Understanding the Warehouse Order Prep And Picking Process

The objective of logistics remains to deliver a maximum of orders in a minimum of time and at the lowest cost. Among the processes that make up the supply chain, the order preparation stage is crucial. It mobilizes resources and requires good management to be effective.

And it can be optimized through actions and best practices that help speed up shipments and reduce related costs. We suggest that you take stock of the challenges of order preparation. And we give you 5 tips that will help you optimize it.

In What Way Is The Preparation Of Orders A Key Point For The Success Of Logistics?

The preparation of orders largely depends on the satisfaction of the end customer. Indeed, if he receives his order late or incomplete, his experience becomes decidedly negative. The same applies when the package is damaged or does not include the correct items. However, in the age of e-commerce, an unsatisfied customer is a customer who changes brand.

Highlights of Order Preparation Process

The brand image of the company is therefore compromised. In addition, when poorly managed, order preparation leads to higher costs, whether in terms of human resources or storage costs. This is why it is essential to ensure good management of order preparation. There are 3 highlights in the order preparation process, namely:

  • Picking: The items are collected by the operator from their storage location
  • Sorting: distribution of items in the respective orders
  • Packing: grouping of items and packaging.

 The Role of the Order Picker

The order picker is the one who ensures the proper preparation of orders. He collects the necessary information using the cart and picks up the items. To carry out these activities, he selects the equipment and supplies necessary for the shipment (pallets, pallet trucks, pictograms, packaging, etc.) from the documents provided to him.

He checks the articles (compatibility, packaging, quantity), pays attention to the packaging to balance the weight, to the over-packaging, and checks the order. He places the labels on the package or pallet. Each operation is recorded in a computerized management system. All items must be referenced, this will show if the different items are available.

 

Before shipping the goods to the customer, the preparer is the last link, he plays an important role in monitoring the traceability of the goods. He must ensure compliance with health and safety rules.

You can hire a reputable warehousing company such as Sooner Logistics 3PL Service to help you understand better the order preparation process.

When is it Time to Buy a New Walk-in Cooler?

Buying a new walk-in cooler might be expensive but it is necessary. Never take a step back in doing this. It can be more expensive maintaining an old one compared to buying a new cooler. To prevent encountering this kind of inconvenience you can solve the problem once and for all by investing in a new cooler.

So how do you know it’s the right time to buy a new walk-in cooler? Here will be able to discuss the signs that will help you to establish the appropriate time.

1.   When your cooler produces Excessive noise and heat

This is an indication that your cooler is overworking. This results in the consumption of a lot of energy which would be costly for you. Excessive heat can also lead to premature damage to the door and other cooler components. To avoid this kind of problem, ensure that your cooler is replaced immediately.

2.   Increased utility bills

If you notice these, it is an indication that your cooler is faulty. One of the main component that leads to this is an insulator. An insulator ensures that the atmospheric air does not mix with air in the cooler. When the insulator is faulty this does not happen. In an attempt to fix this problem a cooler might use more energy which in the result to increased bills. To solve this the better way is to buy a new cooler.

3.   Condensation on the coolers door

This can be a result of failed components. Also can be the result of the door not closing properly. When this happens it results in condensation. This can be very difficult to opt for one remaining option, which is replacing the cooler.

4.   Food spoiling before the due date

A walk-in cooler is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that perishable goods are kept for a long period. When this does not happen it is an indication that your cooler does not work properly. The problem might be bigger and the only solution would be to replace the cooler. This will save you a lot of problems associated with a faulty cooler.

5.   Fluorescent lighting

This has been the norm with most glass door walk-in coolers. They are equipped with fluorescent lighting which is not reliable. They need to be replaced more often even though they are not as bright as expected. If you have an older cooler with these components, it is the right time for you to replace it. New coolers use LED lighting.

Conclusion

When your walk-in cooler exhibit this characteristic, never wait for the worst part. Be smart and buy a new cooler as early as possible. If your glass door walk-in cooler is faulty in any way, ensure that you talk to American Walk-In Coolers manufacturers They have been in business for several years and have a Grade A with the Better Business Bureau