What distinguishes leading logistics companies from their competitors? The answer often lies in the invisible but critical order picking phase. This activity, which consumes between 45% and 75% of a warehouse's operational resources, is the critical link between the commercial promise and the customer experience. Today, optimizing this process is a strategic necessity for business survival.
Order picking, also known as order preparation, is the process of picking and grouping small loads to form an order. As a fundamental element in the logistics chain, its correct development determines operational efficiency, customer experience and business profitability.
In recent years, the importance of this process has multiplied exponentially due to the increase in e-commerce and the greater demands of consumers with respect to tighter delivery times. If order preparation is carried out efficiently, it reduces time and costs, which has a positive impact on delivery times and customer satisfaction.
According to data from the National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC), in the third quarter of 2020, 258.9 million transactions took place in Spain through e-commerce, moving 12.8 billion euros. This growing trend underscores the need for increasingly efficient order preparation systems. (Blog - Toyota)
Order picking has evolved greatly thanks to the integration of advanced technologies. Traditional manual picking methods have given way to automated systems that optimize every phase of the process, from the initial planning of picking routes to the final order verification.
The implementation of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and automatic recognition technologies has revolutionized the way orders are picked. These advances allow complete traceability of the process, significantly reducing human error and optimizing picking times.
The adoption of these technologies has created a critical differentiator for business success. Companies like Solistica have developed end-to-end solutions that transform order picking by integrating advanced technology and efficient methods. (Blog - Solistica)
To optimize the picking process, it is essential to understand and properly manage its four main steps:
In this phase, the necessary resources (material and human) are assigned to each preparation process. If a Warehouse Management System (WMS) is available, this phase is carried out in a more agile and efficient way, since the software automatically identifies the optimal solution.
The routes within the warehouse involve time and energy, so the layout design is of utmost importance. Depending on the type of picking selected (by batches, by waves or by zones), specific routes will be established to minimize trips and optimize time.
Product collection requires specific treatment depending on its location: ground level, low level, medium level (less than 4 meters) or high level (more than 4 meters). Having the right equipment for each situation is essential to maintain efficiency.
It is essential to perform a thorough check of the units that make up the order and verify that the total weight matches the established specifications, thus ensuring accuracy prior to shipment. (Blog - Ar Racking)
There are several methods of order picking, each adapted to different operational needs:
According to the direction of the goods:
Depending on the pick-up:
The choice of the appropriate method will depend on the type of warehouse, the volume of orders and the nature of the products. Solistica offers specialized consulting to determine the system best suited to the specific needs of each company. (Blog - MRPeasy)
Advanced technology for order picking
The implementation of appropriate technology is indispensable to optimize order picking. Among the most effective solutions are
The software that manages warehouse processes and activity at every logistical stage: receiving, storage, picking and shipping. A robust WMS enables optimal picking routes to be planned and provides real-time visibility of inventory.
Solistica has developed a technology platform that revolutionizes traditional warehousing through intelligent allocation of goods, facilitating more efficient and cost-effective distribution, ensuring optimal use of assets and automatic inventory replenishment. (Blog - Solistica)
To control and continuously improve the picking process, it is essential to monitor the following KPIs:
These indicators allow identifying areas for improvement, detecting inefficiencies and making informed decisions to continuously optimize the process. (Blog - MRPeasy)
With more than two decades of experience in handling consumer goods, Solistica has developed a comprehensive system that revolutionizes order picking. Its intuitive interface platform provides real-time visibility of orders and inventory, enabling precise control of fulfillment processes and efficient inventory synchronization.
Solistica integrates:
This customization capability, combined with its experience in various sectors, positions Solistica as an invaluable strategic partner for companies seeking to optimize their logistics. (Blog - Solistica)
The logistics industry continues to evolve, and Solistica maintains its leadership position in this transformation. Its commitment to innovation and operational optimization ensures that customers receive world-class 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) services tailored to the changing demands of today's and tomorrow's markets. (Web - Solistica)
Discover how our services can optimize your operations, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction.