Who is a picker?
The order picker gathers the goods for the customer orders.
What does a picker do?
The main task of a picker in warehouse logistics is to pick items from a storage location in the warehouse according to orders. Items are picked from storage compartments on shelves or from pallet storage locations. Picking is based on a picking list (electronic or as physical accompanying documents). The processes are often supported by picking systems (picking methods) such as pick-by-light, Voice Picking, Pick-by-Point, Pick-by-Frame, etc.
Before starting work, the order picker often prepares the packaging (boxes, containers, mesh boxes, pallets, etc.). Then the order picking begins. The order picker goes through several storage areas according to the order picking list and picks the goods from the storage locations. Each item on the picking order is confirmed. Picking systems and warehouse management systems are used to keep travel times short. They optimize storage and walking distances. Once the order is complete, it is checked, packed, and shipped. The picker bears a great deal of responsibility for the quality of the work of the entire team (minimizing shortages and optimizing handling costs).
Picking in a picking warehouse is done manually. The following picking equipment can be used as aids: forklifts, pallet trucks, various other devices, industrial trucks, and various support systems.
Does the order picker need training?
No. You don't need to complete vocational training to work as a picker. All you need to do is search a job board. The profession is taught as part of a specialist training program at a logistics company. Warehouse clerks, commercial packers, and warehouse logistics specialists learn the profession directly through work experience.
Further training in warehouse management is possible. However, this depends heavily on each individual employer. Ask about this when applying to the company.
Looking for a job as a picker?
Finding a job as a picker is not difficult. There are many job advertisements and job boards where employees with this job profile are sought (e.g., https://www.stepstone.de/jobs/Kommissionierer-in.html).
To narrow down your job search, you can also enter the city where you are looking for work in the search field, e.g., "order picker Hamburg." In many cases, job advertisements at employment agencies are also very easy to find. If you are coming from a different profession, search for "application order picker career changer." Skilled workers who have a forklift license have an advantage in this job. Some companies only have pallet trucks, which do not require a license.
Good luck with your application!
Order picker salary?
A picker in Germany earns between €12 and €18 per hour when starting out. However, their salary varies greatly depending on the industry. Seasonal workers earn much less. Many temporary employment agencies also hire pickers at very low wages. It is therefore better to apply directly to companies that need pickers. This will earn you more money.
Is order picking difficult?
Many carrying aids are available in a modern logistics warehouse. In the past, order pickers had to carry very heavy loads. Today's standards regulate the maximum weight they are allowed to carry. Forklifts, pallet trucks, and cranes are available.
Various picking systems support warehouse logistics work and eliminate accompanying documents (picking lists). If you would like to learn more about innovative picking methods, read further articles on: Pick-by-Light, Voice Picking, Pick-by-Point, Pick-by-Frame, etc.
