Lift trucks: Specialized fleet mix supports facility consolidation

Family-owned Fabiano Brothers sought to consolidate its 350-employee beverage distribution operation from four locations to two. Using sit-down, counterbalanced lift trucks with single/double pallet handlers, the company saw better uptime and runtime. And, operators were able to unload twice as many pallets.

The consolidation plan included relocating three facilities to a larger, state-of-the-art distribution center while maintaining a second, smaller facility serving as the wine division. Lift truck productivity in the order picking processes was an area of focus, leading the team to prioritize ergonomics as well as considering solutions for receiving, replenishment and racking functions.

The company wanted to improve its picking process from two carts per pick to four carts. End-rider pallet trucks, designed specifically for the company, were engineered with a custom fork allowing for order picking and loading functions at twice the previous rate. Delivery carts eliminated the need for overhead lifting by operators, and ergonomic handle and grab bar features received positive operator feedback.

The biggest challenge was finalizing the facility layout (based on product flow, volume and package sizes) with the goal of optimum flow for different types of traffic moving through the facility. Over the course of four years, the company fine-tuned all aspects of the facility and equipment, boosting load efficiency by almost double, increasing operator productivity and reducing costs.

The Raymond Corp.
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