The Case of the Damaged Auto Parts
IQpack makes improvements to a pack and reduces costs through collaboration and Lean Six Sigma process.
The Problem
A large, tier-two automotive manufacturer of metal moldings had significant damage, storage, and handling issues, along with mounting claims and customer complaints with their bulk container for window moldings. The double-wall container was weak and could not be stacked more than two-high in the warehouse, consuming precious floor space. It also would not ship effectively stacked two-high without a potential collapse in truckload shipments to their customers in the U.S. & Mexico. Finally, there was an expensive, laminated custom wood structure inside the pack to support the products, but it provided zero value for stack strength.
The Solution
IQpack began by establishing the operation’s requirements and goals for storing, handling, and shipping aftermarket auto parts. The data led us to a recommendation and testing of 900# triple wall corrugated board. The board included die-cut slits in the sides, allowing wooden boards to act as hangers, which supported the products inside. They were designed to lock into place and to be installed and removed with ease. This solution eliminated 84% of the corrugated in the bottom of the container, as it provided no value.
The Outcome
The operation saw over $200,000 a year in annual material savings as well as reduced lead-time in ordering packaging.
PERFORMANCE-BASED MODEL
The performance-based fee aligns our services directly with your business goals, so you only pay for what our solutions achieve.
