Our machinery is being modernized

Work more efficiently and safely in a healthier and more environmentally friendly working environment. These themes are more important than ever. During the course of March we will give this an even better interpretation. Because our machinery in the warehouse is being modernized with three new electrical machines: an order pick truck, an electric pallet truck and a stacker. With these new machines a start is made with multi-order picking at the same time.

Being able to deliver quickly has become essential in these times of massive home improvement and the convenience of ordering online. This means that our logistical strength is also put to the test.

Our Warehouse & Logistics Manager Joop Baaijens explains:
“Last year we noticed that the number of lines an order picker can pick per day in terms of physical strain had reached its maximum. At the same time we saw the number of order lines to be picked increase enormously. In order to keep up with this development we started looking for a solution. With the new order pick truck we will soon be able to carry out the work safely, efficiently and faster and significantly reduce the physical strain for our warehouse employees."

Multi order picking
The new order picking truck makes it possible to pick multiple orders at the same time, multi-order picking. Behind the truck several carts are connected on which the orders are collected. With the truck we can also go up 1.20 meters which gives us an extra layer of pick locations. By decoupling the carts it is also possible to transport a pallet with the forks of the truck.

Joop Baaijens:
"Multi-order picking has been high on our wish list for a while. Every day the same many meters per order were covered by the employees on foot. We are now going to do this while driving without the double meters. Where previously four order pickers walked through the warehouse for each order, now one order picker can pick up goods while driving, in sequence for multiple orders at more locations. As a result we have more staff to handle more orders and packing. The entire order process is thus much more efficient."

Environmentally friendly, safe and sustainable
The new machines are completely contemporary and all run on a lithium battery. In addition to significantly improving the durability of the machines it also benefits air quality and safety in the warehouse.

Joop Baaijens:
"In addition to the new order picking machine, we also immediately replaced our electric pallet truck and one of our stackers. This was necessary because the current machines are more than 20 years old. Both machines are equipped with a lithium battery instead of the traditional lead-acid battery. During the charging process no more toxic gases are released and we no longer need to top up the battery with demineralized water. The maintenance and inspection of the battery is no longer necessary."

The new machines will be delivered and put into service in March 2021.