What are picking and packing?

The definition and differences between picking and packing, two very recurrent concepts in the packaging sector.

In the packaging process, there are two key operations linked to logistics and warehousing. In our sector, it is common to use the English concepts picking and packing to refer to the moment of preparing an order, but do we know exactly how they are defined and the differences between them? Although both are essential to improve and optimize warehouse management, it is useful to put the debate on the table and clarify the tasks involved in each.

What is picking?

Picking is basically the selection and picking of products from the warehouse. More specifically, and in a logistics context, it is equivalent to the task of order picking, i.e. the removal of products from the warehouse shelves in order to organize and package them before they are shipped to their final recipient.

This task, therefore, requires:

• Pre-planning to know what products need to be shipped and the material that will need to accompany them.
• A trip to the place where the product in question is stored and the return to the workplace.
• The collection of the product, using the necessary resources and its subsequent movement (pallet truck, forklift...).
• Checking and preparing the order to be shipped, checking that its characteristics meet the requirements.

With all this, in addition to saving time and taking advantage of the effort made, control over the warehouse increases, which favors and reinforces better management of shipments. Although it can be done manually, there is an increasing tendency to automate the process to increase efficiency.

What is packing?

Packing refers to the whole process of packing and packaging a product. The preparation of the necessary set that protects it so that the shipment and delivery are in the right conditions. For this it is essential:

• Select the container and optimize the packaging depending on the size, weight and number of products to be shipped. The container - which in most cases is a cardboard box - and the filling material are two essential elements, since they are responsible for ensuring a good shipment.
• Check the product (model, quantity, weight and volume). This is the final verification and it is very important, since it allows us to detect in time if there has been any previous error in the picking process. In this way, we ensure that the product is ready to be shipped with all the guarantees.
• Shipping labeling: is the shipping control system, based on the use of labels. The labels are affixed to the outside of the package, with the order reference number, the shipping address and in some cases also the tracking code. In addition, they also include a bar code that, when scanned, provides all the information about the package, so that the process can be tracked.

In the case of palletized packages, packing also encompasses the pallet assembly process, from case placement, strapping and/or stretch wrapping to labeling. In cases where pallets are shipped as stored, the packing process is reduced to quality control and labeling prior to shipment.

How are picking and packing related?

As we have seen, picking and packing are two different but complementary processes that are carried out consecutively: first the product selection and extraction from the warehouse(picking) and then the packing process, verification and labeling(packing). Although these concepts may seem very easy to differentiate, sometimes the boundaries between them are not well defined, since the flow of products and the simultaneity of processes within the warehouse make them highly interrelated. This can lead to a loss of efficiency at some points, so it is important to evaluate the incorporation of more efficient systems throughout the process.

Optimize the entire process and achieve efficient results

There are some points that are essential to achieve the desired result. Investing as little time as possible is important, but so is doing it with few resources. At Controlpack we have several solutions that can help you. For example, in picking, the picking table stands out, since all the material and all the necessary equipment is organized in the same area, thus avoiding interruptions and unwanted stops. With fewer movements, you gain more efficiency and profitability. In addition, in the field of packing, we offer all kinds of solutions for the automation of packaging processes. Contact us if you have any questions. We are always at your disposal.