Order sequencing: a strategic lever?

March 28,2025

Efficient order preparation and optimised outbound flows are crucial for warehouses. To ensure that your orders are dispatched in the optimal order, we have integrated a sequencing function into the New Generation Skypod system, allowing robots to act in a previously defined order. But what are the advantages of sequencing for your operations?

The benefits of order output sequencing

Optimise palletisation

One of the most relevant applications of sequencing is the optimal construction of pallets, for example with heavy orders first, then light orders.

This feature is invaluable when different types and sizes of boxes need to be stacked in a specific way. The loading order becomes essential to optimise the filling and stability of the pallet.

Optimise truck loading

Loading trucks according to a first in / last out rule optimizes delivery routes, reducing unnecessary handling by drivers and saving time.

Sequencing also contributes directly to optimising the loading rate of lorries and the best way to fill them by maximising the use of available space.

This optimisation is particularly important if you have to deliver to several shops, making the best use of the space in the lorries and in the ideal order of passage through your various points of sale.

Optimize store replenishment planograms

Receiving your goods in a specific order can considerably simplify the process of putting them on the shelves. The first boxes unloaded can correspond to the first sections of the shop, thus enabling faster and more efficient unloading and restocking.

The obstacles to traditional sequencing

Traditionally, warehouses sequence their orders by routing them onto conveyor loops or sorters, which then rotate continuously to release products individually and in the precise sequence required. This process often creates bottlenecks and significantly reduces the overall throughput and efficiency of the ASRS.

This traditional method not only takes up space in your warehouse, but also requires additional investment in equipment. Everything changes with the sequencing of the Skypod Next-Gen system.

Sequencing with the New Generation Skypod system

Unlike traditional solutions that require additional systems such as conveyors to sort orders according to their release order, the New Generation Skypod system natively integrates this functionality, thanks to robots moving fulfillment containers.

This integration has many advantages, starting with a significant reduction in the footprint by decreasing the number of equipments required. This allows for more flow in a smaller space, providing more flexibility in the sizing and location of the warehouse.

Our integrated buffer plays a central role in our sequencing. This feature allows orders that have already been completed but have not yet been dispatched to be temporarily queued, and ready to be shipped out at the perfect time and avoid staging areas at docks, while maintaining a constant and optimised flow of order preparation.

For example, if orders need to be dispatched in the order A, B, C, the New Generation Skypod system can prepare B and C during the day and keep them in the system until it is time for them to be dispatched, when A is also ready at the front of the queue.

This flexibility allows the workload to be spread evenly throughout the day, thus avoiding peaks of activity and maximising the use of resources.

In conclusion

The sequencing feature of the New Generation Skypod represents a major advancement in logistics flow management.

By enabling robots to natively handle sequencing within the system, it eliminates the need for conveyors and sorters, optimising space, reducing costs, and removing single points of failure.

This ensures precise sequencing tailored directly to your operational needs—streamlining order preparation, pallet building, truck loading, and ultimately generating significant savings across your transport chain and in-store operations.