Mar 21, 2006 9:06 AM, from staff and wire reports

Ryder System Inc has been awarded a distribution and transportation management contract with Nestlé Chile SA, a subsidiary of the Nestlé food and beverage company.

Under the multi-year contract, Ryder will manage two multi-customer distribution centers with a combined 400,000 square feet and 25,000 pallet positions of finished products in Maipu and Quilicura, Chile. Through a turnkey system, Ryder will manage the outbound transportation of about 60 to 80 vehicle loads per day from the distribution centers to more than 600 Nestlé customers throughout Chile including supermarkets, distributors, and wholesalers.

Using a warehouse management system and hand-held radio frequency equipment, Ryder will focus on optimizing Nestlé’s inventory levels, improving order accuracy and efficiency, and providing consistent levels of customer service. Ryder will also be responsible for managing regional operations in Antofagasta, Concepcion, and Temuco, Chile.