External Transfer Between Two Different Warehouses operation in Odoo 16

In the context of Odoo 16, the management of warehouse transfers involves a delicate balance of precision and unpredictability. Let's explore this process from both the perspective of the warehouse employee, who is actively involved in moving goods on the ground, and the operator's viewpoint, responsible for overseeing operations from a desk.

One instance involved the transfer of a batch of electronics from Warehouse A to Warehouse B. While using the ERP system it should be presented as the task as straightforward with 100 units ready for transfer, the reality on the ground was different. For a driver, the task was to collect these units, but upon inspection, only 95 units were found in perfect condition, while 5 had damaged packaging. Addressing this discrepancy was crucial to avoid confusion at Warehouse B, which was expecting 100 perfect condition units.

From the operator's standpoint, the transfer in Odoo appears as a simple transaction. The order is input, and once the pickup is confirmed, it is marked as 'in transit.' However, the lack of real-time updates creates a blind spot for the operator regarding the on-the-ground situation.

This visibility challenge leads to manual adjustments and communication gaps. The process involves calling in to adjust inventory manually, providing explanations for shortages or compromised items, which is prone to errors and time-consuming.

Another scenario unfolded when, mid-transfer, Warehouse B was indicated as insufficient space for all items, requiring a return with only half the load. The system initially marked everything as delivered, necessitating meticulous manual updates to reflect the actual situation.

Such incidents demand constant verification of inventory levels by operators, often relying on inefficient methods like text messages, calls, or emails for real-time updates.

The integration of Odoo's open system with a mobile app has transformed this scenario. Warehouse staff can now update the ERP system in real-time, logging discrepancies immediately. Operators receive live updates, enabling informed decisions and on-the-fly adjustments, reducing back-and-forth communication and enhancing inventory reliability.

For those lacking the time or ability to develop a custom app, various apps in the Odoo marketplace, like Warehouse 15 for Odoo (barcode mobile app), offer solutions for both internal and external transfers.

The incorporation of third-party solutions or custom developments in Odoo has revolutionized operations. Whether on the road or the warehouse floor, communication of inventory changes in real-time has bridged the gap between the physical and digital worlds, enhancing transparency and efficiency.

Useful Tips:

The two-step transfer process in Odoo aims to minimize discrepancies between physical and digital records by splitting the transfer into two steps: creating a transfer order and subsequent validation at the destination. Odoo Forum

Enabling real-time inventory management features in Odoo allows businesses to track inventory levels accurately and update records immediately for changes such as goods in transit, delays, or returns. This ensures the ERP system reflects the most current state of inventory. Cybrosys

For managing larger or more complex transfers, the Batch Transfer feature in Odoo can streamline operations by processing multiple transfers together, potentially reducing discrepancies through effective coordination of logistics and warehouse capacity planning. Cybrosys