Fast cross-dock facility

A loading platform system designed and built by Thorworld Industries has increased efficiency at Solstor UK, which operates a temperature controlled supply chain network for the food industry.

The modular loading/unloading system has been installed at Solstor's main UK multi-temperature consolidation hub at Crayford, Kent, where it plays a key role in the company's expanding groupage business.

It consists of four standard 2,000kg capacity Thorworld raised platforms that have been connected together to form a single platform measuring 37.5 sq m. This in turn is capable of handling two 13.6 m long reefer trailers at a time.

The platform was then equipped with ancillary equipment including dock bumpers, two hinged bridge plates, safety bars, and a set of access steps.

It allows for the fast cross-docking of produce, with a stand-on mechanical barrow used to unload pallet loads of boxes from incoming trailers. The foodstuffs are loaded immediately into another trailer for onward delivery to customers, or stored in a 37 pallet capacity cold store, supplied by ArcticStore, that has been installed at the rear of the platform.

As well as food, the platform is used for the loading and unloading of associated items such as packaging materials and small pieces of machinery.

Solstor has fitted a canopy over the platform, which was supplied through Barloworld Handling, in order to provide additional protection for staff against inclement weather.

Solstor's quality manager,Mike Strudwick, says: "Thorworld's engineers listened to us then delivered the perfect solution that fully meets all our requirements."