Reefer Terminal
Reefer Terminal
Logistics and Handling Company Implements Rugged Mobile Solution to Improve Port Operations
Situated on the Vado Ligure Port in Savona, the multifunctional Reefer Terminal (GRUPPO GF) specializes in the logistics and handling of containers and vehicles that transport fresh vegetables and fruits. Handling operations include the shipment, unloading and stocking of products, downloading and uploading containers, customs accomplishments and trans-shipment. The vegetable and fruit sector is comprised mostly of bananas which constitute more than half of the fruit coming from Central America, South America, North and South Africa.
The Challenge:
- Reefer Terminal needed to improve its speed of unloading ships
- Slow unloading speeds results in high operational costs
- Slow unloading can also hurt the quality of fruits and vegetables because they must be maintained under a controlled temperature
- Track and trace of products had to be very detailed and provided across entire facility
- Solution needed to span a large area and withstand the harsh conditions of the manufacturing facility, yard, distribution centre, and port
The Solution:
- Workers were equipped with Psion rugged handheld and vehicle mount terminals which enables them to efficiently collect data and easily determine product destinations
- The mobile computers connect wirelessly and utilize a couple of different technologies, including Narrow Band
The Benefits:
- Decreased operational costs due to reduction in ship dock and delay times
- Increased efficiency and productivity in the unloading of ships
- Increased efficiency of ship unloading operations has helped maintain proper controlled temperatures for fruits and vegetables
- Reduced repair and downtime costs as a result of durability of Psion handhelds and vehicle mount computers
