Inventory Programs Centered Around Your Operation
Kanban Programs
Customers often start with kanban because it simplifies injection molding supply management. You’ll pull a bin, we see the signal, and a replacement is already on its way. Bin quantities are based on your consumption rate and molding cycle times, keeping replenishment efficient and reordering predictable.
Safety Stock Programs
With a safety stock program, a critical part that runs short on a Wednesday afternoon won’t stall the entire production. We hold an agreed quantity of finished goods at our facility and replenish it after each shipment, so there’s always a safety net. The right buffer size depends mainly on how much your usage swings and how long a new production run takes. We’ll work through those numbers with you and adjust them as your volumes change.
Inventory Management
Finished components require secure storage until your operation needs them. Thogus keeps molded parts in a controlled environment and tracks each lot by part number and production date. Inventory rotates on a first-in, first-out basis, while regular cycle counts maintain accuracy and provide clear visibility into available stock.
Raw Material Management
Resin availability directly affects part availability. Our team monitors material levels for every active program and schedules purchases ahead of production runs. Specialty and custom resins with long lead times are flagged early, and each production lot remains traceable to its resin lot number.
Packaging Management
Packaging doesn’t always get the attention it deserves until a problem arises, whether it’s a box that’s slightly too small or dunnage that scuffs a cosmetic surface. At Thogus, we manage packaging as part of the job. We stock the cartons, returnable totes, and labels your program calls for. Parts arrive protected and ready to move to the line.
Just-in-Time Delivery
Floor space is valuable, so inventory sitting idle in a warehouse can eat away at overhead. Thogus’s just-in-time delivery ships components in smaller, more frequent quantities timed according to your operation’s schedule. That way you receive exactly what you need for the next build window, and because we keep a buffer, your line remains protected if unexpected demand changes arise.
Forecast Planning
Share your demand forecast with Thogus, and our team will develop a production and material plan that aligns with your build schedule. We regularly compare actual usage against that forecast to identify discrepancies and make necessary adjustments.
Benefits of Injection Molding Supply Management
A successful injection molding supply management program pays off in ways that many manufacturers don’t expect, such as:
- Fewer stockouts: Buffers and replenishment indicators keep parts readily available even during sudden demand spikes.
- Optimized production runs: A clear view of your consumption patterns allows our team to schedule parts in practical, cost-effective lot sizes.
- More stable pricing: Consistent, well-planned production often leads to a better piece price over time.
- Less time spent chasing parts: Purchasing professionals can take a step back and focus on more pressing matters.
Discuss Your Injection Molding Supply Needs with Thogus
If your current injection molding supply situation is causing production challenges, give Thogus a call. Along with custom plastic injection molding, tooling, and secondary operations, our capabilities include injection molding supply management. When you partner with us, our team will create a program that keeps components available and production on schedule.
FAQs About Inventory Management
Can I combine more than one inventory program?
Yes. Costumes frequently choose Kanban for high runners with safety stock on their most essential parts. We’ll help you determine the approach that best suits your needs.
What happens if my demand suddenly increases?
Notify us as soon as possible. Safety stock can cover the immediate shortfall while our team adjusts the production schedule to replenish inventory quickly.
How does just-in-time delivery work with your other programs?
Just-in-time delivery typically runs on top of a safety stock or Kanban program. We hold the buffer here, and you receive smaller, frequent shipments matched to your operation schedule.