SAX for accurate, fast and reliable deliveries using mobile Proof of Delivery

For SAX, a wholesale supplier of technical products (HVAC) and sanitary ware, accurate and efficient deliveries to customers and branches are crucial. SAX recently integrated Zetes' mobile Proof of Delivery solution, which offers bespoke, optimised route planning, into its logistics processes. Key advantages: full traceability throughout the delivery process, visual proof of delivery - including for unattended deliveries, up to an hour saved thanks to optimisation of routes and half the number of already low supply errors.

Every day, around twenty freight trucks leave the SAX distribution centre, heading for construction companies, professional installers and the company's own branch outlets. Around 450 deliveries are completed every day and the most significant challenge to overcome was ensuring full traceability from loading to offloading, with evidence that the order supplied was correct which, especially with 'unattended deliveries' which are deposited even when the customer isn't present, is crucial.

Registration with mobile PDAs

SAX chose ZetesChronos, a Proof of Delivery system which was customised with a route optimisation module and linked to SAX's existing ERP system. 25 drivers were provided with new touchscreen PDAs.

The system collates all data captured during logistics transactions whilst the drivers complete their rounds, from loading the trucks through to delivery, pick-ups and recording of returns. This information is captured via the PDA and transmitted to the back office, ensuring the dispatcher has real-time information on the status of all orders.

Photo evidence

The driver also takes photo evidence on his PDA at every delivery site. Goods are delivered even if no-one is present on the building site or if an installer is not at his base ('unattended delivery'). The photograph, which includes the GPS position of the destination, provides proof of delivery and a visual audit trail to avoid future customer disputes.

The driver can also record any anomalies, such as damage to a package, an absent customer or other delivery problems (e.g. an incorrect delivery), using his PDA. Bart Herreman, Logistics Manager at SAX: "The dispatcher, back in the Distribution Centre, views this information in real-time and can respond instantly, for instance by phoning the customer to arrange an alternative delivery time."

The investment has paid off well. "We spend one hour less per day on route optimisation and this represents a significant return on investment by enabling us to process more order lines. We've halved our already small margin of error for supplies, from 0.5% to 0.25%. We also have fewer customer disputes, thanks to the photos drivers can take on their PDAs at every delivery site as evidence and using the GPS position of the site," confirms Bart Herreman.