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Efficient Logistics and Value-Added Services: The Key to Global Hardware Delivery

Cases Efficient Logistics and Value-Added Services: The Key to Global Hardware Delivery

Background

Our client is a leading manufacturer of hardware products serving distributors, large retailers and consumers worldwide. In order to serve the European market more efficiently, the client needs a reliable logistics partner that not only handles warehousing and distribution, but also adds value through additional services such as power cord customization and serial number management.

BNS was selected as the logistics partner because of our expertise in fulfillment, project distribution and specialized services for hardware manufacturers. Our extensive experience in receiving, storing and processing hardware products enables us to provide a seamless supply chain solution.

Challenges

The client faced a number of challenges as they expanded into Europe:

  • Efficient container receiving and storage: The goods arrive in containers from Asia, loosely stacked in boxes, which requires careful handling and storage.
  • Diverse distribution channels: The customer serves both B2B (distributors and retailers) and B2C (direct consumer deliveries), which requires a flexible and scalable solution.
  • Strict serial number management: Each product needs to be tracked based on a unique serial number, which puts high demands on the logistics system.
  • Country-specific product adjustments: Products shipped to countries with different power connections must be equipped with the correct power cord.
  • Fast and reliable delivery: To ensure customer satisfaction, orders must be processed and shipped quickly and without errors.

Solution:

  1. Inbound Logistics: Receiving and Storage

BNS receives the containers directly from Asia and carefully unloads the loosely stacked boxes in our 7.000 m² warehouse in Vianen.

  • The goods are registered in our Cosmos WMS (Warehouse Management System), which enables real-time inventory management and tracking.
  • Products are stored based on serial number, ensuring full traceability and error-free order picking.
  • Thanks to API connections, stock levels and order statuses can be shared with the customer in real time.
  1. Order Processing and Distribution (B2B & B2C)

BNS provides both B2B and B2C distribution from our warehouse:

  • B2B: Large shipments are sent to distributors and retail chains in Europe. For these deliveries we use standardized pallet shipments with optimized handling costs.
  • B2C: Individual orders are shipped directly to consumers via our advanced pick & pack processes, shipped via DHL.

Our efficient order processing allows us to guarantee fast deliveries and minimize error margins.

  1. Value-Added Services: Customizations for Specific Markets

BNS offers a wide range of Value-Added Services (VAS) to prepare the hardware products for sale in different markets:

  • Adjusting power cords: Products shipped to countries with different power connections will be fitted with the correct power cord in our warehouse.
  • Labeling & repackaging: We can customize the packaging to the specific requirements of distributors and retailers.
  • Technical upgrades & software flashing: If necessary, we can perform firmware upgrades before the products are shipped.
  1. Returns Processing and Lifecycle Management

BNS has a specialized returns process that efficiently processes defective or incorrectly delivered products:

  • Products are scanned by serial number and then redeployed or processed into refurbishing programs.
  • Thanks to our advanced reverse logistics, our conversion of returned products to reusable products is as high as 85%, well above the industry average.
  • Reporting and transparency: Our Cosmos system provides the customer with full insight into return flows and inventory levels.

Results and Benefits

Results & Customer Benefits

Thanks to the collaboration with BNS, the customer has a highly optimized supply chain and benefits from the following advantages:

  • Faster processing of incoming goods, directly from containers to storage.
  •  Full tracking at serial number level, increasing accuracy and traceability.
  • Flexible distribution to both B2B and B2C customers, with reliable shipments through our logistics networks.
  • Customizations for specific markets, such as customized power cords and packaging.
  • Efficient returns processing, with a high percentage of reuse and cost savings.
  • Full transparency and real-time monitoring, thanks to our advanced WMS (Cosmos).

Conclusion

Conclusion

By working with BNS, this customer has significantly optimized its logistics operation in Europe. Thanks to advanced warehousing, order processing and value-added services, the customer can fully focus on its core business, while BNS ensures a reliable and efficient supply chain.

BNS remains committed to providing customized solutions and innovative logistics services to support the growth and efficiency of hardware manufacturers worldwide.

  • Do you also want to optimize your logistic processes? Contact BNS and discover how we can improve your supply chain.

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