The retail industry employs over 20.2 million people. Because of this, tasks have to be streamlined and processes have to be solidified. One of those tasks is the warehouse order-picking process.
If your warehouse is failing at picking productivity then the effect is going to snowball. Not only will you have to redo the warehouse work, but you’ll also have to redo the assembly line work and then handle customer complaints.
Sounds fun, doesn’t it? Well, we aren’t going to let that happen to you. Keep on reading for three ways how to improve warehouse order-picking accuracy.
Maintain Accurate Inventory Data
Inventory accuracy leads to better order-picking accuracy and an overall better customer experience. To keep your inventory data up to date, it’s important to have a system in place to track stock levels and the location of all items.
This system should allow you to conduct regular cycle counts and reconcile any discrepancies quickly. You should also invest in technology such as inventory management software like this 3pl software or barcode scanners to speed up the order-picking process and keep your tracking data up to date.
Use Different Storage Strategies
One of the most effective strategies is the use of pallet racking. Pallet racking can provide extra space for different goods and can be tailored for a wide range of goods. By separating goods into different areas, pickers can more quickly locate goods and reduce errors.
In addition, the use of automated systems, such as automated carousels, can help reduce goods movement and improve accuracy. Automated systems can control the direction of picking and prevent goods from being mixed up.
Finally, barcoding technology can help improve process efficiency and reduce errors. Barcodes can be attached to goods, and pickers can use scanners to locate goods quickly and reduce the time taken to locate them. By using a combination of different storage strategies, warehouse order-picking accuracy can be greatly improved.
Establish Picking Routes
By creating specific paths and directions, it becomes easier to quickly locate items and pick them up accurately. Additionally, routing can help save time as there will be fewer wasted steps and movement.
In addition, employees can easily learn and apply well-documented routings, further improving order accuracy. Establishing an intuitive and straightforward warehouse picking route is a key factor in ensuring accurate and fast inventory entries.
Providing new employees with some form of training on the order-picking route can also improve accuracy. Ultimately, establishing picking routes is an effective way to ensure order accuracy, consistency, and reliability.
Efficient Warehouse Order Picking
To conclude, accuracy in warehouse order picking is key for satisfying customers. By combining techniques such as maintaining accurate inventory data, using different storage strategies, and establishing picking routes, warehouses can stay up to date and ensure the delivery of accurate orders. The key is to find a system that works best for your particular warehouse and employees.
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