Cluster Picking vs Wave Picking with the WMS

​Cluster picking and wave picking are two different methods used in warehouse management solution and order fulfillment to optimize the process of picking items for orders. Here is a brief overview of each method:

Cluster Picking

• Definition: Cluster picking is a method where pickers gather items for multiple orders at the same time.
• Process: The picker uses a cart or another method of transportation to collect items for several orders during a single trip through the warehouse.
• Advantages:
  • Reduces travel time by allowing pickers to gather items for multiple orders in one trip.
  • Efficient use of labor and resources.
  • Can speed up order fulfillment by simultaneously picking items for multiple orders.
• Considerations:
  • Requires careful organization to ensure items are properly sorted and allocated to the correct orders.
  • May require specialized equipment or carts to hold multiple orders at once.

Wave Picking

• Definition: Wave picking is a method where pickers complete orders in waves or groups based on specific criteria such as shipping schedules, delivery routes, or order priorities.
• Process: Orders are grouped together into waves based on criteria like destination, order size, or shipping deadline. Pickers complete all orders within a wave before moving to the next wave.
• Advantages:
  • Allows for efficient scheduling and coordination with shipping and delivery times.
  • Facilitates better organization and flow of orders through the warehouse.
  • Can help manage workload by scheduling waves based on pickers' availability and capacity.
• Considerations:
  • Requires careful planning to organize orders into waves based on different criteria.
  • May result in idle time between waves if not scheduled efficiently.

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Both methods aim to optimize the picking process in a warehouse, but each has its own advantages and considerations. The choice between cluster picking and wave picking depends on the specific needs and constraints of the warehouse and the nature of the orders being fulfilled.

The RIC Group's Warehouse Management Solution allows for both fulfilment strategies. Contact us on [email protected] for further information and guidance.

'Build a better bottom line with The RIC Group'
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