What is paperless picking?

Paperless picking is a picking method that uses only electronic display panels or devices instead of paper picking slips.

Definition and explanation

In paperless picking, there is no pick list. The employee is supported directly by a system with various devices at the storage location while picking the goods. Various picking methods are available for use.

In this article, we explain in detail how paperless picking works in logistics or production. We also show you how orders are started, picked, booked, and completed. In addition, we highlight some of the advantages and disadvantages of paperless picking. All this is compared with traditional picking using a pick list.

If you would like to learn more general information about order picking, please continue reading at Order picking – Wikipedia.

Objectives of paperless picking

The introduction of paperless picking has the following objectives in a company:

• Minimizing costs and increasing efficiency by boosting picking performance
• Improving quality by reducing the error rate
• Easy training of new employees    

The standardPick-by-Scan) involves the use of MDE devices with barcode scanners. However, there are many other methods that support paperless picking.

The picking procedures

Depending on the type of requirement and process, different picking methods are used:

• pick-by-light
• Voice Picking
• Pick-by-Frame®
• Pick-by-Point®
• Pick-by-Scan
• Pick-by-Tablet
• Pick-by-Watch®, etc.

The criteria must be used to determine which system is best suited for this purpose. As a system provider, LUCA Logistic Solutions supports LUCA Logistic Solutions these processes and offers the optimal solution. Contact us.

The electronic pick list

The basis for all procedures is an electronic picking list that is processed during the process. Often, the picking slip is still printed out or even sent as a backup solution to serve as a delivery note.

procedure

Order entry

Today, paperless recording of picking orders in a company is done using computers. The result of administration in a warehouse management system is an electronic pick list. However, the pick list is not provided as a picking slip, but as a data record for the picking systems. The process is easy to understand.

The picking process

Paperless picking is implemented in various ways. Various methods are used to guide the picker to the storage location and assist them in removing the goods. The most commonly used methods include the following solutions: Pick-by-Light, Voice Picking, Pick-by-Frame, Pick-by-Point, Pick-by-Watch, etc.

The order picker does not have to note down their picks from the warehouse with a pen on the pick slip and has their hands free.

Booking withdrawals

Withdrawals are posted immediately after confirmation of withdrawal. The advantage of this is that stock levels are always up to date.

Completion of paperless picking

Once all items in an order have been picked, work on the next order can begin immediately in the warehouse.

Advantages and disadvantages

Every paperless picking method has certain characteristics that offer advantages and disadvantages. This means that a general classification can only be defined to a limited extent.

benefits

• Fast and efficient order picking by minimizing search times
• The effort involved in the picking process is reduced (no need to read the picking list).
• Minimization of errors when withdrawing quantities
• Always up-to-date stock levels thanks to direct data entry
• Optimal material flow
• Environmental protection and reduction of costs for paper, printers, maintenance, and service

disadvantages

• high investment costs compared to a pick slip
• Limited flexibility due to technical equipment

Conclusion

Even though paperless picking involves investment, the ROI is ROI short. Connecting the various picking methods to a warehouse management system or SAP system is no problem. The advantages of this picking method are clear. Pick by Light is definitely one of the best methods.

Get in touch with us. We will help you find the right solution for paperless picking, although we do not believe that the data glasses for warehouse workers that have become popular in recent years are suitable for this purpose.