Combining transport and weighing into one easy and efficient step results in shorter cycle times, saving both time and money. Cascade iForks are a unique and innovative mobile weighing solution that lets you determine the load weight while the product is still on the forks, eliminating the extra step of driving the product to a fixed floor scale.

MOBILE WEIGHING - STREAMLINING THE PROCESS:

When one of the largest supply chain management companies in the US was troubled by the inefficiency of downstream checking, they turned to Cascade Corporation for a solution. Dock checking every order before it shipped out was a logistical nightmare. If an error was discovered, the order was held up and the picker had to stop, go back and correct it. Working with Cascade, this company was able to find the solution they required.

According to Cascade Global Product Manager Greg Nagle, "Using a mobile weighing device as a strategic data collection tool and integrating or transferring that data into a WMS (Warehouse Management System) enables users to streamline their process, becoming more efficient and providing a higher quality service."

THE SOLUTION: CASCADE iFORKS

Utilizing Cascade iForks in conjunction with custom programming from their IT team, the supply chain management company created what they call "Accu-Pick." When an employee goes to pick an order and puts product on the pallet, the weight is sent to the WMS. The WMS compares the actual weight to what it should be, based on the number of cases on the order, and if it matches, the employee continues. If it doesn't, an investigation determines why there is a discrepancy. The error is identified and addressed at the source; before it reaches the dock or the customer.

Spokesperson for the prominent supply chain management company stated, "The Accu-Pick system improved productivity and accuracy AND saved us money. We have eliminated all checkers and we have less returns, which results in happy customers." The system was so accurate that it even identified incorrect weights that the customer had provided. Previously, those errors of weight went all the way through the system to shipping. Ultimately, this company plans to extend the Accu-Pick system to inbound and outbound freight to eliminate disputes with carriers about weights.

THE MANY BENEFITS OF iFORKS

With Cascade iForks mobile scales, a forklift truck does two things at the same time: transport and weigh. It's no longer necessary to drive every pallet or container back and forth to a fixed floor scale. Cost savings are immediately realized: labor is reduced, and valuable floor space is increased.

Cascade iFORKS have marked advantages compared to carriage plate scales. They're economically priced and have low installation costs, resulting in a lower initial investment and a higher ROI. iForks typically pay back their investment within just a few months.

The scale components are easily accessible and digitally calibrated: which means less maintenance and a lower total cost of ownership. All Cascade iForks can be used in combination with Cascade Sideshifters and Fork Positioners, and with minimal displacement of the load center, drivers enjoy greater lifting capacity than if using fork carriage scales. iForks provide an excellent view of bright yellow fork tips; the good visibility results in less damage and less accidents overall.

TECHNICAL CONCEPT OF iFORKS

The iForks system allows drivers to view and track the weight of individual loads, total weight of multiple loads and number of individual loads within a load. iForks are the first completely wireless mobile weighing system for forklift trucks in the world, as a result of the integrated Bluetooth technology. Being wireless, the system can be installed onto any forklift in a matter of minutes.

Each fork is equipped with its own battery module, eliminating cable reels and power cords between the forks. The battery modules are exchangeable, robust and integrated into the fork design. The bulky housings for battery and electronics on top of the forks are no longer necessary.

The Bluetooth transmitters and calibration board have been integrated into the forks to avoid the risk of being damaged, this makes downtime on the iForks Pro extremely low. Both scale forks communicate independently with the driver display in the truck cabin, each via its own Bluetooth signal.

The iForks Pro install easily, even on forklift trucks with a load backrest above the carriage. Cascade also offers NTEP certified (Legal-for-Trade) models as well as Logistics iForks with thinner fork profiles specifically designed for use in applications that have a low entry height, including the side openings of GMA pallets.

CASCADE IFORKS IN APPLICATION:

The iForks Pro, Logistics iForks and NTEP Certified iForks are beneficial in a wide range of uses such as shipping, avoiding overloads and under utilization, checking incoming goods, preventing picking, filling, mixing and dosing, piece counting, and controlling waste flows. Many applications across a wide range of industries will benefit from Cascade iForks including: agriculture, chemical, metal, paper, ports and harbors, recycling, textile, and warehouse, logistics and distribution operations.

To learn more about Cascade iForks Pro and how they can become a part of your supply chain solution, visit www.cascadeiforks.com, www.cascorp.com, call 800-CASCADE (227-2233), or contact your local Cascade representative.

Cascade Corporation Portland, Oregon 1-800-CASCADE (227-2233) www.cascorp.com

For more company and product information visit the Cascade ShopFront

About Cascade Corporation:
Cascade Corporation, was established in Portland (OR) in 1943 and with subsidiaries in Germany and around the world, is the global leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of materials handling attachments, forks, accessories and related technologies. Their unmatched service, support and expertise, along with advanced damage reduction technology, flexible manufacturing, short lead times and quality products, positions them at the forefront of the material handling industry. For more information visit www.cascorp.com.