Improving Efficiency in Distribution Centers with Automated Picking Systems
Order picking is arguably the most important factor in fulfillment centers. Studies show that a single picking error can reduce the profitability of an order by as much as 13%. Customers of LD Systems know that we can increase order accuracy to 99.9%. The order accuracy of the picking is one area that we focus on. Historically, order picking was a manual task. These days automation picking is rapidly taking over.
Automated picking systems are computer-controlled machines that can retrieve and pick products from inventory shelves in a warehouse. These systems are designed to streamline warehouse operations and improve the efficiency of the picking process. There are several types of automated warehouse order picking systems. There is pick-to-light, voice picking, mobile scanner-based picking, and collaborative mobile robots. In a future post we will discuss these in more detail.
For this article, we’re going to focus on automated picking systems as a whole.
Here’s how automated picking systems work:
Inventory Storage: Products are stored in the warehouse according to the automated picking system’s rules and algorithms, optimizing space and reducing the number of human touches.
Order Fulfillment: When an order is placed, the automated picking system will identify the products and location of the items in the warehouse.
Automated Picking: The machine will then retrieve the products and prepare them for shipment. Depending on the system used, the products will either be brought to a human operator for packaging or packaged by the automated picking system itself.
Now, let’s discuss the benefits of using automated picking systems in distribution centers:
Increased Efficiency: Automated picking systems can pick products faster and more accurately than humans, improving efficiency, reducing labor costs, and enabling faster order fulfillment.
Improved Accuracy: Automated picking systems can improve order accuracy, reducing the number of errors and ensuring customers receive the correct products.
Cost Reduction: The reduced need for labor and the increased efficiency of automated picking systems can result in significant cost savings over time.
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: With faster and more accurate order fulfillment, customers are more likely to be satisfied, leading to repeat business and increased revenue.
Better Utilization of Space: Automated picking systems can be designed to optimize space in the warehouse, reducing the overall footprint of the warehouse.
Conclusion:
Automated picking systems are an excellent solution for distribution centers looking to optimize their warehouse operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. With their increased accuracy, faster order fulfillment, and better utilization of space, automated picking systems can help enhance customer satisfaction and drive revenue growth for businesses.
To learn more about automated picking systems or other solutions for moving materials, contact LD systems today.
