Navigating Supply Chain Uncertainty and Volatility with Proven Solutions

In 2023, The Logistix company sees its customers’ much more conscientious to their freight spend and notices contracted rates taking precedence along with more insight into forecasts.

Navigating the Insourcing vs. Outsourcing Debate in Post-Covid Logistics

Logistics companies must go beyond traditional value propositions. Shippers expect benefits to be delivered at an accelerated pace without sacrificing control and flexibility.

Solve Inbound Processing Problems to Boost Fulfillment Performance

Everything flows from the inbound. The absence of a systematic, accurate inbound process makes it nearly impossible to prevent problems in fulfillment operations.

3PL Provides a Well-Oiled, Single-Source Solution

Trinity Logistics offered olive oil maker Pompeian a fully managed transportation solution while providing expert support, extensive data, and any training needed to maximize transportation results.

Clean Shave: Brand Handily Achieves Global Expansion with 3PL Partner

Relying on SEKO’s state-of-the-art warehousing, consistent fulfillment strategy, and seamless global fulfillment platform, MANSCAPED™ met product demand and achieved their expansion goals.

Mileage Audit Spots Excess Charges and Saves Money for Shippers

RSI Logistics audited mileage equalization charges for a shipper and found it was being charged for excess empty miles. Ultimately the 3PL helped the company save more than $50,000.

The Advantages to Building an Indianapolis Warehouse Network

Indiana provided ease of access for the MD Logistics Indianapolis warehouse network comprised of four locations, three of which serve the life sciences and pharmaceuticals industry.

Providing Transformative Fulfillment Services

All Points elevated fulfillment operations for a Fortune 500 media company. Through innovative solutions and unwavering commitment, All Points Atlanta navigated the relocation of a complex program.

Powering Up a Better Supply Chain

At Aggreko, the focus is to ensure that business is always on by delivering power, cooling, and heating equipment and services anywhere they’re needed so businesses can grow and communities can thrive. The company operates in high-stakes environments to deliver emergency solutions to customers including utilities, municipalities, petrochemical companies, refineries, and manufacturing firms.

Masterful Moves: Overcoming Deadlines, Pressures, and Distance with Extraordinary Service

Holman Logistics provided its client with seamless execution for a warehouse move done in record time.

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

M & A •  Hellmann Worldwide Logistics acquired PKZ Group, its long-standing air and sea freight partner in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, establishing its own Slovakian national company. •  Advantive, a software provider for specialty manufacturing and distribution businesses, made two recent acquisitions: VeraCore, an SaaS order and warehouse management software provider for fulfillment companies and […]

Cream of the Crops

With several hundred locations in more than 70 countries, management at Bayer Crop Science needed greater visibility and access to the information that could help it make fact-based logistics decisions, boost asset utilization, and enhance on-time delivery.

Managing the Return Trip

Glance around any airport and it immediately becomes apparent that travel is back in full swing. Chalk it up to pent-up demand but people are either hauling out long-stored luggage or buying new bags and setting off on much delayed journeys. The time was ripe for Samsonite—the world’s best-known and largest travel luggage company—to innovate and enhance their customer experience.

Satisfying a Craving for Productivity

To boost productivity and streamline operations, Morton Food Service, an independent distributor of food and beverage products based in Windsor, Ontario, began working with VAI, an independent mid-market enterprise resource planning (ERP) software developer.

Embracing the System

Ramesh Murthy is executive vice president and chief supply chain officer with Bob’s Discount Furniture, a rapidly growing omnichannel furniture retailer, with 164 stores across 24 states.

Boosting Supply Chain Visibility

Supply chain visibility enables companies to respond quickly to changes in customer demands, optimize production and distribution, deliver a superior customer experience, and gain a competitive edge. Here’s how to achieve it.

Ecommerce Plug and Play

Allan Marshall figured his days as a CEO were complete. He’d founded several successful logistics firms, including Segmentz, which eventually became XPO Logistics. Satisfied with all he had accomplished, Marshall then spent about 15 years providing seed capital for promising startups.

Autonomous at Last?

One of the most difficult and expensive areas of the supply chain is last-mile and home delivery. It can also be the most memorable and important aspect of the customer’s buying experience. So, it’s no surprise that last-mile delivery of goods is a key application for driverless technologies.

Reducing the Impact of Global Events

The global supply chain became even more connected in 2022. The U.S. Commerce Department reported record exports to 73 countries last year, and record imports from 90 nations. But the supply chain remained highly fragile and became a bigger responsibility to manage.

What to Consider Before You Shift

One trend driving the growth in manufacturing jobs has been reshoring–the practice of bringing manufacturing back to the United States. Reshoring activities were estimated to create more than 225,000 jobs in 2022, according to a Reshoring Initiative report.

Could Ocean Be the Best Solution?

Since COVID, businesses worldwide have had to contend with increased demand, limited storage capacities, and the need for fast, reliable transportation of goods. Many businesses have focused on ocean transport as a potential solution to their shipping issues.

Strategies to Overcome Cross-Border Obstacles

Brands selling internationally know that their cross-border strategies must accommodate changes in import taxes, localized prices, or governmental sanctions. What many may not initially consider is the complexities of country restrictions, and the possibility that certain products can be deemed a threat and held up in the customs process.

What You Don’t Know About Your Suppliers Can Hurt You

Most companies run credit checks to make sure their suppliers are stable. But how can executives keep up with the news and other crucial reports to see if those suppliers will keep their commitments?

The Future of Work is Already Here

Some supply chain employees may feel wary about job security with advancements in automation and technology. The truth is technology isn’t the enemy; it’s a necessity.

Asset Management is Everyone’s Job

When it comes to keeping the supply chain as efficient as possible, asset management is a vital priority that mustn’t be overlooked. Keeping careful track not only of goods, but of the shipping containers and platforms needed to transport these goods, should be everyone’s responsibility.

Greening the Last Mile

Last-mile delivery—the end stage of delivery from a pickup point or sortation center to a package’s final destination—is the most expensive aspect of the supply chain, from high fuel costs and address location to labor and first delivery failure. It also has the highest environmental impact of any other part of the supply chain.

3 Ways Predictive Analytics Improves Fulfillment

Organizations need the technical tools to provide operational insights that lead to smarter decisions about automating inventory management, warehousing, and distribution processes. With improved operational visibility, businesses can strengthen their order fulfillment and supply chain processes while keeping pace with customer expectations.

Thinking Inside the Box Truck

While most people are at least somewhat familiar with box trucks, these little workhorses don’t get enough credit. Also known as straight trucks or bobtails, they are usually 26 feet long and can carry up to 10,000 pounds of freight. They can also come in small (12 ft.) and medium size (14-18 ft.) configurations.

Auto Industry Shifts Logistics Strategies

While companies across industries and sizes are making changes to mitigate supply chain risk, the automotive industry seems to be leading the way on some of the top trends.

Market Swing: Prepare Now or Lose Later

Market indicators are pointing to a stronger second half of the year—in carriers’ favor—signaling to prudent shippers that the time is now to reevaluate both short- and long-term plans.

Process Manufacturing vs Discrete Manufacturing: Definitions and Differences

Manufacturing is the large-scale process of converting raw materials into finished products, utilizing factors of production, including human labor and machinery. Depending on the product requirements, you can use various manufacturing processes to get the desired output.  Discrete manufacturing and process manufacturing are the most common production methods. In this article, we explore the two […]

Vertical Integration: Definition, Examples, and Advantages

Companies can choose many business strategies to meet their supply chain and logistics needs. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages. The best method depends on a company’s specific needs, goals, and circumstances. Vertically integrated corporations, like those in the booming field of vertical aerospace, are giants with a grip on multiple stages of their production […]

Supply Chain Visibility: What It Is, Importance, and Types

Supply chain visibility is a process that provides customers with information regarding a product or service they ordered. By informing customers of the timeframe and details about a specific product they ordered from a business, the corporation can monitor orders, increase its daily operation efficiency, and avoid customer dissatisfaction. Without supply chain visibility, individuals would […]

What is a Courier Service: Meaning, Benefits, and Functions

When you need customizable and speedy pickup and delivery services to keep your supply chain flowing, you might consider the post office. Unfortunately, the post office charges high rates for anything faster than the norm, and its services are limited. The solution exists with couriers.  In the past, courier services were limited to local pickup […]

Container Freight Station: Definition, Purpose, and Benefits

In the past, items from the smaller shipments would be loaded and sorted during onboarding. But today, Container Freight Station (CFS) has changed the transportation system for smaller and larger shipments. In this article, we’ll highlight the meaning of a CFS, its purpose, and its benefits. What Is a Container Freight Station? A CFS is […]

Delivered Duty Paid: Meaning, Importance, and Process

The international shipping process is made up of multiple methods, including order placement and fulfillment, shipment, export, import, order notification, and delivery or return. Incoterms are rules that govern the shipment of goods between countries. This allows people to ship and receive items worldwide while still meeting local and federal shipment requirements. Buyers and sellers […]

Bullwhip Effect: Example, Causes, and Impact on Supply Chain

The supply chain ensures that raw materials, parts, and finished products are delivered to customers promptly and efficiently. However, the supply chain is a complex system that various major factors, such as changes in demand, production delays, or supply chain disruptions, can easily disrupt.  The bullwhip effect is one of supply chain management’s most significant […]

Expedited Shipping: Meaning, Pros, and Options

In today’s fast-paced e-commerce landscape, expedited shipping (sometimes referred to as expedite shipping)  is increasingly important. Customers’ desire for quick, reliable delivery of their purchases has led businesses to seek out faster, more efficient shipping options—which has driven a surge in expedited services and international expedited shipping. This article delves into the meaning, benefits, and […]

Smart Warehouse: Definition, Benefits, and Challenges

A smart warehouse represents the next stage of evolution in warehouse management, where cutting-edge technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), automated storage and retrieval systems, and autonomous mobile robots come together. A smart warehouse system enhances traditional warehousing processes by automating tasks, streamlining operations, and providing critical data to ensure […]

Value Chain vs. Supply Chain: Key Similarities and Differences

In business management, understanding the concepts of value chain and supply chain, as well as their similarities and differences, is crucial for optimizing operations and achieving a competitive advantage. Both these terms are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct aspects of operational management. We’ll explore why organizations must focus on value chain analysis and […]

Freight Broker vs. Freight Forwarder: Definition, Benefits, and Differences

There are many options and terms to know when it comes to shipping international and domestic freight. You may come across two standard terms: “freight broker” and “freight forwarder.” Though both facilitate and optimize shipping, there are critical differences between the two services in the freight industry. A freight broker acts as a middleman between […]

Order Processing: Meaning, Importance, and Steps

The number of consumers who order products and services online has been steadily increasing in recent years. This increase has led to rapid growth in orders processed by the different parties involved, from businesses to delivery companies.  Order processing is essential in any business’ marketing and distribution strategy to save money on production costs and […]

What Is Dunnage? Definition, Uses, and Types

Dunnage is a type of material used to fill empty spaces on ships, trucks, and other vehicles. Dunnage trucking helps to prevent shifting and damage during transport. Common materials used for dunnage include wood, metal, and plastic.  This article will look at the definition of dunnage, its uses, and the available types. It will also […]

Freight In vs Freight Out: Definitions and Examples

Freight costs are a part of expenses for companies involved in shipping goods and transporting products to customers. You must understand the difference between freight in vs freight out, regardless of whether you work for a shipping company, a freight company, or any other business that functions similarly. This article will provide an in-depth look […]

11 Types of Warehouses: A Complete Guide to Their Uses

Warehouses are essential to the supply chain and logistics industry. They provide storage facilities for a company’s upstream and downstream supply chain inventory until it is distributed to its final destination. These storage facilities ensure the smooth flow of goods through the supply chain from the manufacturer to the customer. However, not all warehouses are […]

Lessons Learned from the 1997 UPS Strike and Their Relevance Today

THEN: In August 1997, the UPS strike that not many thought would happen, did. Not only did it surprise many companies – but worse was its impact: It exposed companies’ reliance on a single carrier for their livelihood.  At the time, UPS dominated the ground network and had roughly 75% of the U.S. parcel market. […]

Artificial Intelligence in Fleet Management: The Advantages and Disadvantages of Using AI Resources in Fleet Operations

Today’s highly sophisticated and evolving artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools and resources, including ones that leverage natural language processing like ChatGPT and Google’s new AI product Bard, are creating many new opportunities for organizations. However, the actual impact AI will have on transportation fleets in the areas of improved equipment asset management strategies, and operations such […]

Process Manufacturing: Definition, Benefits, and Industries

Manufacturing is the process of creating a finished product from raw materials or ingredients. This action is accomplished by using machinery, human labor, and other tools, with some manufacturing requiring chemical processes. There are various methods of manufacturing systems linked with producing final goods. Process is one of the main manufacturing methods. In this article, […]

Commercial Invoice: Definition and Terms

A commercial invoice is a customs-required document for any internationally sold shipment of goods. As a document, a commercial invoice plays an important role in facilitating the processing of products and owed taxes or duties. The following summary covers all you need to know about a commercial invoice and its role in international trade. What […]

The Ultimate Guide to Perpetual Inventory Systems: Benefits, Implementation, and Best Practices

In this guide, we’ll explore how a perpetual inventory system can revolutionize your business’ inventory management process and compare it to periodic inventory count systems. Throughout this guide, you’ll learn about the key differences between a perpetual system and periodic inventory systems. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of using a perpetual inventory system […]

Neo Bulk Cargo: Meaning, Types, and Examples

The shipping industry, the cornerstone of global trade, has witnessed the rising popularity of a distinct cargo category called neo bulk cargo. This innovative cargo type transforms the traditional bulk cargo model by integrating specialized equipment and practices for shipping various goods.  In this article, we’ll delve into neo bulk cargo, its various types, and […]

This Ain’t Your Parents’ Inventory Cycle

Speculation has been mounting that the inventory cycle is back. Profit warnings by major American companies such as GAP, Walmart, and Target that had taken on excess inventories and now needed to run them down raised concerns that a concerted drawdown of stocks could make a likely U.S. recession worse.

Is Goods-to-Person Technology Right for Your Business?
 Working With a 3PL May Be the Best Way to Find Out

Goods-to-person technologies can revolutionize each picking by turning traditional warehouse processes on their head. Instead of pickers walking miles each day to find and pick products, a goods-to-person system delivers the right product at the right time to pickers who remain stationary. The result can be an increase in picking productivity, faster order cycle times, […]

Green Supply Chains Come Full Circle

A growing number of organizations are incorporating circular supply chain approaches within their operations. Here’s a look at how they are closing the loop.

Hurricane Season – 11 Questions to Ask Yourself

Hurricane season for 2023 is upon us. And it’s never too late to be properly prepared. It’s always better to be over-prepared and then nothing happens than to be under-prepared and a major storm comes your way. Every business owner, regardless of the type of work they do, should address the following 11 questions in […]

Sriracha Brings the Heat

Hawaii Logistics: Moving on Island Time

As an island state importing most goods it uses and with limited storage, Hawaii challenges companies to keep shipments moving just in time. Here’s how logistics providers shore up supply chains and keep disruptions at bay.

GOOD QUESTION: What one supply chain adjustment would make the biggest impact on ESG?

Mature your data so you can use it like Google Maps. Sustained ESG marries continuous improvement with reporting and analysis—predicated on trustworthy data. Every company has a different origin, destination, and journey. Equip your organization with dependable navigation skills by building data intelligence and embedding a culture of data-driven action.

–Michael Ochi
Sr. Manager, Sustainability and Digital Manufacturing
QAD

Green Technology Partners

These solutions providers offer technology that empowers sustainable supply chains.

Shippers Gain Confidence

What can shippers expect next quarter? BlueGrace Logistics’ Q3 Logistics Confidence Index finds these key highlights: Anticipated revenue maintained a positive trend, decreasing by only 4% across all shippers surveyed. Inventory levels measured highest at neutral and therefore are not expected to expand or contract for Q3. Order volume (sentiment) increased by 5%. That suggests order volumes […]

State of Digitization in Forwarding

The pace of digitalization in freight forwarding has accelerated since 2020, as companies increasingly invest in technology solutions to streamline operations, finds a Magaya report. However, the industry still has a long way to go to capitalize on evolving technological advancements. Many organizations still rely heavily on inefficient manual processes. The survey’s key findings include: […]

Industrial Sector Cools, Manufacturing Heats Up

Following record high demand and rent prices notched during the pandemic, the industrial sector’s dynamics are shifting and demand is cooling, finds a new U.S. industrial market update from Savills. Some predictions about where things are headed from here: Vacancy rates are on the rise. While the market is still historically tight, vacancy rates are […]

Reshoring Moves Beyond the Drawing Table

Reshoring and nearshoring have finally matured into commercial realities, finds Kearney’s 10th annual Reshoring Index Report. Reshoring initiatives have become so successful that companies that took a wait-and-see approach to locating manufacturing operations in the past are now scrambling to find facilities in Mexico and the United States. But the road to reshoring is harder […]

Technology Leads the Pack

Packaging used to be simply for protecting and identifying a product; now it helps drive sales. Smart packaging—which uses technology to enhance user engagement, product quality, and supply chain efficiency—is the latest iteration, according to Smart Packaging 2023-2033, a new report from IDTechEx. Establishing business models that utilize these technologies to unlock value for brands […]

Air Cargo Grounded

The global air cargo market may have to hang on until October for signs of a recovery. A flood of summer bellyhold capacity on major lanes and a 4% drop in demand in April 2023 indicates challenging months ahead, according to new analysis from CLIVE Data Services, part of Xeneta. Air freight spot rates dropped […]

Chemical Logistics: Formulating Solutions

As chemical production increases in the United States, logistics providers drum up solutions to transport these critical shipments safely, efficiently, and accurately—leveraging specialized expertise and experience.

Warehouse Location Automation

If a robot told you where to go, would you listen? Choosing a domestic distribution site is a well-honed science with several schools of thought. Some supply chain practitioners favor the mega-DC approach, while others use retail locations to do double-duty as efulfillment centers. Other practices include a blended approach to match evolving customer demand.

Optimize Your Supply Chain Balance Sheet

Every supply chain contains both hidden costs and potential savings. Smart shippers and their logistics partners utilize their data to discover cost-saving opportunities that improve profitability.

Supply Chain Control Tower: Definition, Types, and Implementation

In today’s global economy, effective supply chain management is increasingly complex. Companies face the challenge of ensuring timely product delivery, cost minimization, and consistent quality within a fragmented supply chain landscape. One solution gaining traction is the supply chain control tower (SCCT) model—a centralized hub for monitoring, managing, and optimizing all aspects of a supply […]