Batch Picking Optimization
Design multi-order batches that shorten walking paths and speed fulfillment.
Use case
Wave Picking Playbook
Sequence waves by carrier cutoffs, zone, and service level to keep docks flowing.
Standardize wave picking with workflows, metrics, and coaching prompts your team can trust.
When to use wave picking playbook
Use wave picking when you need to coordinate multiple teams (pickers, packers, shippers) and want to release work in timed batches aligned to carrier cutoffs.
How to implement
Follow these steps to configure wave picking playbook in your warehouse.
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1
Define waves based on carrier cutoff times and priority levels
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2
System calculates required picks and pre-allocates inventory
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3
Release wave to pickers with dashboard showing progress
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4
Monitor completion and escalate late picks before cutoff
Expected results
98%
On-time wave completion
25%
Increase in daily throughput
<5 min
Average exception resolution
Best practices
Lessons learned from successful implementations.
Do
- Align waves to carrier pickup times with buffer
- Monitor wave progress in real-time on dashboards
- Escalate slow waves before they miss cutoff
Don't
- Create waves larger than your team can complete
- Ignore wave deadlines for non-urgent orders
- Release new waves before prior waves complete
Frequently asked questions
How many orders should a wave contain?
Start with 40–60 orders per wave, then tune based on travel time and pack bench capacity.
Can waves release automatically?
Yes. Schedule auto-release around carrier pickups or labor shift changes.
What reports track wave performance?
Wave dashboards show pick duration, exceptions, and completion rates by zone or associate.
Ready to implement wave picking playbook?
Start your free trial and configure this workflow in minutes.