Paper Pick Lists

A paper pick list will normally detail the order number, location, product code, description and quantity to be picked. If utilizing a WMS, each product line will be shown in sequence, enabling the picker to travel the most efficient way around the warehouse and ending up as close to the dispatch bay as possible. The fastest-moving items should be placed close to the dispatch area to minimize travel. Stock control systems and manual applications may not have this ability and therefore some form of manual intervention is required to reduce the amount of pick travel undertaken. The picker will utilize a trolley, cage, pallet truck or possibly a forklift truck. The advantage of using a forklift truck is that the pallet can be lifted to a suitable height as the picker continues along the route. Any discrepancies should be written onto the pick list. When the pick list is returned to the supervisor, the discrepancies should be checked immediately and alternative locations provided if there are shortages. Details of the pick are entered manually into the system. This can lead to errors if the writing is illegible or there is confusion over the way a number is written. This all adds time to the operation.