In the case of manual picking, the picker either brings himself to the goods, or the goods are brought to the picker. For both principles there are many ways to optimise the process by efficient control systems, paperless picking and data terminals with electronic displays. The choice of system depends on the specific logistical requirement.

The paperless picking system provides a very high picking quality by advising the picker of only one pick at a time and by the picker confirming the pick via a data terminal. Furthermore the control system can enable the picker to pick several orders at a time at each specific location. During picking, the storage control system is automatically updated.