Types of Picking in a Logistics Warehouse
What is it?
Picking involves the manual or automatic collection of materials from the warehouse. This picking is based on a customer order, a purchase order, or a production line requirement.
What does it consist of?
Picking focuses on the accuracy and efficiency of product selection. This means, first, that products are prepared without errors in the contents, and second, that order consolidation takes as little time as possible. This requires first an efficient storage system and optimizing picking so that, with the help of various tools such as automated goods movement, RFID tunnels, and WMS (Warehouse Management System), customer demand can be met.
Types of Picking
Wave picking: In this case, the picking process is divided into two phases. First, all products are collected and placed on picking shelves, sorted by type. In a second stage, orders are packed and packaged individually. Zone picking involves dividing the collection of items into different locations, arranged according to product characteristics (such as characteristics, demand level, etc.). In zone picking, several orders are prepared at once. In this process, items are placed in containers until the order is complete and ready to be shipped. This process is controlled by the order number.
Pick-to-light. This is a technique in which products are stored in boxes based on order demand. These boxes have a device that lights up when the item is added to the order in process, thus optimizing product selection efficiency and accuracy.
Pick-to-voice. This is an auditory device that gives order picking instructions to the operator, who has both hands and eyes free with this system.
Both pick-to-light and pick-to-voice are used in warehouses where there are no space limitations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, picking can be done in a traditional or more modern way. Regardless of the method, it is a key element in the supply chain. If warehouse picking is implemented well, it will increase speed within the supply chain. Whether picking is implemented in a more modern way or not will depend on the type of products being handled, the characteristics of the warehouse, and the intensity of the workload.