a manufacturing facility, conveyor systems automatically transport components between receiving, production, and shipping, ensuring an uninterrupted material flow.

See also: Automation technology, Conveyor technology, Intralogistics, Warehousing, Logistics automation, Transport technology, Goods flow, Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Material handling refers to the movement, storage, control, and handling of goods and materials throughout logistics and production processes. It includes both manual and automated processes as well as the equipment and systems used to transport, position, store, or provide materials.

Practical example:
In a warehouse, material handling includes processes such as unloading incoming goods, transporting pallets and packages, storing products, picking orders, and preparing goods for shipment. Accurate master data on dimensions, weight, and volume helps companies select suitable handling equipment, optimize storage locations, and automate material flows efficiently.

See also: Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV), Automation, Conveyor Technology, Intralogistics, Logistics, Master Data, Material Flow, Warehouse Management System (WMS)

MDE (Mobile Data Collection) refers to the digital collection and processing of data using mobile devices directly at the point of operation. It enables the immediate capture of information without the need for subsequent manual entry.

Mobile data collection is used in warehousing, production, shipping, and transportation to scan barcodes, update inventory, or document goods movements in real time. The mobile devices communicate with warehouse management, ERP, or transportation management systems and provide up-to-date data immediately. This reduces errors, speeds up processes, and increases transparency throughout the entire supply chain.

Practical example:
Upon receipt of goods, an employee uses a mobile data entry (MDE) device to scan a pallet’s barcode, automatically recording the inventory, storage location, and goods receipt in the system.

See also: Barcode scanner, Data capture, ERP system, Warehouse management system (WMS), Scanner, Shipment tracking, Warehouse Management System (WMS), Goods flow

A Multidimensional Measuring Device is a measurement system designed to automatically capture multiple physical properties of an object, particularly its dimensions. It provides precise measurement data for logistics and industrial processes and forms the basis for reliable master data and freight data capture.

Multidimensional measuring devices are primarily used in logistics to determine the length, width, and height of packages, boxes, or pallets. They are often part of a warehouse management system (WMS) and utilize laser, LiDAR, or camera technologies. The captured measurement data is transferred directly to warehouse, transportation, or ERP systems and used for shipment planning, freight billing, and volume optimization.

Practical example:
Before loading, a multidimensional measuring device automatically records the dimensions of each pallet and transmits the measurements to the transportation management system for further planning.

See also: Dimensioning systems, Dimension capture, DWS, Freight data, Freight measurement, LiDAR, Laser triangulation, Volume measurement

Measurement accuracy describes the degree to which a measured value corresponds to the actual value of a measured quantity. It is a key characteristic for evaluating the quality and reliability of measurement systems.

In logistics, measurement accuracy plays a particularly important role in DWS systems, scales, and dimensioning solutions. It is influenced by factors such as sensor quality, calibration, environmental conditions, and the technical design of the measurement system. High measurement accuracy is crucial when measurement results are used for master data entry, freight billing, or legally relevant applications. Regular testing and validation help ensure reliable measurement values over the long term.

Practical example:
A DWS system regularly verifies its measurement results against a reference object to ensure that the dimensions and weight of a shipment are recorded within the permissible tolerances.

See also: DWS, traceability, calibration, measurement resolution, test specimen, quality control, validation, scale

The Measurement and Calibration Act (MessEG) is the legal basis for the use of measuring instruments in commercial and official transactions in Germany. It ensures that measured values are determined accurately, traceably, and in compliance with the law.

The MessEG regulates the requirements for measuring instruments as well as their use, conformity assessment, calibration, and monitoring. In logistics, the law is particularly relevant for systems used to measure weight and volume when their measurement results are used for freight billing or other business purposes. Compliance with the MessEG builds trust in the accuracy of measurement data and ensures fair business practices.

Practical example:
A logistics service provider uses a calibratable DWS system for freight billing that meets the requirements of the Measurement and Calibration Act and provides legally compliant measurement values.

See also: Calibratability, Calibratable System, Weight Measurement, Measurement and Calibration Ordinance (MessEV), MID (Measuring Instruments Directive), OIML, PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), Weighing Technology

WELMEC refers to the European cooperation among national authorities in the field of legal metrology. The organization develops guidelines and recommendations to ensure the uniform application of European regulations for measuring instruments.

WELMEC supports manufacturers, testing laboratories, and authorities in implementing the requirements of the European Measuring Instruments Directive (MID) and other metrological regulations. The published documents cover, among other topics, conformity assessment, testing procedures, and technical requirements for measuring systems. In the logistics sector, WELMEC is particularly relevant for manufacturers and operators of scales, dimensioning systems, and automatic weighing systems (AWS) whose measurement values are used for business purposes.

Practical example:
A manufacturer of a calibratable DWS system follows the WELMEC guidelines to meet the requirements for European conformity assessment and legally compliant use.

See also: Calibratability, Measurement and Calibration Act (MessEG), MID (Measuring Instruments Directive), MID-compliant, OIML, OIML R: 129, PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), Certification

Measurement data acquisition involves the automatic or manual collection, storage, and processing of measurement values from technical systems. It forms the basis for the evaluation, monitoring, and control of measurement and logistics processes.

In logistics, measurement data is generated, for example, by DWS systems, scales, sensors, or laser scanners. Among other things, dimensions, weight, positions, and geometric characteristics of objects and loading units are recorded. The information obtained is transmitted to other systems via digital interfaces and used for freight billing, master data entry, quality control, or process optimization. Reliable measurement data acquisition supports the provision of valid data and creates transparency in automated processes.

Practical example:
During the measurement process, a DWS system automatically records the length, width, height, and weight of a package and transmits the measurement data to the connected logistics system.

See also: Data Acquisition, Data Integrity, DWS, Measurement Accuracy, Weighing Scale, Sensor Technology, System Integration, Valid Data

Measurement resolution refers to the smallest measurable change in a physical quantity that a measurement system can still detect unambiguously. It determines the level of detail in the measured values but should not be confused with measurement accuracy.

Depending on the sensor technology and measurement method, measurement resolution is specified in millimeters, grams, or other units. High resolution enables the detection of very small differences, while actual accuracy is additionally influenced by factors such as calibration, environmental conditions, and measurement uncertainty. In logistics, measurement resolution plays an important role in dimensional measurement, weight determination, and quality control of automated measurement systems.

Practical example:
When measuring small cardboard boxes, a high-resolution measurement system detects even minimal differences in size, thereby providing consistent master data for shipping.

See also: Dimensional measurement, measurement accuracy, weight measurement, calibration, measurement precision, sensor technology, weighing technology

A measuring scale is a measuring device used to precisely measure the weight of goods, packages, or pallets. It provides reliable weight data for logistics, industrial, and commercial applications.

Measuring scales are used in receiving, production, shipping, and automated warehouse management systems. Depending on the application, they operate as stationary units or are integrated into conveyor systems and can measure weights both at a standstill and while in motion. The measured values are transmitted directly to warehouse, ERP, or transportation management systems and used for freight billing, shipping planning, and quality control.

Practical example:
Before shipping, a pallet is weighed on a measuring scale so that the exact weight can be automatically transferred to the transportation management system and used for freight billing.

See also: DWS, dynamic weighing, weight measurement, in-motion measurement, multi-zone scale, weighing technology, load cell, weighing system

Metrology encompasses all scientific, technical, and legal principles for conducting, evaluating, and monitoring measurements. It ensures that measurement results are reliable, comparable, and traceable.

Metrology includes the development of measurement methods, the definition of units, the testing of measuring instruments, and legal requirements for measurements. In logistics, metrology is particularly relevant for scales, dimensioning systems, and automatic weight-measuring systems (DWS), whose measurement values are used for freight billing, trade, or other business purposes. Organizations and regulatory bodies such as PTB, OIML, and WELMEC support the uniform application of metrological requirements.

Practical example:
A manufacturer of an automatic weight measurement system takes metrology requirements into account so that the determined dimensions and weights can be used reliably and traceably for billing processes.

See also: Traceability, Calibration, Conformity Assessment, Measurement and Calibration Act (MessEG), Measurement Accuracy, OIML, PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), WELMEC

MID stands for Measuring Instruments Directive and refers to a European directive for measuring instruments that specifies requirements for their accuracy, reliability, and conformity assessment. It governs the conditions under which certain measuring instruments may be placed on the market and used within the European Union.

The MID applies to various types of measuring instruments, including scales and measuring systems used for business or billing purposes. Manufacturers must demonstrate that their devices meet the specified requirements. In logistics, the MID is particularly relevant for systems that can be calibrated, such as those used for weight measurement and the automated measurement of shipments.

Practical example:
A DWS system with an integrated scale is evaluated according to the requirements of the MID so that the recorded measurement values can be used for specific billing processes.

See also: Calibratability, Conformity Assessment, Measurement and Calibration Act (MessEG), Measurement Accuracy, Metrology, OIML, PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt), WELMEC

“MID-compliant” refers to measuring instruments or measuring systems that meet the requirements of the European Measuring Instruments Directive (MID). Compliance confirms that the instrument meets the prescribed legal and metrological requirements for its intended use.

MID-compliant measurement systems are used in many areas where measurement results are business-critical. Compliance is demonstrated through a defined evaluation procedure and forms the basis for the legally compliant use of such measuring instruments within the European Union. In logistics, this applies in particular to systems for weight and volume measurement, whose readings are used, for example, for freight billing.

Practical example:
A logistics company uses an MID-compliant DWS system to ensure that weight and volume data for freight billing comply with European legal requirements.

See also: DWS, calibratability, calibratable system, Measurement and Calibration Act (MessEG), Measurement and Calibration Ordinance (MessEV), MID (Measuring Instruments Directive), OIML, PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt)

Mobile dimensioning systems are portable measurement solutions for capturing the dimensions of packages, pallets, or other shipped goods. They enable flexible and precise dimension capture regardless of a fixed installation location.

Mobile systems are used wherever goods need to be measured at varying locations, such as in receiving areas, shipping areas, or directly at the customer’s site. Depending on the model, they use laser, LiDAR, or camera technologies and can also capture weight, barcodes, or image data. The measured values are transmitted immediately to ERP, WMS, or transportation management systems, supporting efficient master data management and freight billing.

Practical example:
An employee measures pallets with a mobile dimensioning system directly at the loading dock and transmits the recorded dimensions in real time to the warehouse management system.

See also: Dimensioning systems, Dimension capture, DWS, Freight data, Freight measurement, LiDAR, Mobile data collection (MDE), Multidimensional measuring device

A multi-zone scale is a weighing system consisting of several independently operating weighing zones that can precisely determine the weight of objects even while they are in motion. It enables reliable weight measurement even for packages of varying sizes or with unevenly distributed loads.

Multi-zone scales are used in automated conveyor systems, automatic weighing systems (DWS), and sorting centers. The individual weighing zones continuously measure the weight of an object, even if it passes over multiple weighing zones simultaneously. This reduces measurement errors and ensures high accuracy in dynamic weighing processes. The recorded weight data is transmitted directly to warehouse, ERP, or transportation management systems and used for shipping, freight billing, and process control.

Practical example:
In a parcel sorting center, a package passes over a multi-zone scale on the conveyor line, and its weight is automatically determined—in a manner that meets calibration requirements—while it is in motion.

See also: Dynamic weighing, DWS, Calibration capability, Weight measurement, In-motion measurement, Conveyor technology, Sensor technology, Weighing technology

A Multidimensional Measuring Device is a measurement system designed to automatically capture multiple physical properties of an object, particularly its dimensions. It provides precise measurement data for logistics and industrial processes and forms the basis for reliable master data and freight data capture.

Multidimensional measuring devices are primarily used in logistics to determine the length, width, and height of packages, boxes, or pallets. They are often part of a warehouse management system (WMS) and utilize laser, LiDAR, or camera technologies. The captured measurement data is transferred directly to warehouse, transportation, or ERP systems and used for shipment planning, freight billing, and volume optimization.

Practical example:
Before loading, a multidimensional measuring device automatically records the dimensions of each pallet and transmits the measurements to the transportation management system for further planning.

See also: Dimensioning systems, Dimension capture, DWS, Freight data, Freight measurement, LiDAR, Laser triangulation, Volume measurement