The bin ranking functionality and sorting order for picks in your warehouse let you control the sequence your warehouse staff follows when picking and putting away items. You set up different sorting orders for warehouse picks, but the most reliable approach is to create your bins with logical, alphanumeric bin numbers from the start.
When you create a sales order and perform a pick, the system guides you from one bin to the next based on the bin order. The same applies on the inbound side when you receive a purchase order and put items away. If your bin numbers follow the physical layout of your warehouse, your staff walks a sensible route and visits each area only once instead of doubling back.
How bin sorting order controls warehouse picks and put-aways
The sorting order determines the sequence your staff follows during a pick. On a sales order pick, the system takes the picker from one bin to another in the order the bins are ranked. On a purchase order put-away, the same logic applies in reverse, guiding staff to the correct bins when storing received items.
You can adjust the sorting orders so different warehouse picks follow different sequences. This gives you flexibility, but it also means the routes depend on how you have ranked your bins.
Why logical, alphanumeric bin numbers matter
The simplest and most effective approach is to name your bins in a logical, alphanumeric order that matches the physical layout of your warehouse. When the bin numbers follow the route through your premises, the pick and put-away sequences naturally follow that same route.
The benefit is practical. If a pick requires visiting several bins, your staff walks around the warehouse efficiently and stays in one place at a time rather than crossing back and forth. That saves time on every pick and put-away.
Plan your bin numbering before you set it up
Think about the bin numbering before you start creating bins in your inventory. Changing the structure later is more work than getting it right from the beginning. Map your bin numbers to how your warehouse is actually laid out, so the logical order and the physical order line up.
Q&A
What does the bin sorting order control in warehouse picks?
It controls the sequence your staff follows when picking and putting away items. On a sales order pick, the system guides the picker from one bin to the next based on the bin ranking, and the same applies to put-aways on purchase orders.
How should I number my bins?
Use a logical, alphanumeric order that matches the physical layout of your warehouse. This way the pick and put-away sequences follow a sensible route, so staff visit each area only once instead of walking back and forth.
Can I set up different sorting orders for different picks?
Yes. The bin ranking functionality lets you apply different sorting orders to your warehouse picks. Even so, a logical bin numbering structure is the most reliable foundation.
When should I decide on my bin numbering?
Before you start creating bins in your inventory. Plan the numbering up front so it reflects your warehouse layout, because adjusting it after the fact takes more effort.