MHW Magazine News and stories from the Materials Handling Industry
Palletways, Europe’s largest and fastest growing express palletised freight network, has developed a unique scanning system to photograph every pallet on its journey through its UK hub in Lichfield.
In conjunction with a number of specialist suppliers, Palletways designed and installed the bespoke technology at a cost of around £750k. The World first ‘archway’ hub scanning system provides full visibility of vehicle and pallet movements, which virtually eliminates missing pallets, damage, theft and security issues, and the possibility of false claims for loss or damage of goods.
Consisting of 144 scanners and 16 high definition cameras in total, a set is positioned at the entrance and exit of each warehouse. Each set features eight banks of two vehicle scanners, 16 barcode label image scanners and two high definition cameras. Both vehicle sides are covered, allowing every pallet to be recorded as it enters, goes through and leaves the site.
Martyn Young, Palletways UK managing director, said: "We handle up to 20,000 pallets a day in the UK alone, so it’s imperative we have total control and security for every pallet. Our new system allows us to do this more effectively, while maximising efficiency by reducing the handling time for each pallet and every load.
"It’s already proved extremely successful and enhances our competitive edge. We’re now looking to extend it across our member network and throughout our hubs in Europe."
The Palletways Group is made up of 300 depots and ten hub operations, through which it provides collection and distribution services across 11 European countries, including the UK. The company’s distribution networks are made up of independent transport companies who share resources to deliver small consignments of palletised freight to market faster and more cost effectively.
