Wave Picking
Wave picking is a method of selecting and sequencing picking lists to minimize the waiting time of the delivered material. Shipping orders may be picked in waves combined by a common product, common carrier, or destination, and manufacturing orders in waves related to work centers.
Wave picking often results in increased productivity and efficiency in the warehouse or distribution center.
Some of the key advantages
Some of the key advantages of wave picking include:
- reduced travel time between picking locations,
- decreased picking errors,
- and faster overall order fulfillment.
Wave picking is typically implemented in a warehouse or distribution center that uses automated material handling systems (e.g., conveyor belts and cranes) to move inventory from one zone to another. These systems can be configured so that orders are picked according to specific waves within each zone. For example, orders may be grouped by product type, shipper, or destination, depending on the configuration of the system and the needs of your business.
In addition to reducing travel times between zones, wave picking can also increase worker productivity by streamlining the fulfillment process and making it more efficient. Picking errors are also decreased when using wave picking since workers are less likely to grab the wrong product or pick the wrong quantity when orders are grouped together in this way. Overall, wave picking can help you fulfill orders more quickly and efficiently, improving your customers’ experience with your business.
Implementing wave picking in your warehouse/distribution center
If you’re considering implementing wave picking in your warehouse or distribution center, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- First, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your inventory and how it is organized within your facility.
- You’ll also need to determine the most efficient way to group orders together so that they can be picked in waves.
- Finally, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right material handling equipment in place to support wave picking.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that your warehouse is ready for wave picking and set yourself up for success in this area.
Related Links
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Batch vs. Wave Picking: Which one is Right For Your Business?
Understanding SAP wave pick
Logistics News: How to Improve Wave Picking System Productivity; Logistics News: How to Improve Wave Picking System Productivity
Oracle Warehouse Management User’s Guide
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