What is pick and pack?
October 30, 2026
Pick and pack is the warehouse process of collecting the items for each order from their storage locations (picking) and then packing them, with the right label and paperwork, ready for despatch.
Why it matters for online retailers
Picking and packing is where most warehouse time goes, and where most mistakes happen. Faster, more accurate picking means more orders out before the courier collection and fewer returns.
How the process works
- Orders are released to the warehouse.
- Pickers collect items from their bin locations.
- Each item is checked against the order, ideally by scanning.
- Orders are packed and the shipping label is printed.
- Parcels are despatched and tracking is sent.
Common picking methods
- Single order picking: one order at a time.
- Batch picking: several orders picked in one trip.
- Zone picking: each picker covers one area.
- Wave picking: orders released in timed groups, for example by courier collection.
How StoreFeeder handles it
StoreFeeder's picking app runs on PDAs and on Android and iOS devices, guiding pickers to each bin location and validating every item by barcode. Scan to despatch prints the right label at the packing bench.
Read more about StoreFeeder pick and pack software, or compare warehouse order picking strategies.
Frequently asked questions
What is pick and pack accuracy?
The share of orders sent with exactly the right items. Barcode scanning at the pick is the most common way to raise it.
What is the difference between picking and packing?
Picking is collecting the items; packing is checking, boxing and labelling them for despatch.
Do 3PLs charge for pick and pack?
Usually, yes. Most 3PLs charge a fee per order and per item picked.
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