Prevent traffic jams and effortlessly manage the workflow at your docks

As a logistics service provider you recognize it: all docks are full and trucks are waiting in line to load. Carriers send multiple trucks at the same time, resulting in unnecessary peaks in your workload. But you can avoid these well-known off-peak and peak hours. And you can plan your required resources in advance. So, are your employees sometimes flooded with deliveries? Or do carriers complain about long waiting times on your loading and unloading platforms? With timeslot booking that is in the past. In this blog we introduce timeslot booking and list the benefits for your business.

WMS Advanced Timeslot Management

With the module “WMS Advanced Timeslot Management” you can offer your suppliers and carriers the possibility to book a time slot digitally. During this timeslot, the truck is then loaded or unloaded without waiting times. This way you reduce waiting times, you maintain a structured planning and you can see real time when – and what – will be delivered, including the associated appointments.

Timeslot Management in your WMS

The connection with the WMS and the timeslot module has the advantage that, in addition to booking timeslots, you always know what is coming in. With this integration you avoid double work and you can link in- and outbound orders to a trip. At a glance you can see all intended departure times and who have already registered. This saves you time as a planner, so you can focus on optimizing the current process instead of having to call after your suppliers.

Time slots per carrier

Because you can maintain a tight schedule with the help of the module, you avoid traffic jams for your loading and unloading locations. But the system also offers possibilities to impose restrictions per carrier. For example, you can not allow certain hours or offer carriers specific days as an option. Another possibility is to calculate how long the unloading will take. For example, with the help of the number of pallets loaded in the truck, so that the docks can be handled efficiently. Agreements can also be set up with regard to how often a carrier may unload. After the initial set-up by a consultant, you can manage the above completely yourself.

One step further

Automate the process and you no longer have to worry about registering carriers and/or suppliers. Thanks to Timeslot Management, carriers reserve a time slot in advance and can see in the web portal when they have booked it and change it if necessary. It is also possible to do the entire registration process automatically, whereby the system determines whether the driver is on time and, for example, automatically gives access to the correct unloading dock (The Gate Access module is also required for this). That results in no queues, no confusion and no errors.

Insight into loading and unloading times

All booked timeslots are clearly displayed in the WMS system and can then be controlled. In addition, analyzes are possible based on the planned arrival time, actual arrival time and planned and actual departure time. On this basis, the timeslots can be efficiently planned and an optimal design of your company can be ensured.

Do you want to learn more about timeslot booking? Or do you want to know how the module WMS Advanced Timeslot Management can help you support your processes? Mail to marketing@boltrics.nl.