ERP Logistics

 

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) logistics is the suite of integrated software modules that manage every physical and financial flow across procurement, production, warehousing, transportation, and customer service. 

 

By fusing transactional data (orders, inventory, invoices) with real-time execution signals, an ERP logistics platform becomes the single “system of record” for supply-chain performance, regulatory compliance, and profitability. Modern, cloud-based ERPs extend beyond the four walls, exposing APIs that connect to suppliers, 3PLs, and e-commerce channels in near real time.

Warehouse and logistics workers using technology

What business processes fall under ERP logistics?

 

A best-in-class ERP covers: 

  • Procure-to-Pay (P2P) - Supplier requisitions, purchase orders, GR/IR, and invoice matching 
  • Manufacture-to-Ship - Production orders, MRP, quality, and batch genealogy 
  • Order-to-Cash (O2C) - Sales orders, ATP/CTP, pick/pack/ship, and invoicing 
  • Plan-to-Inventory - Demand planning, S&OP, safety-stock policy, and cycle counting 
  • Return-to-Recover - RMA initiation, disposition, refurbishment, and credit notes 

How is ERP logistics different from a stand-alone WMS or TMS?

 

 A WMS or TMS optimizes execution inside a warehouse or transport network; an ERP provides financial and master-data integrity across the entire enterprise. 

GEODIS syncs execution milestones (e.g., pick confirmation, proof of delivery) back to the ERP in real time, closing the loop between physical events and financial postings. 

What deployment models exist?

 

  • On-Premise - Maximum control, but high capex and slower upgrades 
  • Private Cloud - Virtualized infrastructure with flexible scaling and predictable opex 
  • Public SaaS - Evergreen releases, rapid innovation, and built-in disaster recovery. Most new clients migrate toward SaaS for agility and lower total cost of ownership 

What ROI can companies expect from ERP logistics modernization?

 

Typical payback is 18 to 30 months, driven by: 

  • Inventory reductions of 5 to12% through better ATP visibility and MRP accuracy
  • Working-capital improvements via automated three-way match and faster invoicing
  • Productivity gains - up to 25% fewer manual touches in order management
  • Compliance savings - centralized trade, ESG, and tax reporting

Which emerging features are reshaping ERP logistics?

 

  • Composable micro-services for rapid innovation without core disruption
  • Embedded AI/ML for demand sensing, predictive maintenance, and fraud detection
  • Blockchain-enabled traceability for food, pharma, and luxury goods
  • Low-code workflow designers that let business users automate exceptions
  • Native ESG dashboards tracking Scope 3 emissions and circular-economy metrics 

What are common pitfalls during ERP logistics projects?

 

Underestimating data cleansing, over-customizing standard processes, and neglecting change management often derail timelines.

GEODIS mitigates risk with a “clean-core, extend-at-edge” principle, strict master-data governance, and role-based training paths. 

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