Customer case: unburdening a US-based customer from the central European hub

Customer case: unburdening a US-based customer from the central European hub

Summary:

A major US-based supplier of thermal and infrared cameras has chosen Rhenus Warehousing Solutions as its 3PL partner in Europe, valuing excellent service, operational ease and efficient processes. Rhenus manages logistics from its Tilburg hub in the Netherlands, handling tasks from customs clearance to secure storage and shipping. Value-added services like kitting is also performed to ensure a seamless customer experience. Rhenus emphasizes service, performing extra checks and maintaining secure storage, while providing transparent, monthly performance reports. This commitment to quality and transparency fosters a strong partnership, supporting the supplier's operations and growth. Learn more about this case study on our blog below.

A major US-based supplier of thermal and infrared cameras has selected Rhenus Warehousing Solutions as its permanent third-party logistics (3PL) partner in Europe. You might wonder: what does a company of this caliber look in a 3PL partner? The answer is straightforward: excellent service, operational ease, efficient kitting, streamlined returns, and evidence of exceptional performance. Despite the illusion of direct shipment from the factory, the reality is different, and we understand this better. 

The supplier’s products – thermal and infrared cameras – cater to diverse markets. These cutting-edge devices are favored by industrial and defense sectors as well as applications in security and outdoor activities. Although the products enjoy widespread popularity, they are not cheap. This pricing factor contributes to the supplier’s strong focus on service and ensuring high performance.

European hub for our US-based customer

At Rhenus, we manage the logistic operations across Europe and extend our services in Asia, specifically from Hong Kong. Within our distribution centers in Tilburg, The Netherlands, the supplier ranks among the top three clients of Rhenus. The majority of items stored in the warehouse are organized within the bins of the Autostore order processing system. We serve a diverse clientele, including direct business customers, and wholesalers retailing these products, and soon, we anticipate shipping products directly to consumers.

From inbound to customs clearance

The US-based thermal and infrared camera supplier sought a logistics partner capable of delivering service and helping them ease their operational burden to the maximum extent.  This includes handling tasks ranging from receiving containers and trailers to customs clearance. We use our own software application for managing the administrative process with Dutch customs and for other logistical functions. In addition, we store the goods on pallets and in over 2,000 bins of the Autostore system. We consolidate orders as necessary and utilize well-known carriers for delivery. Furthermore, we employ sea and air freight services, transporting goods securely in special boxes designed for maximum protection.    

Our value-added services

We offer a range of value-added services to this supplier. Upon receiving an order from an end customer, we are promptly notified. In numerous instances, we kick-start a kitting process, where multiple items are combined into a single product and shipped directly to the end customer. This could involve a core product accompanied by standard or optional accessories and supporting materials. Thanks to our seamless handling, the end customer perceives the product to be shipped directly from the supplier. In reality, it’s often Rhenus Warehousing Solutions that handles the shipping process.

Extra checks and efforts

Service is the cornerstone highlighted in uppercase letters within the contract between the supplier and Rhenus. This means that we are committed to going above and beyond and conducting additional verifications and checks. For instance, we meticulously ensure that customers have the appropriate licenses required for their intended applications. We have implemented highly secure storage aisles to safeguard the stored items. Regular cycle counting is conducted according to clearly defined agreements. Moreover, we actively engage with our customers, brainstorming ways to support their sales and production processes effectively. With our streamlined communication channels, the supplier experiences a sense of assurance regarding their logistics chain. This extra effort justifies the decision to establish a central logistics hub to cater to all European clients.

Transparent reports on logistics performance

Delivering quality is extremely important for this supplier. In response, we maintain transparency regarding our logistics operations. We provide monthly reports detailing our adherence to agreements, the performance of inbound and outbound flows, and the delivery of shipments to end customers. This transparency not only meets the supplier’s expectations but also serves as a key strength of Rhenus Warehousing Solutions. It fosters a strong connection, openness, and honesty which are keys to a successful relationship. This approach leads to close cooperation and results in optimal performance.

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