Schaeffler supplies large-diameter bearings for the wind power industry. These bearings are transported in robust special packaging, known as Smart-Boxes. The boxes are costly to acquire as they are specifically manufactured for this application. Therefore, the boxes are reused multiple times.
For this to work, they must reliably return to the cycle. This is where SmartMakers' GPS tracking comes into play.
The Use Case: Reusable Transport Containers for Large Bearings
Schaeffler introduced the Smart-Box system back in 2021. The so-called Smart-Boxes are modular reusable transport containers designed for shipping large-diameter bearings. They replace single-use crates and support the resource cycle thanks to their reusability. The uniform design allows for simplified storage and reduces complexity in packaging and return transport.
The Solution: GPS Tracking for Efficient Return Logistics
The expansion of the system with SmartMakers' GPS trackers offers several advantages: The primary focus is on tracking the physical location of the boxes. The information obtained is used regarding circulation times, downtimes, and return processes to enable data-driven management.
In addition to location tracking, the trackers capture other physical parameters such as temperature, humidity, and acceleration. This data provides insights into environmental conditions and potential impacts during transport.
The Result: Reliable and Transparent Cycles in Logistics
Currently, Schaeffler has over 300 GPS trackers in use. The focus is on the transport of large-diameter bearings for wind power. The system has been in productive operation for several years and is continuously being developed.
Schaeffler knows through the use of the GPS Asset Tracking solution from SmartMakers at any time where the Smart-Boxes are located.
The use makes downtimes at forwarding agents or storage locations visible. Return processes of the packaging can be specifically initiated so that they can be used for further bearings. This reduces the need for costly reorders and ensures that the special packaging actually remains in the cycle.
