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WAREHOUSING, HANDLING & STORAGE
matters. 3PL partnerships are critical to uphold successful end-of-line processes. However, manufacturers often hesitate to suggest alternative solutions to their 3PL partner because they do not own the trailer fleet. The reality is that 3PLs are willing to invest in their long-term partners as it will result in greater efficiencies for both parties – even if it means modifying the trailer fleet. For instance, we’ve worked with several businesses that use their 3PL provider to source, modify and manage the logistics operation. An example of this is MM Packaging at its site in Deeside, UK, where the company has subcontracted Farrells Group to own, manage, run and maintain its logistics operation. Another consideration is that, as companies
look to reduce costs and minimise their carbon footprints, the need for interconnectivity among all logistics companies is set to increase. Working with specialist 3PLs who can help companies apply the right technologies to pool resources – for example, if two companies are making the same trip or if one trailer is only half-full – can add greater efficiencies and sustainability across multiple supply chain operations.
OVERCOMING SILOS Cross-functional collaboration can be difficult to achieve for several reasons. If not managed correctly, sharing knowledge among teams can lead to negative experiences, such as slow decision-making, which will discourage future discussion. Additionally, knowledge is a valuable asset for employees, and there may be concerns about diluting expertise or reallocating talent
away from their best-performing areas. However, greater collaboration between functions doesn’t mean diminishing expertise. In fact, by working together to automate workflows between functions, teams should be able to re-focus more attention on their own functions and specialisms. External silos between manufacturers and their 3PL providers can further complicate
COMMON GOAL An automated loading process is about more than efficiency gains and even ROI. For many companies, it is simply about ensuring high volumes can still leave the factory as quickly as possible. Factories often operate in older buildings, some of which have been in use for centuries. Over time, the production demands within these facilities have significantly increased. Where a factory might have once produced 30 pallets per hour fifty years ago, the same factory must now handle 200 pallets per hour. This increase in capacity is only made feasible through automation. Given the persistent labour and skills shortage
across the supply chain, automated processes can also help provide the existing workforce with the support they need to thrive and grow in their specialist areas. With automated loading, factories can unlock more space by reducing the need for large equipment like forklifts, while operating with fewer personnel. A more efficient process also reduces the number of trucks that are required to complete shuttle runs or deliveries to customer warehouses, as well as truck waiting times at the facility.
CONCLUSION Complete end-of-line automation that includes the loading and/ or unloading process offers increased efficiency, cost and space savings, enhanced safety, scalability, and more. However, achieving these benefits means overcoming structural silos. Companies and their employees can unlock the full benefits of a fully automated supply chain by encouraging cross-functional collaboration that encompasses the factory, warehouse and distribution, including 3PL partnerships.
Joloda Hydraroll
www.joloda.com
FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS | OCTOBER 2024 19
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