Multi-Order-Picking pick-by-light

What is Multi-Order-Picking?

Multi-Order-Picking a picking method in which a picker processes multiple orders simultaneously. To do this, the individual picking orders are grouped together on a picking cart to form a batch and are processed at the same time.

Pick-by-Light supports efficient picking processes, even in Multi-Order-Pickingby allowing multiple orders to be managed and confirmed simultaneously.

A related visual picking method is the Pick-to-Light system, which is characterized by a clearly structured system design and specialized display formats and is also used in many warehouses to optimize processes.

When is Multi-Order-Picking ?

If multiple orders can be fulfilled from the same storage locations due to the order structure, the picker can shorten their walking routes and process multiple picking orders simultaneously. This saves a tremendous amount of time and boosts picking performance and efficiency.

Challenges in Batch Picking

Imagine that there are many orders on the picking cart (usually 9–16). You have a picking list in your hand and now need to locate the individual storage bins according to the list. As a picker, you know your warehouse well and have no trouble finding the storage locations. You can find the right spot very quickly. Perhaps the total quantity is also clearly indicated on the list.

You take the items out of the storage bin, and now… you have a problem! The total quantity must be divided up among the individual orders. And so the search begins.

1. First, you need to find the correct sub-set on the pick list.
2. Second: You must review the order and locate the appropriate box or container on the picking cart.
3. Third: From the total amount, you must count out the correct number of items and set them aside.

All of these tasks take place simultaneously and require the utmost concentration. This often leads to mistakes, which is understandable given an 8-hour workday.

Use of Pick-by-Light in batch picking

A pick-by-light system Multi-Order-Picking be a great help with Multi-Order-Picking . The software of the pick-by-light system manages the entire picking process. There are two types of support available:

1. Pick-by-Light bin indicators on the picking cart

The best method for supporting batch picking with a picking cart is to use pick-by-light displays mounted directly on the cart itself (Pick-by-Cart) or on an auxiliary frame (Pick-by-Frame). To this end, the cart or frame structures are equipped with a battery, Wi-Fi, and displays.

After the order is activated, the information display first shows the picking location. Once the picks have been confirmed (e.g., using a barcode scanner), the bin indicators for the individual orders light up and display the correct quantity directly on the box or container.

The picker simply needs to allocate the displayed quantities to the individual orders and confirm the placement by pressing the confirmation button.

Setting up for Multi-Order-Picking

Before picking orders are initiated using the Multi-Order-Picking, the individual boxes or containers must be placed on the picking cart and assigned to the orders. This process is also supported by the pick-by-light system, making it very quick and easy.

2. Pick-by-Light displays at storage locations

If the number of picking locations in a work area is manageable (20–30), the pick-by-light displays can be permanently installed at the storage locations rather than on the picking carts.

In this case, the pickup compartment displays not only the quantity to be picked but also the destination compartment in the picking cart (e.g., “3 – 5” -> three items to compartment 5). The placement can be confirmed directly at the confirmation button or using a barcode scanner at the placement compartment.

This picking method is rarely used, and so far we have only employed it in the automotive industry. In those cases, the pick quantity was always 1, so the Pick-by-Light display showed only the storage bin.

Conclusion

The pick-by-light system is Multi-Order-Picking helpful for Multi-Order-Picking : it minimizes errors, boosts productivity, and significantly improves the quality of batch picking. Employees are more relaxed and much happier.