The Solution
Using Optrak to review fixed routes
3663 First for Foodservice needed a strategic modelling
solution to review existing routes and re-plan depots with the aim of
improving customer service by routing vehicles more efficiently,
ensuring better usage of vehicles and allowing capacity for future
growth.The responsibility for depot reviews falls under Graham Rennie's
team of two Route Planning Managers (RPM) who visit each depot in turn
reviewing, and then implementing, changes. Using the Optrak computerised
vehicle routing solution is an essential part of this process.
12 weeks' worth of order and customer history data is imported
into Optrak and 3663 First for Foodservice's existing distribution plan
is recreated down to the vehicles used and the delivery time windows.
Optrak consultants worked closely with 3663 First for Foodservice to
gain a complete understanding of their business requirements. A number
of procedures were created to help the RPMs build new fixed
routes. These can be easily measured against existing routes. All new
routes are then tested and validated against the historical data to
ensure the routes are feasible and effective.
There was a learning curve from the first depot review that
Optrak consultants and 3663 First for Foodservice worked on
together. Alexa Allison, Route Planning Manager for the North commented,
'Optrak consultants have been excellent to work with, very
knowledgeable and responsive. They often suggest improvements which
either save time or produce better results.'
Throughout the route reviews, Optrak automatically rechecks all
constraints to make sure that delivery windows, vehicle weight/volume
limits and customer access restrictions are all obeyed. Optrak copes
with an unlimited number of time windows and this flexibility is
critical to 3663 First for Foodservice satisfying customer needs.
Implementing the changes
Optrak has helped 3663 First for Foodservice find the most
efficient way of complying with the WTD whilst minimising the impact on
drivers' shift patterns. Graham Rennie's team manages the introduction
of the new routes so as to minimise disruption.
Alexa Allison, explains, 'Optrak allows us to review our fixed
routes in an accurate and timely fashion. When we are discussing the
changes with local transport managers and drivers, it helps to show
their current routes displayed against Optrak's detailed roadmap. This
immediately highlights where routes are crossing over and areas of
inefficiency. We can then show how the new routes are better which helps
secure their buy-in. Feedback from the drivers is incorporated before
we finalise routes.'