A warehouse control system is a software application used for the management and direction of material handling automation systems within a warehouse or distribution center. Warehouse control systems (WCS) are responsible for ensuring an efficient product flow across different material handling equipment and sub-systems such as conveyors, pick-to-light modules, carousels, sorters, AS/RS systems and AGVs, among others.

In most facilities, the WCS will control the automated material handling equipment and integrate with a warehouse management system (WMS) that will manage and plan warehouse activities from receiving through shipping. The WMS will typically direct the work of material handling staff alongside the automation systems controlled by the WCS. More and more facilities are adding AI-based warehouse optimization solutions to optimize and orchestrate the work of people, WCS systems, and robotics.