Distribution Centre Stock Dispatch Procedures Training

Objectives:
• Understand the role of a distribution centre in the supply chain.
• Identify key stock dispatch processes and their importance.
• Recognise relevant legislation and standards (including SAQA Unit Standard 117891).
• Describe the flow of goods from receiving to dispatch.
• Outline the responsibilities of a stock dispatcher.

Topics:
• Overview of distribution centre functions.
• The supply chain and the place of dispatch.
• Key performance indicators in dispatch.
• Introduction to Unit Standard 117891.
• Legal requirements: OHS Act, labour regulations.
• Ethical considerations in stock handling.
• Roles and responsibilities in the dispatch team.
• Basic terminology: picking, packing, loading, dispatch.

Objectives:
• Explain inventory management concepts relevant to dispatch.
• Understand stock accuracy and its impact on dispatch.
• Apply FIFO and FEFO principles.
• Identify stock discrepancies and their causes.
• Use basic stock control documentation.

Topics:
• Inventory types and stock rotation.
• Cycle counting and stocktaking basics.
• FIFO vs FEFO: application in dispatch.
• Stock discrepancies: overages, shortages, damages.
• Documentation: bin cards, stock sheets, transfer notes.
• Importance of accurate record-keeping.
• Introduction to warehouse management systems (WMS).
• Communication with inventory control.

Objectives:
• Describe different order picking methods.
• Apply picking techniques to minimise errors.
• Understand packing standards for safe transport.
• Use packing slips and labels correctly.
• Demonstrate proper handling of fragile or hazardous items.

Topics:
• Picking methods: zone, wave, batch, piece.
• Pick-to-light, voice, and RF scanning technologies.
• Packing materials and equipment.
• Packaging for different product types.
• Labelling requirements: barcodes, shipping labels.
• Quality checks during packing.
• Handling special items: fragile, hazardous, perishable.
• Error prevention techniques.

Objectives:
• Complete dispatch documentation accurately.
• Understand the role of waybills, delivery notes, and invoices.
• Use a WMS to process dispatch transactions.
• Verify orders against dispatch documents.
• Apply data capture and record-keeping procedures.

Topics:
• Key dispatch documents: picking list, packing slip, delivery note, waybill.
• Invoice and proof of delivery.
• Data entry in WMS: order confirmation, dispatch updates.
• Barcode scanning and RFID in dispatch.
• Document flow and filing.
• Common documentation errors and corrections.
• Electronic data interchange (EDI) basics.
• Record retention requirements.

Objectives:
• Plan loading sequences for efficiency and safety.
• Apply loading techniques to prevent damage.
• Coordinate with transport providers.
• Understand vehicle types and load capacities.
• Ensure compliance with transport regulations.

Topics:
• Loading bay safety and procedures.
• Loading sequence: weight distribution, stacking.
• Use of loading equipment: forklifts, pallet jacks, dock levellers.
• Securing loads: straps, shrink wrap, dunnage.
• Vehicle types: trucks, vans, containers.
• Transport scheduling and dispatch timing.
• Driver check-in and check-out procedures.
• Compliance: road traffic regulations, load limits.

Objectives:
• Conduct quality checks before dispatch.
• Identify and handle damaged or incorrect items.
• Process returns (reverse logistics) according to policy.
• Complete returns documentation.
• Implement corrective actions for quality issues.

Topics:
• Pre-dispatch quality inspection checklist.
• Identifying damages, defects, and expiry.
• Quarantine procedures for non-conforming goods.
• Returns process: authorization, inspection, credit.
• Reverse logistics flow.
• Documentation: return merchandise authorization (RMA), credit notes.
• Root cause analysis of returns.
• Continuous improvement in dispatch quality.

Objectives:
• Identify hazards in the dispatch area.
• Apply safety procedures to prevent accidents.
• Understand security measures to prevent theft.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly.
• Respond to emergencies in the dispatch environment.

Topics:
• Hazard identification: moving equipment, manual handling, slips.
• Risk assessment and control measures.
• Safety rules for forklifts and other machinery.
• Manual handling techniques.
• PPE: gloves, safety shoes, hi-vis vests.
• Security protocols: access control, CCTV, stock checks.
• Theft prevention and reporting.
• Emergency procedures: fire, spill, first aid.

Objectives:
• Measure dispatch performance using key metrics.
• Identify areas for improvement in dispatch processes.
• Apply basic lean principles to reduce waste.
• Use problem-solving techniques to address issues.
• Contribute to team performance goals.

Topics:
• Key performance indicators: accuracy, timeliness, productivity.
• Data collection and reporting.
• Lean principles: 5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping.
• Waste identification: overprocessing, waiting, defects.
• Root cause analysis: 5 Whys, fishbone diagram.
• Standard operating procedures (SOPs) and updates.
• Team communication and feedback.
• Setting personal and team improvement targets.

Objectives:
• Integrate all knowledge into a simulated dispatch operation.
• Demonstrate competence in dispatch procedures.
• Complete a practical assessment covering the full process.
• Reflect on learning and identify areas for further development.
• Prepare for workplace application.

Topics:
• Simulated dispatch scenario: order to loading.
• Practical exercises: picking, packing, documentation, loading.
• Assessment of key tasks against unit standard criteria.
• Feedback and coaching.
• Review of learning outcomes.
• Action plan for workplace implementation.
• Final Q&A session.
• Course evaluation and certification information.