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In Europe all Caterpillar Parts are delivered from the warehouse in Grimbergen, Belgium.
As we all know time is money, thus it is essential that parts are delivered to the right customer as soon as needed. For the staff at Caterpillar's parts distribution center in Grimbergen, Belgium, thinking "right now" is the only way to think.
"When a customer needs a part, they need it fast, so we move fast. It's our whole reason for being here," explains Sharon Craig, parts order fulfillment division manager at Grimbergen, a part of Caterpillar Logistics Services.
Thanks to this mindset and state-of-the-art technology, the Grimbergen facility has an excellent reputation for making that happen. When a Cat machine operator needs a part, the first call is more than likely to the local dealer. If the dealer does not have the part, then the part number is entered into the Caterpillar information system and transmitted via satellite to Grimbergen within seconds. With staff present 24/7, the order is processed immediately and a staff member rushes to pick the right part. The goal is to process, pick, pack and ship emergency orders within three hours. Parts not in stock are more than likely available in Morton, Ill., home of Caterpillar's largest distribution center. Morton can ship to Grimbergen via airfreight and from there it goes to the customer - a process that usually can be completed within 48 hours.
Grimbergen's ability to provide the right part, right now is an essential part of the value proposition of the Cat brand. "Cat machines and equipment are built to offer our customers the kind of productivity that shortens projects and boosts profitability," explains Craig. "Fast replacement of a part is vital." |