Yusen Logistics Container Unloader Case Study

Yusen operates 631 distribution centres located in 47 countries with more than 25,000 employees.

Their warehouse functions crucially involve the unloading of containers. This process requires manual labor and consumes a lot of time. Employees who manually lift items from a container are at risk of accidents and injuries. Stephen Cletheroe, Site Manager at Yusen’s Wellingborough site, said, “We wanted something more flexible and an efficient solution, as well as looking after the well-being of our staff.”

The desire for flexibility, safety, and productivity led Yusen Logistics to partner with TAWI. In the last two years, TAWI and Yusen worked together to set up five vacuum lifters for Yusen’s lifting requirements. With Yusen’s wanting to improve their container unloading process, they have start using TAWI’s Container Unloader. This future-proof solution is completely mobile and adaptable to suit specific requirements.

The Container Unloader consists of three parts: a vacuum lifter, an adjustable platform, and a conveyor. This vacuum lifter can quickly lift boxes weighing up to 50 kg, and the lift tube is designed for small spaces. The operator stands on an adjustable platform that can be raised and lowered from the easy-to-use control panel.

The Container Unloader allows easy unloading to a pallet or conveyor because the operator no longer has to support the weight of the load. They can also adjust the conveyor’s height to the optimal level for unloading. When finished unloading, the Container Unloader can be easily maneuvered and steered from either the control panel or mobile controller.

Unloading on the average of 2 containers per day with the Container Unloader will save Yusen Logistics £57,293 per year

By using TAWI’s Container Unloader in their process, Yusen Logistics has created a more efficient workflow and a safer workplace. Stephen Cletheroe, Site Manager at Yusen’s Wellingborough site, said “The Container Unloader will be a big benefit to help us reach our targets in the future.”

Previously it took 5 operators (at £15.74/hr wage) to unload a container, which took 20 man hours and cost $400. The Container Unloader reduced the number of operators to 3 and took 13 man hours, costing £204. This means that the Container Unloader leads to saving them £110 per container.

Looking at the entire year, unloading 520 containers a year means Yusen Logistics will save £57,293 per year.

Diversity and inclusion was also increased with any operator now able to take on this task. Trained forklift drivers can now work in the most important areas of the business due to changes in the unloading process.

Yusen looked at the unit as a multi-purpose asset, opting to purchase the equipment instead of filtering it through the end customers closed book contract. This means Yusen has the ability to move the unit from site to site with ease with its plug and play functionality. Also, TAWI is now supporting another container unloading opportunity within Yusen which requires more control on the unloading platform. This is something we are very excited to work on.