CPIM Practice Exam

What is the primary benefit of an effective order picking process?

1. Maximizing warehouse space

2. Enhancing speed and accuracy in fulfilling shipping orders

3. Reducing transportation costs

4. Improving supplier relationships

The correct answer is: Enhancing speed and accuracy in fulfilling shipping orders

An effective order picking process primarily enhances speed and accuracy in fulfilling shipping orders. This is crucial because the order fulfillment stage is the point at which products are retrieved to meet customer demands. When the picking process is optimized, it leads to quicker turnaround times in processing orders and better accuracy in selecting the correct items. Accurate order picking minimizes errors that can lead to returns or customer dissatisfaction, while a speedy process ensures that customers receive their orders promptly. This improvement in both speed and accuracy directly impacts customer satisfaction, potentially leading to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth. While maximizing warehouse space, reducing transportation costs, and improving supplier relationships are important aspects of supply chain management, they are secondary benefits in the context of effective order picking. The primary focus remains on ensuring that orders are picked correctly and efficiently to meet the demands of customers reliably.