Dalton Seeds

DSL Systems have installed a warehouse stock tracking system at Dalton Seeds, Cambridgeshire, UK.  Using extensive use of barcodes, the system is simple to operate yet provides all the facilities which operators and managers find so valuable.

The system consists of a Pen Mobile rugged tablet PC for each Fork Lift Truck (FLT) together with a long range barcode scanner.  There is also a network of fast wireless access points so that each FLT is always in range and kept up-to-date.

When each bag or pallet of small bags is produced, a barcoded ticket is attached to the bag.  When the bag is to be stored in the warehouse, the Fork Lift Truck driver scans the barcode.  DSL's stock tracking system then recommends the best bay to put the bag and the FLT driver can accept this or enter the actual bay where it is placed. Bay numbers are painted on the floor and are numbers like 5122, 1234 etc.

The long range barcode reader has a range of over 2 metres and allows the barcodes to be wanded without the FLT driver even leaving his seat.  This makes it fast and simple to operate.

When it comes to shipping an order, order details are transmitted directly from the office IT system to DSL's tracking system.  The FLT driver only has to enter the order number and the requirements with locations are shown on his screen. When collecting each bag or pallet the driver just wands the barcode.  Any incorrect bags are highlighted to the FLT driver thus preventing mistakes and the system even allows many drivers to load the same order at the same time.

The main benefit is for the FLT drivers to know exactly where stock is and this saves time searching for stock, especially as sometimes stock may be hidden behind other bags. The system also prevents mistakes and office staff find it invaluable knowing what is in stock at all times.