The new Odoo 18 version introduces significant enhancements for automation and process optimization. Updates include route configurations, flexibility in managing product flows, and new options for setting rules and processes, which boost the efficiency of warehouse operations. Let’s take a look at the main innovations and their benefits for inventory management.
Automation of product grouping in Batch Transfers
Odoo 18 enables the automatic grouping of products into batch transfers through various picking methods, simplifying and accelerating order processing:
Batch Picking Method
The batch picking method automatically groups products for one or more orders based on specific parameters such as contact, carrier, destination country, source location, or destination location. This approach streamlines the picker’s tasks, reducing the number of moves needed to assemble orders, particularly when multiple orders share similar characteristics.
Wave Picking Method
The wave-picking method groups products for orders by product, category, or specific warehouse location. This is useful when certain product groups require special attention or are stored in separate areas, allowing staff to focus on particular products or zones.
Flexible approach to route configurations
Odoo 18 has revamped its approach to routes, making their management more dynamic and user-friendly. A major improvement is seen in multi-step processes, such as complex delivery routes (e.g., “Picking - Packing - Delivery”) or product reception (e.g., “Receiving - Quality Control - Storage”).
Key Benefits:
- Step-by-Step control:
Movements are now created only after the previous step is completed. This provides better control over product movement and reduces confusion.
- Simplified navigation between transfers
The new "Next Transfer" feature allows quick identification of the next step when products go through multiple stages. This ensures continuity, helps reduce errors, and allows employees to navigate documents more efficiently.
- Instant Route Change:
At any moment, an alternative destination can be selected in the transfer, instantly altering the product route. This enables quick decision-making and prevents unnecessary actions within the system.
- Setting conditions for applying rules
Odoo 18 introduces a new way to control the application of "Push" rules. The system now allows defining a domain — specific conditions for rules. This prevents rules from being applied in unintended scenarios.
Example:
Company X uses a 3-step process for receiving goods from suppliers to the warehouse (Receiving - Quality Control - Storage) and a 3-step process for shipping goods out (Picking - Packing - Delivery). Some products are purchased exclusively on order, and completing all these stages for such products is time-consuming.
In this case, we can set a route rule that applies only to products purchased on order. Thanks to this rule, the product will follow only three steps (Receive in Warehouse - Packing - Delivery) instead of the six it previously required.
These improvements enable faster and more accurate order processing, allowing for greater adaptability to changes.
Automation of Putaway rules
When a product’s location is changed, manual adjustments are no longer necessary. Odoo automatically adapts to the new location through updated putaway rules. Upon receiving a product, the system will suggest placing it in the nearest available location or returning it to its previous storage location. This automation can be configured for a specific product, product category, or all products in general. Additionally, the option to place items in a fixed location is available if needed.
Lot/Serial Number Valuation
Odoo 18 introduces a new feature allowing companies to value inventory based on lot or serial numbers, enhancing the control over product costs within the system. This feature improves the accuracy of financial reports and makes inventory management more transparent and efficient.
Additionally, if needed, the “Stock Valuation” report allows for lot/serial number cost adjustments.
Dispatch Management System
The new version introduces the ability to organize deliveries and manage shipments using either a fleet or third-party logistics. This update streamlines the management of logistics operations, helping to reduce transportation time and costs.
Conclusion
Odoo 18 significantly enhances warehouse and logistics management capabilities. The changes in route configurations, improved navigation between transfers, automation of putaway rules, lot/serial number valuation, and the new dispatch management system make inventory processes more flexible, user-friendly, and controlled. This helps businesses process orders more quickly, optimize warehouse resources, and reduce the risks of errors in logistics.