Introduction:
For this leading global manufacturer of caster and hardware products, the need for expanded US distribution operations was evident to satisfy the growing West Coast supply chain needs for their customer base of large retailers and traditional distributors. The project would require meticulous preplanning to ensure the location, design, and equipment would support both their current and future storage and handling needs for their diverse product mix. To navigate this challenge, the client turned to Conveyer & Caster for their longstanding expertise in warehouse equipment planning, process optimization, and project management to bring their business goals to reality in a short time.
Collaborative Planning and Execution:
The primary objective was to design and implement the most efficient and storage-optimized layout for the new distribution center in Phoenix, Arizona, accommodating two distinct divisions of the business under one roof. Collaborating with their trusted rack manufacturing partner, Conveyer & Caster’s promise was to deliver and install a quality, highly effective, and safe storage solution on time without exceeding the customer’s budget so they could quickly begin operating from their new facility.
To do this, Conveyer & Caster’s engineering department worked quickly with both the customer and rack manufacturing engineers to ensure all safety and operational flow requirements were captured and incorporated into the design. Timelines were also locked down with all teams upon design approval, leveraging Conveyer & Caster’s national partnerships and supplier relations to ensure everything was properly coordinated, from manufacturing, trucking, receiving timing and space, and installation and inspection deliverables.
Adapting to Changing Requirements:
As the planning phase unfolded, the project requirements evolved rapidly, necessitating some rapid design updates to adapt to expanded material and storage requirements, without impacting timelines. Conveyer & Caster’s material handling experts, Ryan and Rick, demonstrated agility and proficiency in adapting to the evolving project requirements, ensuring a seamless transition from planning to execution. With over 60 years of business experience, Conveyer & Caster knows requirements change, especially for growing businesses, and Ryan and Rick quickly worked to understand those changes and apply their experience to quickly solve and update the designs without any major setbacks.
Efficient Layout and Future-Ready Solutions:
The collaboration resulted in an efficient layout that not only met current operational needs but also allowed for future expansion and growth. Rows of pallet racking and innovative inventory storage solutions were seamlessly integrated into the facility on time and within budget. Rick and Ryan went beyond the basics, installing safety products such as end-of-aisle bumper guards and column protectors, contributing to a safer workplace environment, inventory protection, and longer-lasting storage. The goals for access and material flow within the new facility will help the customer operate efficiently as it continues to grow its West Coast business.
Looking Ahead:
The safety-conscious approach extended to the installation of upright yellow barriers and protectors, providing passive protection against workplace accidents. Plans include the addition of a double high guard rail, acting as a separation barrier between fork truck paths and walkways. These proactive safety measures align with Conveyer & Caster’s commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions that prioritize the well-being of both employees and assets.
Customer Satisfaction and Operational Success:
With the project now complete, our client expressed immense satisfaction with the results. The new distribution center in Phoenix, equipped with pallet rack and safety solutions from Conveyer & Caster, is set to commence operations in the coming months. This success story underscores the expertise and dedication of Ryan and Rick and the material handling experts at Conveyer & Caster, in delivering tailored solutions that drive operational efficiency and safety.
