If you manage inventory or shipping in a fast-paced business, you’re likely aware that even a small mistake on a packing list can lead to significant disruptions. Many Odoo 18 users experience frustration due to unclear workflows and limited documentation.
Questions like “Where is the detailed packing list that shows what’s in each box?” or “Why does the ‘Put in Pack’ button behave unpredictably?” are common.
Let’s suppose an electronics distributor shipping dozens of smartphones, tablets and accessories every day. Each order may be split into multiple boxes, each requiring a clearly labeled and detailed packing slip.
Without proper tools and configuration, the wrong items can end up in the wrong packages, leading to customer complaints and operational delays.
This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and printing accurate, clear, and actionable packing lists in Odoo 18.
By the end, you’ll have a functional workflow that makes packing and shipping more efficient and less error-prone.
In Odoo 18, packing lists serve as critical documents that specify what goes into each package in a delivery order. A well-structured packing list includes the type of package (such as a box or pallet), its dimensions and weight, and a breakdown of the products it contains.
Unfortunately, Odoo’s default workflows aren’t always intuitive. The “Put in Pack” feature can be confusing for new users, and the system doesn’t automatically include package details in standard delivery slips unless it’s configured correctly. Understanding how packing lists work and how to configure your system appropriately is essential for accurate shipping.
1) Configuring Package Types
To begin generating packing lists, you first need to configure your package types :
Navigate to Inventory > Configuration > Package Types.
Click the Create button to define a new package type.
Name your package (e.g., “Medium Box” or “Large Crate”).
Input the dimensions and weight. This ensures that package details are reflected in reports.
Optionally, assign barcodes for quicker processing using Odoo’s Barcode App.
2) Using “Put in Pack” for Accurate Packaging
Once package types are set, go to your delivery order to begin packing items:
Open a delivery order and locate the items listed.
In the “Done” column, input the quantity you want to assign to a package.
Click the Put in Pack button. This will group the selected quantity into a new package.
Repeat the process for additional items or packages.
For instance, if you’re shipping 30 smartphones and want to place 10 in each box, mark 10 as “Done,” click “Put in Pack,” and repeat twice more.
If you can’t see the “Done” column or encounter errors, check your operation type settings in Inventory > Configuration > Operation Types and ensure that necessary fields are enabled.
3) Printing the Detailed Packing List
After all items have been packed :
Click Validate on the delivery order
Then click Print and choose between :
Packages : This report provides detailed information per package, including contents, type, dimensions and weight.
Delivery Slip : This is a summary report and may not include detailed package info unless fully configured.
To ensure delivery slips include all details, go to Inventory > Operation Types > Delivery and enable “Show packages in the delivery report.”
Consider an electronics distributor shipping an order containing 30 smartphones, 10 tablets and 20 chargers. The items need to be packed into three medium boxes and one large box.
Here’s how they handle it –
They create two package types: “Medium Box” and “Large Box,” with defined dimensions and weights.
The warehouse team packs 10 smartphones and 5 tablets in each of the medium boxes and places all 20 chargers into the large box.
They validate the delivery and print the Packages report, which is then attached to each box.
This approach ensures that each package has a clear, accurate packing slip. It minimizes the chances of errors and makes unpacking easier for the recipient.
For businesses managing high volumes of shipments, the Barcode App in Odoo can greatly enhance efficiency :
Scan each product as it is added to a package
Scan the package barcode to assign items
Use the app’s interface to quickly execute “Put in Pack,” all via scanning.
The Barcode App eliminates manual entry, reduces mistakes and speeds up packing in busy warehouse environments.
Problem 1 : You receive an error saying, “Invalid Operation. Nothing eligible to put in a pack.”
Solution : Ensure you have entered the quantity in the “Done” column and that the item hasn’t already been packed.
Problem 2 : The printed packing list doesn’t include detailed package info.
Solution : Make sure every item has been packed using “Put in Pack,” and that you are printing the Packages report instead of the default delivery slip.
Problem 3 : You can’t split item quantities for packing.
Solution : Enable the “Done” field in your delivery order by adjusting operation type settings. Also check user permissions and list views.
While Odoo 18 offers powerful tools for managing inventory and shipments, its packing list workflows can be tricky without the right setup. With properly configured package types, an understanding of the “Put in Pack” feature and access to the right reports, you can streamline packing processes and avoid costly errors.
If you’re looking to customize your workflow further, automate packing list generation or integrate barcode scanning, working with an experienced Odoo service provider like Pragmatic Techsoft can save you time and headaches.
Take your inventory and shipping operations to the next level.
Contact us today for personalized Odoo solutions that save time, reduce errors and delight your customers.
Q1 : Can I create custom packing slips in Odoo 18?
Yes. You can customize packing slips using Odoo Studio or through custom module development. Partners like Pragmatic Techsoft can assist.
Q2 : What’s the difference between the Delivery Slip and the Packages report?
The Delivery Slip provides a general shipment summary, while the Packages report includes a detailed breakdown of each package, including dimensions, weight and contents.
Q3 : Why does the “Put in Pack” button sometimes not work?
Ensure quantities are marked as “Done” and that the product hasn’t already been packed. Also check operation settings.
Q4 : Is it possible to speed up packing using barcodes?
Absolutely. Odoo’s Barcode App allows you to scan items and packages, streamlining the packing process significantly.
Q5 : Can I automate packing slip printing in Odoo 18?
Yes, with the right configuration or by using an IoT box, you can automate printing on delivery validation.
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