Operators of eCommerce, fulfilment centres, warehouses and factories are more than aware that the efficiency and accuracy of order picking processes is critical to maintaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. One technology that has proven to be a game-changer in this regard is Pick to Light. In this blog, we will explore what Pick to Light technology is, it’s typical applications, and the myriad benefits it offers to businesses and operators alike.
What is Pick to Light?
Pick to Light is an order-fulfilment technology that uses lights to guide warehouse operators to the correct locations of items they need to pick. Each storage location in a warehouse is equipped with a light display. When an order is processed, the relevant lights illuminate, indicating where items are located and how many items need to be picked. Operators then confirm the pick by pressing a button and have the ability to override the pick qty requested, if there are short picks etc for maximum accuracy.
The same technology can be used in a reverse function for Put Away – replenishment functions but also for order consolidation functions via Put Wall.
Typical applications of Pick to Light
Pick to Light systems are commonly used in:
- eCommerce fulfilment centres: High-volume order picking for direct-to-consumer shipments.
- Warehouses: Efficient management of inventory and order picking for various supply chain processes.
- Factories: Assisting in the assembly process by guiding workers to the correct components.
- Distribution centres: Streamlining the sorting and picking of items for shipping to retail locations.
Benefits of Pick to Light
Increased picking accuracy
Pick to Light significantly reduces picking errors by clearly indicating the precise location and quantity of items to be picked. This visual guidance minimises the chances of human error, ensuring that customers receive the correct products. Increased accuracy directly translates to fewer returns and higher customer satisfaction. Multiple pickers can operate within the same pick face with alternate coloured lamps
Improved speed of picking
With Pick to Light, operators can quickly identify where items are located without having to read lengthy picking lists or use handheld devices. The lights provide immediate visual cues, for the product location and quantities to be picked – illuminated, drastically reducing the time spent searching for items. This leads to faster order fulfilment and the ability to handle higher order volumes, particularly during peak periods.
Ease of use for the operator
The simplicity of Pick to Light systems makes them highly user-friendly. Minimal training is required for operators to become proficient, which is particularly beneficial in environments with high staff turnover or seasonal employment. The intuitive nature of the system ensures that even new employees can quickly reach high levels of productivity.
Enhanced customer satisfaction
By ensuring that orders are picked accurately and shipped quickly, Pick to Light contributes directly to improved customer satisfaction. Customers receive the correct items in a timely manner, enhancing their overall shopping experience and increasing the likelihood of repeat business.
Seamless integration with other technologies
Pick to Light systems can easily integrate with other warehouse technologies, such as Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, and automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). This integration allows for real-time updates and coordination across various operational processes, further enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
Flexibility and scalability
Pick to Light systems are highly flexible and can be customised to fit the specific needs of different operations. Whether you are running a small warehouse or a large fulfilment centre, these systems can be scaled up or down to meet changing demands. This adaptability ensures that the investment in Pick to Light remains valuable as your business grows.
Reduced training time and costs
The visual and intuitive nature of Pick to Light systems means that new operators can be trained quickly and with less expense. This reduction in training time is particularly advantageous during peak seasons when temporary staff may be required.
Conclusion
In the competitive landscape of eCommerce, fulfilment centres, warehouses, and factories, the adoption of Pick to Light technology offers a substantial edge. From improving picking accuracy and speed to enhancing customer satisfaction and ease of integration with other systems, the benefits are clear and compelling. As businesses strive to optimize their operations and meet ever-increasing customer expectations, Pick to Light stands out as a robust and effective solution.
By implementing Pick to Light, operations managers and directors can ensure smoother, faster, and more accurate picking processes, ultimately leading to more satisfied customers and a more efficient operation. Investing in this technology not only boosts current performance but also positions your business for future growth and success.