Dynamic picking vs permanent picking: how to choose the best order preparation strategy?

In a warehouse, the order preparation can represent up to 60% of operational costs. This number says a lot: optimizing this stage means optimizing your entire supply chain. The choice between dynamic picking and Picking permanent therefore has a direct impact on your logistical efficiency and your margins.

Aslogistics aggregator, Stockoss supports its customers in the selection and implementation of the processes most suited to their BtoB, BtoC or mixed flows. This article guides you through the fundamental differences between these two picking methods, their respective advantages, and how to articulate them according to your business.

Dynamic picking: speed and performance for high-turnover products

Dynamic picking is based on gravity shelving : the items are restocked from the back and automatically advance to the picking area. This system works according to FIFO (First In, First Out) logic.

Advantages:

• Fast access to the most requested products
• Optimized storage density
• Significant reduction in operator travel
• Replenishment without interruption of picking

👉 This method is particularly suitable for products with high rotation, e-commerce flows, or marketing logistics that require frequent shipments of small packages to a multitude of recipients.

Permanent picking: stability and simplicity for controlled flows

On the other hand, permanent picking is based on fixed locations in conventional shelving. Each reference has a dedicated location.

Advantages:

• Great clarity in the organization of locations
• Simplicity of implementation
• Low initial investment
• Adapted to varied or slowly rotating products

👉 This method is suitable for businesses BtoB with plannable orders, stable catalogs and large volumes on few references.

Picking and distribution models: BtoB, BtoC, or both?

For BtoB: predictability and large volumes

BtoB orders are often large, regular and plannable. Permanent picking naturally finds its place there. However, when a large number of business customers receive frequent but small packages, dynamic picking can become more efficient.

For BtoC: flexibility and responsiveness

BtoC flows are characterized by:

• Small but very frequent orders
• Strong seasonality
• A large number of low-volume references

In this context, dynamic picking makes it possible to maintaining a high treatment rate while minimizing travel. Permanent picking remains useful for catalog references, which are less in demand.

Towards a hybrid model: the most efficient approach

At Stockoss, we often recommend an approach hybrid :

• Dynamic picking for the 20% of references that generate 80% of orders
• Permanent picking for specific products or products with low turnover
• Warehouse zoning by distribution channel (BtoB vs BtoC)

This approach makes it possible to reconcile agility, performance and operational simplicity, making the most of each method.

How to structure your picking system effectively

To choose and implement the right picking system, here are the key steps to consider:

1. Analyzing order flows : volumes, frequency, seasonality, product rotation.
2. Sort references by output frequency (ABC method) to identify the best sellers to prioritize.
3. Zoning the warehouse by distinguishing between products with high and low rotation or BtoB/BtoC flows.
4. Forming teams to the specificities of each picking method.
5. Track key indicators : error rate, preparation time, processing capacity, etc.
6. Adjust regularly according to changes in the catalog, marketing campaigns or seasonal peaks.

What Stockoss allows

Thanks to its role as a logistics aggregator, Stockoss pools infrastructures and adapts each partner warehouse to the needs of its customers, with a unified vision via a digital platform.

• Real-time inventory tracking
• One-click ordering for field teams
• Automated replenishment
• Multi-site management

In conclusion

The choice between dynamic picking and permanent picking should not be decided rigidly. It must be based on a fine flow analysis, the volumes and the specificities of your activity. Are you unsure about the best organization to adopt? Our logistics experts support you in defining the picking strategy that best suits your goals. Contact us.