 Carl Fortin, DSC Logistics IT Project Leader, set up a best practice for each facility using the Accu-Pick system. |
THE COMPANY: DSC Logistics is one of the largest supply chain management companies in the US with over 40 locations. They manage the entire supply chain, from manufacturer to consumer - in some cases, extending back to raw materials, and when appropriate, managing other 3PLs. DSC Logistics has adopted a culture to enable the company to anticipate, understand and make the most of change. They solve customer problems, adapt supply chain solutions and deploy resources where and when customers need them; creating a true partnership. In business since 1960, they continue to realize positive growth.
THE CHALLENGE: Jim Chamberlain, Senior Director Industrial Engineering and Continual Improvement, was troubled by the inefficiency of downstream checking. To ensure every order was correct, DSC had people at the dock checking every order before it shipped out. If an error was discovered, the order was held up and the picker had to stop, go back and correct it. When Jim talked to
Cascade Corporation, he realized he could streamline DSC's order checking process.
 DSC Logistics demonstrates how they utilize the iForks for improved accuracy and efficiency. |
THE SOLUTION:Chamberlain started talking with DSC's material handling partners and discovered
Cascade iForks; a mobile weighing system for forklifts that communicates to the WMS. Utilizing iForks as an enabler, in conjunction with IT programming, DSC 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; it never reaches the dock or the customer.
 Jim Chamberlain of DSC Logistics discusses the benefits Cascade iForks have made |
THE RESPONSE: DSC is very pleased with
Cascade iForks. Chamberlain stated, "The Accu-Pick system has improved productivity and accuracy and saved money. We have eliminated all checkers. 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 DSC. Previously those errors of weight went all the way through the system to shipping. Next, DSC would like to extend the Accu-Pick system to inbound and outbound freight using certified weights to eliminate disputes with carriers about weights.
For more information on Cascade iForks, or to learn how Cascade products can improve your business,
visit www.cascorp.com or
call 800 CASCADE (227-2233).
For more company and product information visit the Cascade ShopFrontCascade Corporation was established in Portland OR in 1943 and is now the global leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of materials handling equipment and related technologies. Cascade's advanced damage reduction technology, short lead times, flexible manufacturing, and quality products strengthen the company's position as the premier supplier to the material handling industry.