What is a virtual warehouse?

The term “virtual warehouse” refers to a digital concept in logistics and is used in two different ways:

1. Virtual warehouse as a planning and simulation tool: This is software for visual 3D representation and simulation of warehouse processes. With the help of this tool, storage areas can be planned digitally, logistical processes visualized, and optimizations made as early as the planning phase. The use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) also allows employees to be trained and processes to be tested in a realistic environment.

2. “Virtual warehouse” as a networked warehouse system: This not only manages your own physical inventory, but also digitally integrates the inventories of other partners or suppliers. This creates a virtual network of different warehouses, enabling an expanded product range without the need for your own warehousing.

However, a virtual warehouse is usually understood as part of logistics planning. This is based on a virtual environment and helps to visually map logistics processes, trace routes, and better identify weak points.