This enhanced procedure has nearly eradicated
waiting times, eliminated reworks, and significantly reduced transportation
costs. "With hundreds
of employees trained in Lean principles such as process mapping,
standardization and Kaizen (Continuous Improvement) it was only a matter of
time before the 40-minute inspection time for reefers exiting the terminal came
under scrutiny by Ricardo Alexis Alvarado Ruiz, supervisor at APM Terminals
Moin," said APM Terminals.
Ricardo Alexis Alvarado Ruiz, driven by his passion
for Formula One where every second is crucial, was determined to cut down the
40-minute waiting time for each reefer inspection. By removing ‘wasted time’ from the process and
implementing a drive-in drive-out express inspection lane, congestion at the
terminal has been reduced considerably, according to the statement.
The newly located express lane allows trucks to
drive in forwards, with no sharp turns that have the potential to hinder other
traffic, while reducing unnecessary truck manoevres has saved both time and
improved safety.
"Currently
processing up to around 120 transactions per week, feedback from external truck
drivers has only been positive, citing the reduced waiting times and the fact
that they no longer have to carry out difficult manoeuvres in limited
space," noted APM Terminals.