What is a pick list?

A pick list (also known as a picking list) is a key working document in the warehousing and picking process. It contains all the information an employee needs to pick goods correctly and efficiently. It usually includes item numbers, descriptions, quantities, storage locations, and, if necessary, additional information such as batch numbers or best-before dates.

Pick lists thus form the interface between the warehouse management system and operational picking. They ensure that the right products are picked in the right quantity and order to execute customer orders, production orders, or shipping processes without errors.

Structure and content of a pick list

The exact structure of a pick list can vary depending on the warehouse structure and the IT system used. Typical components are:

• Item information: item number, description, and quantity
• Storage location information: shelf, zone, or picking area
• Priority or order of picking to optimize walking distances
• Customer-specific additional data: e.g., packaging units or shipping specifications

In modern warehouses, pick lists are often displayed digitally on mobile devices such as handheld scanners, tablets, or pick-by-voice systems. This is increasingly replacing paper-based processes and minimizing sources of error.

Manual vs. digital pick lists

Traditionally, pick lists were issued in paper form and processed manually. Today, digital pick lists are an integral part of modern warehouse management systems (WMS). These systems generate the lists automatically based on current order data and stock levels.

Digital pick lists offer numerous advantages:

• Up-to-date: Changes to orders are taken into account in real time
• Efficiency: Optimized walking distances and automatic prioritization increase productivity
• Traceability: Every picking process can be documented and evaluated
• Error reduction: Barcode scanning or visual confirmation reduces the risk of errors

Role in picking

The pick list is at the heart of order picking. It specifies which items are to be picked in which order in order to fulfill an order completely. It can be combined with various picking methods, such as single-order picking, multi-order picking, or batch picking.

The targeted use of pick lists allows warehouse processes to be standardized, accelerated, and made more transparent.