Understanding FIFO

FIFO, or First In, First Out, is the method our system uses to ensure that the oldest stock is always issued first during a pick operation. This built-in function applies to both consumables and durables.

How FIFO Works

• When an operator picks an item (e.g., Item ABC), the system records the location it was picked from.

• That location will continue to dispense until it is empty.

• Once empty, the system will move on and issue the same item from the next location in the FIFO order.

FIFO and Durables

For durables, the item status (New, Refurbished, Used) has priority over FIFO.

• FIFO is only applied if there are multiple locations with the same item and the same condition.

• Example: If both “New” and “Refurbished” items exist, status will determine the pick order before FIFO applies.

Restocking and FIFO Order

• Restocking resets FIFO. When an item is restocked to a location, that location is placed at the end of the FIFO queue.

• No FIFO logic applies during restocking—instead, locations are ordered by:

  1. Cabinet type

  2. Storage device ID

  3. Storage module order

  4. Location name

• The most recent restock stock will always be last in FIFO order.

Splitting Packages During Restock

When restocking a package that needs to be divided across several locations:

• Each location is reset in the order it is refilled.

• This occurs because the dispense quantity allows the package to be split.

Key Notes

• FIFO is always enabled and cannot be turned off.

• FIFO ensures oldest stock is prioritized.

• Restocking always moves the replenished stock to the end of the queue.