The KAN-BAN concept is one of the key players in the lean manufacturing concept. Kanban is a visual signal that’s used to trigger an action. The word kanban is Japanese. Roughly translated, it means “card you can see.” Kanban is a card with an inventory number that’s attached to a part. Right before the part are installed, the kanban card is detached and sent up the supply chain as a request for another part. A part is only manufactured (or ordered) if there is a kanban card for it. Companies that have partnered with Wisconsin Steel & Tube have achieved inventory reduction in the process.

Just-In-Time (JIT) is an inventory strategy companies employ to increase efficiency and decrease waste by receiving goods only as they are needed in the production process, thereby reducing inventory costs. This method requires that producers are able to accurately forecast demand. Wisconsin Steel & Tube Corporation can partner with you to ensure that your steel requirements will be available at the exact moment that they are needed.

Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) is an inventory replenishment arrangement whereby the supplier either monitors the customer’s inventory with their own employees or receives stock information from the customer. The vendor then refills the stock automatically, without the customer initiating purchase orders. The goal of our VMI program is to provide a mutually beneficial relationship where both sides can more smoothly and accurately control the availability and flow of materials.

Wisconsin Steel & Tube Corporation can work to ship your product requirements in customized returnable containers. Examples are:

• Bulk containers
• Hand-held totes
• Steel racks for shipping
• Kitting

Our experienced and knowledgeable sales force works to understand your requirements and then helps you to meet those requirements successfully, on time and within budget.