The challenge
DHL is one of the world's largest logistics companies, present in more than 220 countries and territories. It offers a full range of logistics services, from documents to supply chain management. To speed up delivery further, DHL in the Netherlands decided to use handheld computers for parcel sorting at its Dutch site.
The main problems:
- The site handles a very large number of parcels; manual sorting takes a long time and efficiency is low.
- Handwritten courier information is slow to record and error-prone, and paper is easily lost.
- Collection, goods-in, goods-out and sorting are slow, making peak loads hard to handle.
- Data on sorting, storage and delivery is disorganised, which can lead to lost or untraceable shipments.
The solution
DHL in the Netherlands introduced a solution based on the Chainway C66 industrial handheld computer. With integrated barcode scanning, parcel receiving and dispatch, sorting and distribution are automated at the site.
Workers scan parcel barcodes with the C66 and complete sorting, goods-in and goods-out quickly and accurately. Key data for each order, from sorting to delivery, is recorded and sent to the information system over the wireless network. Managers see the data in real time in the back-end system, and customers can track their shipments.
Configuration: Chainway C66, 2D barcode scanner, Wi-Fi.
The result
- More efficient parcel handling: intelligent sorting significantly speeds up operations.
- Real-time tracking: shipment logistics data is always available, processes are standardised and management is simpler.
- Ready for peaks: DHL handles intensive data capture during busy periods with ease, improving efficiency and customer service.
- More satisfied customers: real-time tracking information raises customer satisfaction.
- A more complete distribution network: the solution improves service levels across the board.
