In today’s fast-moving supply chain landscape, efficient and accurate order fulfillment is critical to business success. Two essential warehouse fulfillment services—Pick and Pack and Kitting—are often confused, yet they serve distinct purposes within third-party logistics (3PL) operations.
At SMH Logistics, we specialize in tailored 3PL solutions for automotive and industrial clients. This article breaks down the key differences between pick and pack and kitting services, so you can determine which model best supports your operational goals.
What Is Pick and Pack Fulfillment?
Pick and Pack refers to a fulfillment process in which individual products are picked from warehouse inventory and packed together to complete a customer’s order. It is one of the most common and flexible services offered by 3PL providers.
Ideal for:
- High-volume, multi-SKU eCommerce orders
- Businesses with variable product combinations
- Companies seeking efficient, order-by-order fulfillment
Example: An auto parts distributor receives a custom order for various SKUs—filters, spark plugs, and brake pads. Each item is retrieved from inventory and packed into one shipment.
What Is Kitting in Warehousing?
Kitting involves the pre-assembly of individual items into a kit or bundled unit that is stored and shipped as a single SKU. This fulfillment method helps streamline operations by preparing standardized product combinations in advance.
Ideal for:
- Subscription boxes or pre-bundled product sets
- Promotional kits or assembly-required items
- Businesses seeking speed and consistency in fulfillment
Example: A “Maintenance Starter Kit” that includes tools, filters, and safety gloves is assembled ahead of time and shipped as one unit.
Key Differences Between Pick and Pack and Kitting
| Feature | Pick and Pack Fulfillment | Kitting Services |
| Inventory Management | Individual SKUs stored and picked per order | Bundled SKUs stored as one item |
| Fulfillment Timing | After customer places an order | Pre-assembled, ready before order |
| Customization | High (varies by order) | Low (predefined bundles) |
| Use Case | Dynamic product mixes | Repeated, consistent groupings |
| Fulfillment Speed | May vary with order complexity | Faster for standardized kits |
Choosing the Right 3PL Fulfillment Strategy
Whether your business is scaling up eCommerce operations or streamlining B2B shipments, choosing the right warehouse fulfillment method is essential.
Pick and Pack is ideal when flexibility is key. If you process many unique or variable orders, this approach offers greater customization.
Kitting is best for repeat orders with identical configurations. It enhances speed and consistency—especially valuable during high-volume periods.
At SMH Logistics, we offer both services as part of our end-to-end 3PL warehouse solutions, backed by real-time inventory tracking and industry-specific expertise.
Ready to Streamline Your Fulfillment?
As a trusted 3PL partner based in Michigan, SMH Logistics provides reliable warehouse, pick and pack, and kitting services designed to meet the evolving needs of automotive, manufacturing, and eCommerce businesses.
Contact us today at 248-418-0986 to explore the right fulfillment solution for your operation.
