The four main methods are: piece picking (one order at a time), batch picking (multiple orders at once), zone picking (dividing warehouse and assignments), and zone-wave picking (zone picking with scheduled waves).
Piece picking allows easy, one-by-one order fulfillment. It works well for small eCommerce businesses just starting out and those with low daily order volumes.
Batch picking helps streamline processes by combining tasks. It's great for mid-sized businesses looking to scale operations efficiently. But it has limitations with large, heavy, or complex orders.
Zone picking brings assembly line-style efficiency to large warehouses through specialized picker assignments and coordination between zones - maximizing output.
Zone-wave picking builds on zone picking by adding scheduled waves for pickers. Waves enable precise coordination for packing and shipping cut-offs - ideal for high-volume operations.
Consider your warehouse size, daily order volume, number of SKUs, and product characteristics. Larger operations shipping heavy items in high quantities gain the most from zone and wave picking methods.
Yes, you should re-evaluate as volumes, storage space, and items change over time. Tweak your workflows to maximize efficiency at each stage of growth.
Check out our other articles on picking, packing, shipping, returns, and all aspects of managing backend eCommerce operations.
