ReBox-Pool — Innovative logistic concept based on a modular loading carrier concept

In order to reduce logistics costs, which are caused by the growing variety of loading carriers for parts, assemblies and products especially in the automotive industry, the authors introduce an innovative logistic concept based on a modular loading carrier approach. The approach consists on one hand of a production concept combining the individualism of a conventional special loading carrier and the standardisation regarding production and handling of a universal loading carrier. By means of the modular structure the usage period of the special loading carrier will be decupled from the steadily decreasing product life cycle, resulting in cost reduction for the using company. On the other hand a business concept introduces a new service based "Pooling-System" that promises further competitive advantages for companies offering loading carriers. The approach is developed within the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) funded research project "ReBox-Pool" and accompanied by studies and cases presented in this paper.