Selkent calls in the Podfather to improve operational efficiency
Selkent has called in the Podfather to implement its innovative fleet management ePOD software system to provide best in class logistics planning and route optimisation to improve operational efficiency and to support its ambitious growth plans.
The implementation of the Podfather system integrates seamlessly with the company’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software and will build on their already excellent customer service standards by enhancing the delivery experience with real-time tracking, last mile delivery notifications and electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD). It will also support the company’s green ambitions as it transitions to paperless working.
Lee Carpenter, Head of Operations at Selkent, leading UK supplier of construction fixings and tools, said: “With increasing challenges across the construction industry, including labour shortages, rising costs, supply chain issues and regulation, it’s important that we maintain the high-quality service we are known for. As part of our ongoing commitment to helping our customers overcome these challenges and meet project demands, we knew we needed to take a close look at the delivery side of the business.
“We were already using some aspects of the system but realised we weren’t exploiting it to its full potential. We challenged ourselves to look at every aspect of our delivery service to see where improvements could be made and how these could be achieved. In every case Podfather had something to offer!”
Stocking more than 8,500 product lines, Selkent operates from three hubs and runs a fleet of 16 vehicles ranging from 18 tonne trucks to 3 ½ tonne electric vans. Selkent offers a nationwide next day delivery service, with a same day service within the M25, and makes around 250 deliveries a day to customers.
With Podfather aligned, Selkent plans to overhaul its delivery operation. The fleet logistics software will integrate with the company’s back-office systems to improve the efficiency of dispatch with automated picklists and digital delivery manifests whilst intelligent planning and route optimisation tools, that take into consideration customer time windows as well as driver hours and vehicle capacities – a factor in the company’s gold FORS accreditation, will ensure cost effective and resource efficient delivery management.
The Podfather App also provides real-time visibility of the delivery schedule as it unfolds, allowing for accurate customer ETA notifications and updates, and timely interventions in case of any problems. The electronic Proof of Delivery functions will also ensure both the back-office staff and the customer, whether on-site or remote, know when a delivery has been made, the exact location the products were left in, and who signed for them - backed up with date, time, and geocoded photographs.
The introduction of the full Podfather system forms part of Selkent’s growth plans and ensures continued dedication to sustainability and the highest industry standards.