Glossary Discription

Pick-by-light is an order picking technology system that uses illuminated displays and buttons mounted at each storage location to guide warehouse pickers through the picking process, indicating which items to pick and in what quantities through visual light signals. When a picker enters a picking zone or begins an order, the system illuminates lights at the appropriate locations containing items needed for that order, with digital displays showing the required pick quantity and alphanumeric confirmation buttons allowing pickers to confirm completion. This technology significantly improves picking accuracy by eliminating potential for reading errors associated with paper pick lists or screen displays, increases picking speed by providing instant visual guidance without requiring pickers to reference handheld devices, and reduces training time through intuitive operation. Pick-by-light systems are most effective in high-velocity environments with concentrated pick faces such as split-case picking areas, assembly operations, or replenishment zones where items are stored in flow racks or carton flow systems with clear visibility of mounted light modules. The capital investment required for hardware installation and system integration limits pick-by-light deployment to operations with sufficient order volumes and picking density to justify costs. 

Characteristics:

• Illuminated displays at storage locations
• Digital quantity displays and confirmation buttons
• Eliminates reading errors from lists or screens
• Increases picking speed through visual guidance
• Ideal for high-velocity, concentrated pick areas
• Requires significant hardware investment