Batch Picking
Batch picking is an order-picking method in which warehouse operators simultaneously pick items for multiple orders at once. It is a proven method to improve efficiency and reduce the time and effort required to fulfill orders. Batch picking is a valuable method to accelerate pick, pack, and ship operations, particularly when implemented with mobile robots and voice technology as part of warehouse automation solution.
This method increases efficiency and throughput by reducing employee travel time which can amount to 10 miles a day, especially in a single-order picking environment. When employees pick orders individually, they typically make redundant trips to the same locations multiple times to fulfill each order. This method not only results in extra travel time but also requires more workers to complete order-picking tasks.
Implementing Batch Picking
To implement batch picking in a warehouse, orders are typically grouped into batch pick tickets created by the warehouse management system (WMS) or warehouse execution system (WES). The WES system also optimizes pick paths to minimize employee travel time. Batch order selection includes like-SKU order pick logic that reduces picker visits to the same location.
This method increases line quantity picking during a storage bin visit and facilitates batch cart picking across a dozen or more orders simultaneously, resulting in over a 100% productivity gain compared to a discrete order picking process.
Autonomous Mobile Robots and Batch Picking
Picking efficiency with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and voice-directed technology is even more efficient. In this scenario, order picking is coordinated by the warehouse execution system (WES). The WES system releases the picking lists to warehouse workers who move from location to location, pick items, place them into an AMR cart or tote, and update the WES system as tasks are complete.
Batch Picking with a Goods-to-Person (G2P) Automation Solution
Selecting the Right Order Picking Solution
If you’re interested in learning about order-picking strategies and other warehouse automation solutions, the Numina Group can help. As a leading warehouse automation design consultant, software developer and independent systems integrator, Numina Group has over 35 years of experience defining, designing, and implementing highly profitable automated warehouse systems.
Our automated warehouse solutions enable companies to increase productivity by 50% or more, reduce labor costs by 30% to 70%, and increase order accuracy to 99.9%.
We offer consultative warehouse automation design services to identify the right lean processes for your operations. We help you turn your design into reality by combining the power of RDS™ WCS-WES, our real-time warehouse control and execution software with cutting-edge material handling technologies.
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Video: NorthShore Care Supply Doubles Productivity with Batch Picking Combining Voice Picking and AMRs
Product Sheet: RDS™ AMR BatchBot™
