Holste Says: A properly executed training program will focus on training the trainers. What Do You Say? Click Here to Send Us Your Comments Click Here to See Reader Feedback

For many shippers the last 100 days of the year is a dash to the finish-line. It’s when they either win or lose relative to their P&L statement. It’s during peak shipping season when the pressure is on to perform at the highest level of efficiency and professionalism. And, the time when training really pays off.

To further complicate matters, during the peak volume season many shippers require a large pool of temporary labor to supplement and work alongside the regular team. The temps need to be quickly trained in the basic receiving, picking, and shipping operations in order to accommodate this surge in volume without having a surge in errors.

What Level of Training Should Be Provided?

A properly executed training program will focus on training the trainers. This is necessary because new hires will have to be trained by experienced DC personnel.

The training program should be tailored to your specific needs and customized to the exact equipment, controls, and software systems, and at a minimum include the following (3) stages:

First Stage – Maintenance Hands-On Training:

Second Stage – Formalized Training:

Third Stage – System Audit and Refresher:

Most System Providers offer a library of videos (via the Internet) that provide step-by-step troubleshooting and routine maintenance instructions. Maintenance personal, equipped with laptops, can access the videos while onsite at the location of the trouble. Also, inquire about live video conferences which can be a valuable timesaver in solving system issues during the peak season.

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, most shippers invest very little time and effort in formal operator training. It’s a kind of learn-as-you-go method. The problem is that without proper and continuous training, bad habits develop that can rob a system of its full potential. Once incorrect methods are adopted, they become SOP and very hard to correct. That’s why professional sports teams begin each new season teaching the fundamentals. This lesson can be applied to the operation of a material handling system in the distribution center. It’s about the organization and implementation of the complex factors affecting the realization of productivity, efficiency, order accuracy, throughput goals, and workplace safety. To produce a consistent winner - proper operator training needs to be taken seriously and on a regular schedule.