Sophisticated logistics: from wholesaler to delivery van or container

SKK Kozijnwacht from Assen specializes in the repair, maintenance and (energetic) improvement of existing window frames. On behalf of housing corporations, homeowners associations, contractors and private homeowners, we professionally repair badly closing doors, sticking windows, broken hinges and locks, burglary damage and draught and moisture problems.In addition, SKK performs preventive window frame maintenance, significantly extending the life of plastic, aluminum and wooden window frames. This service makes use of Lecot's extensive product range, which is delivered via a sophisticated logistics system.

"New customers usually come to us with complaints or problems, which are quickly and adequately fixed by our service technicians," says Ivar Olofsen of SKK Kozijnwacht. "In doing so, we like to point out to customers the importance of thorough maintenance, to prevent similar problems in the future, keep operating costs manageable and extend the life of the window frames. To this end, we offer a maintenance agreement, in which we periodically inspect the window frames, resolve minor complaints, recalibrate the hardware and, where necessary, block the glass. Occasional defects requiring specific materials are resolved as much as possible from our bus stock. Complex findings are also summarized in a report. In accordance with the NEN 2767 standardization, in which we not only provide insight into the current window frame status of the property, but also into the work that will be desired in 3, 6 or 9 years to keep the window frame property up to standard."

Sophisticated logistics

All products are delivered to the container in processable quantities and replenished just-in-time.

For repairs, service technicians easily and quickly fill out their digital work orders, Olofsen says. "These work orders also list the materials needed to make the repair. These material orders are forwarded directly to wholesaler Lecot, which also receives a delivery note for the order. From Lecot, the first delivery option for the items is then automatically transmitted, based on which SKK schedules a follow-up appointment with the residents. On the night before this replacement, Lecot - via night delivery NOX - delivers all products. Directly into the service vans of the mechanics, who have nothing else to worry about. A very pleasant approach, which can only work if you are perfectly attuned to each other and have optimally tuned all (automated) systems."

Out-of-the-box solutions

In addition to material placement at the address level, SKK Kozijnwacht also performs complex hardware replacements. Resulting from the inspection, but also individual projects in which an improvement of the insulating effect, burglar resistance, health, indoor climate and/or occupant comfort are often central.

"Before starting these projects, we always do a warm intake," Olofsen explains. "Together with Lecot, we map out the possible solutions, taking optimal account of customer and resident requirements, technical possibilities and the available budget, while trying to minimize the inconvenience to residents."

And that sometimes leads to unusual solutions, he says. "For example, in cooperation with Lecot, we have developed a tilt-and-turn system, with which we can easily give existing aluminum sliding doors and inward-turning doors a tilt-and-turn function. Without replacing the window frames. A solution that unfortunately proved inadequate for the aluminum Heuck window frames, because they have a different hardware groove and axle size. To help residents with these frames, we have developed an additional mounting plate on which the Tilt&Turn hardware can be mounted. An innovative solution that also allows the Hueck window frames to last another 25 years!"

The turn-tilt solutions, as well as other hardware, hinges, repair and hardware screws, rubber, draft tape, silicone sealants and putties required for the complex renovations are delivered directly by Lecot to the construction site. Directly into SKK containers, with Lecot ensuring not only timely delivery but also efficient containerization. All products are delivered in processable quantities and replenished just-in-time, says Olofsen. "Via special order lists, not only can additional products be ordered easily, but also any returns can be notified. So that our fitters can focus on their core business: optimizing existing window frames." 

For the past two years, SKK Kozijnwacht has had a Belgian sister company - SKK Belux - working with Lecot in the same way.