The most efficient bulk distribution companies have used technology and business process changes to drive significant distribution efficiencies. We have seen reductions of 30% of total distribution costs versus manual systems – less trucks, labor and miles. Additionally, we have seen increases in delivery efficiency for keep full accounts where the best companies deliver > 90% of contracted amounts versus averages of manual systems at less than 70%.
With margins often being fixed, especially on national accounts, companies must improve distribution efficiencies in order to be competitive and profitable. This roadmap outlines the business processes and technologies BizSpeed has seen have the highest impact or interest. For each area, we present:
- What the efficiency is
- Why it is important
- Where it fits
- Symptoms for investigation
The areas addressed include:
- Distribution Efficiency Assessment – analysis of actual orders, distribution centers and efficiency
- Keep Full Analysis – analysis of auto-replenishment efficiency
- GPS – tracking, exception reporting, engine diagnostics, directions and plan-vs-actual analysis
- Wireless Tank Monitoring – remote tank monitoring
- Mobile – Proof of Delivery and automated field data capture
- Route Optimization – optimizing the scheduled stops for fewest miles, least trucks, least labor
- Dispatching – electronic dispatch board for managing deliveries and pickups
- Metrics and Data Warehousing – monitoring and analysis of current and historical distribution
While the characteristics of pickups and deliveries range bulk distributors (fuels, lubes, chemical and hazmat), there are common threads to achieving an efficient distribution network. BizSpeed provides solutions through our own software as well as through partner software and hardware to address all of the areas listed. For more information please contact us at:
- Toll free: 866.270.0541
- sales@bizspeed.com
