Which statement best differentiates single-order picking from batch picking?

• A. Single-order picks focus on one customer order at a time; batch picking collects items for multiple orders in one trip to reduce travel.
• B. Batch picking requires one order at a time; single-order picking collects items for multiple orders in one trip.
• C. Both methods pick items for a single order but differ in packaging speed.
• D. Batch picking increases travel time compared to single-order picking.

Answer: (A)

The key distinction is how travel and batching affect the work. In single-order picking, the worker gathers all items for one customer order in a single trip and completes that order before moving to the next. In batch picking, the worker collects items for several orders in one trip, grouping items by location to minimize movement, and then sorts items into individual orders later, typically at packing. The core advantage of batch picking is reduced travel time and fewer trips through the warehouse, since movement serves multiple orders at once. The other statements don’t fit because they either describe the opposite approach or claim batch picking increases travel time. Batch picking increases efficiency by batching needs across orders, while single-order picking concentrates on one order per trip.