May 2020

EPG | CnB Aims to Help Navigate the Contract and Billing Jungle

Posted on 28 May, 2020 by David Priestman

EPG | CnB (Contract and Billing) is the comprehensive solution for digital contract and billing management for all logistics services. From contract creation through comprehensive records of performance to contract assignment and automatic invoicing, this tool provides powerful modules for all work and process steps. The main advantages: EPG | CnB ensures that all services under the agreed contracts are billed quickly and in full at the correct price. EPG | CnB also documents and reliably bills for any services provided beyond the original contract. Invoice verification by the customer is then carried out in a time-efficient manner in the customer web portal. Expensive adjustments of invoices and cancellations are therefore a thing of the past. With the verification process significantly shortened, invoices are paid faster.

Logistics service providers – whether in warehouse logistics, transport management, air freight or rail transport – provide a variety of services to their customers on a daily basis. This cooperation is based on contracts containing the services specifically agreed, including billing conditions – across a thick jungle of information and individual agreements. Errors can creep in quickly. Often, however, services that go beyond the contractual agreements are not documented at all – and, as a result, not billed after the fact. This results in complex invoice corrections and not infrequently in high monetary losses on the part of the logistics service providers.

Smart contract management: digital contracting
EPG | CnB digitizes and organizes management of contracts, including the agreed conditions and catalogues of services. This also includes creating specific customer and supplier contracts to the required degree of detail. EPG | CnB has an integrated contract template manager. Users can easily create their own custom templates for contract creation. Additional activities can also be documented quickly and securely and saved as an annex to the main contract The software automatically inserts the information in the correct place in the document based on the customer agreements. EPG | CnB also supports version management including tracking changes and it provides an internal approval process. The contract is then sent in advance to a defined group of recipients for verification via e-mail link before it is sent on to the customer. This minimizes the risk of errors from the outset.

Cross-supply chain record of performance and automated invoicing
EPG | CnB records all services performed along the supply chain for all areas. CnB records warehouse activities, such as goods incoming, stock transfers and picking, as well as services related to road, rail, sea and air, such as container unloading or toll charges. These are transmitted to the software or, alternatively, simply recorded directly on site using the mobile app. EPG | CnB then takes over the fully automated recognition and assignment of the service to the correct contractual conditions. This is based on a commercial rulebook, including price index clauses for automatic price adjustments and foreign currency management. The invoice is then generated digitally and automatically. The EPG | CnB system also supports automated billing runs. Generated invoice documents can be printed and automatically sent to the customer by email. The customer can then easily verify the invoice on the web portal, significantly reducing the number of customer complaints and queries and providing greater transparency throughout the process. Using EPG | CnB, customers reduce the complexity of their ERP system, as complex and expensive changes to processes are no longer necessary.

EPG | CnB Aims to Help Navigate the Contract and Billing Jungle

Posted on 28 May, 2020 by Keith McKinley

Konecranes and Fluidmesh Join Forces with 100% Wireless ARTG Crane System

Posted on 28 May, 2020 by Keith McKinley

Konecranes and Fluidmesh Networks announce that they have joined forces and successfully carried out proof-of-concept testing of fully wireless communication for the Konecranes Automated RTG system. This breakthrough allows container terminal operators to roll out remote control and automation to RTGs in the container yard without running fibre or cable spools, with substantial savings in cost and time.

Port and container terminal operators have been embracing automation to increase productivity and give better working conditions to their employees. Many of the newest and largest container terminals have been adopting some level of automation and support for remote operations: from ship-to-shore cranes, to horizontal transport, to automated stacking cranes. However, this has not been the case for RTGs, which are widely used in container terminals around the world. Much of the world’s RTG fleet is diesel-powered, and there have been limited options for automating RTGs given the fact that running cables to them is costly and often unpractical. Konecranes and Fluidmesh have been working closely to solve the connectivity challenge, creating a new opportunity for container terminal operators.

The automation solution for RTGs comes as part of the Konecranes ARTG 2.0 system update, which was in development for over two years with thousands of hours of field testing. Fluidmesh MPLS-based wireless technology has been used to guarantee low latency and high throughput to the RTGs for control and live-video data. The system has been designed to operate on licensed as well as unlicensed frequencies around the world, providing north of 99.95% uptime in real working conditions.

“We are thrilled to have been given the opportunity to work with a leader like Konecranes and contribute to a system that helps container terminal operators around the world to embrace automation and drive the productivity of their RTGs,” comments Cosimo Malesci, Fluidmesh Co-Founder and EVP Sales and Marketing. “Our wireless MPLS-based technology has been proven in many vehicle automation systems around the world where 802.11 WiFi or LTE haven’t been able to deliver. Our focus on seamless roaming, extremely low latency and high throughput wireless networks to drive productivity, safety, and security continues to pay off. We are truly honored to have been able to deliver such performance to the container terminal space.”

This cooperation with Fluidmesh is part of Konecranes’ path to port automation, where container terminals improve productivity and safety in manageable steps. From smart features up to full automation, the path can include supervised operation and remote operation to smoothly introduce the power of automation. The path to port automation applies to all container handling equipment brands. Full automation can be the final goal but it doesn’t have to be. Flexibility is the key, says the company.

Konecranes and Fluidmesh Join Forces with 100% Wireless ARTG Crane System

Posted on 28 May, 2020 by David Priestman

RFID Case Study: Can a Supply Chain be Digitised?

Posted on 27 May, 202029 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Can a supply chain be digitised? Experts from German RFID specialist Kathrein Solutions say yes:

The global market is setting new standards for a more intelligent supply chain. A Stuttgart-based automotive manufacturer wanted to lead the way regarding digitisation and introduced RFID[1] as the basic infrastructure technology in its manufacturing plant. The aim was to define the factory of the future and to implement its products in the digitised factory. In order to realise this vision, it was also important to integrate the suppliers from the very beginning. The use of RFID technology in the competition for future orders was a decisive criterion for automotive suppliers. Reliability was to be created through a more intelligent supply chain with new tools and valid real-time insights. The supply chain consequently improves the way of collaborating and achieves an unprecedented level of transparency.

Initial situation: Supply chain management before

Logistical challenges were normally solved using barcode-based systems. However, the aim was to make companies in the automotive field also replace the old barcode structure with specially modified RFID tags. These radio-readable information carriers were used to automate localisation and identification along the entire supply and marketing chain. The Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) described and defined this years ago by “RFID for Tracking Parts and Components in the Automotive Industry.” Up to 65 percent of the value of goods or services in a company comes from working with suppliers. This is what the “Cross-Industry Report of Standard Benchmarks” by CAPS Research states. Functioning, intelligent supply chains are, therefore, a decisive factor for a successful digital transformation of a company. What matters is speed, a complete overview of complex processes, and, of course, a maximum focus on the customer.

Solution: RFID hardware components

The car manufacturer relies on the use of certified RFID hardware components from Kathrein Solutions, as well as on a well-established software solution for a simple and reliable supplier connection. All relevant positions in the supply chain of the “RFID end-to-end process” were equipped with certified RFID hardware. In some cases, the hardware was specially adapted. Simple assembly and effective maintenance of the components were required and were implemented accordingly. Process security, reliability, and cost-effectiveness were the focus throughout the entire conception. All acquisition components were linked to one another using standard software to enable a simple and stable data connection. The centrepiece of the concept is the “intelligent load carrier.” All these load carriers already carry an RFID tag and a unique identification number when sent. Both processes, sorting at the crossdock as well as the transport, are carried out with RFID support. Automatic identification in the supply chain takes place wherever it is technically feasible and process-relevant. This also applies to the section incoming and outgoing goods. Storage and retrieval, loading of the route cars, and supply at the assembly line are largely automated and documented. Even the empties at the assembly line are automatically recorded on the shelves using special KanBan antennas in order to enable automatic material retrieval.

Result: A Supply Chain can be digitised!

Here, IoT digitalisation has been implemented efficiently and practically into the supply chain. Standardised RFID technology was adapted to specific requirements in a cooperative partnership with Kathrein Solutions. For example, the automated KanBan shelf was implemented successfully and cost-effectively into the system landscape. Here, an automotive manufacturer has created the perfect base for digitised manufacturing in the future and has once again proven that innovation means progress. The aforementioned aim of defining an automotive manufacturing plant of the future was achieved. Unobstructed, predictable cycles and the reduction of waiting times have been successfully and significantly improved throughout the logistics process.

[1] Radio-frequency identification

Industry View: Retailers Propel Use of Robotics to Survive Post-Corona

Posted on 27 May, 202025 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Automated warehouse experts Element Logic reports increased demand for robotic warehouse solutions after the outbreak of the pandemic. While many are in crisis, time is being used to strategically plan for the future. And the future is robotic.

“Covid-19 is an eye-opener for so many businesses who simply weren’t prepared for large scale disruptions like a pandemic,” says UK Managing Director Jeremy Clouston-Jones.

While many retailers are in crisis as physical shops close or face massively reduced visits, managers take the time to see what they could have done differently – and what their next moves should be.

Element Logic is experiencing an influx of requests from companies who are now considering robotic solutions or scaling their current automatic warehouses.

“The situation has caused many more to realize that planning for uncertainty is necessary. With robotic warehouses, it is much easier to scale up or down and it makes your operations a lot more flexible,” Clouston-Jones said.

Physical sales have dropped after the outbreak of the pandemic, but online sales are growing, in the UK reported between 10-25%.

One Element Logic customer, sports equipment retailer XXL, is expanding its robotic system to handle 150,000 bins and consolidate shipping through one central hub.

“Robot picking is 3-5 times more efficient than manual solutions. Sales have dropped, but online sales are growing and in part makes up for the physical decline. For us, having a flexible and modern warehouse has been vital. We were less dependent on people when quarantines and social distancing rules were applied,” Geir Nielsen, Nordic Warehouse Manager at XXL said.

The robots make it easier for retailers like XXL to quickly ship the correct orders to empty shop isles and impatient online shoppers.

“It also helps us scale as we grow, without any downtime. We have expanded 7 or 8 times since we first installed the robots, but not one time did we have to shut down operations. Our warehouse is always running, close to 100% of the time,” said Nielsen.

Element Logic´s customers report differences from vastly increased sales due to their products being even more in demand during the pandemic, to a complete shift where different product areas are less coveted than under normal circumstances, or dramatically reduced sales and operations.

“What we can see is that the Covid-19 situation has expedited processes that otherwise would have taken much longer. Whatever the situation is, a lot of managers are now planning for the future in a way that they never had before. And there is no doubt that robotics is on the charts for all of them,” Element Logic MD Clouston-Jones said.

Industry View: Retailers Propel Use of Robotics to Survive Post-Corona

Posted on 27 May, 202024 July, 2025 by David Priestman

“Covid-19 is an eye-opener for so many businesses who simply weren’t prepared for large scale disruptions like a pandemic,” says UK Managing Director Jeremy Clouston-Jones.

Element Logic is experiencing an influx of requests from companies who are now considering robotic solutions or scaling their current automatic warehouses.

Physical sales have dropped after the outbreak of the pandemic, but online sales are growing, in the UK reported between 10-25%.

One Element Logic customer, sports equipment retailer XXL, is expanding its robotic system to handle 150,000 bins and consolidate shipping through one central hub.

The robots make it easier for retailers like XXL to quickly ship the correct orders to empty shop isles and impatient online shoppers.

New Linde Tow Tractors Suit Confined Spaces

Posted on 27 May, 202025 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Linde Material Handling says its three new tow tractor models make moving loads more comfortable, safer and more efficient, even in confined spaces. The P40 C, P40 C B and P60 C have a narrow chassis and offer outstanding manoeuvrability, versatile equipment features and a wide range of safety systems.

Tow tractors have become indispensable in many transport processes. These all-rounders are mostly used as towing vehicles for logistic trains, for example to supply production in industrial plants, deliver goods to shops in airport terminals, serve meals in hospitals – or as ‘shelves on wheels’ in warehouses and distribution centres.

Linde Material Handling is presenting three new tractor models, each of which offers a choice between lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries:

– The Linde P40 C with four tons load capacity, 800 Newton nominal tractive force and a maximum travel speed of 8/13 kilometers per hour (with/without load).
– The Linde P40 C B with four tons load capacity, 800 Newton nominal tractive force and maximum travel speed of 8/10 kilometers per hour (with/without load).
– The Linde P60 C with six tons load capacity, 1200 Newton nominal tractive force and a maximum travel speed of 8/13 kilometers per hour (with/without load).

All models have a width of only 800 millimetres and can be easily manoeuvred even in narrow aisles. From the operator’s platform, the driver has an unobstructed view of the working environment, trailer, coupling and load – ensuring maximum visibility and safety.

The tow tractors are designed so that the driver’s torso and limbs remain within the protective vehicle contours at all times. In the event of a collision, robust bumpers absorb the force effectively.

The vehicles are equipped with numerous safety systems as standard. An example is the Linde Curve Control which reduces speed when cornering, depending on the steering wheel angle. The optional Linde Blue Spot projects a blue point of light onto the ground in front of the tractor, thus warning pedestrians of the approaching vehicle. Glare-free LED headlights give the driver an excellent view of the road ahead, even in poorly lit aisles.

The vehicles are brought to a standstill by three independently operating brake systems. The electromagnetic servo brake (Linde Brake Control) is connected to the emergency stop switch and automatically acts as the so-called dead man’s function when the driving switch is released. The vehicle stops also automatically when the driver steps off the platform. The hydraulically assisted braking system in turn reacts proportionally to the load weight: the heavier the load, the more braking force.

Other advantages of Linde tow tractors include the optimised platform suspension which reduces human vibrations up to 30 percent compared to previous models. For best possible shock absorption, it can also be adjusted depending on the weight of the operator. The wide, low entry, the height-adjustable steering wheel and an adjustable backrest with folding seat offer the operator a high level of comfort. Double castor wheels ensure optimum stability and traction in all driving situations. Four types of wheels offering different material and grip properties are available, depending on the ambient conditions as well as the conditions of the ground to be driven on. If the tow tractor is part of a logistic train (“Linde Load Train”), there is an optional remote control available for the trailers.

The optional, modular Linde Connect fleet management is used for access control, vehicle and driver administration, maintenance planning, shock sensors and usage analysis as well as zone-dependent speed adjustment.

New Linde Tow Tractors Suit Confined Spaces

Posted on 27 May, 202024 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Linde Material Handling is presenting three new tractor models, each of which offers a choice between lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries:

Port of Tilbury Opens New Driver-Free Freight Ferry Terminal

Posted on 27 May, 2020 by David Priestman

Tilbury2’s new unaccompanied* freight ferry terminal opened for business this week at a vital time for the UK’s freight industry. The 500,000-unit freight-only facility will inject state-of-the-art capacity into the country’s ports sector by utilising a truck driver-free operation* at a time when infection control is uppermost in everyone’s minds.

[*Unaccompanied freight transported into the UK without truck drivers]

After a year of construction, the country’s newest and largest unaccompanied freight roll on/roll off (ro-ro) terminal, located at the edge of London, will operate in exclusive partnership with P&O Ferries. The first ship to use the fully operational terminal was P&O’s chartered freight ferry the Norstream.

The bespoke terminal will import and export containers and trailers with vital supplies for the UK, including food, drink and medicines to and from continental Europe on P&O’s busy Tilbury-Zeebrugge freight route.

The new ro-ro terminal is part of a £250 million investment by owner, Forth Ports, which is creating a brand-new port, Tilbury2. The terminal is trusted trader Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) accredited and embraces the latest booking and border technology, such as number plate recognition, which ensures that the terminal is Brexit-ready to continue the smooth passage of goods, regardless of the eventual EU-UK settlement. The marine works for the new ro-ro terminal were completed in April and successful ship trials were carried out on 17 May.

Paul Dale, Asset & Site Director at the Port of Tilbury, said: “The switch to a river berth provides significant growth opportunities. P&O can bring in larger vessels, deliver faster vessel turnaround times and – most importantly – get containers and trailers onto an inland barge or the motorway network in under an hour. While this enhanced offering will support further growth through the Zeebrugge route and the possibility to expand into other northern European locations, it also provides a critical low carbon delivery alternative through our new rail connection.”

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