subject: Forklift Scale Weighs Airfreight Twice as Fast With High Accuracy [print this page] Forklift Scale Weighs Airfreight Twice as Fast With High Accuracy
Global logistics provider UTi Worldwide UK Ltd. knows that checkweighing
airfreight makes its operation more efficient. At the Heathrow Airport (London, UK)
depot, the company checks customers' declared cargo weights to ensure accurate billing. Previously, this was accomplished using a single floor scale, which verified the weights of all incoming pallets. With the help from a forklift scale from Avery Weigh-Tronix, UTi can now weigh cargo twice as fast.
Avery Weigh-Tronix forklift scales are constructed using the company's Weigh Bar weight sensors, which boast a rugged design that enables the scales to withstand rigorous warehouse environments. Easily installing onto most ITA Class 2 or 3 cleat-type industry-standard forklift trucks, with no welding required, this forklift scale additionally offers out-of-level compensation for sustained accuracy even under changing surface levels. The scale assembly was fitted to UTi's forklift to create a mobile weighing systemsaving the time and effort of making repeated trips to a floor scale. Drivers can lift, weigh and move the larger pallets in one operation and do not have to leave the cab to record the weight.
Darren Hills, Warehouse Manager at UTi, said, "The scale has expedited our handling process. Fifty percent of the cargo we receive can be checked in more quickly using this method. Weighing is part of the unloading process, so our drivers do not need to wait for access to the same floor scale."
Previously, operators were required to modify the floor scale when weighing any pallet over six square feet. This delayed the check-in process, as 10% of the cargo that UTi receives is over-sized. However, with the forklift scale, forklift operators can pick up and weigh all non-uniform loads instantly.
The scale system additionally highlights weight discrepancies during handling. UTi discovered over 4000 kg of under-declared weights in the first month of using the scale. Due in large part to the scale's high accuracy and repeatability, UTi identified that pallet returns have reduced.
As the weight of the airplane plays an important role in its performance, as well as how much fuel it uses, airlines must be certain that each plane contains only the amount of cargo that it is meant to carry. Therefore, UTi weighs all cargo twice to assure highest safety. If there are any weight discrepancies, the pallet must be returned and redocumented. This creates delays for the airline and additional labor for UTi. As the scale is mounted on the forklift truck, each load can be weighed again as part of the standard transfer process.
UTi also replaced its floor scale with an Avery Weigh-Tronix H520 platform and E1205 indicator, which is used to weigh smaller cargo onlystreamlining materials handling.
