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Jofson is one of the largest independent suppliers of forklift trucks and materials handling equipment in Birmingham and Manchester. We have been around since 1977 and offer new and used forklifts to companies so that they can hire and buy.

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Client: A new customer in Greater Manchester receiving a Tailored Mitsubishi MHE Fleet

Industry: 24/7 Warehouse & Distribution Operations

Challenge:

Operating a high-demand warehouse and distribution centre 24/7 requires meticulous planning and a robust Material Handling Equipment (MHE) solution. The customer needed a reliable and efficient fleet supporting continuous operations with multiple operators using the same equipment.

Key challenges included:

  • Reducing downtime due to battery charging and maintenance.
  • Ensuring efficient power management without disrupting workflows.
  • Improving driver traceability while minimising administrative overhead.
  • Integrating the new MHE with existing workforce management systems.

Solution:

Jofson collaborated closely with the customer to provide a tailored fleet of ride-on Pedestrian machines featuring advanced Lithium battery technology. Unlike traditional lead-acid batteries, Lithium batteries offer faster charging times, increased efficiency, and a longer lifespan. The first batch of machines, equipped with these cutting-edge Lithium batteries, was designed to maximise uptime and allow operators to charge opportunistically without harming the battery. This eliminated the need for cumbersome top-up charging schedules and helped ensure continuous workflow with minimal disruptions.

Expansion & Additional Features:

Following the successful deployment of the first fleet batch, Jofson is now preparing to deliver the next wave of tailored Mitsubishi MHE equipment, which includes:

  • Wire-Guided Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Trucks: These are designed for high-density storage environments, optimising space utilisation while maintaining operational efficiency.
  • Order Pickers: To streamline picking processes, improve accuracy, and enhance productivity within the warehouse.
  • Integrated Telematics System: Each machine will feature a state-of-the-art system that records driver log-ins, monitors truck usage data, and provides real-time insights into equipment performance.

Seamless Workforce Integration:

A critical component of this implementation was the seamless integration of MHE access control with existing workforce management systems. In collaboration with FTC, Jofson ensured that the customer’s MHE drivers could use their existing clocking-in cards as log-in credentials for the machinery. This approach offers multiple benefits:

  • Streamlined Access Control: Eliminates the need for separate driver log-in fobs, reducing complexity and cost.
  • Enhanced Traceability: Ensures a clear audit trail from warehouse entry to truck operation.
  • Improved Security & Accountability: Only authorised personnel can operate the equipment, reducing the risk of unauthorised use or potential safety incidents.

Results:

The introduction of Lithium-powered MHE and advanced telematics has already delivered measurable benefits, including:

  • Increased Uptime: The ability to charge machines opportunistically without performance degradation has significantly reduced operational downtime.
  • Optimised Productivity: Operators can seamlessly transition between tasks without waiting for equipment to charge, improving workflow efficiency.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: The telematics system provides valuable insights into truck usage patterns, allowing management to optimise fleet allocation and maintenance schedules.
  • Simplified Operations: By integrating workforce management with MHE log-ins, administrative overhead has been reduced, making the system easier to manage.

Working with Jofson

Jofson remains committed to delivering cutting-edge MHE solutions tailored to warehouse and distribution businesses’ unique needs. By leveraging innovative Lithium battery technology, telematics integration, and seamless access control, we have helped this customer optimise their 24/7 operations, enhance efficiency, and improve overall workforce management.

For businesses seeking to streamline warehouse operations and reduce downtime, Jofson offers reliable, high-performance MHE solutions designed to meet the industry’s evolving demands. Contact us today to learn how we can enhance your operational efficiency and productivity.