Ways to save delivery sche

By Wally Lynch Paid Associates

G ALES begin with an order and tJ are comoleted when the customerueceiues the purchase. What begins as a sale becomes a receivable once the purchaser has the merchandise.

Delivery is the action between these two points. Whether in the expansive, high tech computer world of Federal Express or the simplicity of a paper boy on a bicycle, every delivery requires scheduling. The essentials of scheduling are policy, performance standards and planning. The procedure is no different for lumber and building materials.

Policy begins with management's determination to make deliveries. It then branches into what the customer and employees need to know. Basic ground rules for a delivery policy must be known by everyone. These include days and hours, geographic parameters, charges, expected time lapse and the handling of "specials" as a relief valve for the "frantic frantics."

In addition, these rules provide those responsible for executing the policy with details of how they are to implement the company's commitments.

Policy guidelines posted for both customers and employees should include:

Store Hours: Daily: Mon-Sat: 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays: Closed all day

Delivery: Daily: Mon-Fri: Orders received by noon, same day service.

After noon: Next work day morning.

Other: Conlact operations manager.

Employee only policy guidelines include: