News
Optimising fuel deliveries
Having grown organically and rapidly through acquisition, Certas Energy’s network of depots has grown. Finding there were multiple sites serving each region, the company reviewed its whole supply chain strategy.
The decision to implement in-vehicle technology was part of a wider strategic review with Certas Energy wanting to ensure its operation remained cost-effective, provided product on time and to agreed service levels.
“TouchStar and Certas Energy worked closely to define and implement a robust system capable of handling the transaction and delivery scenarios necessary for a service-driven heating oil distribution environment,” commented David Hauff, head of logistics services at Certas Energy.
“We anticipate a relatively short ROI based upon the genuine reduction in vehicle mileage and the administration associated with delivery errors. Of equal importance are the ‘softer’ benefits we have derived such as a delighted customer base.”
“I’m pleased to report that, six months after implementation, the system has met all of the key aims listed below:
• Reduction in paperwork by eradicating the need for delivery tickets
• Reduction in vehicle mileage
• Elimination of errors in delivery data via automation of updates
• Elimination of delays in delivery data via real-time transmission
• Increase in service levels through a more reactive service
• Optimisation of the scheduling process
TouchStar’s software application has been designed specifically around the requirements of a heating oil delivery process, handling the interfaces to the tachograph, various meter types, printer and navigation data. The system provides vehicle checks, loading instructions, delivery details and end of shift reports to HMRC approved standards.
In the vehicle TouchStar has supplied ATEX-approved Hawk mobile computers. The Hawk devices have a robust large screen interface for the driver that clearly presents delivery instructions and navigation guidance, as well as facilitating a signature capture option for customers. The live link between the driver and the back office facilitates the optimisation of the scheduling process by enabling a central view to be achieved leading to optimised fleet utilisation.
www.touchstar.co.uk
www.certasenergy.co.uk