Pick and pack is the core of e-commerce fulfillment: when an order comes in, a warehouse team picks the right items from the shelves, packs them safely and ships them to the customer. It sounds simple, but speed and accuracy here decide whether customers get the right product on time. This guide explains how pick and pack works, how it is priced and what to look for in a pick and pack provider.
How pick and pack works
- Order received: the order arrives from your store or marketplace through an integration.
- Pick: a picker collects each item from its storage location, scanning barcodes to confirm the right SKU and quantity.
- Pack: items are packed in the right box or mailer with padding, inserts or branded packaging.
- Label and ship: a shipping label is printed, the parcel is handed to a carrier and tracking goes back to your customer.
Common picking methods
| Method | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Piece picking | One order picked at a time | Low volumes, varied orders |
| Batch picking | Several orders picked together, then sorted | Many orders with the same SKUs |
| Zone picking | Each picker covers one area of the warehouse | Large warehouses, many SKUs |
| Wave picking | Orders released in scheduled waves | High volume with carrier pick-up times |
How pick and pack is priced
Most 3PLs charge a fee for the first item in each order and a smaller fee for each additional item, plus packaging materials and shipping. Storage, receiving and extras like kitting or inserts are billed separately. Heavier or bulkier items usually cost more to pick. Our guide to 3PL costs in Canada explains each fee, or see our pricing.
What to look for in a pick and pack provider
- Barcode scanning on every pick to keep order accuracy high.
- A clear daily cut-off time for same-day shipping.
- Store integrations with Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon and other channels.
- Packaging options: branded boxes, inserts and fragile-item protection.
- Location close to your customers for faster, cheaper delivery.
- Returns handling so returned items go back into stock quickly.
Pick and pack services in Mississauga and Toronto
Newsom 3PL picks, packs and ships orders from our warehouse on American Dr in Mississauga, near Toronto Pearson. Orders flow in through our integrations, every pick is scanned, and parcel orders received by 3:00 p.m. Eastern ship the same business day. We also offer kitting and custom packaging, Amazon FBA prep and returns processing for brands across Toronto, Mississauga and all of Canada. Learn more about our e-commerce fulfillment or request a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pick and pack and fulfillment?
Pick and pack is one step of fulfillment. Full fulfillment also includes receiving, storage, shipping and returns.
How fast are pick and pack orders shipped?
It depends on the provider’s cut-off time. With a same-day cut-off, orders received before it ship the same business day.
Is there a minimum order volume for pick and pack?
Many 3PLs work with growing brands. Ask each provider about minimums before you sign.
Can I use my own branded packaging?
Yes. Most 3PLs can pack orders in your branded boxes or mailers with your inserts.