embracing automation to facilitate near-sourcing

Suppliers have fine-tuned production processes to ensure products arrive at the OEM on time and 100% quality control. The problems arise when the goods are loaded from the supplier’s warehouse and unloaded at the OEM. Unloading and loading processes are still predominantly manual at many facilities. Companies rely on labour and forklift trucks, winches and ropes to move heavy and potentially dangerous items from the truck to the shop floor.

The problem is that this process is both time-consuming – potentially jeopardising delivery schedules – and high risk. From colour-specific bodywork to custom-designed entertainment systems, product damage leads to production delays that can cost £10,000s to the OEM. This results in conflict between the companies as blame is apportioned and potentially significant fines are applied to the supplier.

The shift towards near sourcing will exacerbate these issues. Supply chain redesign will lead OEMs towards smaller, incremental deliveries, creating more risk and pressure for suppliers. It is now vital to move away from manual processes and embrace faster, more efficient, safe and controlled unloading and loading.

If you’ve been working in the logistics industry, you’ll likely have heard of an inventory management model called ‘just in time’ (JIT) production. You may also hear some in the industry refer to it as ‘just in time manufacturing’ or ‘just in time assembly’.  

In our complete guide to just in time (JIT) production explore the ‘just in time’ concept, the advantages of JIT production, its disadvantages, how it differs from lean manufacturing and how to establish whether a JIT management system is right for your business. We’ll also look at some of the Joloda Hydraroll's solutions that are compatible with this system of management.

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