For over fifteen years, we’ve worked with one of our customers providing components. We deliver them on time and to the quality standards they require. These components really aren’t complicated—they require laser cutting, forming, welding, and finishing, with some of their parts requiring a few more operations like tapped holes, plating and mechanical assembly of the components. We would manufacture the components, stack them on a skid, stretch wrap them and ship them to the customer. This is standard shipping practice that worked fine. One day, the customer called and said that they were looking for help. They asked if we could visit their operation to discuss ways to make receiving components on their end run smoother. We set up a time to visit their plant and found a simple solution that would save time, cut costs, and boost efficiency.
How It Started
At their plant, we reviewed their process. Once our parts arrived, their team unwrapped the skids, sorted the parts, and moved them into wooden crates with dividers. They then labeled the parts and moved them to the assembly line. Repacking our components into specialized wooden crates created a lot of extra work—more time, more effort, and a chance for mistakes. Since some parts looked alike, they’d sometimes get mixed while the receiving team was repacking them. The repacking process was all being done in an area that did not have a lot of extra space. They were looking for a solution to go straight from the receiving area to the production.
Our Simple Solution
We came up with a fairly simple solution; use the same crates that they use. We packed the finished components right into those wooden crates, complete with dividers, and made sure to clearly label every crate. Of course, we already had printers on the shop floor creating similar labels and a team ready to adapt. This way, components arrived sorted and ready to go. No extra handling or chance for error.
Implementing this change required only a few adjustments on our end. We sourced the wooden crates to match their specifications, designed a labeling system to clearly identify each component, and trained our team to pack the components as required. Once production was complete, we’d place the components into the divided crates, affix the labels, and ship them to the customer. No stretch wrap, no skids, no fuss.
How It’s Going
Our customer is very happy with the results. This solution has made their operation run more efficient, cut costs and has eliminated the possibility for error, providing the customer with significant, lasting benefits.
This isn’t the only time that we’ve implemented a change to assist the customer. This is just one example of how we’ve worked with our customers to find the best solutions for them. Don’t just take our word for it, here is a testimonial from one of our customers:
“Staub is not just a supplier, they are a partner. They go above and beyond for their customers. I know that when Staub commits to something they will hit that commitment every time.”
—Danielle K., Senior Buyer
Feel free to contact Staub Manufacturing Solutions today to find out how we can save your business significant time, cut costs the right way, and solidly boost your efficiency.
