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International logistics chains are developing rapidly, and organizations handling large volumes of orders, such as Dragon Logistics, aim to implement solutions that accelerate processes and minimize losses. Among these approaches, Pick By Line (PBL) holds a prominent place – a new rhythm of warehouse efficiency.
The method ensures effective order picking in warehouse conditions and has its own features and advantages, which are worth understanding carefully.
When Speed Meets Accuracy
To understand what PBL is, it is important to grasp how the method works. It is based on the principle of group picking by order lines, where employees do not pick orders individually but work according to the total demand for each product group. In logistics, this approach means optimizing employee movement flows and reducing repeated visits to the same storage location. Simply put – items are picked not for each order separately, but by the lines of the total order volume, which speeds up the process. This principle is also called “line-based picking,” “linear picking,” or “order line picking.” This is especially important in warehouses with high product density and fast turnover.
This technology has a distinctive feature – it focuses not on forming each order individually, but on processing all items at once, in the sequence in which they appear in orders. The process reduces chaos in employee movements and allows for an even distribution of workload.
Key advantages of the method:
- significant reduction in order assembly time due to fewer movements;
- lower risk of errors thanks to a clear picking structure;
- reduced labor and warehouse resource costs;
- increased transparency and manageability of the picking process;
- higher warehouse throughput;
- ability to handle a wide assortment of products;
- faster order fulfillment.
It should also be noted that this method allows for more efficient use of warehouse space.
Application in international supply chains
This method is often used in international supply chains because it helps manage a large variety of products arriving at warehouses from different countries. When the assortment is huge, it is important to organize the process so that employees can quickly find the needed items and avoid wasting time on unnecessary movements. In such conditions, line-based picking makes work more understandable and helps maintain order even when thousands of items are stored in the warehouse.
In international supply chains, goods are often distributed across multiple warehouses in different regions, meaning that the product flow does not follow a single path but is split and constantly changing. Picking by lines helps respond more quickly to changes in arrivals, simplifies sorting, and helps prevent confusion when products from different manufacturers arrive simultaneously. This is particularly important when fast delivery to various locations is required and it is crucial not to delay the movement of goods.
Linear picking is also useful when a warehouse serves international stores, marketplaces, or large retail chains. Here, the flow of goods is continuous, and the number of orders can surge during peak periods, requiring additional resources.
Overall, line-based picking in international supply chains helps create a clearer, more flexible, and efficient workflow capable of handling high volumes. Specialists at Dragon Logistics are confident that this organization of processes allows companies to adapt faster to market changes and maintain consistent service quality.