While you might be familiar with the basic rules of warehousing, there’s always room to learn and improve in logistics. Today, we’ll explore two essential operations crucial for your warehouse’s smooth functioning: picking and packing. We will discuss what tasks they entail and how they differ. Let's dive into the definitions of picking and packing, as well as the main strategies to optimize these processes.
Definitions and Differences Between Picking and Packing
Picking and packing encompass sets of tasks carried out in a warehouse or distribution center.
- Picking in Logistics
In the context of logistics, picking refers to the order preparation process. It includes:
- Advance planning
- Route planning and movements
- Extraction of goods
- Verification and preparation of orders for dispatch
Strictly speaking, picking involves the initial phase of the process, which is the operator's movement to the shelf to retrieve the specified product.
- Order Conditioning
Packing, on the other hand, refers to the preparation and packaging of orders for subsequent dispatch. The main tasks involved in this operation are:
- Selection of Packaging Material: This is based on the size, quantity, and characteristics of the products. The strength of the box and the appropriate filler are crucial for protecting the shipment’s contents.
- Final Verification: Checking the model, quantity, weight, and cubic size or dimensional weight is essential for identifying errors made during picking and ensuring compliance with transport service requirements.
- Labeling for Dispatch: Labels placed on the outside of the cardboard box include the parcel reference number, shipping address, and sometimes a tracking number. They also feature a barcode that, when scanned, provides access to related information for traceability.
If the merchandise is palletized before leaving the warehouse, the packing process will also involve loading pallets. This includes stacking or staggering boxes, securing them with straps or stretch wrap, and attaching the necessary labels. Conversely, if pallets are dispatched as they are stored, packing may be limited to quality control and labeling for dispatch.
Additionally, depending on your picking method, there might be an intermediate phase between picking and packing known as goods consolidation. This involves reorganizing and grouping products by order, often seen in batch picking or wave picking scenarios.
Relationship Between Picking and Packing Processes in a Warehouse
In warehouses with a high volume of orders, it’s common to see operators assigned to specific picking tasks (extraction and movements) and others focused on packing (verification and packaging). This division of labor saves time on operator movements and role changes, ensuring that the order preparation cycle remains continuous.
Picking and packing are typically consecutive tasks; however, the pick-to-box method merges them more closely. For precise coordination, implementing a warehouse management system (WMS) is essential. Before starting the picking route, the WMS calculates product quantities and sizes, allowing you to choose the appropriate packaging in advance. After picking the items from the shelf, operators can place them directly into the designated box.