Quick answer
Pick to Light (PTL) is a warehouse automation system that uses illuminated modules at storage locations to guide operatives to the correct item and quantity, cutting mis-picks and pick time versus manual, paper-based picking. Emerdis deploys PTL and Put-to-Light solutions in partnership with automation specialist Isitec — with proven results in fashion and e-commerce fulfilment, including one deployment where the client expanded its picking fleet from four to six carts within months of go-live.
How it works
What is Pick to Light and how does it work?
A closed loop between the WMS, the light module and the operative — three steps, zero paper.
01
Order releases
System illuminates the exact pick locations for that order across the aisle.
02
Operative picks
Confirms with a button press or scan;
system validates quantity in real time.
03
Put-to-Light routing
Picked items are automatically directed to
the correct sort/destination bay.
Benefits
Why warehouses choose Pick to Light
Near-elimination of mis-picks
Closed-loop scan validation at point of pick
Faster pick cycle times
Optimised pick-path routing reduces travel time
Scales without re-platforming
Integrates with existing WMS/ERP — no rip-and-replace
Multi-order (batch) picking
Operatives fulfil several orders in a single warehouse pass
Reduced training time
Visual guidance requires minimal onboarding vs. paper-pick lists
Real-time inventory visibility
Automated replenishment signalling built in
Industry
Built for 3PL and E-Commerce Fulfilment
3PL logistics providers
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Handle SKU and client diversity without adding headcount per client onboarded
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Protect SLAs on accuracy and dispatch speed across multiple contracts
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Modular install — expand pick zones as client volume grows
E-commerce & fashion brands
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Absorb peak-season order spikes without a proportional rise in mis-picks or returns
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Support high-SKU-count, high-return-rate categories like apparel and footwear
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Protect customer experience and repeat-purchase rate through order accuracy
Case Study
Proven in the Field: Pick-to-Light for Fashion Fulfilment
La Fée Maraboutée, a French fashion retailer, replaced manual sequential picking with a parallel, intelligence-guided Pick-to-Light and Put-to-Light system deployed by Emerdis and Isitec. Mis-picks dropped sharply and pick cycles sped up — the client was confident enough in the results to expand its mobile picking fleet from four to six carts within months of go-live.
Isitec mobile picking carts
ProGlove wearable scanners
Isipick routing software
About Emerdis
Emerdis is a UK-based warehouse automation specialist helping 3PLs and e-commerce brands modernise inbound and outbound operations. Our core capabilities span:
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DWS Systems — dimensioning, weighing, and scanning for inbound SKU handling
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Sorting Solutions — high-speed parcel and conveyor automation for outbound logistics
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Pick to Light — modular picking accuracy systems, delivered in partnership with specialist automation integrator Isitec, our technology partner for the UK and Middle East
For more information, visit www.emerdis.com
200+
Installations
This partnership model means every Pick to Light deployment combines Emerdis's warehouse process expertise with Isitec's specialist PTL/PTL hardware and software engineering — so you get a solution built around your existing WMS/ERP stack, not a bolt-on.
FAQs
Pick to Light — Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pick to Light?
A warehouse automation system using illuminated modules at storage locations to guide operatives to the correct pick, in the correct quantity — reducing travel time and manual error.
What is Put-to-Light?
The inverse process — picked items are routed to the correct destination/sort bay via illuminated indicators, automating sortation.
How does Pick to Light reduce mis-picks?
By combining illuminated guidance with real-time scanner validation at each pick point, confirming item and quantity before the operative proceeds.
Does Pick to Light work with our existing WMS?
Yes — deployments are designed to integrate with your current WMS/ERP stack without requiring a full platform replacement.
How long does a Pick to Light installation take?
Typical Pick-to-Light installation takes between 48-72 hours
Is Pick to Light suitable for small-to-medium warehouses, or only large operations?
While a Warehouse Management System (WMS) handles your inventory data and order routing, a Warehouse Control System (WCS) acts as the physical brain that executes those commands on the warehouse floor. It bridges the gap between your legacy software and modern automation hardware (like sorters and conveyors) in real-time. If you want to maximise throughput without a total software overhaul, implementing a dedicated solution like SortStream Warehouse Control System provides the seamless integration and real-time visibility you need.
Who delivers Pick to Light projects for Emerdis?
Pick to Light solutions are delivered in partnership with Isitec, Emerdis's specialist automation technology partner for the UK and Middle East.
