There are wide variances in the level of automation associating to the “pick-pack-and-ship” process, ranging from completely manual and paper-driven to highly automated and completely mechanized; computer systems overseeing this process are generally referred to as Warehouse Management Systems or “WMS”.
[citation needed] It consists in taking and collecting articles in a specified quantity before shipment to fulfil customer orders.
Examples of piece pick operations include mail-order catalog companies and repair parts distributors.
Usual service includes obtaining a fair rate of shipping from common, as well as expediting truck carriers.
In the consumer products industry, case picking large quantities of cartons is frequently an entry-level employee's task.
Key requirements are that cartons not be damaged, they make good use of the available cube (space) and be quick to assemble.