Spare parts logistics
The prerequisite for a loyal, long-term customer relationship that is worthwhile for the company is the smooth interaction of central processes. Spare parts logistics is of central importance here, as it should ensure that customers have access to the spare parts they need at all times. In the manufacturing industry and the skilled trades in particular, it is essential to replace typical wear parts (that are worn, damaged or otherwise missing) promptly so that production processes, some of which are orchestrated down to the smallest part, can continue.
In plain language: spare parts logistics thus encompasses both the planning and execution and often IT-controlled monitoring of all material and information flows in the context of spare parts supply. Unlike its counterpart in production logistics, other dependencies and processes need to be taken into account here - the more diverse a company's spare parts catalog is and the longer the spare parts logistics process is systematic, the more accurately forecasts can be made about the realistic demand for individual parts.
Challenges in modern spare parts logistics
The example of production machines shows very clearly how central solid spare parts logistics are to the functioning of a customer company. As soon as the basic business (purchase and, if applicable, commissioning of the machine) has been completed, the focus shifts to the supply of spare parts and customer service (maintenance orders, etc.). The company must plan its stock levels in such a way that it is ready to deliver at all times, measured against probable demand. The challenge is to meet this high level of customer expectation while at the same time maintaining stock levels that tie up as little capital as possible.
Key questions when planning spare parts logistics:
- How high is the demand for individual or spare parts (categorized into A, B and C parts, if applicable)?
- When or in which time window are these spare parts typically requested by customers?
- Where and, above all, in what quantity must stocks be held in order to be able to supply customers with spare parts as quickly as possible?
- Which spare parts are of primary or secondary importance for the customer, i.e. what is definitely needed to maintain production and what may be required. only necessary for product diversity?
This means that optimum spare parts logistics guarantees perfect delivery quality, i.e. the ability to deliver the requested spare parts in the required type and quantity and in a fully functional condition. This is particularly important because production processes are often paused at certain times (between shift changes, at night, at weekends, etc.), meaning that delivery commitments to the customer must be absolutely reliable.
With the help of a modern warehouse management system, companies can plan this economically relevant area of spare parts supply in such a way that a competitive advantage can be created.
