Logistics Execution (ERP + WMS + TMS)
Overview
The Logistics Execution reference architecture defines the integration pattern between ERP, Warehouse Management System (WMS), and Transportation Management System (TMS) to support the order-to-despatch process. It establishes clear system-of-record boundaries and canonical data flows between the three core execution systems.
Architecture Diagram
Component Descriptions
- ERP: Owns the commercial order, financial stock valuation, and accounts payable for freight; triggers downstream execution.
- WMS: Owns the physical location and movement of stock; executes pick, pack, and despatch operations.
- TMS: Owns carrier selection, load planning, booking, and freight cost management.
- Integration Middleware: Transforms and routes messages between systems; provides decoupling, error handling, and monitoring.
Key Design Decisions
- Each system owns its data domain; no cross-system direct database access is permitted.
- All integration is mediated through the middleware layer with documented canonical data models.
- WMS is the authoritative source for physical inventory; ERP financial inventory follows via confirmed goods movements.
- Freight cost commitment flows from TMS to ERP for accrual, not the reverse.