The Netherlands plays a crucial role in the global food & beverage industry. Known for its high-quality food production, efficient distribution centers, and strategic export position, the country excels in processing and shipping fresh products, frozen goods, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages worldwide at high speed.
The Netherlands imports vast amounts of food products from abroad, bringing complex logistical challenges such as temperature-controlled storage, product traceability, and compliance with strict regulations. The right IT solutions are essential to optimize the supply chain and meet the high demands of the food & beverage market.
With Adaption IT’s smart Warehouse Management System (WMS), Transport Management System (TMS), and Forwarding Management System (FMS), every aspect of food & beverage logistics is streamlined. From automated storage and shelf-life management to bulk transport and cross-docking, our software solutions ensure efficient, error-free, and compliant food handling.
The food & beverage sector faces unique logistical challenges. Below, we highlight key issues and how technology can solve them:
1. Temperature-Controlled Storage & Transport Management
Food products must be stored and transported under optimal conditions. Whether fresh produce requiring refrigeration or frozen goods needing -18°C, an advanced system ensures that the correct temperatures are maintained throughout the supply chain.
2. FIFO & FEFO Inventory Management
Shelf-life management is crucial in the food & beverage industry. FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expired, First Out) inventory management ensure that the right batch is always processed first, reducing waste and ensuring food safety.
3. Bulk handling & Cross-Docking
Supermarkets and food service wholesalers receive large bulk shipments. An efficient Warehouse Management System enables fast processing and direct forwarding of these goods to the right distribution points without unnecessary storage, saving time and costs.
4. Product traceability (batch & lot registration)
Regulations and food safety require complete product traceability. Advanced batch and lot registration ensures that, in the event of a recall, products can be quickly located and tracked through the supply chain.
A Warehouse Management System (WMS) optimizes the storage and order processing of food products. Key features include:
Smart inventory management:
Automatic product rotation based on FIFO & FEFO principles.
Cross-Docking functionality:
Immediate processing and forwarding of goods without unnecessary storage.
Quality control:
Inspections and registrations upon receipt to ensure food safety.
Real-time insights:
Full visibility into stock levels and order statuses.
A WMS increases speed and efficiency while reducing the risk of spoilage.
A Transport Management System (TMS) streamlines food transportation by offering:
Optimized route planning:
Select the fastest, most cost-effective route, including multi-stop planning.
Automated documentation:
Simplified handling of customs documents and food safety certificates.
Supply chain visibility:
Full transparency in transport planning, execution, and deliveries.
A TMS helps supermarkets, wholesalers, and producers maximize efficiency and reduce transport costs.
A Forwarding Management System (FMS) helps manage the logistical and administrative complexities of global food transport. Benefits include:
Efficient consolidation:
Smart shipment grouping to save costs and optimize cargo space.
Digital invoicing & cost management:
Automate freight rate calculations and surcharge processing.
Optimized transport capacity:
Dynamic planning for maximum load efficiency.
With an FMS, businesses operate more efficiently, reduce administrative burdens, and maintain cost control.
Jeroen runs a distribution center supplying fresh vegetables and fruit to supermarkets across the Netherlands. He struggled with unpredictable delivery times and temperature fluctuations during transport. With Adaption’s TMS, he can now:
As a result, deliveries are always on time and in perfect condition.
Fred owns a wholesale business in Naaldwijk, importing premium wines and spirits from South America. This involves extensive administration, including excise duties and customs documentation. With Adaption’s TMS & FMS, Fred can:
By automating these processes, Fred has full control over his logistics and saves significant time and costs.
The food & beverage sector demands high standards in logistics and supply chain management. With the right IT solutions, businesses can increase efficiency, reduce costs, and meet stringent food safety and traceability regulations. Adaption offers an integrated approach with WMS, TMS, and FMS, giving you complete control over your supply chain.
Contact us for a no-obligation consultation or schedule a demo. Together, we’ll achieve your logistics goals and support your company’s growth!
