Forward Pick

What Is Forward Pick?

Forward pick condenses current demand in a small footprint to allow for fast, efficient order fulfillment. E-commerce forces manufacturers and distributors to adopt strategies for faster fulfillment of small orders.

Companies fulfill orders faster by adopting forward pick. Inventory to support current demand moves from reserve storage to the condensed footprint of a forward pick module.

How To Se Up Forward Pick

The first step is to understand the fulfillment cycle. The fulfillment cycle is subject to a cutoff time, typically the end of a work shift or the departure of an outbound truck.

First, know the cycle. When does picking end? The cycle can be the end of a shift or an entire week. Each company has its own cycle.

The size of the pick module is a function of the inventory requirements. Analyze items to understand the demand. Set the inventory level required for the pick module.

Analyze item demand to set inventory levels. Plan to replenish faster-moving items more frequently than slower-moving items.

The pick module storage media should allow for safe and efficient order fulfillment. Maintain compliance with inventory policies, e.g., FIFO.

The storage media for the pick module support both inventory and operational requirements.

Size the storage media to hold required inventory levels. Add travel aisles to create a footprint for the forward pick module.

Create a space plan for the inventory. Include inventory, storage media and travel aisles.

If you need help with picking strategy or forward pick design, contact us here.