Order Fulfillment
"With the thousands of parts that we stock, efficiently streamlining the logistics of order fulfillment is critical in ensuring that our customers receive the right parts in a timely manner. About 10 years ago, we relied on a DOS-based invoicing system custom written for our company, but we've come a long way since then. With our current system, our computers and phone system share information to simplify the ordering process. When a customer calls into our sales department, the computer automatically looks up their phone number and pulls up the account number and the billing and shipping info that goes along with it to assist our reps in placing an order. The computer system then sends a paper invoice to our warehouse and can instruct our employees exactly where to find each part. After every item on the pick list has been grabbed, the barcode on every part is scanned before it's boxed up to verify that the order is correct. For orders that ship in multiple boxes, it lets us log exactly which parts are in each box."
Storage
Everyone knows to put some gas treatment in the tank and disconnect the battery when storing a car, but some other important steps that should be taken are often overlooked. Vogt suggests storing a car with a full tank of gas, since a full tank has less air space for condensation to build up in. Likewise, the carburetor should be drained to prevent internal fuel passages from gumming up. As for battery prep, it depends on the length of storage. "If your car's going to be stored for six months of less, hook the battery up to a trickle charger," Vogt explains. "For storage durations over six months, remove the battery to prevent acid leakage that can damage rubber bushings and hoses. Store the battery on wooden blocks or on jackstands long-term to prevent discharging. Finally, start the motor and run fluids through it every once in a while."
Interactive Media
Classic Industries has developed a profound online presence with videos, blogs, and online shopping. The company is currently revamping these media to bring customers a more interactive experience. "Our new website will allow real-time inventory and tracking so customers can keep an eye on their order from start to finish," says Vogt. "We also plan on posting a series of how-to videos that offer tips on things like disc brake conversions and carpet replacement. You can also get a closer look at our facility and project cars on our YouTube and StreetFire websites."
Civility
"You can make the argument that crudeness is part of the charm of musclecars, but these days people have grown accustomed to riding in quiet and comfortable cars. Products like Lizardskin and Hushmat are extremely effective in reducing interior road noise and enable building more civilized musclecars. They make all the difference in the world, and the reduction in noise even makes the car feel more solid overall. The key is to cover as large an area as you can with them. If you've taken a door apart to add a new skin or replace a window, use that opportunity to cover the entire inside of the door with either of these products. Lizardskin is great for getting to hard-to-reach places like inside the quarters and behind the window regulators. Take your time and roll it out with a laminate roller. On the underside of the car and inside the wheelwells, Rhino Lining truck bed liners also works great. Whoever welded on your new sheetmetal probably didn't seam-seal it like GM did, so it does an excellent job of sealing out water and hiding welding imperfections."