Batch Picking is a method of picking inventory from its storage location in a way that minimizes personnel travel and maximizes picking efficiency. Inventory is picked to fulfill the requirements of multiple orders at once, and all orders are then transferred to a separate operation to sort the inventory into individual orders. If multiple-line orders are processed, then the inventory will be consolidated together to fulfill the order.
Single Order Picking causes a picker to travel to and from numerous locations to fulfill an order. This process adds considerable labor costs to your overhead. Batch Picking can eliminate some or most of the “travel time” by having the picker select enough of a single item at one time to fulfill multiple orders.
Picking can be based on a number of different technologies, some of which are Pick-to-Light, Pick-to-Voice, Pick-to-Ticket, or various types of RF (Radio Frequency) devices.
The picker would then typically transfer the items that they select to a conveyor system that transports the items to a consolidation station. Where batch picked inventory is matched up with the rest of the items for that particular order.
Batch Picking can be a highly effective method of fulfilling orders, and lowering order travel time and distances in their assigned zone. Other methods of Batch Picking can be employed based upon clients’ specific needs and required customized solutions.
