Chapter I
Chapter I
INTRODUCTION
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WAREHOUSE AND LOGISTICS
The Warehouse and Logistics industry in India is a dynamic and rapidly growing sector that is
expected to play an increasingly important role in the country's economy. Despite some
challenges, the sector is well-positioned for long-term growth and presents exciting
opportunities for investors and businesses. With the government's focus on improving
infrastructure and the rise of e-commerce, the sector is expected to be a key driver of economic
growth in the country. Moreover, with the increasing adoption of technology and the
government's push for a digital economy, there is also significant potential for logistics players
to leverage data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to improve operational
efficiency and enhance customer experience. The warehousing, industrial, and logistics (WIL)
sectors are projected to be crucial for attaining India's vision of being a US$ 5 trillion economy
by FY25. The warehouse and logistics industry has benefited the most from the COVID-19
epidemic, increasing its share from 2% in 2020 to 20% in 2021. Because of the growing shift
from discretionary to essential internet buying during the COVID-19 epidemic, the e-
commerce industry became more appealing and attractive.
A Warehouse Management System (WMS) consists of software and processes that allow
organizations to control and administer warehouse operations from the time goods or materials
enter a warehouse until they move out. Warehouses sit at the center of manufacturing and
supply chain operations because they hold all the material used or produced in those processes,
from raw materials to finished goods. Warehouse managers are the primary users of a WMS,
but it can be integrated with enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship
management (CRM), transportation management systems (TMS) and inventory management.
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FUNCTIONS OF WAREHOUSE
Warehouses preserve goods on a large-scale in a systematic and orderly manner. They provide
protection to goods against heat, wind, storm, moisture, etc. and also cut down losses due to
spoilage, wastage etc. This is the basic function of every warehouse. In addition to this,
warehouses now a days also perform a variety of other functions. In this section let us learn
about the various functions of warehouses. Warehouses perform the following functions,
1. Receiving:
• Incoming raw materials, parts, and supplies are received, inspected for quality
and damage, and documented.
• This ensures that only usable materials enter the production process and that
accurate inventory records are maintained.
2. Storage:
• Received materials are stored in a safe, organized, and secure manner until
needed for production.
• Warehouses may use different storage methods depending on the product
characteristics, such as using shelving for small parts, pallet racking for bulkier
items, or cold storage for perishable goods.
3. Inventory Management:
• Inventory levels are tracked and maintained to ensure sufficient stock for
production while avoiding overstocking.
• Effective inventory management minimizes the risk of stockouts that can
disrupt production and lead to lost sales.
4. Order Fulfillment:
• In some manufacturing companies, the warehouse is also responsible for
picking, packing, and shipping finished products to customers based on sales
orders.
• This may involve close coordination with production planning to ensure
finished goods are available for fulfillment.
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Fig 1.1 FISHBONE DIAGRAM
The tools used for the project is Root Cause Analysis. Finding the root of a problem is referred
to as root cause analysis. It serves as an umbrella term for a variety of methods used to address
the issue. It aims to locate the root of a problem utilising a particular set of processes and related
tools to discover the main cause of the issue so that you can:
3) Determine what needs to be done to make it less likely that it will occur again.
Root cause analysis makes the assumption that events and systems are interconnected. The
effects of one action ripple out to affect others, and so on. You can determine the source of the
issue and how it evolved into the symptom you're currently experiencing by tracking back these
actions. This strategy is used in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, software, industry,
and the environment.
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CHAPTER II
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PART A – INDUSTRY PROFILE
The Manufacturing Industry is a crucial pillar of the Indian economy, contributing significantly
to both GDP and Employment. Since the Service sector is currently larger, the manufacturing
holds a weight of around 16-17% of GDP (Mordor Intelligence). When it comes to
Employment, it’s a major job generator, employing nearly 20% of the workforce (Mordor
Intelligence).
Logistics is the backbone of any manufacturing operation. It's the intricate network of planning,
implementing, and managing the flow of goods and materials throughout the entire production
process. In simpler terms, it's all about getting the right things, to the right place, at the right
time, in manufacturing.
The Key Components in which the Logistics play a crucial role in manufacturing are:
1. Inbound Logistics:
This focuses on the movement of raw materials, components, and supplies from
suppliers to the manufacturing facility. Key activities include:
• Supplier management: Selecting, negotiating with, and maintaining
relationships with reliable suppliers.
• Procurement: Purchasing raw materials and components at the best price and
quality.
• Transportation: Organizing the efficient and timely transportation of materials
to the factory. This may involve using trucks, trains, ships, or airplanes
depending on the materials and distances involved.
• Customs clearance: If materials are sourced internationally, managing customs
clearance processes to ensure smooth import and delivery.
• Receiving and inspection: Verifying the quantity and quality of received
materials against purchase orders.
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• Warehouse layout and design: Optimizing the layout for efficient storage and
retrieval of materials, considering factors like product size, weight, and
frequency of access.
• Inventory management: Maintaining optimal inventory levels to avoid
stockouts or overstocking. This involves forecasting demand, planning stock
replenishment, and implementing inventory control systems.
• Material Handling: Using equipment like forklifts, conveyor belts, and
automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) to efficiently move materials
within the warehouse.
3. Outbound Logistics:
This focuses on the movement of finished goods from the manufacturing facility to
customers or distributors. Key activities include:
• Order Fulfillment: Picking, packing, and shipping finished goods based on
customer orders. This may involve integrating with warehouse management
systems (WMS) for efficient order processing.
• Transportation: Choosing the appropriate transportation mode (trucks, trains,
ships) to deliver products to customers based on factors like cost, speed, and
delivery requirements.
• Distribution Center Management: If the company utilizes distribution centers
strategically located closer to customers, managing these facilities for efficient
order fulfillment to regional markets.
4. Transportation Management:
This involves planning, optimizing, and executing the transportation of goods
throughout the supply chain. Key activities include:
• Route planning: Developing the most efficient routes for delivery trucks to
minimize travel time and fuel costs.
• Carrier selection: Negotiating with and selecting reliable transportation
carriers to move goods at competitive rates.
• Fleet management: If the company maintains its own fleet of vehicles,
managing their maintenance, fuel efficiency, and driver performance.
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LOGISTICS SCENARIO IN INDIA
The growths in the manufacturing industry and development of SEZs have been key factors in
the growth of Indian logistics industry. Recent studies have indicated that the logistics industry
is expected to grow annually at the rate of 15 to 20 per cent. A number of infrastructural projects
involving warehouse and logistics parks are being undertaken are expected to be operational in
the next 2-3 years.
The Indian manufacturing sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors like a
large domestic market, rising disposable incomes, and government initiatives like "Make in
India." However, the logistics landscape in India presents both opportunities and challenges
for manufacturing companies.
Opportunities:
• Growing demand: The increasing demand for manufactured goods creates a larger
market for efficient logistics services.
• Technological advancements: Adoption of technologies like warehouse
management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and real-
time tracking can significantly improve efficiency and visibility.
• Government initiatives: The Indian government is focusing on improving
infrastructure like roads, railways, and ports, which will benefit logistics operations.
• Skilled workforce: India has a large pool of skilled and relatively low-cost labor for
logistics operations.
Challenges:
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PART B – COMPANY PROFILE
VISION
MISSION
To provide world-class product support to its customers, to ensure higher machine uptime, and
for a superior machine-owning experience.
QUALITY POLICY
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Construction Equipment Limited's quality policy is to achieve and
maintain business excellence by providing customer-focused services:
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Larsen & Toubro is an Indian multinational engaged in EPC Projects, Hi-Tech Manufacturing
and Services. It operates in over 50 countries worldwide. A strong, customer-focused approach
and the constant quest for top-class quality have enabled L&T to attain and sustain leadership
in its major lines of business for over eight decades.
At L&T Construction & Mining Machinery, it marks the 75 years of our business, we look
back with pride at the challenges associated with creating the engineering marvels of India –
Bahai Temple, Bombay Stock Exchange, Motera Stadium, Medigadda Barrage, Statue of Unity
and many others. With a wide range of equipment, L&T Construction & Mining Machinery
has been helping build the nation. Hydraulic Excavators, Wheel Loaders, Crawler Dozers,
Motor Graders, Dump Trucks, Heavy Tippers, Vibratory Compactors and Surface Miners–
from Komatsu and L&T – continue to create value by enabling our customers to execute
projects speedily and smoothly, setting new benchmarks in performance and productivity. In
addition to its focus on manufacturing excellence, LTCEL is dedicated to providing
comprehensive after-sales support, including maintenance services, spare parts supply, and
operator training programs. This holistic approach ensures that customers receive optimal value
from their investment in LTCEL equipment.
Starting in 1945 as distributors of Caterpillar (USA), L&T Construction & Mining Machinery
subsequently entered into collaborations with global majors – such as Poclain SA-France,
Albaret SA-France, JI Case-USA, Vibromax-Germany, Terex-USA and Detroit Diesel-USA,
which saw it assemble and promote a series of imported products such as Hydraulic Excavators,
Vibratory Compactors, Backhoe Loaders, Wheel Loaders, Dump Trucks and Generator Sets in
the local market. This reinforced L&T’s strengths as the foremost engineering organization.
The strategic alliances with Komatsu (Japan) have endured over time and enabled us to launch
world-class products in the Indian market, that have enabled L&T to expand its customer base
and achieve leadership position. Our own product line from LTCEL have made strong inroads
in road construction and highway development. Inspired by our legacy of 75 glorious years,
we will cross new milestones in our journey as a trusted partner in nation-building as well as
in fulfilling the mission of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Overall, L&T Construction Equipment Limited plays a vital role in supporting infrastructure
development and industrial growth in India and beyond, leveraging its expertise, innovation,
and customer-centric approach to deliver superior construction solutions.
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CHAPTER III
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STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
The problem faced by the company is :
“The current warehouse and logistics operations are hindered by several inefficiencies that lead
to increased costs, extended lead times, and reduced productivity. Specifically, non-value-
adding activities within warehouse processes are consuming time and resources without
contributing to operational efficiency. Additionally, logistics routes are not optimized,
resulting in longer travel distances, higher fuel consumption, and increased travel time.”
• Optimize the routes taken by logistics to ensure the shortest and most efficient
paths are used, reducing fuel consumption and travel time.
• Identify and eliminate any non-value-adding activities within the warehouse
processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
SECONDARY OBJECTIVE
PROJECT DESIGN
This project was done under the guidance of Corporate Mentor, Mr. Deekshith, who is the
Warehouse Engineer at Larsen & Toubro Constructions Equipment Limited. The project goal
was to understand about Warehouse Management and Logistics Optimisation. In Warehouse
Management, reducing lead time and elimination of waste was considered and worked on it.
When it comes to Logistics, Route Optimisation was studied and relevant solutions was
provided.
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NEED FOR STUDY
This project mainly focuses on Warehouse and Logistics Operations at L&T Constructions
Equipment Limited. It is essential for organizations seeking to optimize their operational
efficiency and reduce costs. By identifying and eliminating non-value-adding, such as
inefficient workflows and unnecessary inventory handling, companies can streamline
operations and allocate resources more effectively. Optimizing logistics routes ensures the
shortest and most efficient paths are used, minimizing fuel consumption, reducing travel times,
and enhancing overall fleet productivity. Decreasing the overall time required for logistics
operations through better scheduling, streamlined processes, and improved turnaround times at
stops not only improves operational efficiency but also boosts customer satisfaction by
ensuring timely deliveries.
1. 5S Methodology:
The 5S methodology is a systematic approach to workplace organization and
standardization, which aims to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity. The 5S
stands for five Japanese words: Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, and Shitsuke.
4. PDCA (PLAN-DO-CHECK-ACT)
The PDCA cycle is a continuous improvement process used in quality management and
problem-solving. It consists of four iterative steps: Plan, Do, Check, and Act.
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MATERIAL HANDLING
Material handling involves short-distance movement within the confines of a building or
between a building and a transportation vehicle. It utilizes a wide range of manual, semi-
automated, and automated equipment and includes consideration of the protection, storage, and
control of materials throughout their manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption,
and disposal. Material handling can be used to create time and place utility through the
handling, storage, and control of material, as distinct from manufacturing, which creates form
utility by changing the shape, form, and makeup of material.
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MATERIAL HANDLING / MOVEMENT USED AT LTCEL
1. Pallets
Pallet is the structural foundation of a unit load which allows handling and storage
efficiencies. Goods or shipping containers are often placed on a pallet secured with
strapping, stretch wrap or shrink wrap and shipped.
2. Electric Stacker
An electric stacker, also known as a walkie stacker, is a power-propelled device that lifts
and loads pallets. It's often used in warehouses, factories, and supermarkets for low-level
stacking, storing pallets on high shelves, or lifting and moving heavy loads.
3. Racks
Warehouse racking systems consist of several warehouse racks, which are industrial
shelving units made of metal designed to store boxes or pallets in multiple levels of
horizontal rows, stacked on top of each other.
4. Hydraulic lift
A hydraulic lift is a device for moving objects using force created by pressure on a liquid
inside a cylinder that moves a piston upward. Incompressible oil is pumped into the
cylinder, which forces the piston upward.
5. Forklift
Forklifts are mainly used for loading and unloading trucks and for carrying goods. There
are extensive ranges of forklifts available which include pedestrian operated machines to
heavy duty driver operated trucks.
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Manufacturing Specific Considerations:
1. Just-in-Time (JIT) Inventory Management: In a manufacturing environment,
aiming to receive materials only when needed for production can reduce storage
requirements and handling costs. Material handling systems should be flexible to
accommodate JIT principles.
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Analysis
The analysis of the Monthly Production Plan for L&T Construction Equipment Limited
highlights several key insights into the warehouse and logistics operations:
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CHAPTER IV
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LOGISTICS ROUTING OPTIMISATION
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The table provided lists multiple logistics routes for a day. Each route starts and
ends at "L&T Const. Equipment" and includes stops at various locations for
dispatch or collection, with a lunch break in the middle. Let's break down how to
understand and derive each route from the table.
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o HITECH/collection at 6:05 PM (distance: 49.57 km)
o VAISHISTA/collection at 7:21 PM (distance: 51.51 km)
o EXPERTS CNC/collection at 8:40 PM (distance: 60.54 km)
3. End: L&T Const. Equipment at 10:14 PM (distance: 82.14 km)
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Route 4 (Fourth Yellow Section)
Conclusion
Each route starts and ends at L&T Const. Equipment, with specific stops in
between for dispatching or collecting items. The service time at each stop is fixed
at 1 hour, including a mandatory lunch break. The distances are cumulative,
showing the total distance covered by the end of the route.
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CHAPTER V
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Based on a comprehensive analysis of the warehouse operations, the
following key findings emerged:
• Warehouse Layout:
The current layout is disorganized, leading to excessive travel time for picking and
restocking activities. Storage methods are inefficient, resulting in underutilized space
and potential damage to goods.
• Inventory Management:
Inventory data is inaccurate due to manual processes and infrequent cycle counting.
This leads to picking errors, stockouts, and difficulty in planning for future production
needs.
Picking and packing processes are manual and time-consuming, contributing to slow
order fulfillment and potential errors.
• Logistics:
Delivery routes are not optimized, leading to increased transportation time and costs.
Lack of real-time tracking for drivers hinders visibility and efficient dispatching.
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CONCLUSION
The current state of the warehouse is hindering the overall efficiency of the manufacturing
company's supply chain. Inefficient processes, disorganized layout, and inaccurate inventory
data are leading to extended lead times, increased costs, and potential customer dissatisfaction.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed to optimize warehouse
operations and achieve supply chain efficiency:
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• Reduced Lead Times: Faster order fulfillment through improved efficiency will lead
to shorter lead times and enhanced customer satisfaction.
• Reduced Costs: Optimized picking, storage, and transportation will lead to cost
savings.
• Improved Inventory Control: Accurate real-time data will enable better inventory
management and planning.
• Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Faster deliveries and fewer errors will lead to
higher customer satisfaction.
• Increased Competitiveness: Improved efficiency throughout the supply chain will
give the company a competitive edge.
It's crucial to develop a detailed implementation plan with timelines, budget allocation,
and resource allocation to bring these recommendations to fruition. Regularly
monitoring performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) will be essential
to measure the success of the implemented changes and identify areas for further
improvement.
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REFERENCES
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(https://www.ibef.org/blogs/warehousing-and-logistics-sector-in-india)
(https://www.techtarget.com/searcherp/definition/warehouse-management-system-WMS)
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APPENDIX
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APPENDIX I
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APPENDIX II
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APPENDIX III
Areas of improvement:
Signature of mentor:
Name of Mentor:
Date:
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APPENDIX IV
Areas of improvement:
Signature of mentor:
Name of Mentor:
Date
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APPENDIX V
2. Inventory Management
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