advantages of loading standardisation in the automotive industry

Inflation-driven cost pressures. Ongoing supply chain disruption. A lack of consumer confidence leading to erratic demand. And, of course, a set of new competitors transforming the concept of automotive design and manufacture.

How can traditional OEMs compete? How can challengers succeed? Efficiency and automation are vital, but for an industry renowned for Just-in-Time (JiT) manufacturing and slick supply chain operations, where are the opportunities to drive additional cost savings and performance improvements?

One key area where brands can compete to differentiate themselves is within their production sites and material handling processes. Supply chains and factories are becoming more connected with technologies such as AI, 5G, and robotics to ensure efficiency and transparency at every stage.

In the loading bay, replacing forklift trucks, winches and ropes with automated loading and unloading systems has proved faster and safer, while protecting valuable components from damage. Drastically reducing the time taken to unload items has minimised driver waiting, improving delivery certainty and thereby supporting greater JiT efficiency throughout the supply chain.

For example, wheels are traditionally unloaded using a ‘one wheel at a time’ system – a process that takes up to two hours to unload one truck. By comparison, an automated wheel unloading system can complete the entire process in less than three minutes, delivering a staggering step change in efficiency.

It is time for the automotive industry to work together. With a standardised model for component storage and transport, the industry could transform the adoption and expansion of automated unloading and loading solutions. Furthermore, a standardised, end-to-end automated model can provide the foundation for continuous improvement. It will support the creation of efficient, lower-risk operating models required for automotive brands to manufacture innovative products and truly compete. Without standards, however, that competitive opportunity could be missed.

Loading and unloading solutions are highly practical pieces of equipment for an automotive business. They can boost efficiency and productivity, and at the same time, they increase the safety of the operation. When considering whether to purchase a loading system, you must form a solid understanding of your requirements and the results you want the system to achieve for you. Loading systems call for a significant upfront investment, so this is crucial.

In this article we take a look at automation and automated loading solutions in the automotive industry. We’ll discuss why automation is necessary, look at different automated loading solutions and how to choose the right system for your automotive solution.