WarehouseOpsFind my starting point
Warehouse operations · WO-03

Picking, packing and dispatch release

Release the right item, quantity and condition with evidence that the vehicle load matches the order.

Download editable checklist

01 / prepare

Before you start

  • Check the authorised order, service date, customer restrictions and required batch/serial rules.
  • Confirm pick locations, packing material and a clean staging area.
  • Resolve blocked stock and quality holds before work starts.

02 / execute

Procedure

  1. 01

    Pick against task

    Confirm item, location, batch/serial and quantity at the point of pick; record substitutions only with approval.

  2. 02

    Protect identity

    Keep orders and lots separated in labelled totes or pallets throughout the process.

  3. 03

    Verify independently

    Use a second scan or checker for high-risk lines, regulated products or site-defined exceptions.

  4. 04

    Pack for journey

    Select suitable packaging, protect fragile goods, label clearly and record package count and weight where required.

  5. 05

    Stage and reconcile

    Stage by route and order; compare packed units against order, manifest and any dispatch hold.

  6. 06

    Release and load

    Authorised person records release, loading sequence, vehicle and seal details as applicable; retain proof of handover.

03 / exception control

Stop and escalate when

  • Wrong item, unexplained shortage or broken seal: stop release.
  • Quality hold or missing transport documentation: keep order in a controlled staging area.
  • Do not mark an order shipped before physical handover.

04 / verify

Ready-to-use checklist

Mark each item Pass, Fail or N/A in the downloaded CSV. Record evidence and assign a corrective action for every failure.

  • Order and promised date verified
  • Item, batch/serial and quantity matched
  • Holds and substitutions resolved
  • Packing and labels suitable
  • Packages counted and staged by order
  • Manifest agrees with physical units
  • Vehicle and load checks completed
  • Release and handover evidence retained
Site / shift: ____________________Date: __________Checked by: ____________________Approved by: ____________________

05 / evidence

Keep these records

Pick confirmations, pack verification, manifest, release approval and proof of handover.

Basis and further reading

  • Based on warehouse process controls and the site-specific approval workflow; adapt to your WMS, products and risk assessment.

This is a working template, not a certification or legal opinion. Local law, site risk assessment, manufacturer instructions and approved procedures take priority. For India-specific licences, start with the warehouse licences guide.