3PL Processing and Fulfilment (Picking & Packing)

Deliver and Store

3PL Processing and Fulfilment - How a great 3PL handles Paperless Picking and Packing.

For businesses that rely on temperature-sensitive shipping, a refrigerated third-party logistics (3PL) provider is a crucial partner. One of the most important aspects of cold-chain logistics is the order fulfillment process, ensuring that perishable products are picked, packed, and shipped efficiently while maintaining their required temperature. Here’s how a great refrigerated 3PL expertly manages orders and fulfillment using paperless picking to enhance accuracy and speed.

Step 1: Order Processing and Digital Integration

• When an order is received, it is automatically entered into the cloud based Warehouse Management System (WMS), which tracks stock levels in real-time.

• Orders are prioritised based on customer requirements, delivery schedules, and expiration dates following FIFO (First-In, First-Out) or FEFO (First-Expired, First-Out) inventory management, based on the clients wishes.

Step 2: Paperless Picking for Accuracy and Efficiency

• Instead of traditional paper-based picking lists, warehouse staff use handheld barcode scanners or mobile devices linked to the WMS.

• Pickers receive digital instructions, guiding them to the exact storage location (also known as a bin) of each item, reducing errors and increasing efficiency. Pickers can then "batch pick" which means they can get all the same stock required for multiple orders at once, rather than going back and forth many times to pick the same SKU. This speeds up the process dramatically.

• Real-time scanning with an RF gun ensures that the correct products and quantities are picked, minimising mistakes and preventing costly order discrepancies. Best practice is for staff to physically scan each barcode as it comes off the shelf, rather than scan once and manually count off the number of boxes required. The latter method is really no different to old school paper based picking and is fraught with human counting errors.

• Temperature-sensitive products are handled with extra care, ensuring that cold-chain integrity is maintained throughout the picking process.

Step 3: Packing and Quality Control

• Once picked, products are moved to a designated packing area where they are rechecked for accuracy and quality. A great 3PL will have this area in a temperature controlled room rather than an ambient section of the warehouse, ensuring the stock is always held at the correct temperature.

• Orders are labelled with the customers details and total quantity required as a final safeguard against incorrect or inaccurate delivery.

• Compliance with food safety and regulatory standards is confirmed before shipment.

Step 4: Shipping and Last-Mile Delivery

• Orders are loaded onto modern refrigerated trucks, with real-time temperature monitoring to ensure the correct conditions are maintained during transit. This is especially important in Queensland and WA due to the extreme heat during summer months.

• Route optimisation software is used to plan the most efficient delivery paths, reducing traffic delays and ensuring on-time deliveries.

• Final delivery is handled with care, counted off in front of the client and a proof of delivery is signed, dated and named, ensuring no issues later with less than honest end customers claiming shortages.

Why Partner with a Refrigerated 3PL for Orders and Fulfillment?

• Speed and Accuracy: Paperless picking reduces human error and speeds up order fulfilment.

• Cold-Chain Integrity: Every step of the process is designed to maintain temperature control and product quality.

• Scalability: A great 3PL can handle seasonal spikes and increased demand without compromising service.

• Customer Satisfaction: Reliable order fulfillment leads to happier customers and repeat business.

Conclusion

The order fulfilment process is a critical part of cold-chain logistics, and working with a top-tier refrigerated 3PL ensures that your products are picked, packed, and shipped efficiently. By leveraging paperless picking, advanced technology, and strict compliance measures, a great 3PL enhances accuracy, reduces errors, and optimises your supply chain. Ultimately keeping your customers happy!

If you’re looking for a reliable partner to handle your refrigerated logistics, contact Deliver & Store today to learn how we can support your business, take away the headaches of distribution and fulfilment, and let you focus on growing your brand.