Enhancing Production Efficiency Through Component Kitting
In manufacturing, kitting is the process of preparing components and parts in advance, ensuring they are ready for use on the production line. By having kits prepared, machine downtime is minimised, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.
The In-House Kitting and Procurement Process
The traditional in-house approach to component kitting follows these steps:
- The purchasing team identifies and orders the necessary components.
- Once received, components are booked in and stored in the warehouse.
- A pick list is created and time is allocated for assembling the kit.
- A production operative collects the required components from the warehouse, verifying lot control and quantities before placing them on a kitting trolley.
- The completed kit is prepared for the production line.
Challenges of In-House Kitting
Managing component kitting internally requires significant resources and generates considerable administrative overhead. Key challenges include:
• Warehouse Space Constraints: Maintaining organised stock requires substantial storage capacity.
• Inventory Management Burden: Stock must be continually managed, counted, and restocked.
• Operational Inefficiencies: Late supplier deliveries, component shortages, and incorrect parts can lead to production delays and increased costs.
• Non-Value-Added Activities: The manual handling of components adds inefficiencies that take time away from production.
Outsourced Kitting: A Smarter Approach
Outsourcing component kitting presents a cost-effective and streamlined alternative. By leveraging an external kitting service, manufacturers can reduce overhead costs, free up warehouse space, and improve overall production efficiency without any disruption.
The Outsourced Kitting Process
The outsourced kitting workflow simplifies operations significantly:
- Order Placement: A sales order is created.
- Production Demand Triggered: The order generates a corresponding works order.
- Procurement Request: The purchasing team uploads or emails the Bill of Materials (BOM) to the kitting provider, Colmworth Electronics.
- Quotation and Purchase Order: A quotation is received, and the purchase order is raised for the kit.
- Single Delivery, Ready for Production: A single box containing all necessary components is received, removing the risk of shortages and incorrect parts.
- Production Line Optimisation: The production-ready kit is delivered, enabling immediate use.
The Benefits of Outsourcing Component Kitting
By outsourcing kitting, manufacturers can achieve:
- Reduced Costs: Eliminate internal storage, handling, and administrative expenses.
- Improved Efficiency: Ensure production lines receive all required components in one streamlined delivery.
- Minimised Errors: Prevent shortages and incorrect part deliveries.
- Enhanced Focus: Allow internal teams to concentrate on core manufacturing activities.
If you are looking to optimise your production process, consider outsourcing your kitting needs. Contact us today or upload your Bill of Materials to our website, and we will get in touch with you.
