You can now set up custom workflows to help with things that fall outside of the normal pick/pack/ship workflow. An example of a use case would be gift wrapping, special QA processes, embroideries, engraving, and personalization of any sort. It is easy to set up a workflow to guide the products through the picking and packing process.
Note: Workflows require Multi-Item Batch Picking (MIB) and currently only works on the web. Packing App compatibility is coming soon.
How to create a workflow
Navigate to Shipping.shiphero.com > Settings > Workflows.
In this screen, you can set up and define workflows. Essentially, you are telling the user where the totes have to go throughout the workflow.
To get started, click Create workflow and enter a workflow name. (You can change this later if needed.)
Stops & Workstations
Each stop in the workflow (workflow step) must be established so the employee knows where to bring the product and the system can provide the instructions.
Workstations need to be assigned to a stop, if you assign multiple workstations to a stop the employee will have to choose which they want to go to.
You have the ability to display specific instructions to the employee once they bring the product to the next workstation.
Note: The instruction fields have a max character count of 200.
Repeat these steps for each stop in the workflow.
How to assign a workflow to a product
Once a workflow has been created, you can use automation rules to assign the workflow to certain products using product attributes or tags. Note that to assign a workflow to a product, the automation trigger must be product-specific and not an order attribute.
Tip: We suggest that you copy/paste the workflow name to ensure the automation rule does not fail.
You have the ability to set the products to trigger on multiple workflows by adding more workflow actions.
For more information about automation rules, see our help articles:
The Picking & Packing Process
When picking products that have workflows users will see a new screen under MIB (Multi-Item Batch) and you pick which workflow you would like to pick for.
If you have the same product that is assigned to multiple workflows, choosing any that are assigned will allow you to start the picking process and eventually complete all steps in the workflow.
Once you finish picking the products you will be directed to scan the work station(s) that was pre-defined in the workflow and leave the product at the packing station for the next step in the workflow.
At the Packing Station
When you scan a tote that is part of a workflow you will see a message that customization is required for an item. Scanning or clicking on the item will bring up the instructions for the item. We also bring in custom attributes from your store and that option is displayed on this screen. For example, if you offer custom embroidery and allow the customer to input what should be embroidered, this would be where the employee can see what message to put on the item.
Once the step is complete, press Done and scan the items back into the tote.
If there are subsequent stops in the workflow, the user will be directed to the next station.
Where to Print Barcodes
You can print tags for your workstations in Inventory > Products page > Print Custom Tag.
