Glossary

A scale is a measuring device used to determine the weight of objects, goods, or loading units. It provides precise weight data for industrial, logistics, and commercial applications.

In logistics, scales are used in various configurations, such as floor scales, conveyor belt scales, or as integrated components of WMS systems. They enable automatic or manual weight measurement of packages, pallets, and other freight items. Depending on the application, scales can be designed to be calibratable and can transmit their measurement values directly to ERP, WMS, or transportation management systems. Reliable weight measurement supports freight billing, transportation planning, and process control.

Practical example:

A pallet is automatically weighed before shipment. The determined weight is transmitted to the transportation management system along with the dimensions and used for freight billing.

See also: Automatic scale, Calibratability, DWS, Measuring scale, Non-automatic scale, Weighing systems, Weighing technology, Weight measurement

While the dimensioning data is being recorded, the freight is weighed on a scale, depending on the product. The weight is also transmitted to the ERP program.

Scanning speed refers to the speed at which a scanner or measurement system captures and processes data from objects. It determines how many measurement or identification operations can be reliably performed within a given period of time.

In logistics, scan speed affects the performance of DWS systems, barcode scanners, and camera-based capture systems. It must be matched to the conveyor speed and shipment volume to ensure that all objects are captured completely and without errors. A high scan speed enables a continuous flow of materials and supports automated processes with high throughput.

Practical example:

On a high-performance conveyor system, an automatic weight measurement (DWS) system reliably captures every passing package, even though several thousand shipments pass through the measurement station per hour.

See also: Barcode scanner, Conveyor speed, Data capture, DWS, In-motion measurement, Scanner, Sensor technology

A scanner is a technical device used to capture and digitize information from objects, documents, or labels. It enables the automatic capture of data and its subsequent processing in digital systems.

In logistics, various scanner technologies are used, such as barcode scanners, laser scanners, camera scanners, and RFID readers. They capture identification features, dimensions, or the status of goods and transmit this information to ERP, WMS, or automation systems. Scanners are an important component of automated processes and support the fast, low-error capture of shipments, load carriers, and goods movements.

Practical example:

During outbound shipping, an employee or an automated system scans the barcode on a pallet before the associated shipping and transport data is processed further.

See also: Barcode, Data capture, Identification, Laser scanner, RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification), Sensor technology, Shipping label, SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code

Shipment document handling involves the automatic creation, verification, assignment, and processing of all documents accompanying a shipment of goods. It ensures that shipping documents are complete, accurate, and available at the right time.

Shipment document handling includes, among other things, shipping labels, delivery notes, waybills, customs documents, and hazardous materials documentation. Modern systems automatically create, print, verify, and assign these documents to the respective shipment. Integration with ERP, WMS, and transportation management systems prevents data silos, reduces errors, and significantly speeds up shipping processes.

Practical example:

Before shipment, an automated system generates all necessary shipping and customs documents, prints the appropriate labels, and assigns them to the correct pallet.

See also: Customs clearance, Data capture, ERP system, GS1, Redtagger, Shipping label, Warehouse Management System (WMS), Waybill

Shipment tracking enables the digital tracking of goods, packages, or shipments throughout their entire journey, from dispatch to delivery. It provides information about a shipment’s location, status, and process steps.

Shipment tracking is based on the automatic collection and transmission of data via technologies such as barcodes, RFID, GPS, or digital interfaces. In conjunction with ERP, WMS, and TMS systems, companies can transparently monitor transportation processes and respond quickly to any deviations. Reliable shipment tracking improves transparency throughout the supply chain, supports customer information, and enables seamless documentation of transportation processes.

Practical example:

A logistics service provider tracks an international shipment across multiple transport stations and provides the current status as well as previous transfer points digitally.

See also: Data capture, Identification, RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification), Supply Chain Visibility, Timestamp, Traceability, Track & Trace, Transport Management System (TMS)

Shipping refers to the process of handling and transporting goods from the sender to the recipient. Shipping includes packaging, addressing, franking, and handing over the shipments to a transport service provider such as the postal service, parcel service, or freight forwarder. The goods are prepared according to their nature and transport requirements and provided with the necessary shipping documents. Shipping is the last step in the supply chain before delivery to the customer.

The shipping label is a tag affixed to goods, packages, or loading units that contains all information relevant to transportation and identification. It enables the unique identification of a shipment and supports automated logistics processes.

For example, a shipping label contains barcodes, recipient information, tracking numbers, weight specifications, and other transportation-related data. It is often generated automatically and applied to packages or pallets by labeling systems. In conjunction with ERP, WMS, and TMS systems, as well as identification technologies, it enables end-to-end shipment tracking and efficient management of shipping and handling processes.

Practical example:

After automatically measuring and weighing a package, the system generates the appropriate shipping label and automatically applies it before handing the package over to the shipping carrier.

See also: Barcode, Document handling, Labeling, GS1, Identification, Redtagger, Shipment tracking, SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code)

Slotting Optimization refers to the systematic optimization of how items are assigned storage locations within a warehouse. The goal is to place goods in such a way that distances are minimized, access times are reduced, and warehouse processes are made more efficient.

This optimization takes into account factors such as item frequency, dimensions, weight, turnover rate, and picking requirements. Using data analysis, warehouse management systems, and AI-supported methods, optimal storage locations are automatically determined and regularly adjusted. This increases picking performance, minimizes transport distances, and improves the utilization of existing warehouse capacity.

Practical example:

In an e-commerce fulfillment center, the warehouse management system analyzes order frequency and automatically places frequently requested items in storage areas that are particularly easy to access.

See also: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data analysis, Goods flow, Material flow, Order picking, Process optimization, Warehouse Management System (WMS)

The term “Smart Factory” refers to a digitally connected production environment in which machines, equipment, systems, and people communicate with one another using modern technologies. It enables flexible, data-driven, and largely automated control of production and logistics processes.

A smart factory utilizes technologies such as sensor technology, automation, artificial intelligence, and industrial communication systems. Production and process data are collected and analyzed in real time and used to optimize workflows. The interconnection of machines, ERP systems, and automation solutions creates transparent processes and enables rapid adaptation to changing requirements. The smart factory is a central component of Industry 4.0.

Practical example:
In an intelligently networked manufacturing environment, machine statuses are automatically recorded, and production processes are flexibly controlled based on current data.

See also: Automation, Data Analysis, Digitalization, Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Process Optimization, Sensor Technology, System Integration

Smart glasses are a type of digital eyewear that displays information directly in the user’s field of view, thereby providing support for manual work processes. They combine real-world environments with digital information to provide context-aware assistance.

In logistics, for example, smart glasses are used for order picking, maintenance, and assembly. Through on-screen information, employees can access work instructions, product data, or process information directly at the worksite. In conjunction with digital systems, they support efficient, low-error task completion and enable new forms of human-machine interaction.

Practical example:

A service technician uses smart glasses to display digital instructions and technical information directly in their field of view while performing maintenance on a piece of equipment.

See also: Automation, Data Analysis, Digitalization, Pick-by-Voice, Pick-by-Vision, Sensor Technology, System Integration, Visualization

A sorting system is an automated technical solution for identifying, distributing, and routing goods, packages, or loading units to specified destinations. It enables the fast and precise management of large volumes of goods within logistics processes.

Modern sorting systems combine conveyor technology, sensor technology, identification technologies, and intelligent control software. For example, they capture barcodes, dimensions, or weight and automatically route shipments to the appropriate shipping, warehousing, or processing areas. Sorting systems ensure high throughput, low error rates, and an efficient flow of materials, particularly in package centers, distribution warehouses, and production environments.

Practical example:
In a CEP package sorting center, a sorting system identifies the destination information for each package and automatically distributes the shipments to the corresponding delivery routes.

See also: Barcode, Conveyor technology, CEP companies, Material flow, Sensor technology, Shipment tracking, Transport management system (TMS), Goods flow

SSCC refers to a globally unique identification number used to label logistics units such as pallets, packages, or containers. It enables the unique identification and tracking of individual loading units throughout the entire supply chain.

The SSCC is part of the GS1 standards and is frequently used as a barcode (GS1-128) or in electronic data exchange processes. It does not contain any product information but serves as a unique key through which all associated data can be retrieved in IT systems. In logistics, the SSCC improves transparency, automates booking processes, and supports seamless shipment tracking from production to the recipient.

Practical example:
When a pallet is shipped, an SSCC label is attached so that the loading unit can be automatically identified during outbound shipping, transport, and inbound receiving, and tracked in the warehouse management system.

See also: Barcode, Data Capture, GS1, RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification), Shipment Tracking, Master Data Entry, Shipping Label, Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Static measurement refers to the process of recording the dimensions of a stationary object that is not moved during the measurement process. It enables the precise determination of length, width, height, and, if necessary, other geometric properties.

In static measurement, the object being measured is placed in a defined position and then captured by sensors, cameras, or laser systems. In logistics, this method is used, for example, for master data capture, quality inspection, or determining freight dimensions. Compared to dynamic measurement, this method allows for particularly detailed measurements of individual objects. The data collected is used, among other things, for warehouse planning, freight billing, and process optimization.

Practical example:
A cardboard box is positioned on a measuring station and automatically measured before the determined dimensions are saved as master data in the ERP system.

See also: Dimensional capture, DWS, cargo measurement, laser scanner, measurement resolution, master data capture, volume measurement, volume capture

A storage and retrieval machine is an automated system for storing and retrieving load units in high-rack warehouses and automated storage areas. It moves through the aisles between the racks and precisely positions goods at designated storage locations.

Rack-servicing robots consist of a chassis, a lifting mast, and a load-handling device for pallets or containers. They are controlled by warehouse management systems and communicate with higher-level automation solutions to efficiently coordinate storage and retrieval processes. Thanks to their automatic control, they enable high storage density, fast goods movement, and reliable inventory management.

Practical example:
In a high-bay warehouse, a storage and retrieval machine automatically picks up a measured pallet from the transfer point and stores it in the storage location specified by the WMS.

See also: Automation, Conveyor technology, High-bay warehouse, Intralogistics, Pallet conveyor technology, Pallet, Warehouse Management System (WMS), Goods flow

Stretch film refers to a flexible plastic film used to secure and stabilize load units during storage, handling, and transport. It is wrapped around goods or pallets by stretching and holds individual packages together to form a single, enclosed unit.

In logistics, stretch film is frequently used to secure pallets and protect goods from shifting, contamination, or external influences. Depending on the application, manual or automated wrapping systems are used. The properties of the film, the wrapping tension, and any film overhangs influence the contour of a load unit and can be taken into account in automated processes.

Practical example:
A pallet secured with stretch film is measured and checked for any film overhangs before automatic storage to ensure a smooth material flow.

See also: Automation, contour inspection, load unit, load securing, material flow, pallet management, process reliability, sensor technology

The supply chain encompasses all stages, processes, and parties involved in the manufacture, transport, and delivery of a product to the end customer. It ensures the continuous flow of materials, goods, and information along the entire value chain.

A supply chain begins with raw material suppliers and extends through production, warehousing, and transportation to delivery to the recipient. Modern supply chains are managed through digital systems, automated data collection, and transparent information flows to ensure efficiency, quality, and on-time delivery. Seamless monitoring of all process steps makes it possible to identify bottlenecks early on and maintain a reliable supply.

Practical example:

An industrial company digitally monitors its entire supply chain—from the delivery of raw materials through production to the on-time delivery of finished products to the customer.

See also: Intralogistics, last-mile delivery, logistics, material flow, supply chain management, transport management system (TMS), goods flow, warehouse management system (WMS)

Supply Chain Management refers to the holistic planning, control, and optimization of the flow of goods, information, and finances along the entire supply chain. The goal is to efficiently integrate all involved processes and partners.

SCM encompasses the coordination of procurement, production, warehousing, transportation, and distribution—from the supplier to the end customer. Digital systems such as ERP, WMS, and TMS solutions, as well as automated data collection, create transparency across the entire supply chain. This enables companies to optimize inventory, shorten delivery times, identify risks early on, and make their processes more sustainable.

Practical example:

An industrial company digitally monitors its entire supply chain and uses real-time inventory, transportation, and delivery data to identify material shortages early on and ensure production operations run smoothly.

See also: ERP system, intralogistics, supply chain, logistics automation, material flow, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Transportation Management System (TMS), Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Supply Chain Visibility refers to transparency regarding goods, information, and process data throughout the entire supply chain. It enables companies to track the status of shipments, inventory, and logistics processes in real time and make informed decisions.

High supply chain visibility is achieved through the integration of ERP, WMS, and TMS systems, as well as through the use of sensor technology, automated data collection, and digital platforms. It enables the early detection of delays, bottlenecks, or deviations and improves responsiveness within complex delivery networks. End-to-end transparency is a particularly important factor for stable processes in international transportation and dynamic markets.

Real-world example:

A company tracks an international air freight shipment in real time and detects a delay early on, allowing it to plan for alternative transportation options.

See also: Data collection, digitization, ERP system, supply chain, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Transport Management System (TMS), transparency, Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Sustainability encompasses the long-term orientation of economic, environmental, and social measures with the goal of using resources responsibly and taking future generations into account. It combines efficient action with a conscious approach to the environment and resources.

In logistics, sustainability is demonstrated, for example, through energy-efficient processes, optimized transport routes, reduced emissions, and better utilization of existing capacities. Digital technologies such as WMS systems, automation, and data analysis help plan shipments more efficiently, avoid empty space, and use resources in a more targeted manner. Sustainable logistics solutions help combine economic efficiency with environmental responsibility.

Practical example:

A logistics company uses precise volume and weight data from a WMS to better utilize vehicle capacity and avoid unnecessary shipments.

See also: Data analysis, Digitalization, Energy efficiency, Cargo measurement, Process optimization, Transport optimization, Transport routes, Volume optimization

System integration involves connecting various hardware and software systems to form a single, fully functional solution. It enables the automated exchange of data and the coordinated interaction of different applications and components.

In logistics, for example, system integration connects WMS systems, sensors, conveyor technology, and ERP, WMS, and TMS solutions. Measurement data, orders, status information, and process data are exchanged via standardized interfaces. End-to-end integration creates transparent workflows, reduces manual data entry, and enables efficient control of automated processes. Especially in complex logistics environments, reliable system integration is crucial for stable and scalable operations.

Practical example:

An automated warehouse system (DWS) is integrated into the existing warehouse and shipping software via an interface, so that measurement and weight data are automatically used for further process control.

See also: Data interface, Digitization, DWS, ERP system, Process automation, Transport Management System (TMS), Warehouse Management System (WMS)