Wave Picking
Warehouse OperationsWave picking is an order fulfillment strategy where orders are grouped into waves (batches) and picked together rather than individually. Orders released in the same wave are picked simultaneously, then sorted and packed separately. This method improves efficiency by consolidating picks, reducing picker travel time, and optimizing labor. Wave picking is particularly useful during peak seasons and for high-volume fulfillment operations.
Related Terms
Pick and Pack
Pick and pack is a fulfillment process where warehouse workers pick items from shelves based on an order list, then pack them into a shipping box.
Zone Picking
Zone picking is a fulfillment method where the warehouse is divided into zones, and each picker is responsible for collecting items from their assigned zone.
Batch Picking
Batch picking is a fulfillment method where a single picker collects items for multiple orders in one trip through the warehouse.
Order Fulfillment
Order fulfillment is the complete process of receiving, processing, picking, packing, and shipping customer orders.