GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026

order picking methods

Warehouse staff and logistics managers select order picking methods based on how orders are organised and physically assembled within the facility.

Quick Answer

Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kommissionieren

Category

Logistics Concept

Reading time

1 min

Words

112

Mentioned in

–

Definition & Explanation

Warehouse staff and logistics managers select order picking methods based on how orders are organised and physically assembled within the facility. The core distinction is between man-to-goods picking – where the operator travels to the shelf location – and goods-to-man systems, where automated conveyors or shuttles deliver items to a stationary pick station. Within these two families, further variations apply: single-order picking, batch picking (processing several orders simultaneously), and zone picking, which divides the warehouse into dedicated areas handled by separate operators. Each approach carries different implications for throughput times, error rates, and labour requirements. In practice, many operations blend methods, calibrating the mix to product range, order profile, and available technology.

Next steps

Tools that match this term

Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

Related Terms

You might also be interested in these terms

Batch Picking Logistics

Batch picking is a warehouse order-picking method where one employee collects items from multiple customer orders in a single, con…

Learn more

Pick to Box

Pick to box is a picking method in which items are selected directly into a shipping container as the order is assembled, with eac…

Learn more

Sequence-Based Stock Rotation

Sequence-based stock rotation is a picking method in which inventory is not withdrawn according to general principles such as FIFO…

Learn more

Single Order Picking

A picker completes all item collection for a single customer order in one continuous tour through the warehouse, without simultane…

Learn more

Pick to Tote

Pick to tote is a warehouse picking method where staff place items directly into reusable containers (totes) rather than into indi…

Learn more

Pick by Scan

Pick by Scan is a warehouse picking method in which the picker scans a barcode or QR code at the storage location and on the artic…

Learn more

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Weekly: Top news, industry facts and insights from the world of logistics – free.

order picking methods

Next steps

Related Terms

Batch Picking Logistics

Pick to Box

Sequence-Based Stock Rotation

Single Order Picking

Pick to Tote

Pick by Scan

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Community Questions & Answers