In manufacturing and logistics, transparent and well-organized material flow is key to operational efficiency. The Kanban system provides a simple, visual, and flexible way to manage material supply and inventory replenishment on the production floor. In this article, we’ll explore how Kanban works, its main benefits, and how custom Kanban carts, racks, and shelves can support and enhance this system in your facility.
What Is the Kanban System?
Kanban is a lean inventory management method originating from Japan, first implemented by Toyota. The word Kanban literally means “card,” referring to the visual signal that triggers the replenishment of an item or material.Kanban is a lean inventory management method originating from Japan, first implemented by Toyota. The word Kanban literally means “card,” referring to the visual signal that triggers the replenishment of an item or material.
Key principles:
- Material movement only occurs when there is actual demand.
- Every supply and production step is triggered by visual signals (cards, tags, bins).
- The supply chain is pull-based – the production line pulls materials as needed, instead of being pushed from storage.
What Are the Benefits of Using Kanban?
- Better inventory control
– Helps avoid overproduction and excessive stockpiling. - Flexible production
– Enables fast adaptation to changing customer demand. - Fewer errors
– Only the required components reach the production line, reducing the risk of picking mistakes. - Time and cost savings
– Smoother material flows, reduced downtime, and shorter lead times.
How Do Kanban Carts, Racks, and Shelves Help?
To implement the Kanban system effectively, you need the right physical tools. We offer custom-designed industrial metal solutions tailored to your production and logistics environment.
Kanban Carts
Mobile equipment used for delivering components and materials directly to workstations.
Advantages:
- Easy to maneuver, ergonomic design
- Multi-tier configuration with various shelf and bin sizes
- Robust, durable steel construction for industrial use
Kanban Racks
Stationary units placed near the production line for organized storage.
Advantages:
- Clear and visible stock levels
- Quick loading and picking of materials
- Supports lean and structured workflows
Kanban Shelves
Compact shelving units that can be integrated directly into workstations.
Advantages:
- Space-saving design
- Ideal for small parts and components
- Easily combinable with existing shelving systems
Custom Kanban Solutions
Every production environment is unique – that’s why MigaMetall manufactures fully customized Kanban carts, racks, and shelves, tailored to your specific needs.
- Custom shelf spacing and levels
- Special wheels or locking mechanisms
- Surface treatments, color coding, or visual marking systems
Whether you’re implementing a new Kanban system or improving an existing one, our solutions help ensure reliable and efficient material flow – day after day.
The Kanban system supports lean production and efficient material logistics by making workflows more transparent and demand-driven. With custom-built Kanban carts, racks, and shelves from us, your team can reduce downtime, simplify logistics, and stay focused on value-adding tasks.
Looking to streamline your internal logistics?
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you implement the right Kanban tools for your operation.
