Hallis Hudson says it has increased productivity by 20% and saved thousands of pounds at its warehouse since implementing Bec's Esmart automated data capture system.
Additionally, the curtains, blinds and accessories supplier says its order shipment deadline for next day delivery has been extended by one hour, and four data entry employees have been redeployed.
Alastair Soper, operations director at Hallis Hudson, says the system bolted seamlessly into the company's updated Lawson M3 (Movex) Java ERP system, and has improved accuracy, speed and timeliness of data capture relating to shipments.
He explains that Hallis Hudson now receives immediate updates and full visibility of all shipment information, as well as complete traceability of fulfilled orders – and hence the improved customer service.
Says Soper: "Our improved shipping operations have enabled us to extend the shipment deadline by at least one hour, allowing customers to place next day delivery orders until 6:00pm the previous day. The system is proving so efficient that we are considering extending this to 7:00pm, which will be a significant benefit."
He adds that, once the order is packed, a list of items contained within the box is printed and stuck to the packaging. Using unique box numbers assigned by Lawson M3, the data capture system then records the items and quantity, giving Hallis Hudson full traceability of all deliveries. An automatic despatch notification is then sent to the courier to arrange collection.