Behind the Scenes at Harris Boats - Sourcing

Our next look behind the scenes focuses on our procedures for souring our materials. Pontoons are complex boats, and our pontoons specifically require an attention to detail that makes sourcing components a challenge. We know that each boat we make is different from the previous one, so we take time to find the best parts for each specific model, layout, and configuration. We’ve built a brand on quality products, and it all starts with the parts that go into our boats.

We work with a J-I-T method, which stands for Just-In-Time. This means we bring in components just a day or two ahead of it being scheduled for production. This allows us to prepare for production without giving up valuable inventory space. This method is applied most heavily to our helm stands, furniture, flooring covers, and Bimini tops. Each order we get is unique, from our extensive options for lighting and sound packages all the way to various furniture configurations.

We house roughly 3,000 part numbers in our warehouse that are not Just-In-Time or boat specific. These items are used in pretty much every boat we make. They range from aluminum sheet material for tubes to the plywood used to put decking on to the parts for the fence and every little piece in between. The ability to maintain this inventory and source quality parts is critical from start to finish on the production line.

Our buyers have been with the company long term and know the products needed and how they are going to be used in the production process. This first-hand knowledge of assembly helps our procurement team source the highest quality products for our boats, so we can deliver a final product worthy of our customers.