Con-way uses Flux in its freight loading optimization software

Very cool.

When loading freight onto its trucks, Con-way uses its Step Saver optimization software to determine optimal placement of trucks at its docks at Con-way’s freight assembly centers. If an incoming truck parks at the right dock at one of these assembly centers, then forklifts don’t drive as far to transfer freight. Trucks are loaded faster. Forklift fuel, tire tread, and maintenance is saved.

Flux is one of several parts of Con-way’s Step Saver application. Con-way says they save $3 million USD per year by using Step Saver, plus 44 minutes per shift formerly spent on planning duties, plus the savings on fuel, tires, and maintenance on the forklifts.

From the Network World article:

To get the job done, Step Saver leverages an array of development tools, including Java, CA Gen, IBM WebSphere Information Integrator Replication Edition V8.2, Tibco Application Integration Suite, Flux Java Job Scheduling, C++, and iText.