Case Study 003

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Executive Summary
A leading developer of battery cell technology required the transportation, storage, offload and reload of 35 critical equipment units, including PCS skids, battery blocks, and control blocks. Initially, BluePrint Supply Chain was responsible for transporting only 13 units, while the client planned to manage the remaining 22. However, after demonstrating efficiency and reliability, the client awarded the remaining 22 units to BluePrint.

This project presented several challenges:
  • Equipment was sourced from multiple manufacturers across various locations and required transportation to two separate facilities in Illinois for storage and handling
  • The original project scope required adjustments, as initial equipment dimensions, weights, and storage requirements needed verification to ensure proper handling.
  • BPSC coordinated directly with the client’s team to refine scheduling, ensuring timely and efficient transportation.
  • Climate-controlled storage was necessary for some equipment, prompting a shift from the Ladd warehouse to Streeter.
  • PCS skids required thorough inspection upon arrival, with BPSC providing detailed reports and temperature monitoring to ensure quality control.
By maintaining clear communication, adapting to evolving project needs, and executing precise logistics management, BPSC ensured seamless transportation, storage, and delivery, allowing the client to keep their project on track without delays.
BluePrint Supply Chain’s Approach
Using BluePrint Supply Chain’s Plan, Manage Measure (P2M) methodology, the project was managed in structured phases:
Planning:
Months before the first equipment pick-up, our dedicated program manager led the logistics team through multiple pre-mobilization meetings with the client and the equipment manufacturer. We carefully reviewed priorities, including pick-up and delivery dates, and confirmed the client's expectations for equipment condition upon arrival.

BluePrint worked with the manufacturer to obtain accurate equipment dimensions, weights, and storage requirements, as the initial information was incomplete. We also conducted a thorough route survey, coordinated permit requirements, and coordinated transportation and storage with our partner company.
Management:
In line with the client's quality assurance requirements, the program manager provided regular updates, including photos and inspection forms, both upon arrival and when the units were loaded for transport to the site. To ensure the sensitive equipment, particularly the PCS skids, was maintained properly, we coordinated with the manufacturer’s team to conduct humidity inspections at the Streeter warehouse. Additionally, BluePrint proactively managed the environmental conditions by sending weekly reports confirming that the temperature controls were set correctly, providing the client with peace of mind that the equipment was stored under optimal conditions throughout the process.
Measurement:
BluePrint provided detailed reporting on key metrics specified by the client to ensure transparency and optimize project outcomes. We tracked Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) to highlight cost efficiencies and maintained regular updates to keep the project aligned with client expectations. This approach provided the client with a clear view of progress and helped manage costs effectively.
Key Outcomes:
  • Efficient Delivery Management: BluePrint ensured the timely transport of all 35 units by adjusting schedules and managing communication to prevent delays.
  • Effective Problem-Solving: Corrected initial inaccuracies by collaborating directly with the manufacturer, ensuring smooth project execution.
  • Precise Quality Control: Weekly inspections and careful monitoring of temperature and humidity kept equipment in optimal condition.
  • Streamlined Coordination: BluePrint’s close collaboration with both the client and our transportation and storage partner ensured adaptability to changes without affecting timelines.
Conclusion
BluePrint’s structured approach of careful planning, clear communication, and strong management led to the successful transportation and storage of the client’s critical equipment. Despite initial data inaccuracies, BluePrint’s responsiveness and commitment to quality and safety helped keep the project on track.