pick by choice

Hi ​@NwTntra,

In IFS Cloud, Pick by Choice is a flexible picking method where the system identifies all valid inventory locations that contain the required stock, but the warehouse operator is allowed to choose which location to pick from instead of being forced by the system. This approach is useful in real-world warehouse environments where pallet positions, accessibility, and stock conditions change frequently. For example, if an order requires 100 cartons of a product and the stock is available in three different locations, the picker may decide to take the full quantity from the location that is easiest to reach rather than the one the system would normally prioritize. This helps improve efficiency by allowing human judgment while still respecting inventory availability and warehouse rules.

My Example

• Company: XYZ Beverage distributor

• Order: 100 cases of bottled water

• Stock locations:

  • Location A: 80 cases

  • Location B: 150 cases

  • Location C: 30 cases

How IFS Cloud works

1. The system checks all locations that have available stock and are valid for picking.

   • In this case: A, B, and C all have stock.

2. Normally, IFS would suggest picking based on predefined rules, e.g., pick Location A first, then B, then C.

   • That would be: 80 cases from A + 20 cases from B

Real-world complication

• When the picker goes to Location A, they see:

  • The aisle is blocked by another pallet

  • Picking would take extra time

• Location C is physically closest to the picker

• Location B has enough stock and is easy to access

Pick by Choice in action

Instead of forcing the picker to follow the system’s suggested rule, IFS lets the picker choose:

• Pick 50 cases from B

• Pick 50 cases from C

The system only checks:

• Stock exists in those locations

• Picking rules are not violated

It accepts the operator’s decision, and the order can be completed efficiently.

Regards,

Nikila Dissanayake