# Batching automation

Source: <https://www.gotopo.com/solutions/batching>

> ShipStation's native batching covers the basics. We layer on the rules your best batcher carries in their head so the best batcher's bad day stops being your bad day.

## The problem: manual batching wastes labor

Orders get grouped based on individual judgment. Some shifts batch efficiently. Others do not. The "best way" lives in experienced operators' heads.

- **Inconsistent results.** One operator batches by zone. Another by carrier. A third by SKU. Each approach makes sense, but results vary.
- **Training overhead.** New hires learn batching through shadowing. It takes weeks before they batch as well as veterans.
- **Dependent on people.** When your best batcher is out, throughput drops. Their knowledge walks out the door with them.

## The solution: batching rules in software

We capture your best operators' batching strategies and encode them into system rules. SKU grouping, priority handling, exception routing. Runs the same way every time.

- **SKU-based grouping.** Group orders by product type, location, or pick path. Reduce walk time and touches per order.
- **Priority handling.** Express orders, VIP customers, and SLA commitments automatically surface to the top of every batch.
- **Carrier optimisation.** Batch by carrier pickup times and service levels. Meet cutoffs without rushing at the end of day.
- **Exception routing.** Orders with special handling, fragile items, or custom packaging route to the right batch automatically.
- **Wave planning.** Release batches in waves based on capacity, timing, and downstream constraints.
- **ShipStation integration.** Works with ShipStation's batching features. Extend native automation with custom rules.

## The outcome: consistent batching every shift

The "best way to batch" becomes a system rule. New hires batch like veterans from day one. Throughput stays consistent regardless of who is working.

## Frequently asked questions

**Does this replace ShipStation's built-in batching?**

No. We layer on top of ShipStation's batching engine and add the rules ShipStation cannot express natively (SKU-by-zone, complexity-aware grouping, channel-specific priority). ShipStation still drives the actual batch execution.

**How long does a batching automation rebuild take?**

Two to six weeks once we have access. The first week is shadowing your senior operators to capture how they actually batch. The rest is encoding those rules and testing them against historical orders before they go live.

## Related

- [/solutions/automation-rules](https://www.gotopo.com/solutions/automation-rules)
- [/solutions/work-delegation](https://www.gotopo.com/solutions/work-delegation)
- [/solutions/workflow](https://www.gotopo.com/solutions/workflow)
- [/partners/shipstation](https://www.gotopo.com/partners/shipstation)