All Those Hours Playing Computer Games Might Finally Pay Off

Computer-based simulation games such as The Sims, Roller Coaster Tycoon and Evil Genius consumed hours of many people’s adolescent years. But thanks to new engineering design technology, those don’t have to be wasted time with no real value. A new three-dimensional industrial design program unveiled recently by Intergraph — a Huntsville, Alabama, based creator of engineering … Read more

Disaster Recovery Planning for the Materials Handling Industry

Disasters can be natural or man-made.  They can strike without notice, like a fire or hurricane, or can be seen coming from a long way off, such as a work stoppage.  But all disasters have one thing in common: They can cause a suspension in your normal business operations. Effective disaster planning can shorten the amount of … Read more

Report Reveals Fastest-Growing Logistics Jobs

A new report released by industrial recruiting analyst Hays Quarterly Hotspots indicates that the positions most logistics employers are trying to fill right now are reach stack drivers, warehouse workers, and forklift drivers. Jobs in these and other positions are becoming more available as workers become increasingly willing to change employers, possibly due to improvements … Read more

Army Riggers Specialize in Delivering Supplies from the Sky

In business, getting supplies to your warehouses and manufacturing facilities efficiently is important. But in the military, it can mean the difference between life and death. The US Army’s 861th Quartermaster Company Detachment — nicknamed the “Army Riggers” — specializes in getting much-needed supplies to troops in forward positions using air drops. It’s the most … Read more

How Do Chain Distributors Keep Track of Thousands of Products?

Did you ever walk into a chain pharmacy or discount store wonder how in the world they can keep track of the tens of thousands of separate products they offer for sale? Typically, central distribution centers will warehouse nearly all of their products — such as toilet paper, gum and both prescription and over-the-counter medications — and … Read more

New Software Designed to Integrate, Simplify Warehouse Operations

A new web-based software program introduced by Wynright Corporation, of Elk Grove Village, Illinois, allows warehouse operators to integrate their warehouse control systems that control real-time activities in their facility with their warehouse management systems, which control overall operations. The software, called Wynsoft, allows for greater efficiency, improved accuracy and lower costs as materials move through … Read more

Fuel Cells, Hydrogen Energy to Take Center Stage in October

Issues related to fuel cells and hydrogen energy will be the focus of two events to be held during October. On Oct. 9 and 10, the California Hydrogen Business Council will hold its second annual fuel cell summit at the Sacramento headquarters of the state’s Environmental Protection Agency. Later in the month, the South Carolina … Read more

Warehouse Safety Improved with Installation of Safety Netting

The safety manager of a major cosmetics manufacturer recently improved the safety of the company’s warehouse by installing pallet rack safety netting and a pallet stop system, according to a news report. The undisclosed company’s manager chose a system that protected both products and employees by limiting the space pallets of products could be moved. … Read more

Toyota Named Green Supply Chain Partner By Trade Publication

Toyota Materials Handling USA Inc. has been named to Inbound Logistics’ list of Green Supply Chain Partners for 2013, according to a company news release. It was the fifth consecutive year that the manufacturer of materials handling equipment has been named to the list. The company – based in Irvine, California — was recognized for its … Read more

Walmart Hosts US Manufacturing Summit

Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, hosted a conference for more than 1,500 manufacturing and government officials last Thursday at its US Manufacturing Summit. The event, which was held at the Orlando Convention Center, was co-sponsored by the  National Retail Federation. Scheduled participants included Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker, Walmart CEO Mike Duke, GE chairman Jeff Immelt and the governors of eight states. Walmart’s … Read more