The 4 Best Pick and Pack Software for Brands & 3PLs [2023]

As the ecommerce industry continues to surge, the demand for efficient and cost-effective order fulfillment solutions is more crucial than ever. Brands and third-party logistics (3PL) providers require cutting-edge pick and pack software not only to stay ahead of the competition but also ensure seamless warehouse management and unparalleled customer satisfaction. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key benefits of implementing order picking software, outline the must-have features to consider, and present an in-depth comparison of the top pick and pack software solutions available in 2023.

What Is Order Picking Software?

Order picking software, a vital component of warehouse management systems (WMS), revolutionizes the picking and packing processes within warehouse operations. By harnessing the power of technologies such as barcode scanning, mobile devices, and real-time reporting, this software enables warehouse personnel to efficiently locate, pick, and pack items from inventory for customer orders. This level of automation significantly reduces human error and streamlines the overall workflow, resulting in a more agile supply chain and heightened customer satisfaction.

The Benefits of Order Picking Software

Integrating order picking software into your ecommerce business or 3PL operation yields numerous advantages. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

Reduced Operating Costs

The automation offered by order picking software streamlines warehouse operations, leading to decreased labor costs and more efficient order fulfillment. This efficiency translates to cost savings in labor and reduced shipping costs due to expedited processing times and fewer errors.

Accurate Order Fulfillment

By guiding pickers throughout the warehouse, order picking software ensures the accurate selection of SKUs for each customer order. The incorporation of barcode scanning further bolsters accuracy, minimizing picking errors and fostering greater customer satisfaction.

Improved Productivity

Order picking software's ability to automate the picking process and optimize picking routes allows warehouse workers to complete orders more swiftly and effectively. This increased productivity empowers your ecommerce business or 3PL operation to accommodate higher order volumes and drive rapid growth.

Key Features of Pick and Pack Software for Optimal Order Fulfillment

Selecting the right pick and pack software solution is instrumental in streamlining warehouse operations. When evaluating potential systems, it's essential to look for features that increase efficiency, reduce errors, and integrate with your existing business processes. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Efficient Routing and Picking Methods

Your ideal software solution should optimize picking routes within the warehouse to reduce the travel time for pickers, whether they're handling single order picking, batch picking, or wave picking. By reducing walking distance and factoring in the layout for zone picking, the software enhances overall efficiency and ensures the smooth functioning of warehouse picking processes.

Advanced Prioritization Capabilities

The ability to prioritize orders based on specific criteria such as shipping deadlines, customer requirements, or order complexity is crucial. The software should facilitate creating and managing pick lists, ensuring that urgent sales orders or complex purchase orders are fulfilled first, thereby improving customer satisfaction and meeting critical delivery deadlines.

Real-time Reporting and ERP Integration

Comprehensive, real-time reporting is vital for tracking warehouse performance, monitoring inventory levels, and identifying areas for improvement. Furthermore, the software should integrate with your existing ERP system, providing vital data for informed decision-making.

Seamless Integration with Sales Channels and Marketplaces

Your pick and pack software should smoothly integrate with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon, as well as other sales channels or marketplaces. This feature simplifies the order management process and ensures that customer orders from multiple sales channels are correctly and efficiently processed.

Mobile Device Compatibility and Barcode Scanning

A competent pick and pack software is compatible with mobile devices like barcode scanners, tablets, or smartphones. This enables warehouse workers to access the system, update packing slips, and receive real-time updates on the go. It also allows packers at the packing station to verify items against orders quickly, reducing human error and speeding up the packing process.

Effective Labeling and Shipping

Finally, the ability to generate and print shipping labels directly from the system ensures that each order is ready for dispatch as soon as packing is complete. This contributes to a faster, more streamlined packing process and ultimately leads to cost savings by reducing shipping errors and the associated customer service costs.

Best Pick and Pack Software Compared

To help you find the perfect pick and pack software for your needs, we've compiled an easy-comparison list of the top solutions on the market, followed by an in-depth analysis of each software option.

SKUSavvy

SKUSavvy is a user-friendly pick and pack software that offers a host of valuable features, such as real-time reporting, inventory management, and mobile device compatibility. Its intuitive interface and straightforward functionality make it a solid choice for businesses seeking to improve their order fulfillment process.

HandiFox Desktop

HandiFox Desktop is a desktop-based pick and pack software that enables warehouse workers to manage inventory and streamline the order fulfillment process. With its robust set of features, including barcode scanning and efficient routing, HandiFox Desktop is a reliable option for businesses looking to optimize their warehouse operations.

Extensiv Warehouse Manager

Extensiv Warehouse Manager is a comprehensive warehouse management software solution that boasts an array of features designed to optimize ecommerce order fulfillment. With its seamless integration with popular ecommerce platforms, advanced mobile device support, and real-time reporting, Extensiv Warehouse Manager stands out as a top choice for in-house warehouses seeking to enhance efficiency and accuracy in their order fulfillment processes.

Extensiv 3PL Warehouse Manager

For 3PLs looking for a solution that fits their needs, 3PL Warehouse Manager is a comprehensive warehouse management software solution that boasts an array of features designed to optimize order fulfillment. With its seamless integration with popular ecommerce platforms, advanced mobile device support, and real-time reporting, 3PL Warehouse Manager stands out as a top choice for 3PL warehouses seeking to enhance efficiency and accuracy in their order fulfillment processes. For readers interested in 3PL best practices, you can download our 3PL pick and pack checklist here.

Comparing Pick and Pack Software Solutions

When choosing the right pick and pack software for your business, it's essential to consider factors such as ease of use, integration with existing systems, scalability, and support. While each of the software options mentioned above offers valuable features, it's crucial to evaluate how well they align with your specific needs and requirements.

Extensiv Warehouse Manager, for example, provides a comprehensive set of features that cater to a wide range of businesses and offers seamless integration with popular ecommerce platforms. However, your business may have unique requirements that make another software solution a better fit.

Ultimately, the key to selecting the best pick and pack software is to carefully assess your business's needs, research available options, and choose a solution that can help you streamline your operations and achieve your goals.

And, if this all sounds like a bit too much, check out our article on pick and pack companies who can take over part or all of your fulfillment.

Extensiv Warehouse Manager Optimizes Your Fulfillment Operations

In the fast-paced world of ecommerce, efficiency in warehouse management and order fulfillment is paramount to maintaining customer satisfaction and staying competitive. Extensiv Warehouse Manager offers businesses a comprehensive, mobile-first solution to optimize their fulfillment operations.

This innovative platform provides anywhere, anytime control and real-time inventory visibility. Equipped with features such as barcode scanning, custom label printing, and multiple picking strategies, Extensiv Warehouse Manager helps businesses reduce errors and cut fulfillment costs. The platform's mobile app allows users to validate and track inventory on compatible Android and iOS devices, increasing overall inventory accuracy.

Integration with third-party shipping solutions streamlines the order fulfillment process, while the platform's robust reporting and analytics tools give businesses insights into warehouse performance and productivity. By leveraging Extensiv Warehouse Manager, companies can make data-driven decisions to optimize their supply chain and stay ahead of the competition.

Ultimately, Extensiv Warehouse Manager offers a complete solution for businesses looking to improve their fulfillment operations and meet the growing demands of today's ecommerce landscape.