When talking about stacking software tools, there is often a perception that the main goal is to stack as optimally as possible in order to minimise transport costs. Indeed, optimal stacking leads to the best distribution of your products in boxes, on pallets, in containers and trucks, minimising the volume shipped. This is certainly not insignificant, but the benefits of good stacking software go further.
First time right
The stacking result is not only optimal but also right the first time. Time wasted on manual fitting and measuring is a thing of the past. Productivity will therefore increase dramatically.
Less damage
When fragile products are not packed carefully enough, transport damages (or DOAs) occur. Advanced stacking tools can take into account specific product properties such as "fragility" and "do not stack", minimising the number of transport damages.
"Just in time" planning
A link to ERP, WMS and/or TMS is no problem for high-end stacking software. This makes it clear what the shipment looks like fairly soon after an order is entered. With this information, you can inform the logistics department in good time and this information can be used to accurately plan the transport, thus avoiding having to arrange or cancel "last minute" transport.
Anyone can stack
Because of the visual 3D output from stacking software, no training or in-depth knowledge is required. Employees receive stacking instructions in a simple way. The result is greater flexibility among your employees.
Satisfied customers
Your warehouse staff cannot possibly know all the specific needs of both products and customers. Advanced stacking software allows you to define requirements and restrictions per customer or even per destination. Each customer will receive his products in the way he wants.
The aforementioned link with ERP can also contribute to customer satisfaction. When entering the order, it is then already clear how it will be delivered, so you can inform your customer about this. This allows them to plan their capacity and warehouse space. You can even go so far as to inform your customer where specific products are located. This can be relevant if you deliver full truckloads with a large mix of products.
So you can see that the benefits of stacking software go beyond the pure function of volume optimisation.
Mark Ruiter – Business Development Director at Faes Packaging Consultants (FPC)
