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2008 Materials Handling Guide

ANY way you look at it, materials handling is always going to pose a significant cost to manufacturers.

Whether the operation is a manufacturing facility, distribution centre, or a warehouse, the dividends from optimising materials handling systems and equipment can be significant.

In the May issue's 2008 Materials Handling Guide, FEN takes the hard work out of optimising materials handling systems, with the top tips to save time and money.

According to Industrial Conveying Australia managing director Don Erskine, some businesses are walking blindly into the optimisation of their materials handling systems.

“While most business can see the logic in employing a professional accountancy group to handle their finances and taxes, too many blindly believe that they have the know-how to setup and optimise a materials handling system,” Erskine told FEN.

The lifetime cost of ownership is really the true cost of Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) to an organisation, Toyota Material Handling Australia national product manager Jim Lobow told FEN.

“This includes the cost of purchasing equipment, maintenance, the cost of the operator, training and administration of materials handling system,” he said.

In the May issue, FEN provides manufacturers with these easy-to-follow steps to optimise their materials handling systems.

Monitor equipment usage to avoid under and over-resourcing.

Develop a policy on the ideal age and engine traction hours of forklifts.

Constantly reassess if MHE is safe, fit for purpose, and of correct size.

Service MHE regularly as per manufacturer's recommendations and set maintenance goals.

Monitor and minimise damage to equipment, product, and racking.

Examine and optimise layouts and materials flow.

Consider the benefits of a single source supplier.

Conduct risk assessments and occupational health and implement safety policy.

Consult an expert.

Streamline dock setup to reduce bottlenecks.

Plan ahead for future growth.