Narrow aisle helps distributor make smooth transition

Bearings Limited is a wholesale distributor of bearings and power transmission products, with an inventory of more than 30,000 different sizes and configurations of bearings, chains, sprockets and bushings. In 2009, the company moved into a 140,000-square-foot facility that now serves as the anchor for the company’s seven nationwide distribution centers. After consulting with a trusted partner, the company installed a narrow-aisle system to maximize the productivity of its new warehouse.

The company canvassed materials handling systems providers with complete turn-key capabilities and commissioned the layout, design and installation of the warehouse system. The provider recommended narrower aisles for greater product storage density and battery storage racks for reduced battery footprint.

The company selected an electric lift truck fleet in an effort to reduce exhaust emissions and improve air quality for employees and customers. The new fleet included two sit-down electric trucks, two walkie lift trucks, and two turret trucks, as well as related equipment and replacement batteries.

“As a result of the recession, profits are hard to come by,” says Jeff Feldman, a facility manager. “There is no question that our new warehouse and lift trucks are more efficient than our previous equipment and warehouses. This efficiency will translate into growth and more profits down the road.”

The new warehouse provides the company with the space, tools and equipment necessary to handle current demand and future increases in inventory. More importantly, it maximizes ROI and total cost of ownership of its lift truck fleet.

Hyster
800-497-8371
http://www.hyster.com

Read more from the 2013 Casebook.