Qnetex Nomad - Ministry of Defence Reverse Logistics
Project
The Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom) was required to undertake the biggest reverse logistics operation since the Second World War in order to return equipment from Afghanistan back to the UK. The key challenge was to quickly find a way of identifying the contents of 7,000 TEUs (20 foot long intermodal container) being packed up ‘in the field’ so that they could be easily unpacked and moved on to designated warehouse destinations for reuse or refurbishment in the UK.
Our Solution
To extend the functionality of CSD’s existing system to accommodate this new requirement. Access was set up so that new functionality could be accessed independently of the main system by designated operators, who were then able to key in product codes along with details of accompanying documentation, as necessary. The system produced a 4 x 4 barcode label automatically. The label included five individual barcodes reflecting individual aspects of the return. An export file of data was sent to the UK daily detailing what was being returned in what containers. A keyboard wedge scanner allowed items with a barcode on them already to be scanned into the system with minimal keyboard input required. Displays and reports provided information as and when required.
The Result
A simple solution to a complex problem, with stock visibility and accountability immeasurably improved.
“I was involved in other operations and this is probably world-beating – we have never really achieved these kinds of standards before.” Brigadier Duncan Capps.