Articles
Logistics
Electronic Data Interchange: Definition, Process, and Benefits
The use of technology is rapidly increasing in many industry sectors worldwide, including logistics. Technologies such as cloud computing and IoT devices have enabled logistics companies to access real-time data and improve the coordination of their operations. One key improvement area is how Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is used in logistics operations. This technology has […]
Read MoreLogistics Optimization: Importance, Process, and Optimization
Supply chain management refers to all the steps necessary to ensure goods reach their destinations. Consumer expectations have increased steadily, requiring companies to operate supply chains as effectively as possible to meet the demands of commerce. Logistics optimization is a strategy that companies implement to meet the growing demand for fast and efficient supply chain […]
Read MoreSupply Chain vs. Logistics: Definitions, Similarities, and Differences
As companies continue to grow, it is important to understand the differences between supply chain and logistics. Although related, the two have distinct attributes that can substantially influence how businesses manage their activities. This article explores supply chain vs. logistics – what they mean, how they differ from each other, and the integration opportunities. The […]
Read MoreNOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
Good Works J.B. Hunt Transport Services awarded $55,000 to 55 classrooms as part of its Adopt-a-Class program, which provides schools with resources to obtain learning supplies and other essentials. Atlanta-based Americold and Feed the Children worked with the Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs-Welcoming Atlanta to distribute 8,000 ready-to-eat meal kits to students throughout December […]
Read MoreVERTICAL FOCUS: Pet Supplies
Biofuels: A Pet Peeve A proposed EPA rule has the pet industry howling. The rule would establish required Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes and percentage standards for 2023, 2024, and 2025 (see chart). The EPA also recommended a series of modifications to strengthen and expand the RFS program. The pet food industry’s response was swift […]
Read MoreInbound Logistics: Definition, Examples, and Process
Logistics is an essential aspect of any business, as it involves planning, organizing, and managing the flow of goods, services, and information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. It encompasses the entire process of sourcing raw materials, assembling products, and delivering finished goods to customers. Logistics can be divided into two […]
Read MoreFive Factors to Consider: Intermodal or Truck
2022’s capacity crunch is in the rearview mirror, but it’s never too early to plan for the next upcycle. Here’s how to choose your optimal ground transportation mode.
Read MoreMost Read Articles of 2022
The challenges of the past few years did not ease up in 2022. Here are some articles covering practical strategies that readers turned to for advice last year.
Read MoreRetailers Come Closer to Home
E-commerce companies are reworking the twists and turns in their distribution networks to get closer to their customers and speed delivery times by shortening the last mile.
Read MoreLogistics Planning: Definition, Types, Importance, and Strategies
Have you ever been to a business that looked neat and orderly at first glance, but behind the scenes it was a different story? It’s easy to present as a well-oiled machine in the front office, but if you neglect business processes at other levels, you’re in trouble. Logistics planning can help you fire on […]
Read MoreThe Last Mile: Ice Cream Logistics… Licked
When it comes to frozen desserts, ice cream tops the list for U.S. consumers. Here’s how ice cream makers keep churning it out.
Read MoreVERTICAL FOCUS: Raw Materials
Insight into the latest supply chain trends for raw materials.
Read MoreNOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
From sustainability efforts to recent mergers and acquisitions, here’s what’s new and notable in the supply chain.
Read MoreWaste Eats Away the Bottom Line
Overproduction and waste may push margins in the wrong direction. A recent Avery Dennison report finds that 8% of stock perishes or is discarded before it reaches consumers–inventory losses worth up to $163.1 billion or 3.6% of annual profits. Of the 8% waste, slightly more than half (53.8%) is lost in the supply chain before products reach store shelves.
Read MoreAI and ML in Retail: Help or Hype?
Top-performing retailers are bullish on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), with 71% of respondents to a Retail Systems Research report saying AI-enabled analytics will fundamentally change their merchandising forecasting by 2025.
Read More10 Tips: Matching Inventory To Demand
Demand is a constantly changing variable in any supply chain. Each time the demand tides change, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers must align inventory levels to meet customer expectations. Here are tips for doing it successfully.
Read MoreStay Chill
Shippers face many challenges when maintaining the cold chain for food transportation. Chill out! These solutions can help.
Read MoreDevanning: Definition, Process, and Benefits
Devanning is a process of warehouse and logistics management that uses digital technology to systematically unload loose items and shipping containers from a vehicle’s load space. Container devanning involves loading and unloading cargo using a sealed container and heavy-duty equipment like counterbalance forklifts to manage the entire operation. When goods devan at the destination, companies […]
Read MoreReverse Logistics: All You Need to Know About What It Is
If you’re a retailer or e-commerce seller, you need to know about reverse logistics, also known as reverse logistics flow. Reverse logistics is a supply chain management system used to manage the return of products that were originally sent out with an order. Here’s what reverse logistics is, why it is essential, pros and cons, […]
Read MoreAcquiring Minds Want To Know
A new report by Barclays Corporate Banking finds that nearly half of all UK logistics businesses are likely to make an acquisition in the next 12 months as they look to expand operations and become more competitive—the highest figure recorded in the survey’s 10-year history.
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