orderplock

Orderplock is a term used in Swedish logistics to describe the operational process of selecting items from inventory to fulfill customer orders. In English, the process is commonly known as order picking. It is a core function in warehouse operations and applies across e-commerce, retail, wholesale, and distribution environments.

The orderplock process typically begins with receiving an order and releasing picking tasks. A pick plan or pick list identifies the items, quantities, and their storage locations. Warehouse workers then retrieve the items from their locations, verify accuracy at the pick stage, and move them to packing. Final steps include packing, labeling, and preparing the order for shipment. Efficiency is improved by selecting an appropriate picking strategy—piece picking, batch picking, zone picking, or wave picking—based on SKU count, warehouse layout, and demand patterns.

Technology and methods commonly support orderplock. Warehouse management systems (WMS) coordinate tasks, while barcode scanning or RFID verifies item identities. Advanced methods such as voice-directed picking and pick-to-light guide workers and reduce errors. Automation, including conveyors, sortation systems, and automated storage and retrieval systems, can scale picking for high volumes.

Key performance indicators for orderplock include picking accuracy, order fill rate, order cycle time, and labor productivity, as well as travel distance per order. Challenges include inventory accuracy, handling a large variety of products, fluctuating demand, and returns processing. The term orderplock is used primarily in Scandinavian contexts to describe the picking activity, though implementations and terminology vary across organizations and markets.