What is Picking & Packing?
If you run an online store, you’ve probably come across the terms “picking” and “packing” when thinking about order fulfilment. These two steps are at the heart of what makes your orders arrive at your customers’ doors—accurately and on time.
But what exactly is picking and packing, and how does it work in a 3PL warehouse like ours? Let’s break it down.
What Is Picking?
Picking is the first step in the order fulfilment process. It refers to the act of locating and collecting the items in an order from the warehouse shelves.
When a customer places an order on your website, that order is sent to the warehouse system. A picking list is generated, which includes all the products, quantities, and storage locations. A warehouse team member (known as a picker) then moves through the facility and gathers the items.
There are different methods of picking, depending on order volume and warehouse layout:
Piece Picking: Picking one order at a time.
Batch Picking: Picking items for multiple orders at once to save time.
Zone Picking: Assigning pickers to specific zones of the warehouse.
Wave Picking: Coordinating picking and packing to optimize shipping schedules.
What Is Packing?
Once the items are picked, they’re sent to the packing station. This is where they’re checked for accuracy, carefully packed to prevent damage, and labeled for shipping.
A good packing process ensures:
Correct items are packed
Items are protected with appropriate materials
Orders are branded (if required)
Shipping labels are applied accurately
Tracking information is sent to customers
In a 3PL warehouse, we also take into account the most cost-effective packaging options to help save on shipping costs.
Why Picking & Packing Matters
The picking and packing process directly affects your customer experience. Mistakes or delays can lead to:
Wrong items being sent
Damaged products
Increased return rates
Poor customer reviews
A well-run 3PL warehouse uses technology, processes, and trained staff to minimise errors and maximise efficiency—so your customers stay happy, and your business runs smoothly.
How a 3PL Can Help
Outsourcing picking and packing to a 3PL provider like us means:
You save time and labor costs
Your orders are handled by logistics experts
You scale easily as your business grows
You get faster shipping and real-time tracking
We specialise in eCommerce fulfilment, so whether you're selling a few dozen orders a week or thousands, we’ve got the systems in place to help you succeed.
Picking and packing may seem simple, but it’s a crucial part of your eCommerce operation. Done right, it boosts customer satisfaction and supports your brand’s reputation. At Ballina Byron 3PL, we take care of the heavy lifting—literally—so you can focus on growing your business.
Need help with your fulfilment? Contact us to learn how our 3PL services can simplify your logistics.
