The high environmental cost of picking mistakes

Evan Davies, Corporate Marketing Manager of warehouse optimisation software company Lucas Systems, has analysed the environmental cost of picking mistakes in the warehouse.

As much as 30% of online purchases are returned. It is estimated that globally, e-commerce returns are responsible for 24 million tons of CO2 every year.

Whilst the majority of returns may not be due to picking errors, some are. If a customer is sent the wrong item, there are carbon emission costs associated with shipping items back to the warehouse, then re-delivering the correct order items. Additionally, there is the need for extra packing as fresh boxers, labels and other packing materials may be required to dispatch the replaced item.

Picking errors also cost warehouse operators significant money that erodes profit margins.

Evan Davies recommends proactive strategies to reduce picking mistakes. Warehouse automation software can optimise warehouse layouts so that order item locations and picking journeys are efficient. An automated system can also reduce errors by guiding workers with aisle picking trolleys to the order item location, then checking at the packing station that the right items are being shipped.

Davies claims that automated systems that reduce pricking errors pay for themselves by saving the costs associated with these mistakes.

Staff training is also important. Well-trained staff working with item location systems improve order picking accuracy,

Evan Davies says:

“Companies that prioritize warehouse accuracy and picking optimization can simultaneously boost their bottom line and make their supply chain more sustainable.”

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