Picking and packing services are a core part of any ecommerce fulfilment strategy. They ensure customer orders are processed accurately, packed securely, and dispatched quickly.
As your business scales, managing fulfilment in-house can become increasingly time-consuming and complex. Choosing to outsource your pick and pack operations can improve customer satisfaction, speed up dispatch times, and free up time to focus on other areas of your business.
In this guide, we’ll explain how pick and pack works, what the service typically includes, and how choosing the right fulfilment partner can enhance efficiency and increase customer satisfaction.
What does pick and pack mean?
Pick and pack refers to the warehouse-level process of fulfilling a customer order.
- “Picking” involves locating and retrieving the ordered items from their storage location, typically within a warehouse.
- “Packing” is the next step, preparing those items for shipment, ensuring they are securely packaged and ready for dispatch.
What is the process of picking and packing?
The pick and pack process can be broken down into four key stages:
- Receiving stock – The process begins when your inventory arrives at the warehouse. Items are checked, logged into the system, and stored securely. At NGL, stock is stored in CCTV-monitored facilities using organised shelving and pallet racking to minimise the risk of damage.
- Picking – When a customer places an order, the details are automatically transmitted to the fulfilment provider. Warehouse staff then locate the required items and prepare them for packing. At NGL, we integrate with leading ecommerce platforms including Shopify, Amazon, eBay, and WooCommerce, removing the need for manual order processing.
- Packing – Once the correct items have been picked, they are carefully packed and labelled for shipment. At NGL, we offer a range of different packing options, including specialised packaging for different sectors.
- Shipping – When combined with a complete ecommerce fulfilment service, orders are sent directly to your customers. NGL works with trusted courier networks to ensure timely delivery, with full tracking available for both you and your customers.
How does a picking and packing service benefit your business?
A professional pick and pack warehouse service provides a range of benefits to both growing and established businesses:
- Saves time – Outsourcing fulfilment removes the need to receive stock, process orders, pack, and arrange shipping, saving you time.
- Reduces costs – Avoid the overheads of warehouse rent, staffing, equipment, and courier contracts. Fulfilment providers offer scalable solutions without large upfront costs.
- Professional service – Experienced warehouse teams and proven systems improve order accuracy, reduce errors, and ensure faster dispatch.
- No need for storage space – Eliminate the need to invest in warehouse premises, shelving, or packing areas as your order volumes increase.
- Secure storage – Inventory is stored in organised, monitored facilities, helping to protect your stock and maintain accurate stock control.
How much do picking and packing services cost?
The cost of picking and packing fulfilment services depends on several factors including the volume of orders you anticipate, the size of your product, packaging requirements, level of service, and any extras you need, such as priority shipping.
At NGL Fulfilment, we work with businesses of all sizes to help them outsource their picking and packing. To get a free quote, contact one of our team today.
Why choose NGL Fulfilment for your picking and packing?
NGL Fulfilment provides reliable, scalable pick and pack services designed to support your growth, whether you’re a start-up or an established brand.
As part of the Nissin Group, we combine local Swindon-based services with international logistics strength and offer a complete, nationwide order management service, from receipt to delivery.
With our free customer portal, you’ll always have live visibility of stock levels, order progress, and delivery performance – giving you complete control and visibility.
Complete ecommerce fulfilment services
Combining pick and pack with a complete ecommerce fulfilment service means your entire order process is managed for you, from storage and dispatch to shipping, tracking, and returns.
With multiple courier and freight partners, full order visibility, and efficient returns handling, you can deliver a seamless customer experience while keeping operations simple.
UK pick and pack services from NGL Fulfilment
Speak to the team at NGL Fulfilment today and discover how we can support your ecommerce growth with professional picking and packing services.