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Goods-to-Person (GTP) System

WHAT IS A GOODS-TO-PERSON (GTP) SYSTEM?

A Goods-to-Person (GTP) system is a warehouse automation solution [link to term] where items are automatically brought to operators to be picked at workstations, instead of operators walking through the warehouse to pick them.

This approach reduces travel time, speeds up order fulfilment, and improves picking accuracy.

Also known as:

Goods-to-man system
GTP picking solution
Goods-to-Person Picking (G2P)

HOW DOES A GTP SYSTEM WORK?

In a GTP system, automated solutions such as shuttles, conveyors, or robotic arms retrieve items from storage and deliver them to an operator. The operator then scans and picks the required items before the system automatically returns or forwards the goods.

Typical technologies and their role in GTP include:

ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems): Automate the storage and retrieval of totes, cartons, or pallets through shuttle systems, mini-load systems, cube-based storage, vertical lift modules and carousels.
Pouch systems: Support and enhance GTP operations by transporting, buffering, and sequencing single items for picking or packing.
Robotic picking technologies: Automate repetitive item handling processes, including robotic piece picking, vision systems, and AI-supported picking solutions.
Picking and software technologies: Help coordinate inventory flow, order prioritisation, and picking accuracy across the fulfilment operation through using pick-to-light systems, warehouse software, and operational controls.

BENEFITS OF A GTP SYSTEM

Efficiency and throughput: Eliminates walking time and reduces order cycle times.
Space optimisation: Allows high-density storage and automated retrieval.
Performance: Greater predictability and better adjustment to fluctuations.
Safety: Reduces manual handling and strain on workers.
Customer satisfaction: Faster and more reliable fulfilment.

GOODS-TO-PERSON (GTP) VS PERSON-TO-GOODS (P2G)

GTP picking takes the work to the operator, while P2G requires operators to move through the warehouse.

Feature	Goods-to-Person (GTP)	Person-to-Goods (P2G)
Picking method	Items brought to operator.	Operator walks to items.
Efficiency	High, with minimal travel time.	Lower, with significant walking involved.
Accuracy	Guided by system, fewer errors.	More prone to human error.
Labour productivity	Higher volume of picks per hour.	Lower volume of picks per hour.
Investment	Higher upfront automation cost.	Lower initial cost, higher labour needs.

HOW BEUMER GROUP SUPPORTS GTP SYSTEMS

While BEUMER Group does not directly supply GTP technologies, we integrate systems that make GPT solutions more efficient.

Our GTP expertise includes:

BG Pouch System: Enables sequencing and returns handling.
Integration with ASRS: Ensures efficient onwards processing of items.
Workstation design and ergonomics: Creates operator-friendly picking stations.
WMS/WCS integration: Integrates GTP workflows with other warehouse processes, such as sequencing, sorting, and packing.

FAQ RELATING TO GTP SYSTEMS

What is an example of a GTP system?

An ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System) [link to term] is an example of a GTP system as it automatically delivers totes, cartons, or pallets to picking stations or operators.

What are the different types of GTP systems?

Common GTP solutions include shuttle systems, mini-load systems, vertical lift modules, carousel systems, and cube-based storage systems.

Why are GTP systems used in fulfilment operations?

GTP systems are used to support higher throughput, reduce operator movement, and improve picking ergonomics.

Which industries use GTP systems?

GTP systems are widely used in industries such as e-commerce, retail, and the fashion industry to efficiently handle high order volumes and large SKU ranges.

Can GTP systems be combined with other automations?

GTP systems can be combined with automation such as conveyors, loop sorters, pouch systems, and robotics to create fully automated fulfilment centres.

What should businesses consider for a successful GTP system?

Before implementing a GTP system, businesses should first identify the challenges they want to solve, such as throughput limitations, fulfilment speed, staffing pressures, space constraints, or growing omnichannel requirements.