Wave Picking Playbook
Sequence waves by carrier cutoffs, zone, and service level to keep docks flowing.
Use case
Batch Picking Optimization
Design multi-order batches that shorten walking paths and speed fulfillment.
Standardize batch picking with workflows, metrics, and coaching prompts your team can trust.
When to use batch picking optimization
Use batch picking when you ship 50+ orders per day and want to reduce walking time by picking multiple orders in a single trip through the warehouse.
How to implement
Follow these steps to configure batch picking optimization in your warehouse.
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1
Group orders by zone, carrier, or priority to create optimal batches
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2
Print batch pick list or push to mobile device with route optimization
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3
Pick items into totes or a cart, scanning each item for verification
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4
Sort picked items to individual orders at the pack station
Expected results
35%
Reduction in walking time
85+
Lines picked per hour
99.5%
Pick accuracy with scanning
Best practices
Lessons learned from successful implementations.
Do
- Start with 10-20 order batches before scaling up
- Group by zone to minimize backtracking
- Use totes or cart dividers to prevent mixing
Don't
- Create batches so large pickers can't carry them
- Mix rush orders with standard in the same batch
- Skip barcode scanning to go faster
Frequently asked questions
How many orders belong in a batch?
Most teams start with 3–5 orders per cart and scale once quality stays above target.
Can we batch by client?
Yes. Tag orders by client or channel and apply routing rules to respect branding requirements.
What if a SKU goes out of stock mid-run?
The handheld flags the exception, prompts for substitution, and sends an alert to supervisors for follow-up.
Ready to implement batch picking optimization?
Start your free trial and configure this workflow in minutes.