WM versus EWM: Receiving, Putaway, Picking and Goods Issue

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WM versus EWM: Receiving, Putaway, Picking and Goods Issue

Compares SAP ERP WM and EWM capabilities for inbound receiving, putaway, picking, and goods issue processes.

Published

June 4, 2026

Read time

3 min read

Source

SAP

This white paper examines the functional differences between SAP ERP Warehouse Management (WM) and Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) across receiving, putaway, picking, and goods issue. It outlines process flows, storage unit versus handling unit management, putaway and picking strategies, wave management, and production replenishment options. The document targets logistics and IT decision makers evaluating which SAP warehouse solution fits current and future operational requirements.

Key takeaways

EWM provides greater flexibility than ERP WM for complex warehouse processes and handling unit management.

ERP WM uses storage units while EWM supports full handling unit nesting, serial numbers, and cross-system visibility.

Putaway strategies in ERP WM are hierarchical; EWM enables more dynamic, rule-based bin determination.

Wave management and multi-delivery picking efficiency are limited in ERP WM compared to EWM capabilities.

An evaluation scoring tool is available to assess WM versus EWM fit based on operational requirements.

Market overview

SCR methodology note

Vendor landscape

Leaders

Implementation considerations

Important consideration

Original Source

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