Reverse logistics
Addressing specific needs for reverse logistics.
Reverse logistics
Our reverse logistics solutions are designed to optimize returns management and enhance operational efficiency, for the complete return process or part of the return process. Our store accounting system integrates seamlessly with detailed countings of full mixed logistic units, ensuring accurate tracking and reconciliation of returned items. We manage returns at various logistic unit levels, allowing for granular control and analysis of items throughout the reverse flow. Additionally, our advanced logistic monitoring systems not only streamline the reverse logistics process but also support retailers in maintaining accurate records, reducing losses, and improving overall supply chain efficiency. We also handle the return flow from retailers to asset owners, streamlining communication to ensure minimal storage space is required for RTIs awaiting return.
By digitizing the reverse logistics it transforms the handling of returns into an efficient, data-driven process, starting the moment a shop registers trays or crates for collection. At shop level, and for truck drivers, handheld devices or mobile apps enable quick scanning of SSCC labels on each logistic unit, ensuring easy registration and tracking from the start.
When returns, sorted and unsorted reusable transport items (RTIs) arrive at a distribution center (DC) or depot, they are automatically counted using our advanced eTagger scanning portals or gates. Thanks to serialization, each crate can be recognized by a unique identifier, enabling detailed traceability for every single item.
Through these combined tools, users gain access to an easy-to-use portal that provides real-time insights into the status, location, and history of every logistic unit. This creates a fully digital, end-to-end process that not only reduces operational costs but also delivers critical insights to minimize losses and strengthen supply chain efficiency.
Outsourcing Reverse Logistics
Within our group, Euro Pool System also provides the possibility to outsource the entire reverse logistics cycle, from providing reusable packaging materials to collecting, sorting, and managing the return of these items. Read more about it on their website.
Case Study: Enhancing Reverse Logistics for a Major Retailer with Extensive Franchise Network
Client Profile:
A prominent retail chain operating three Regional Distribution Centers (RDCs) and over 500 franchise stores across the country.
Challenge:
The retailer faced significant challenges in managing internal bookkeeping of Returnable Transport Items (RTI) deposits, heavily relying on return registrations from individual stores, which often led to errors and inconsistencies.
Implementation
- Data Capturing: Fully automated counting and handling systems for roll cages with RTIs have been installed at each regional DC. This innovation ensures accurate and consistent registration of RTIs as they circulated between the distribution centers and stores, minimizing human error and enhancing operational efficiency.
- Serialization: To address the complexity of handling over 150 different RTI types, a multipooling solution coupled with store-specific labeling was implemented. This approach allowed for precise tracking of each RTI type, improving traceability across the supply chain.
- Data Platform:The centralized data platform facilitates real-time data sharing for invoicing between stores and regional DCs. This platform ensures that all involved parties have access to accurate RTI movement data, streamlining the invoicing process and reducing financial discrepancies.
- Dashboarding: Customized shop dashboards and Smart Return Logistics (SRL) systems are available at the store level. These tools provide stores with immediate insights into RTI statuses, enabling better management of return logistics and decision-making.
Outcome:
The integration of these technologies fundamentally transformed the retailer’s reverse logistics, significantly reducing the time and resources spent on reconciling RTI deposits and minimizing financial discrepancies and losses. The automation of counting and handling processes reduce labor costs and error rates, while the serialization and data platform increased transparency and accountability between the RDCs and franchise stores.
Future Steps:
Encouraged by these improvements, the retailer plans to further enhance the data platform with predictive analytics for forecasting RTI needs and to expand the serialization capabilities to include additional RTI types as they become necessary.
This case illustrates the impact of tailored technological solutions on solving complex logistics challenges, leading to enhanced operational efficiency and financial accuracy in a major retail network.
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