Why Use Zone Picking in Warehousing?
Zone picking optimises space utilisation and enhances efficiency by keeping workers within defined zones. Workers can pick items fast and accurately, knowing their area of operation, while large orders are divided into manageable tasks across many workers. This division of labour reduces delays and increases overall productivity in order and inventory management.
How Does Zone Picking Work?
In Zone Picking, an order is divided among different zones. Each picker collects items from their assigned zone. Once the items from all zones are gathered, they are consolidated at a central point for packing. This method prevents unnecessary movement across the entire warehouse, which can save time and effort.
What Are the Advantages of Zone Picking?
- Improved Efficiency: Workers work in more confined, specialised areas and thus spend less time walking between areas.
- Fewer Errors: Familiarity with zones allows for more accurate picking, enhancing order accuracy.
- Less Fatigue: Staying in one location minimises physical fatigue, therefore increasing productivity and job satisfaction.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Zone Picking?
One potential drawback is the need for effective coordination to efficiently bring together items from different zones. If not managed well, it may lead to delays. Integration with other picking methods, like batch picking, may also be necessary to ensure smooth operation.
How Technology Enhances Zone Picking
Modern technologies, like a Warehouse Management System, are extremely important in the modern interpretation of zone picking. Such systems assign task assignments, give workers directions to the items, and perform real-time tracking. Additional tools include voice-directed picking and mobile devices that further smooth the process by reducing errors and enhancing communication.
Combining Zone Picking with Batch Picking
Where high-lifting volumes of smaller orders take place, several warehouses will find it rewarding to combine zone picking with batch picking. In this variant, items in the same zone for multiple orders are picked together. This not only avoids repetition but enhances productivity further with the retaining advantages of zone picking.
