BACKGROUND
The Ford Motor Company (commonly referred to as simply Ford) is an American multinational automaker headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. It was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. The company sells automobiles and commercial vehicles under the Ford brand and most luxury cars under the Lincoln brand. Ford also owns Brazilian SUV manufacturer, Troller, and Australian performance car manufacturer FPV. In the past it has also produced tractors and automotive components.
CHALLENGE
Every day in nearly 20 Ford Motor Co. distribution centers across the United States, replacement automotive parts are stored for an assortment of vehicle makes and models. In order to deliver these parts from the DC floor to dealership service stations on time, the global automaker needed an efficient and agile Detroit-area warehousing provider with strong automotive expertise to receive, consolidate and load the goods onto designated outbound trucks. A quick turnaround time was required — products moved through the warehouse in less than a day — to ensure 500 dealerships located throughout Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania received their correct stock of parts.
SOLUTION
Evans Distribution Systems, a Melvindale, Mich.-based logistics provider known for its customer service and innovative solutions, was handpicked in 2004 to handle this critical part of Ford’s supply chain. Understanding the automaker’s challenge and needs, Evans recommended a crossdocking operation. Several integrated components led to this solution, including:
- Evans’ large 400,000 square feet warehouse containing 75 dock doors to
accommodate Ford’s bulk deliveries. - An investment in educating and training its employees to operate Ford’s
scanning technology that provides the company with accurate shipment
visibility. - A rich expertise in handling similar crossdocking procedures for other
automaker and supplier clients.