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What is paperless picking?

Paperless picking is picking in which only electronic compartment displays or devices are used instead of a paper picking slip.

Definition and explanation

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

In this article, we explain exactly how paperless picking works in logistics or production. We will also show you how orders are started, picked, posted and completed. We will also show you some of the advantages and disadvantages of paperless picking. All this in comparison with classic picking with a pick list.

If you would like to find out more general information about order picking, continue reading on Order picking - Wikipedia.

Goals of paperless picking

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

  • Minimize costs and increase efficiency by increasing picking performance
  • Improving quality by reducing the error rate
  • Simple induction training for new employees    

The standard (Pick-by-Scan method) is to use MDE devices with barcode scanners. However, there are also many other methods that support the paperless picking process.

The picking process

Different picking methods are used depending on the type of requirement and process:

  • Pick-to-Light
  • Voice Picking
  • Pick-by-Frame®
  • Pick-by-Point®
  • Pick-by-Scan
  • Pick-by-Tablet
  • Pick-by-Watch®, etc.

Which system is best suited for this must be determined based on the criteria. As a system provider, LUCA Logistic Solutions supports all these processes and offers the optimum solution. Please contact us.

The electronic pick list

The basis of all procedures is an electronic pick list, which is processed in the process. The pick list is often still printed out as a backup solution or even sent to serve as a delivery bill.

Procedure

Recording of orders

Today, the paperless recording of picking orders in a company is carried out using computers. The result of the administration in a warehouse management system is an electronic pick list. However, the picking 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 different ways. With the help of various methods, the picker is guided to the storage compartment and assisted in picking the goods. The most commonly used methods include the following solutions: Pick-to-Light, Voice Picking, Pick-by-Frame, Pick-by-Point, Pick-by-Watch, etc.

The order picker does not have to write down his picks from the warehouse on the picking slip with a ballpoint pen and has his hands free.

Posting of withdrawals

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

Completion of paperless picking

Once all the items in an order have been picked, the next order can be processed directly in the warehouse.

Advantages and disadvantages

Each paperless picking process has certain characteristics that have advantages and disadvantages. This means that the general classification can only be defined to a limited extent.

Advantages

  • Fast and efficient 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 acquisition
  • Optimum material flow
  • Environmental protection and reduction of costs for paper, printers, maintenance and service

Disadvantages

  • High investment costs compared to a pick list
  • Limited flexibility due to the technical equipment

Conclusion

Even if paperless picking is associated with investments, the ROI is very short. Connecting the various picking methods to a WMS or SAP system is not a problem. The advantages of the picking process are clear. The best method is clearly Pick to Light.

Talk to us. We can 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.


Which order picking system is best suited to your company?


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