Order Picking Alternatives

A number of order picking arrangements exist, each with their own utility depending on the needs identified in the stock profile. Some of the more common methods are :

Bin/Shelving Picking

Bin/Shelving Picking is used for large or small items, usually of varying shapes, that are picked at low rates. Variations include,

• Pick to Cart (shown)
• Pick to Conveyor
• Pick to Pallet Jack

Flow Rack Picking

Flow Rack Picking is best suited for items of uniform size, picked at low to medium rates. Rack replenishment is from the rear. Variations include,

• Case Picking to Conveyor (shown)
• Case Picking to Cart
• Case Picking by Lift Truck

Single Deep Rack Piping

Individual cases, layers or mixed items can be picked using the Single Deep Rack concept. This method is used for larger items that are picked at low to medium rates. Variations include,

• Case/Layer Picking to Stockpicker (shown)
• Case/Layer Picking to Cart
• Pallet Picking by Lift Truck

Carousel Picking

Best suited to small products, Carousel Picking is used for low-to medium-rate picking.

Reduced walking time and multiple SKUs are the chief advantages, but bin size is limited. Variations include,

• Vertical Carousel Picking (shown)
• Horizontal Carousel Picking
• Vertical/Horizontal Picking to Conveyor
• Vertical/Horizontal Picking to Cart

Tilt Tray Sortation Picking

Small products of varying sizes can be picked at high rates and with high accuracy using Tilt Tray Sortation Picking. This method is used for preparing packages for shipment. A previous picking operation must occur upstream to feed the Tilt Tray Conveyor. Variations include,

• Picking to Tray (shown)
• Picking to Conveyor

Auto-Dispensing Picking

Auto-Dispensing Picking is used to provide picking of small, uniform, durable products at high rates. It is generally used only for high volume applications and has a high initial investment. Variations include,

• Picking to Tray (shown)
• Picking to Conveyor