Order picking

Order picking is a central process in logistics and warehousing. It ensures that the right products are provided in the required quantity and quality. The process begins with the entry of an order, which can consist of several items. These items are made up of individual articles that have to be taken from different storage areas.

There are different types of picking and sorting. One type is single-stage sorting, in which the individual orders are processed separately. Single-stage picking includes the methods of order-orientated, parallel and order-orientated, serial sorting. In multi-stage picking, several orders are processed in parallel. This includes series-orientated, parallel picking.

Common picking techniques include manual and automated picking. While employees physically remove the goods in the manual variant, machines and robots are used in the automated method.

Modern digital assistance systems support the order picking process by giving employees precise instructions. This can increase efficiency and minimise errors. The systems include pick-by-voice systems, which provide acoustic instructions, and pick-by-light systems, which use light signals to guide the way. There are also systems such as pick-by-vision, pick-by-scan and pick-by-point.

A well-executed sorting process reduces the error rate, optimises the material flow and saves time and costs. Particular attention is paid to ergonomic aspects in order to minimise the physical strain on employees. In this way, accidents at work and health complaints can be reduced.