Effects of Augmented Reality on Warehouse Picking Performance

The purpose of this article is to evaluate documented results from the use of augmented reality in parcel terminals and warehouse logistics. The focus is on measurable effects on productivity and error reduction, based on industrial case studies and peer-reviewed research.

AR-based picking systems provide workers with visual instructions through smart glasses. Information such as item location, quantity, and confirmation steps is shown directly in the field of view. This removes the need for paper lists, handheld scanners, or constant attention shifts. The intended effect is faster execution and fewer mistakes in high-volume environments.

Strong empirical evidence comes from DHL Supply Chain. In a warehouse pilot in the Netherlands, DHL tested a vision-picking solution using smart glasses. Ten workers used the system for three weeks. During this period, more than 20,000 items were picked and about 9,000 orders were completed. The results showed a 25 percent increase in picking productivity compared to traditional methods. Picking errors were also reduced. DHL reported that hands-free operation and continuous visual guidance were the main drivers of improvement.

Following this pilot, DHL expanded AR testing across multiple sites. In 2018, the company announced the rollout of Vision Picking as part of regular operations. In large-scale use, DHL reported productivity improvements of around 15 percent, together with higher picking accuracy. Although lower than pilot results, these numbers confirm that AR delivers consistent gains under real operating conditions.

Academic research supports these findings. Several peer-reviewed studies show that AR-based picking reduces error rates by 20 to 40 percent, depending on warehouse complexity. Studies also report picking accuracy close to 99 percent when AR systems are properly integrated with warehouse management software. Time-based experiments consistently show faster task completion with AR compared to paper-based or handheld solutions, especially after short training periods.

Major logistics actors are moving in the same direction. Amazon has introduced AR-related systems in warehouse and delivery operations, without publishing detailed performance metrics. While Amazon has not published detailed performance metrics, the scale of its investment indicates clear expectations of productivity and quality improvements.

Overall, the results are consistent across industry and research. AR in parcel terminals increases productivity, reduces errors, and improves accuracy.