Manufacturers worldwide continue to grapple with significant financial losses stemming from transportation errors, disputes, and carrier surcharges. For Cla-Val, a global leader in precision automatic control valve manufacturing, this challenge became unsustainable until implementing an innovative dimensional measurement solution.
The Cost of Manual Measurement
Headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Cla-Val produces critical valves for hydraulic, fire protection, and aerospace applications. Like many industrial manufacturers, the company previously relied on manual processes to measure and record shipment dimensions—a method prone to human error that frequently resulted in inflated transportation costs.
"Inaccurate measurements create a domino effect," explained a company representative. "Carriers apply dimensional weight surcharges for incorrect specs, customers dispute invoices when actual dimensions differ from documentation, and the administrative burden of resolving these issues compounds the financial impact."
Digital Transformation in Logistics
The turning point came with Cla-Val's adoption of MobileDemand's xDIM and xScale systems. This mobile measurement solution combines high-precision scanning technology with photographic documentation, creating a comprehensive digital record of each shipment.
The system captures package dimensions within millimeters of accuracy in seconds, a process that previously required multiple manual measurements. Each scan automatically generates supporting photographic evidence, creating an auditable trail for every shipment.
Tangible Results
Implementation yielded immediate benefits. Disputes related to shipment dimensions dropped significantly as both carriers and customers received verifiable documentation. The company eliminated nearly all carrier surcharges previously incurred from measurement discrepancies.
Most notably, Cla-Val achieved annual cost savings exceeding six figures through reduced errors, fewer disputes, and eliminated unnecessary fees. The solution also streamlined shipping operations, improving throughput and allowing staff to focus on value-added activities rather than measurement verification.
Industry Implications
Cla-Val's success demonstrates how digital transformation in logistics can deliver substantial operational improvements. As manufacturers face increasing pressure to optimize supply chains, precision measurement technologies offer a proven method to reduce costs while enhancing customer satisfaction through accurate documentation.
The case study suggests that similar dimensional measurement solutions could benefit other manufacturers shipping bulky or irregularly shaped items, particularly in industries where transportation costs represent a significant portion of operational expenses.