RealTime - Spring 2008 - (Page 15)

In a just-in-time world, timely and accurate delivery is critical. For construction companies, getting components like cabinets on time and undamaged is extremely important. If a driver arrives at a job site late or with a damaged or missing cabinet, it can cause extensive delays to a contractor’s work. CDS Logistics, an 18-year-old transportation company specializing in the delivery of kitchen cabinets to residential and commercial locations, manages a network of 31 thirdparty logistics providers that deliver products throughout a 33-state area. Proactively managing those network members requires state-of-the-art systems and leading-edge technology. To minimize delays and costs to the end customer, cabinets are rushed from the manufacturer to the CDS warehouse, which could postpone other scheduled deliveries. To enhance the customers’ experience and maintain schedules for other CDS deliveries, CDS needed to improve its shipping process. “Delivering products late or damaged has a domino effect on all parties involved,” said Steve Burgess, IT manager of CDS Logistics. “We needed to improve our processes to ensure customer satisfaction and maximize profits.” To help reduce shipping errors and improve customer satisfaction, CDS implemented an automated solution, using Intermec CN2B mobile computers along with a software solution from systems integrator CSSI. “We spoke to several other companies that offered similar solutions, but they weren’t quite right for us,” Burgess said. “CSSI’s software was tailor-made to fit our needs, and Intermec CN2B devices are known for their durability in warehouse environments. It was a solution that perfectly fit our needs.” Riddled with inefficiencies Prior to implementing an automated system, CDS relied on paper-based solutions. Using the old system, cabinets were unloaded and stored upon arrival at the CDS warehouse and the inventory was manually checked against the packing list. Once an order was ready to be shipped, the cabinets would be removed from the warehouse and manually checked off on a piece of paper before being loaded on the CDS or distribution For a free subscription: www.realtime.intermec.com 15 http://www.realtime.intermec.com

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RealTime - Spring 2008 Contents View Intermec News Profile: Chris Johnston Miles Ahead Partner Profiles Raising the Roof Intermec 2008 Conferences Signed, Sealed, Delivered Keep It Flowing Alarmingly Effective Events Coda: Terminix

RealTime - Spring 2008

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