Hirschmann Automotive, a tier one supplier of wiring and cable technology, has adopted the AX4 platform from logistics IT provider Axit to manage procurement operations at its main production site in Rankwell, Austria.
Axit specialises in cloud-based IT systems for the management of cross-company logistics processes.
Up until now, Hirschmann has been sharing supply chain information with its 200 suppliers and two carriers using telephone and email. They have now all been included on the new automated procurement management system.
“Today, we can plan inbound shipment volumes and arrival times with precision, since all the transport-related information and documentation is just a mouse-click away and supplier communications are managed through a centralised IT platform,” said Peter Spalt, director of logistics at Hirschmann Automotive.
The AX4 platform makes it possible to determine when a carrier should pick up a consignment from a supplier. Suppliers can also use AX4 to print out standardised goods receipt labels based on Hirschmann’s custom specifications, accelerating processing times when the goods arrive at the Hirschmann plant.
Hirschmann Automotive said it planned to extend use of the AX4 tool to its sites in the Czech Republic, Romania, Morocco, China and Mexico over the medium term and integrate parcel service providers as well.
