|
ASSESS operations Facility AssessmentThe assessment is conducted by independent third-party auditors using a rigorous, industry-standard grading methodology. This includes a thorough on-site facility inspection and an in-depth process assessment. The auditors evaluate eight key functional areas of warehouse operations scoring each on a five-point scale. These scores are then benchmarked against recommendations in WERC's Benchmarking & Best Practices Guide. WERC Warehouse Certification ProgramThe Facility Assessment and Certification program offers an impartial, expert review of your facility’s operations, benchmarked against industry standards. Independent auditors provide fact-based insights and recommendations, helping you identify areas for improvement. For warehousing and distribution centers, this certification boosts credibility with vendors and clients, demonstrates a commitment to excellence, and ensures your daily operations align with long-term strategic goals. The cost of this program is $15,000. Key Program Benefits:
How it Works
Prepare for the Facility AssessmentThe applicant reviews the program guidelines and prepares and submits the Warehouse Assessment and Certification Program Application and Licensing Agreement. WERC reviews the application and assigns an auditor. The auditor contacts the applicant to complete the pre-audit questionnaire and set dates for the site visit 
Auditor Inspects FacilityOn day one, the auditor conducts a comprehensive walk-through of the facility, reviewing processes, activities, and interviewing selected team members. 
Auditor Presents the FindingsOn day three, the auditor informs the applicant whether the facility has received certification, presents the findings report, and leads an interactive review session with the facility team. In the afternoon, the auditor conducts a Process Improvement Workshop, explaining benchmarking fundamentals, reviewing audit findings, and identifying improvement opportunities. A detailed action plan with high-level responsibilities is developed. If certified, the facility receives a licensing agreement to use the certification logo and a plaque acknowledging their achievement. 
Post-Audit EvaluationAfter the audit, the applicant receives a post-audit evaluation for feedback on the WERC Warehouse Assessment and Certification Program. If certification is not awarded, the applicant may submit written objections to the Auditor's Assessment Report within 30 days. WERC's Assessment and Certification Program Committee will then review the objections and either uphold the original assessment or order a new audit at a reduced re-examination rate. WERC will notify the applicant of the final decision and certification status within 30 days of the review or additional audit. 
WERC Warehouse Re-Certification Program Audit ProcessA WERC Warehouse Certification is valid for three years from the audit date. As the anniversary approaches, WERC will contact the site’s responsible individual to discuss the re-certification process, which includes a two-day audit covering all operational areas as in the initial audit. Additionally, a GAP Chart highlighting improvements over the three-year period will be prepared, and auditors can, upon request, assess the effectiveness of any process improvements undertaken since the previous audit. Facilities receiving re-certification will be offered a new licensing agreement to continue using the WERC Certification logo and will receive a plaque acknowledging their renewed certification. Testimonials:"As a facility operator, the WERC certification process gave us an unbiased, professional review of our warehousing practices. It benchmarked our operations against established industry standards, providing us with a clear understanding of our competitive position. The insights we gained helped us identify problems we hadn’t seen before and offered practical solutions to improve our efficiency. This certification has been invaluable in ensuring our operations are aligned with the best in the industry." "As a shipper, the WERC certification process was instrumental in helping us identify outsource partners that align with our warehouse process criteria. Our sourcing and procurement team can now confidently enforce standardized processes and aptitude levels with our 3PLs. The certification also highlighted key areas for improvement with our partners, ensuring we’re consistently working with top-performing logistics providers. This has greatly enhanced our supply chain efficiency and reliability." "As a third-party provider, the WERC certification process has been a game-changer for us. It provides our facility operator clients with assurance that their operations meet rigorous industry standards. Achieving the 'WERC Certified Warehouse' status has significantly boosted our brand visibility and credibility in a highly competitive market. This certification has not only set us apart but also reassured our clients of our commitment to excellence." Contact JoAnna Leon with any questions about the facility assessment. 
Related Content
DC Measures ToolsHarness more than 30 key operational metrics with our DC Measure Online Benchmarking Tool. Start Benchmarking
Distribution Logistics Education ProgramLearn essential warehousing and distribution center skills through a series of six online courses. View Courses
PublicationsFrom logistics reports to a template for a 3PL request for proposal, find important industry resources. Learn More |
