The data center build project focused on Phase 1 of a large-scale construction effort involving 13 different data center infrastructure equipment categories including:
Generators, UPS, LV Switchgear / MEDs, MV Switchgear, Transformers, Busduct, AMCOP/BACOP, Structural Racking, Power Distribution Cabinets/Whip Cables, Chillers, Exhaust Fans/Mechanical Cooling, Air Handling Units
With nine participating vendors, Phase 1 had complex logistics that required significant planning and coordination, especially given a site build push out of approximately nine months. To address storage challenges, Crane Worldwide Logistics provided a forward staging facility located within 10 miles of the construction site. The project was estimated to require between 90 and 95 truckloads of inbound shipments to this staging facility. All vendors were required to provide accurate commercial documentation and customs clearance information that adhered to customs brokerage requirements.
Crane Worldwide managed inbound transportation for six of the participating vendors, with the remaining three handling their own transportation logistics.
Key responsibilities in this phase included:
Transportation Coordination:
Collaboration with Vendors:
Crane Worldwide streamlined communication with all vendors, including those who opted out of utilizing Crane’s transportation services, to ensure coordinated inbound deliveries to the warehouse facility. This collaborative approach simplified the process, particularly for vendors who entrusted Crane with transportation.
Warehousing
Crane's warehousing solution was customized to accommodate the unique handling requirements for each equipment type. Detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were developed for each category.
Quality Control Procedures:
Inventory Management: Inventory updates were provided at the item level, and both the construction management team and vendors had access to validate the equipment received at the storage site.
Weekly Review: Weekly calls were held to discuss errant deliveries, damages, and address any outstanding questions or issues that arose during the warehousing phase.
Crane Worldwide coordinated the final mile delivery from the warehouse to the construction site, involving daily calls to ensure seamless execution.
Delivery Configuration and Coordination:
Delivery Logistics:
Final Delivery Validation:
Proof of delivery (POD) was validated for each delivery to ensure all equipment arrived intact and on time.
KEY RESULTS
Efficient Coordination:
Crane Worldwide's involvement in transportation, customs documentation, and warehousing significantly streamlined the process, reducing the risk of delays or errors.
Custom Warehousing:
The tailored warehousing approach ensured the equipment was stored under optimal conditions and ready for seamless delivery to the construction site.
Proactive Planning:
Daily and weekly calls with vendors, the construction management team, and logistics partners allowed for proactive issue resolution and adherence to delivery schedules.
Crane Worldwide's managed transportation and warehousing solutions for the data center build project delivered high levels of coordination, ensuring that the complex equipment categories were handled efficiently and delivered on time.
This project showcases Crane Worldwide's ability to manage large-scale, high-stakes logistics operations effectively.
Learn more about our NextGen Logistics services for data center build projects.
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