MOBICON Systems delivered its first flexible container handler into England recently, solving UK distribution company KKT’s congested yard problem. KKT was looking for a system to better manage on-site container handling and de-stuffing processes and was previously loading from container ramps.
KKT’s MD Karl King said, “The restricted working yard and receiving locations at our Ipswich operations centre was becoming congested and containers were unable to be de-stuffed in a timely manner.
“Trailers were required to be unhitched and left in the yard for de-stuffing at alternative times; hence more trailer assets were required to complete the freight task.”
Warehousing and receipting operations were also being disadvantaged by poor trailer locations in the yard.
Overtime, stress and extended working hours were also having its impact on security, safety, product damage, and demurrage and operating costs for the transport company.
King said the load carrying capacity of the yard’s pavement was assessed and it was recognised that the pavement was unsuitable for the use of large fork lifts or the preferred reach stacker concepts in the UK.
“The Mobicon, with its low axle weights and tighter manoeuvring ability, has improved efficiency and reduced costs by totally transforming the way we worked.
This has allowed us to lay off expensive night shift, as the work can now all be done in the day.
Forklift wear has been reduced and we all feel that it has improved safety in our yard,”King said.
KKT sold their container ramps and reduced their trainer numbers by 50% allowing cost savings associated with container handling for the business.