Batch-Kommissionierung
Also: Batch Picking, Batchkommissionierung, Multi-Order-Picking, Sammelkommissionierung, Batch-Pick
AI-generated
Batch picking is a method in which multiple customer orders are consolidated into a single pick run. This allows the picker to travel one route while simultaneously covering positions from different orders.
Key facts
- Batch picking reduces travel distances by collecting positions from multiple orders in a single warehouse tour.
- Batch formation is typically handled by the WMS based on dispatch windows, item overlaps, and storage zone assignments.
- Two common variants are multi-order picking with direct assignment and pick-then-sort with downstream sorting.
- The optimal batch size is operation-specific and must be balanced against travel efficiency, throughput time, and error risk.
- A high-performance WMS is an essential prerequisite, as the real-time grouping of open orders must be managed at the system level.
What is batch picking?
In batch picking, a warehouse management system (WMS) consolidates multiple customer orders into what is known as a batch before the pick run begins. Rather than working through orders one at a time, the picker collects items for all orders in the batch during a single warehouse tour. The picked quantities are then assigned to the individual orders — either directly at the shelf or at a central sorting station. This distinguishes the method from single-order picking, where each order generates its own tour.
How does batch picking work in practice?
The WMS analyzes open orders and groups them based on criteria such as dispatch time windows, storage zones, item overlaps, or order priorities. If a batch contains ten orders, seven of which require the same item, a single pick at that storage location is sufficient to cover all seven positions. This significantly reduces travel distances within the warehouse.
There are several approaches to physical implementation:
- Multi-order picking with totes: The picker carries multiple totes or uses a specially configured cart, with each tote representing one order. Assignment takes place directly at the point of picking.
- Pick-then-sort: All items are first collected in a shared tote and separated into individual orders only afterwards at a sorting station. This variant is particularly suited to high pick rates and small item quantities.
- System-guided picking: Pick lists, pick-by-voice, pick-by-light, or mobile handhelds instruct the picker on how many units of each item to retrieve for the entire batch.
What should be considered when choosing this method?
Batch size is one of the most critical parameters. Batches that are too large improve travel efficiency but extend the lead time of individual orders and can increase error rates, since more items must be managed simultaneously. Batches that are too small yield only marginal efficiency gains over single-order picking. The optimal batch size depends on order size, product variety, and the sorting technology available — and is therefore specific to each vendor and operation.
A well-configured WMS is a prerequisite, as batch formation must respond in real time to current stock levels, shipping deadlines, and resource availability. In addition, the training concept for warehouse staff should be taken into account, since managing multiple orders simultaneously places higher demands on attention than traditional single-order picking.
Related terms
- ABC-Analyse
ABC analysis is a method for classifying items, vendors, or processes into three priority classes (A, B, C) based on their economic significance. It forms the basis for differentiated decision-making in warehousing, inventory management, and procurement.
- Akustische Kommissionierung
Acoustic order picking is a paperless picking method in which warehouse employees receive pick instructions via voice and confirm each step using spoken responses. Both hands remain free throughout the actual picking process.
- Auftragsabwicklung
Order fulfillment refers to the complete process from receiving a customer order through to its successful delivery and invoicing. It encompasses all operational and administrative steps required to fulfill an order on time and without errors.
- Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality (AR) overlays the real environment in real time with digital information such as text, graphics, or 3D models. In intralogistics, AR primarily supports picking, maintenance, and the onboarding of new employees.
- Automatisches Kleinteilelager (AKL)
The Automated Small Parts Warehouse (AKL) is a fully automated storage system for totes, trays and small parts, in which storage and retrieval operations are performed without manual intervention by stacker cranes or shuttle systems.
- Barcode
A barcode is a machine-readable optical code that represents information as a pattern of bars and spaces or as a two-dimensional matrix. It enables the automatic identification of items, load carriers, and documents along the entire supply chain.
- Barcodescanner
A barcode scanner is an optical reading device that captures printed barcodes and converts them into machine-readable data. It is used in intralogistics for the seamless identification of goods, load carriers, and storage locations.
- Kommissionierung
Order picking is the process of assembling individual items from warehouse stock to fulfill a specific customer order — the most labor-intensive step in the warehouse.