To optimize picking efficiency, certain high‑runner products can be stored in Pio shelf locations near the Port rather than inside the grid.
By placing these frequently ordered SKUs in a Pio shelf location that is located close to the Port, pickers can easily access the products from the same workstation when picking orders using the Everything button in Pio. This will reduce travel time and improve the overall throughput.
For instance, when picking Everything, a port worker might be directed to pick from the grid first, and then from the shelf location next to the port. This approach helps minimize bin presentations when a small number of SKUs make up most of the orders.
When to use shelf locations
When a small number of SKUs make up the majority of orders, keeping these high‑runner products near the port helps:
- Reduce the number of bin presentations
- Speed up order processing
- Minimize unnecessary robot tasks
How to store shelf items
Shelf locations are available from the regular Store task in the Pio app. Please find the details on how to add items to shelves here: How to store shelf items
Coming soon (Fall 2026)
A new feature is on its way to the Pio App this fall: the option to mark a shelf location as a port shelf. A port shelf is prioritized for allocations and will be included in the Grid only picking flow. Look out for the in-app announcement for when this feature is live.