
Challenges
Eduards Trailer Factory is a major player in the trailer market. With an extensive range—from tiltable models to car transporters—they serve both private and professional customers through a dealership network spread across Northern, Western, and Eastern Europe. Their business model is based on assembly: components like wheels and frames are purchased separately and then assembled in their production facilities into the final products. However, this approach brings several operational challenges.
The most pressing challenge for Eduards Trailer Factory lies in managing lead times. Customers expect their trailers within 8 working days, but the components required for assembly sometimes have lead times of 8 to 10 weeks. This necessitates planning well in advance, which is further complicated by the wide range of more than 3,000 items. Until recently, demand forecasting was done using Excel. This method was time-consuming and provided insufficient insight into future trends, leading to complex inventory management and risks of both overstock and understock.
The introduction of an AI-platform
To address these challenges, Eduards Trailer Factory decided to invest in an advanced solution: a Fabric-based AI platform integrated with their existing ERP system, Microsoft Business Central. This platform collects and processes large amounts of data, including order history, dealer information, price fluctuations, and market trends. By combining this data, a solid foundation is created for training a machine learning model.


The numbers
The approach is specifically designed to make demand forecasts, both short-term (the next 8 weeks) and long-term (up to 12 months). The result? A collection of 3,000 AI models that generate forecasts for each item, with an average error margin of just 2.06%!
This enables not only better alignment of stock levels with expected demand but also more efficient production planning. By integrating the predictions into their operational processes, Eduards Trailer Factory can ensure that the right components are available at the right time, without holding unnecessary inventory.
The effects were quickly noticeable. The new AI platform provided objective and accurate predictions, improving inventory management. Where previously too many or too few components were often ordered, there is now an optimal balance. This has not only reduced operational costs but also strengthened Eduards Trailer Factory’s ability to fulfill their promise of fast delivery times.
Additionally, the platform offers valuable insights into the factors that influence demand, such as seasonal trends or regional differences. These insights help not only in making better inventory and production plans but also support strategic decisions at the company level.
A future-proof approach
The AI platform has helped Eduards Trailer Factory strengthen their competitive position in a stagnating market. By working more efficiently and simultaneously increasing customer satisfaction, they have not only better served existing customers but also capitalized on new growth opportunities. This transformation shows how technology, specifically AI, can play a decisive role in solving complex logistical challenges and creating distinctive added value for customers. With this smart approach, Eduards Trailer Factory has implemented a future-proof solution that not only addresses their current challenges but also prepares them for further growth and innovation in the manufacturing industry.
Are you looking for a trailer yourself? Be sure to check out the range of Eduards Trailer Factory on their website. The configurator on their website is super handy. In this way, you can assemble your own trailer, completely according to your preferences.
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