Yusen Logistics Container Unloader Case Study

Yusen Logistics is a global supply chain logistics partner. Yusen operates 631 distribution centers that are located in 47 countries and have more than 25,000 employees.

An important part of their warehouse operations is unloading containers. This process is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Employees that manually lift items from a container, are also at risk for accidents and injuries. Steven 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.”

This desire for flexibility, safety, and productivity led Yusen Logistics to partner with TAWI. During the past two years, TAWI has collaborated with Yusen to install five vacuum lifters that are designed for Yusen’s specific lifting needs. With Yusen’s interest to improve their container unloading process, they have started using TAWI’s Container Unloader. This future-proof solution is completely mobile as well as adaptable to suit specific operational requirements.

The Container Unloader has three parts: vacuum lifter, adjustable platform, and conveyer. The attached vacuum lifter supports high-speed box lifting up to 50 kg (110 lbs.), and the patented lift tube is designed for tight spaces. The operator stands on an adjustable platform that can be raised and lower from the easy-to-use control panel. The Container Unloader allows easy unloading to a pallet or conveyer because the operator no longer has to support the weight of the load. They also have the ability to adjust the height of the conveyer, so it’s at the optimal height for unloading. When finished unloading, the Container Unloader is easy to maneuver and steer 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 $72,800 per year

By using TAWI’s Container Unloader in their process, Yusen Logistics has created a more efficient workflow and a safer workplace. Steven 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 $20/hr wage) to unload a container, which took 20 man hours and cost $400. With the Container Unloader, the operators needed were reduced to 3 and it took only 13 man hours, costing $260. This means that the Container Unloader leads to saving them $140 per container.

Looking at the entire year, unloading 520 containers a year means Yusen Logistics will save $72,800 per year. Diversity and inclusion was also increased with any operator now able to take on this task. The change to the unloading process means trained fork lift drivers can now operate in the areas of the business most needed.

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.