If you deliver packages to businesses or consumers, you’ve likely encountered customers dissatisfied with delivery times. Customers hate delays and increasingly expect faster delivery. Every part of the logistics chain is evolving, and order picking can’t be left behind—faster picking means happier customers. Happy customers lead to positive reviews and repeat purchases. Still using a basic picking slip and picker? Then it’s time to upgrade. There are several ways to speed up your picking process. Here are a few options.
Smart inventory management system
To pick orders faster, you’ll find that there are many innovations to turn your warehouse into a tech powerhouse. Very interesting, but often expensive—mostly feasible for big players. Let’s start with the basics. A modern, smart inventory management system already gives you a major boost. We use Webship Online, a cloud application we developed ourselves.
This system lets you pick multiple orders efficiently. Using warehouse locations, the system calculates the most efficient picking route. This means you don’t pick order by order or get sent all over the warehouse. It may seem small, but the system automates the picking route. It reduces errors and unnecessary walking, allowing you to process more orders. It’s also an affordable solution for SMEs.
Fulfillment
In this context, a fulfillment partner might be the most efficient option. Automating a warehouse involves costs, which discourages many SMEs from making the move. Fulfillment partners specialize in logistics and stay up to date with the latest tech and systems. Outsourcing your logistics reduces stress, saves time, and lets you benefit from your partner’s automation.
Other order picking solutions
Of course, there are also higher-end solutions that significantly boost picking efficiency. Here are a few examples.
Voice picking: a method where orders are picked through voice instructions via a tablet and headset. The picker confirms actions by voice, keeping their hands and eyes free.
Pick-to-light: an effective method for fast-moving items. An LED light shows where the item should be picked.
Barcode scanner: often the first step in automation. Link the scanner to a WMS or ERP system and you’ve made a big leap forward. It greatly reduces error margins, leading to more satisfied customers.
How can you automate your order picking?
Want to automate your order picking? Contact Webship. We’ll discuss automation options, fulfillment opportunities, and give you a free demo of the Webship Online cloud app.
