Topic: Columns

Traditionally viewed as restrictive, new finance practices tailor leases to customer needs.

Reverse logistics service converts used packaging waste into a valuable asset.

Ruggedized mobile computers improve productivity on or off the lift truck.

There’s a significant trend that has been unfolding over the first half of the year that’s given me hope that the economy has finally turned the corner: Professionals representing all facets of supply chain management are starting to step out of their facilities and offices to attend live trade shows and events.

When applying stretch wrap to a unit load applying stretch wrap to a unit load, many facilities rely on manpower. But wrapping by hand has its downsides, increasing the risk of worker injury and inefficiently using stretch film, says Steve Fleming, director of sales at the Wulftec/M.J. Maillis Group.

I can’t think of a better System Report to grace the cover of this Special Technology Issue than Musikhaus Thomann, one of Europe’s leading retailers of musical instruments and accessories.

Habits of the recession can prove costly as recovery takes hold.

Although the shift to lean, just-in-time practices on the assembly line is well documented, the pursuit of expense elimination in warehouses and DCs continues.

New California battery charging regulations could foretell industry-wide shift.

To combat waste in the food supply chain, packaging companies are employing technology to monitor goods.

The general interest level and media attention given to the concept of “sustainability” has traditionally ebbed and flowed with the price of fuel.

As the industry moves toward automation, many facilities consider robotic palletizers, but are they right for your packaging operation?

Technology has fueled the evolution of operator comfort, but the perfect fit remains elusive.

Specialized lift truck clamps help booming waste paper industry reduce, reuse and reap profits.

Answer these 10 questions to find the best fit for your operation.

Consider several areas when picking the best method for your process and products to ensure the goods arrive safely.

Problems in the back of the house could point to wider fleet maintenance issues.

Lift truck capacity ratings are often misunderstood by owners, operators and even salespeople.

Last year, executive editor Bob Trebilcock launched a series of feature articles that we titled “The Big Picture: Where business meets materials handling.” This series has allowed us to break out of the traditional “how-to” and “case study” mold to offer an objective, broad-sweeping look at how materials handling technologies and best practices are affecting overall business strategy.