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Logistics service provider Bouw realizes user-friendly scheduling and routing with ORTEC
Published on October 3, 2007
M. Bouw & Zonen Logistics Services BV has made the transition to the new version of ORTEC’s routing and scheduling solution, SHORTREC 7.3. The logistics service provider chose this system, because its scheduling became too complex to be performed manually. Henk Hop, who performs the scheduling activities with three colleagues, explained: “We have been using SHORTREC for some time now. First SHORTREC 7.2, and now version 7.3. However, the major difference is not the new system, but the change in our working methods.”
Henk Hop: “When configuring SHORTREC 7.3, we deliberately decided to configure SHORTREC in such a manner that we could perform our scheduling activities automatically. When we purchased SHORTREC, we initially opted not to utilize this possibility. The system was configured in such a manner that scheduling at the push of a button could not provide us with what we needed. At first we did not miss this functionality, but now that the scheduling is becoming more complex as a result of the growing number of orders, we cannot manage without it. We can now realize more manageable scheduling at the at the push of a button, without having to deploy more staff.”
h2.Next step
“Our original objectives with regard to SHORTREC have now been achieved: we have reduced the number of hours devoted to scheduling and can create high-quality, realistic schedules using SHORTREC, which represent a perfect combination of theory and practice. We now want to take the following step. Currently, our most important objective is to increase our service levels and the reliability of our deliveries, and create efficient working methods. This will ultimately also enable us to make cost savings.”
Complex scheduling
M. Bouw & Zonen provide a 24-hour service. “Usually, the scheduling department does not receive the complete order file for the following day until 5.30 p.m., after which the schedule must be made so that the vehicles can be loaded in the evening or at night in order to leave early the following morning. So we are under immense time pressure,” said Henk Hop. “In addition, we also often deliver in inner-city areas at unusual times, as many of our clients are restaurants, hotels, caterers and liquor stores. In short: a complex schedule that can only be handled with this computerized solution.”
24-hour service
M. Bouw & Zonen Logistics Services BV was established in 1932. The family business, which has its registered offices in Nijkerk, provides initial road haulage, warehousing, order picking, and goods distribution services throughout Europe. The logistics service provider specializes in the distribution of wines, deliveries and returns to DIY stores, and the transportation of goods at construction sites. M. Bouw & Zonen provides a 24-hour service using a varied and extensive fleet of vehicles including vans, motor vehicles, motor vehicle and trailer combinations, lorries with mounted forklift trucks, city trailers and large trailers.