What is pick and pack?
Pick and pack is the core of e-commerce fulfilment. When an order comes in, a warehouse worker or robot picks the ordered items from their storage locations, then a packer checks them, packs them into a box or mailer with any inserts, and labels the parcel for the carrier.
It is also the most common way 3PLs charge for fulfilment: a fee per order for the first item, plus a smaller fee for each additional item.
Core principle: Speed and accuracy. A fast pick and pack process gets orders out the same day; an accurate one avoids the cost of returns and reshipments.
Step by step
- Order received: the order arrives from your shop or marketplace in the warehouse management system.
- Picking: a pick list or scanner directs the picker to each item’s location. See picking for methods such as batch, zone and wave picking.
- Check: items are scanned against the order to catch wrong products, sizes or quantities.
- Packing: the packer chooses the right box or mailer, adds protective material, inserts and invoices, and seals the parcel.
- Labelling and dispatch: the shipping label is printed, tracking is sent to the shop, and the parcel goes to the carrier.
How pick and pack is priced
| Fee | What it covers |
|---|---|
| First pick | Handling the order and picking the first item |
| Additional pick | Each extra item or unit in the same order |
| Packaging | Boxes, mailers, fillers and tape, unless you supply your own |
| Extras | Inserts, gift wrapping, kitting, printed invoices, custom packaging |
When comparing quotes, add up all four for your typical order, not only the first-pick fee.
What affects speed and cost
Cut-off time
Orders received before the cut-off are shipped the same day.
Why it matters: A later cut-off means faster delivery for your customers.
Barcodes on every item
Scanning at pick and pack prevents mistakes.
Watch out for: Products without barcodes need labelling first, which costs time and money.
Packaging requirements
Branded boxes, tissue paper and handwritten notes take longer than a standard mailer.
Watch out for: Extra packaging steps add time and cost, so agree instructions and price upfront.
Example: A jewellery brand’s average order has two items. Each piece is taken from its protective bag, placed in a branded box with a thank-you card, and packed in a padded mailer. The fulfilment centre charges a first pick, one additional pick and a fee for the box assembly, which the brand includes in its delivery pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between picking and packing?
Picking is collecting the ordered items from storage. Packing is checking, protecting and boxing them for shipment.
How much does pick and pack cost?
It depends on order size, packaging and volume. Most providers charge a first-pick fee per order plus a fee for each additional item.
Can a fulfilment centre use my branded packaging?
Usually yes. You supply the boxes, cards or inserts, and the provider charges for any extra handling time.
What is a good pick and pack accuracy rate?
Well-run fulfilment centres aim for well above 99% order accuracy, supported by barcode scanning at picking and packing.
