4 Ways to Make Order Picking Better

Order picking is one of the most important factors to making clients happy. They should receive what they order on time and in good condition. Getting the right order put together quickly falls into the hands of the order pickers. The longer it takes to fill orders, the longer it takes to get orders out the door to customers. A survey of the present system might reveal a few ways to improve efficiency and increase production. Sometimes the most simple changes can have the most profound effects.

Dynamic Storage
Reduce the amount of time and space each order picker needs to travel to fill the orders. Use lean manufacturing principles to eliminate wasted time and space. Consider rearranging the workstations into dynamic storage units, rather than static units. Increase efficiency of pickers by 30 percent, and the amount of space used by up to 50 percent. Dynamic storage racks can be custom built and organized to put what the order pickers need within arm’s reach. This eliminates walking around to fill orders and saves precious time.

Ergonomics
Changing the configuration of workstations to a more ergonomic design makes the job easier and less physically taxing on employees. Adjust shelf height and depth to make it easier and faster to reach products. This also reduces muscle strain. Change the workstation unit angle. Improve visibility sightlines for the employee for greater comfort and efficiency. This can also increase the speed and reduce the reach in picking orders.

Replenishment
When workstations have to be restocked frequently, it slows down efficiency. Not only does it take time for someone to come in and reload, but also takes the worker out of their picking rhythm. Choosing a workstation that can be seamlessly replenished from the back eliminates those problems. It does not interfere with the picking process and increases productivity.

Durability
Management should be sure to choose durable shelving and workstations when changing out equipment. Tougher equipment lasts longer. Sometimes the replenishment process can apply heavy force to racks and shelving. This can cause damage and slow down or halt usage of the workstation until it is repaired or replaced. Components get bent or come apart. This prevents cartons and products from being easily accessed. Using durable equipment that can withstand heavy force reduces and even eliminates down time. The less down time a company has, the faster they can process orders and make customers happy.

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