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We’re excited to take you through some of the details of our DeStuff-IT™ Machine, manufactured by Engineered Lifting Systems & Equipment Inc (ELS). This technology is a welcome addition to our state-of-the-art warehouse system and will increase efficiency and density in the warehouse while prioritizing the health and safety of our employees.
Unloading shipments is typically one of the most unwieldy and inefficient warehousing processes. When Canadian Alliance opened our new warehouse in Tsawwassen, we endeavoured to design the warehouse for maximum density and efficiency. In the course of this design, it became clear that we had an opportunity to invest in technology like the DeStuff-IT Machine to save time, money, and labour with the intention of full systems integration. In other words: purpose-built, optimal efficiency.
What is the DeStuff-IT Machine?
The DeStuff-IT is an unloading solution designed to aid warehouse employees that unload floor stacked product from both containers and trailers in docking areas. The unit is designed specifically for inbound receiving docks, making use of a modular, unidirectional belt and hydraulic height control.
The DeStuff-IT Machine is also self propelled, making it very easy for employees to position the belt as new containers are received in the dock. This ease of use makes the DeStuff-IT Machine a flexible tool that increases efficiency while reducing risk of injury.
“Integrating this unit is something we’re very proud of,” says Sid Sethi, Business Development at Canadian Alliance. “We recognized the need for a modular conveyor system that could dramatically increase efficiency while simultaneously reducing labour requirements. It’s a safer and faster system. We’re very glad to have partnered with DeStuff-IT to make use of this versatile unloading solution.”1
Enhancing Employee Safety and Comfort
Unloading containers and trailers without the DeStuff-IT Machine can require hours of repetitive movement lifting heavy boxes without ergonomic support. Further, repetitive movements like
bending, crouching, and twisting while carrying boxes of varying weights can cause muscle strain and fatigue in employees.
The DeStuff-IT Machine changes this process by prioritizing the positioning of the offload ramp in relation to the box or pallet stacking wall. Use of the ramp minimizes the time employees spend lifting or moving boxes by hand, creating less strain and requiring fewer repetitive movements over the course of the day.
Case Study: The DeStuff-IT Machine’s Efficiency
The DeStuff-IT Machine has been tested in situ to quantify the potential efficiency gains that warehouses may experience, and the results are remarkable. According to DeStuff-IT, the pilot results identified that the speed of the belt required the presence of 1.1 more persons in the offloading process, but this extra help, which makes use of the speed of the belt, resulted in a measurable increase in efficiency.2
“The DeStuff-IT pilot research showed very compelling results, and our customers can rely on us to deliver better service because of it,” says Sethi. “That kind of improvement will change how the warehouse is run.”
The Importance of Embracing New Technologies in Logistics
As e-commerce has grown into a wider consumer market over the last several years, it has become more important than ever for logistics companies to find optimal efficiency and density. This is especially true in Metro Vancouver, where warehousing space is at a premium.3
Two things occur when warehouses are unable to efficiently unload product upon arrival. First, the warehouse may incur costs associated with the longer unloading times, including demurrage charges, standby charges, and drop trailer charges. These charges, when frequent, may be passed along to the customer, driving prices up.
Secondly, these kinds of delays can complicate other warehouse processes, including storage and organization according to optimal density guidelines and other required transportation of inventory. Further, if multiple containers are at dock and all are unloaded, it can become difficult to sort and prioritize pallets and boxes to allow for quick retrieval and organization.
By embracing new technologies like the DeStuff-IT Machine, Canadian Alliance is able to make the most of its space, creating a densely packed and highly efficient warehouse that saves customers time and money.
“This is an investment we’re extremely pleased to have made,” says William McKinnon, President of Canadian Alliance. “Over the last several years, our forward planning has been consumed by a drive to enhance our efficiency in-house. By choosing to invest in tech like the DeStuff-IT Machine, we’re ensuring our customers reach the market faster than ever before.”4
“The numbers speak for themselves,” says Sethi. “Speed and reliability are critical to keeping our operations running smoothly. Ensuring we’re meeting the needs of our customers is worth the investment in this new technology.”1
“We are well aware of the challenges facing global supply chains,” says McKinnon. “Part of our response is staying abreast of cutting edge technologies so we can continue to serve our customers for years to come, even as the landscape continues to change. The DeStuff-IT Machine is just one part of our strategy that we’re excited to roll out in the future.”4