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difference oms wms
Ecommerce Logistics

Difference between OMS and WMS

Tommaso Agostinelli
 - 2 minutos

When you run an e-commerce, understanding your tools well can make the difference between growing or getting stuck. Two acronyms are often confused: OMS and WMS. Both are essential, but they don’t do the same thing. And that difference can be key for your business.

What is an OMS (Order Management System)

An OMS is the system that organizes and coordinates orders. From the moment the customer makes a purchase until the package is shipped, the OMS manages the entire process. Its main function is to ensure that each order is delivered correctly, quickly, and at the lowest possible cost.

Examples of what an OMS does:

  • Assigns the order to the nearest warehouse.

  • Chooses the best shipping company.

  • Coordinates orders from multiple channels: website, physical store, or marketplace.

What is a WMS (Warehouse Management System)

A WMS is responsible for the internal management of the warehouse. It organizes the space, controls inventory, and optimizes movements within the warehouse.

Examples of what a WMS does:

  • Records the entry and exit of products.

  • Assigns the optimal location within the warehouse.

  • Improves operator efficiency.

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Difference between OMS and WMS: the key point

The difference between OMS and WMS lies in the focus:

  • OMS manages orders (from the outside in).

  • WMS manages warehouses (from the inside out).

Both systems complement each other, but they do not replace each other. Each solves a different part of the logistics process.

 

Which does your e-commerce need?

It depends on the size and complexity of your business:

  • If you have multiple sales channels: you need an OMS.

  • If you manage a large inventory: you need a WMS.

  • If you have both situations: you need to integrate the two.

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At Amphora we help brands scale with tools like our OMS and WMS. We give you complete control from purchase to delivery.

Why it’s important to know this difference

Confusing OMS and WMS can lead you to make poor decisions. Choosing the wrong system can cause delays, errors, or unnecessary costs.

Knowing what each one does allows you to choose the right solution — and that is key to growth.

Remember: if your business is growing, understanding the difference between OMS and WMS can set you on the path to success.