Material Handling: How easy is it to have all the answers?

If you're in charge of material handling, you are constantly being looked at for the answers.

This time product is getting damaged in the warehouse or coming back after being shipped. An ongoing problem being blamed on careless workers.

Experts in packaging and material handling can identify the root cause of costly problem areas.

Shift your focus

Having all the answers is not knowing everything, but knowing where to look. It's understanding that packaging and material handling can be more complicated than sticking a box on a pallet and calling it a day. And, acknowledging that even the most simple-looking things sometimes require a seasoned professional.
 
Using experts in packaging and material handling can give you an edge on your competition.

Ask yourself these questions:

• When and where is your product being damaged?
  Our Tech Center team can come in with fresh eyes to evaluate problem areas. Experts can quickly spot a serious issue or let you know the solution is as simple as going from a 2-way access pallet to a 4-way access pallet.
  
  
• Are you using the right size crate or pallet for your material? 
  Many manufacturers believe that product "hanging off the pallet" is no problem because they have professional material handlers to move it carefully. But what happens when it is moved out of your plant? A better designed crate or pallet will protect your material from damage and give your customers more confidence in your team.
  
  
• Is the total packaging system working together?
  It is vital to make sure that the pallet, packaging, product and material handling equipment are all working together. Sometimes the equipment is the problem. Sometimes it's the box or the bag and sometimes it’s the pallet. Hiring a pro to help identify the root cause of the problem or to demonstrate how all of the variables work together provides a significant advantage for companies who do not have in-house expertise.

After consulting with a technical team, you found the answer. Your product is safe, your customers are happy and you managed to once again save the two most important things in any business: time and money.

Still not sure how easy it is to know everything? Tell us about your biggest trouble areas in the comments below.

Post by: Chris Recker, Plant Manager, Greencastle Facility