2 November 2024 Discover 7 practical strategies to optimize picking in e-commerce and improve warehouse operational performance. With the growing interest and higher consumer expectations towards online shopping, companies are facing the challenge of meeting market demands quickly and reliably. A study by the Dertes Systems Group found that 67% of consumers still face issues with delays and failures in receiving orders, with negative consequences for the brand. To mitigate these damages, it is essential to consider factors such as reducing the time between order receipt and shipping. To this end, all processes involved in e-commerce picking must be perfectly aligned and coordinated. 1. Organize the warehouse layout One of the main objectives to improve the efficiency of e-commerce picking is to minimize the time spent on staff movement. The first measure is to optimize the warehouse layout based on merchandise turnover. For example, in an electronics e-commerce, placing smartphones, which are among the most requested products, near the shipping area reduces movement time, increasing productivity. Bonus tip: Invest in a Warehouse Management System (WMS) that automates the assignment of goods to the right places based on logistical parameters such as seasonality, size, weight, etc. 2. Implement zone picking Zone picking involves dividing the warehouse into specific areas for product categories. For example, in a clothing e-commerce, you can have zones dedicated to t-shirts, pants, accessories, etc. This allows multiple teams to work simultaneously, increasing speed and efficiency. 3. Adopt batch picking In batch picking, the operator collects multiple orders simultaneously, reducing trips to the same warehouse areas. Subsequently, the products are sorted based on individual orders, improving productivity. Bonus tip: Use a WMS to organize batch picking and guide operators through the process. 4. Invest in management systems A WMS is essential for coordinating picking operations, optimizing operator routes, and updating product availability in real-time. If you operate in an omnichannel context, an Order Management System (OMS) can help you centralize order management and ensure a consistent customer experience. 5. Adopt automation technologies for picking Technologies like voice picking or pick-to-light greatly improve efficiency and accuracy in picking. For example, voice picking, integrated with the WMS, converts instructions into voice commands for operators, reducing errors and work times. 6. Train and empower your team A well-trained team is essential for efficient picking. Training ensures that operators know the products, use technological tools correctly, and understand the importance of accuracy and speed. 7. Conduct regular audits on picking Regular audits allow you to identify problems, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement. A WMS can support you by providing real-time data to analyze the efficiency and accuracy of operations. Maximize e-commerce picking efficiency with a WMS As highlighted, implementing a WMS is one of the most impactful strategies to improve picking in e-commerce. The WMS optimizes operations, strategically organizes the warehouse, and reduces human errors, improving customer satisfaction and competitiveness. Discover how WMS software can help you optimize your processes and ensure the success of your e-commerce! Picking in E-commerce: How to Be More Efficient Deagor WMS per ecommerce può aiutarti!