An order picking method where products are picked in total quantity needed across multiple orders and then separated into individual customer orders later in the fulfillment process. This approach maximizes picking efficiency by allowing warehouse workers to collect the entire quantity of each SKU in one trip, rather than making multiple trips for small quantities across different orders.
Bulk picking significantly reduces travel time and increases productivity, particularly for high-volume items or when processing many orders containing the same products. For example, if 50 orders each require 2 units of the same product, a picker collects all 100 units in one pick, then the items are sorted and allocated to individual orders at a downstream sortation station. This method works best for small, lightweight items and requires robust sorting capabilities to ensure accurate order completion. Most effective when combined with batch picking strategies for optimal warehouse throughput.