Implementing Lean Warehousing and WMS to Enhance Warehouse Efficiency: A Case Study in Peruvian Construction SMEs

The construction SME sector in Peru, critical for the country's infrastructure development, faces significant challenges, particularly in warehouse management. Inefficiencies such as extended lead times, low operational efficiency, and inadequate material handling impede the sector's ability to meet project demands. To address these issues, a Lean Warehousing model was proposed, integrating methodologies like 5S, ABC analysis, layout redesign, and a Warehouse Management System (WMS). The model aimed to streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance the overall efficiency of warehouse processes. The study's findings demonstrated the model's effectiveness, with efficiency improving from 35.59% to 71.85%, lead time reduced by 87.89%, and inventory record accuracy increasing by 153.83%. These results indicate that the model significantly optimized warehouse management, contributing to the sector's competitiveness. The research underscores the importance of adopting systematic methodologies in construction SMEs, offering a practical framework for enhancing operational efficiency. This research contributes to the academic discourse on Lean Warehousing and its application in construction SMEs, highlighting its potential for broader application. Future studies should explore the scalability of this model across different industries, fostering continuous improvement and innovation in warehouse management practices.