As an automotive parts manufacturer, American Manufacturing sits right in the center of the automotive industry’s supply chain. In this unique position, we both work with suppliers and work as a supplier, burning the candle at both ends while making sure it never runs out of wax.
Supply chain optimization in manufacturing is about more than scenario planning and generating consistent lead times. Explore how our processes at American Manufacturing are intentionally built to optimize our portion of the supply chain.
Optimizing Technologies
Using the latest in manufacturing technology allows us to increase productivity and improve lead time. By adding new manufacturing technology like our Trumpf Robotic Bending Cell, we can make more customized parts more quickly than ever before, speeding up the entire process and moving automotive parts along the supply chain more efficiently.
We are also implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) software to create better visibility on everything going in and out of our manufacturing facility, as well as our internal processes. This enhanced visibility gives us real-time access to every step of a project, allowing us to predict more accurate lead times and know exactly where each part and order is without having to manually check around with project leads.
Automation and Upskilling
Average wages in the manufacturing industry have skyrocketed in recent years, making it challenging to attract and retain talent while managing costs. To balance cost efficiency with maintaining high-quality outcomes as part of the larger automotive supply chain, we have taken the approach of combining automation with upskilling.
Automation in manufacturing allows us to reduce actual labor costs involved in making automotive parts by replacing certain man-powered processes with automated alternatives like robotic welding. The goal is not to replace skilled workers but rather to upskill them. For instance, a robotic welder allows a human welder to move into a manufacturing position that requires a human operator to provide oversight of the new technology. Parts are made faster and more accurately, and we are still able to pay employees a competitive wage.
The Supplier-Manufacturer Relationship
The relationship between a supplier and a manufacturer is crucial to supply chain optimization. If this relationship is inconsistent or unreliable, it will inevitably lead to delays and complications. At American Manufacturing, we deliberately maintain a limited supply base of suppliers we trust and have worked with for over two decades. We have built reciprocal trust with our suppliers on everything we buy, from coils and tubes to nuts and bolts.
Maintaining such long standing relationships with our suppliers allows us to consistently follow through with our commitments as a supplier to automotive manufacturers. We have higher priority in any shortages or last-minute needs, and the favorable pricing we receive as longtime customers helps keep our prices low as well. Making a commitment to a supplier over the long term is far more beneficial as a manufacturer than bouncing around to try and save a nickel.
Supplying Parts to Automotive Manufacturers Since 1971
Vehicles may be more than the sum of their parts, but each part that goes into the latest Chrysler sedan or Ford pickup is essential to creating a reliable, high-quality new model each year. American Manufacturing has been a faithful partner to automotive manufacturers for years, and we do our due diligence to stay on top of the latest technologies to ensure faster lead times, better quality builds, and a name you can trust in automotive parts manufacturing.
Here at American Manufacturing, we’re experts in the high volume production of standard steel containers for Chrysler, Ford, General Motors and their suppliers, simultaneously. We work with all our customers to optimize container designs that maximize performance and minimize costs. Supply chain optimization has always been part of our approach, and a key reason why we bring a broad level of experience to the table. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your automotive business.
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