How SAP EWM Optimizes Picking in the Warehouse
Picking is one of the most important processes in warehouse logistics. SAP EWM controls it end‑to‑end in a transparent and efficient way – from task creation and resource management to real‑time confirmation. Through strategies such as multi‑order picking, seamless process integration, and modern picking technologies like Voice, Vision, or Robotics, the picking process is measurably accelerated and significantly less error‑prone.
Typical Challenges
A lack of real-time transparency, manual postings, interface issues, and unclear processes often result in incorrectly picked goods, unnecessary walking distances, and noticeable performance losses in warehouse operations.
SAP EWM as a Solution Platform
With real‑time inventory visibility, intelligent control logic, and flexible strategies, SAP EWM manages picking tasks efficiently and with minimal errors – fully integrated into the overall warehouse process.
Smart Technologies
Pick‑by‑Light, Voice, Vision, Motion, and Robotics – all modern picking technologies can be seamlessly integrated and orchestrated with SAP EWM.
Why Picking with SAP EWM Is Crucial
Picking is one of the most critical levers in operational warehouse logistics. Wrong picks, long travel distances, unclear priorities, or manual postings directly impact delivery times, costs, and customer satisfaction.
Especially in times of fluctuating order volumes, growing assortments, and increasing customer expectations, companies need stable, transparent, and automated picking processes.
SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) provides a powerful framework for managing picking processes efficiently, transparently, and with minimal errors – from order creation to goods issue.
Typical Challenges in Daily Operations
Many warehouses struggle because:
- inventory is not available in real time
- travel paths are inefficiently organized
- ERP and warehouse processes are poorly integrated
- pickers work without mobile support
- orders are prioritized manually
- errors and discrepancies are difficult to trace
SAP EWM addresses these challenges through automated task bundling, optimized routing, real-time inventory visibility, and intelligent resource management.
SAP EWM as a Picking Platform
SAP EWM supports different picking strategies and technologies and adapts flexibly to different warehouse structures and process requirements.
Single-Order Picking (Order-Based Picking)
In single-order picking, each order is picked individually. This method is straightforward but often inefficient for larger volumes.
Advantages
- Simple structure
- High transparency per order
Disadvantages
- High travel distances
- Limited scalability
Multi-Order Picking (Order Bundling)
Multiple orders are picked together in a single run. SAP EWM bundles orders automatically based on defined criteria and warehouse layouts.
SAP EWM functions used
- Wave picking
- Activity areas
- Resource management
Benefits
- Reduced travel distances
- Better resource utilization
- Higher picking performance
Wave-Based Picking
Orders are grouped by shipping times, routes, or priorities.
Effects
- Predictable resource utilization
- Coordinated start of picking activities
- Structured and priority-based execution
SAP EWM Takes Picking to the Next Level
- System-driven processes significantly reduce errors
- Intelligent strategies and routing reduce walking distances
- Modern picking technologies accelerate execution
- Automation and real-time data ensure process stability
Picking Technologies – Modern Solutions for Different Warehouse Scenarios
SAP EWM supports a wide range of modern picking technologies. Each technology can be tailored to specific requirements and warehouse structures.
Pick-by-Light
Visual picking system using light signals at the storage location.
Benefits
- Very high picking speed
- Low training effort
- Minimal error rate
Typical use cases
- Small-part warehouses
- High throughput requirements
Pick-by-Vision (Smart Glasses)
Pick-by-Vision provides all relevant information directly in the picker’s field of view.
Benefits
- Hands-free operation
- High speed and flexibility
- Digital confirmation in real time
Typical use cases
- Complex picking processes
- Highly dynamic environments
Pick-by-Voice
Voice-guided picking via headset.
Benefits
- Hands-free and eyes-free
- High process reliability
- Well suited for large warehouses
Typical use cases
- High assortment complexity
- Long travel paths
Pick-by-Motion
A sensor-based technology that analyzes and optimizes movement patterns.
Benefits
- Ergonomic process optimization
- Reduced fatigue
- Increased productivity
Typical use cases
- Manual warehouses
- Repetitive picking activities
Pick-by-Robot
Robotic systems perform picking partially or fully automatically.
Benefits
- Maximum process stability
- Continuous operation (24/7)
- Highly scalable
Typical use cases
- Automated warehouses
- Micro-fulfillment centers
Pick, Pack & Pass
A continuous process combining picking, packing, and handover.
Process
- Picking is executed directly in activity zones
- Orders are passed between zones
- Final packing and goods issue at the end
Benefits
- Reduced throughput times
- Clear responsibility model
- Simplified process logic
Picking Process Flow in SAP EWM
A modern picking process in SAP EWM follows a clearly defined, system-driven sequence:
- Order creation (ERP → EWM)
- Warehouse request and requirement creation
- Determination of optimal picking strategy
- Resource and route optimization
- Execution via RF / Voice / Light / Vision / Robotics
- Real-time confirmation and inventory update
- Consolidation, packing, and goods issue
Conclusion
Efficient picking is one of the most important success factors in modern warehouse logistics. SAP EWM provides a flexible and future-proof framework to support both manual and highly automated warehouse environments.
With continuous innovations in robotics, smart devices, AI-based optimization, and human–machine interaction, SAP EWM continues to evolve as the central control system for warehouse logistics.
FAQs
Do you have any questions? We have compiled the most important answers for you in the following FAQs. If your question is not listed, please feel free to contact us directly.
Picking in SAP EWM refers to the process of selecting goods from the warehouse to fulfill customer orders, production supply, or stock transfers.
SAP EWM uses intelligent task management, optimized routing, and real-time inventory data to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Multiple orders are picked together in a single run, reducing travel distances and improving performance.
Through route optimization, intelligent order bundling, and modern picking technologies such as voice or vision.
Picking technologies automate and guide pickers, increasing speed, accuracy, and process reliability.
