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The high cost of inefficient receiving
This integrated solution directly addresses the critical challenges of inefficiency, inaccuracy, and labor dependency that plague the inbound receiving process. The receiving dock is often the first and most chaotic bottleneck in the entire workflow, and errors introduced here cascade downstream, causing significant operational and financial impact. Manual data entry leads to errors and an inaccurate view of inventory, while labor-intensive processes create delays that disrupt production schedules and inflate operational costs. This disconnect between the capabilities within an ERP system and the physical process on the floor represents a significant, untapped opportunity for improvement.
The automated materials receiving solution
This solution connects the ERP system of record to the frontline worker, creating a single, continuous workflow from truck arrival to goods receipt. By combining Zebra’s intelligent data capture hardware and software enablers, manufacturers can fully activate their ERP investment where it matters most: the plant floor.
Potential benefits
Connecting the receiving dock to the ERP system delivers measurable improvements in operational performance, data accuracy, and financial results, turning a cost center into a source of efficiency and value.
42%
faster case receiving operations
3 hrs
saved per worker per shift
90%
reduction in scan time
How the solution works
Instantly capture all pallet barcodes
The process begins as materials are unloaded. A receiving associate uses a Zebra TC501/TC701 mobile computer with the Multibarcode Scanning Enabler to capture data for an entire pallet in one motion. Leveraging on-device AI for data capture, the system intelligently identifies and decodes dozens of barcodes on a mixed-SKU pallet simultaneously, reducing the time to scan a pallet by over 90% and directly attacking the primary source of labor inefficiency.
Automatically extract document data
Next, using the same device, the associate captures critical information from shipping documents. The Text Recognition Enabler is used to capture key data from documents such as a Bill of Lading (BOL), Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN), or Purchase Order (PO). The technology also reads unstructured text on cases, such as expiration dates or lot numbers, removing the need for manual inspection and data entry.
Integrate data directly into SAP
The captured barcode and text data flows seamlessly into a Custom Mobile Interface Software application running on the Zebra device. This software provides a guided, role-based workflow that simplifies the user experience and posts the data directly into the SAP S/4HANA system. This removes a major source of inventory inaccuracy, ensures compliance, and provides real-time visibility into received goods.
Expert partners for SAP migration
For organizations migrating to the SAP S/4HANA ERP Cloud, ISV partners like Havensight, Synactive, and The Config Team are critical. They specialize in transforming complex SAP screens into fast, guided mobile experiences and simplified, role-based workflows. Their expertise ensures that the transition to S/4HANA is seamless for frontline teams, accelerating user adoption and maximizing the return on the investment.
Transform your goods receipt process
By leveraging AI-powered enablers on a single device, this solution automates data capture, increases worker productivity, and ensures data accuracy from the moment goods arrive. It unlocks the full value of an ERP investment by activating its intelligence at the point of work.
Note:
Use case figures and savings estimates are illustrative only and may be derived from customer data, projections, or controlled testing. They do not represent guaranteed results, and actual outcomes will vary by application; customers should consult a Zebra sales representative to evaluate their specific environment.
