What Is an Automated Warehouse Picking System?

Virginia Miller

October 14, 2024

In this article

An automated warehouse picking refers to a situation where the picking process is handled by the systems instead of getting it done by a human being. The best example of automated warehouse picking is the implementation of robotic warehouse pickers to fasten picking.

The task done by a robot is like that of human pickers. Robotic warehouse pickers are collaborative mobile robots that can also select a heavy stock, which is tedious and time-consuming for human pickers. Due to this speed in work, the time taken by a robotic warehouse picker is less, and the routes followed also become less.

An automated warehouse picking system proves to be efficient in the case of big warehouses where numbers of inventories are stored and must be picked frequently. Warehouses that deal with food and beverages and medical equipment must implement automated picking systems. Even manufacturing, transportation, and retail industries can use automated picking systems. The loading and unloading of stock can be done smoothly by implementing an automated warehouse picking system.

Benefits of Automated Warehouse Picking Systems

Automated warehouse picking systems offer several key benefits for modern ecommerce businesses. By implementing automation, companies can streamline fulfillment operations to deliver orders more efficiently.

Speed

Robotic pickers work faster than humans, often doubling productivity. Automated systems can work around the clock without breaks or slowdowns.

Space Savings

Automated picking robots take up less warehouse real estate than traditional fulfillment infrastructure. When not in active use, they conveniently get out of the way.

Enhanced Safety

Sensors and movement tracking technology in robotic pickers avoid accidents with inventory and workers on the warehouse floor.

Lower Investment Costs

While automating initially requires some investment, the long-term benefits can deliver an impressive return on investment.

Minimal Training

Robotic pickers do not require extensive training like human workers. Their automated systems guide them through optimized picking tasks.

Conclusion

Automated warehouse picking accelerates ecommerce order fulfillment and makes operations more efficient. With robots handling picking tasks, workers can focus on more strategic priorities. To learn more about fulfillment automation, contact the experts at Simpl today.

Recommended: How to Choose the Best fulfillment Warehouse Locations Near Me

FAQs

What are the main benefits of automated warehouse picking?

The top benefits are faster fulfillment speed, space savings, improved safety, lower long-term costs, and less training than human workers require.

How much faster is an automated picking robot than a human?

Automated picking robots typically work about twice as fast as their human counterparts.

Do robotic picking systems take up a lot of warehouse space?

No, automated pickers are very space efficient. When not in active use, they take up minimal room in the fulfillment center.

Can warehouse automation improve worker safety?

Yes, sensors and movement tracking help robotic pickers smoothly navigate around inventory and workers, avoiding potential accidents.

What is the return on investment for fulfillment automation?

By streamlining operations substantially, automated systems tend to pay back their initial investment cost relatively quickly.

Do robots require extensive training like human pickers?

No, automated pickers only need basic programming to start efficiently fulfilling orders based on system directives.

Who can I talk to about adding warehouse automation?

To explore automated picking systems and other robotics for your fulfillment operation, contact the experts at Simpl Fulfillment.