Batch picking order fulfillment provides one of the most cost effective picking methods in the industry. By utilizing automated carousels and pick-to-light technology, applications can pick up to 16 or more orders simultaneously. This can increase throughput up to 600% and accuracy rates up to 99.9% by eliminated wasted walking, searching and bending for each pick.
As a wave of orders is downloaded from the host into FastPic inventory management software, the software automatically sorts the wave for commonality. Orders with common SKU profiles are grouped into batches. These batches of orders are then queued at the workstation for picking to start. The operator inducts the first batch at their PC and the carousels pre-position themselves to be picked. The operator scans a license plate bar code on the tote or shipping container and matches it with put-lights on the workstation.
The Pick Light Towers then indicate the carousel, the shelf level, the SKU and quantity to be picked. The operator makes the pick, turns to the workstation and places the correct items into the totes or shipping containers as directed by the put-lights. When finished, the operator hits the task complete button and moves on to the next pre-positioned carousel. This continues until all the picks within this batch are completed and until all the batches within the wave are completed.
Automated batch picking order fulfillment system can be designed, installed and running in as little as 12 weeks. Workstations, equipment and software can be easily modified to meet changing business demands.