Loading with a scanner at Hedlunds Timber

For a couple of years, Hedlunds Timber has been using scanners when loading. We spoke to Thomas Johansson about the experiences so far. Thomas is one of the loaders.

"We use scanners to blip packages when we build loads," says Thomas. "The package's barcode is scanned and when the load is complete, we press a button to print a delivery note that is sent by e-mail to the printer and to the office.

Most of the time we sit in the driver's seat and scan through the windshield. It also happens that we get out of the machine and scan. It is good that all possibilities exist. If the barcode cannot be read for some reason, it is easy to enter the package number”.

The scanner itself is basically a mobile phone built for a tough environment. It is equipped with a powerful scanner. TimberBase is built to also be used with mobile phones and that is the possibility that is used here. As an accessory to the scanner, a pistol grip is used to make it easier to aim at the barcode. The scanner can be used for all types of package handling. In addition to loading, also deregistration of packages and stock movement.

"When we connected the scanner to the wireless network, we sometimes had problems with the coverage. We then tried inserting SIM cards and using the mobile network and since then we have had coverage everywhere," says Thomas.

"The big advantages are above all for large shipments. We are constantly in control of how many packages we have loaded. We see how much is in stock and what is available. You also don't have to worry about which product is in the package. All you have to do is select a loading order and the system will do the rest. The important thing is that the package's product is on a loading order line. The risk of error is minimized. It is not possible to load a package with a product that is not on the loading order".

"This ability to use TimberBase directly in a PDA with a built-in scanner has changed the way we work," concludes Thomas.