• Free Subscription
  • News
  • Newsletters
  • COVID-19
  • Whitepapers
  • Events
Search:
  • ARTICLES
    • News
    • This Month
    • Articles by Subject
    • Features
    • Case Studies
    • How-To
    • Commentary
    • Online Exclusives
    • Trends
    • Global
    • Sponsored Articles
    • Digital Issues & Editions
  • LOGISTICS PLANNER
    • View Profiles by Category
    • View Profiles by Company
    • Logistics Planner RFP
  • SEND RFP/RFI
    • See all RFPs
    • 3PL RFP
    • Alaska RFP/RFI
    • Air Cargo/Air Forwarder RFP
    • Chemical Logistics RFP
    • ECommerce RFP
    • Economic Development RFP
    • Education RFI
    • Food Logistics/Temp Controlled RFP
    • Forklift/Pallets/Materials Handling RFP
    • Freight Payment/Audit Services RFP
    • Global Logistics RFP
    • Latin America RFP
    • Logistics IT RFP
    • Logistics Planner RFP
    • Materials Handling RFP
    • Ocean/Intermodal/Rail RFP
    • Retail RFP
    • Site Selection RFP
    • Sustainable Supply Chain Partner RFP
    • TMS RFP
    • Trucking RFP
    • WMS RFP
    • Warehousing RFP
  • FIND SOLUTIONS
    • Find a 3PL/Warehouse
    • Find an Air Forwarder
    • Find a Logistics Education Program
    • Find a Technology Company
    • Find a Trucking Company
  • WEB_CITE CITY®
    • Search Our Web Directory
    • Add Your Company
  • MODES & SERVICES
    • 3PL
    • Air Cargo
    • Chemical Logistics
    • Forklifts, Pallets, & Materials Handling
    • Logistics & Supply Chain Education
    • Green Supply Chain Partners Survey
    • Logistics IT
    • Ocean/Intermodal/Rail
    • Site Selection & Economic Development
    • Trucking
    • Warehousing
  • PODCASTS
    • All Podcasts
    • PANYNJ Podcast
    • DHL Podcast
  • STAY CONNECTED
    • Subscribe
    • Connect
  • ADVERTISE
    • Sponsor Content
    • Request a Content Guide
    • Request a BPA Audit Statement
  • DIGITAL EDITIONS
Articles related to Cosmetics Logistics: The Beauty of an Optimized Supply Chain

Related Articles

Ryan Kelly

E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Balancing Inventory for a Better Customer Experience

With the growth of e-commerce, retailers have identified a potential opportunity to reduce working capital by thinning inventory at brick-and-mortar stores—opting instead to maintain major portions of inventory at distribution centers upstream.

Two hands comprised of gears grasped in a handshake

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management

The Mechanics of 3PL Partnerships

Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.

Illustration of connected points

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing

E-Commerce DC Site Selection: Connecting the Dots

E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.

Worker pulling packages off DSW's sortation system

E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing

DSW Tries On New SKUs and Stocks

Retailer DSW's new replenishment materials handling solution improves inventory control and reduces in-store markdowns.

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management

E-Fulfillment Strategies That Deliver the Goods

This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.

E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail

You Are Everywhere: Mapping the New Retail Supply Chain

Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.

Mike Marlowe

3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Integrate Contract Packaging Into Distribution Operations to Cut Costs by 30%

By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.

John Watkins

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

How 3PL Warehouses Can Capitalize on the Escalating Demands of Prospects and Customers

3PL warehouses are not only in demand, but in a position of strength. This provides 3PL operators a unique opportunity to build lasting relationships with key customers, suppliers, and retailers of their choice.

E-commerce, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation

Download the Inbound Logistics Planner App Today

Find the right solutions, carriers and partners to drive efficiency in your supply chain operations and enable your enterprise to navigate the twists and turns, ups and downs of the coming year.

Todd Miller

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Solving the E-Commerce Puzzle

To overcome the challenges that e-commerce presents to the supply chain, shippers need to succeed at omni-channel fulfillment. From leveraging brick-and-mortar stores to deploying an order management system, here’s how they can compete in an e-commerce world.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation

Trends—October 2016

Rise of e-commerce changing logistics real estate landscape; Companies who don’t sell globally may be sacrificing profits; Many smaller fleets non-compliant with upcoming ELD mandate

Ryan Kelly

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Optimizing Inbound for Improved E-Commerce Fulfillment

A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.

Rob Kriewaldt

E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Become an Extension of Your Client’s Brand

As entities responsible for brokering appropriate carrier rates, ensuring accurate quantities of orders and guaranteeing high quality of products, third-party logistics providers are extensions of companies’ brands.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

Girl Scout Cookie Sales Go Digital and Milk E-Commerce Innovation

The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) created and implemented a new way of taking and filling orders for its annual cookie drive. Here’s how it made sure cookie sales didn’t crumble.

Ken Wacker

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain

Accelerating Enterprise Logistics With Top-Tier Multi-Modal Solutions

Logistics has evolved into a strategic business concern, driving enterprises to seek third-party logistics (3PL) providers with multi-modal capabilities for complete end-to-end integration.

E-commerce, Retail, Packaging

SWISH! Shippers Score with Small Box Deliveries

Companies are shipping ever-increasing volumes of small parcels as e-commerce grows. Read about the strategies that shippers and providers are using to offset the higher cost of small parcel delivery.

Brent Daboub

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Why Parcel Sorting Automation Can't Wait

As e-commerce continues to surge, the case for automation is now too compelling to ignore. One good way to start can be to automate parcel sorting at local and regional distribution centers. 

Torben Kock

E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

CPG Market Demanding More Flexible Logistics Solutions

E-commerce and omni-channel retailing have a major impact on supply chain and logistics needs, and customers have to make sure their supply chain is equipped to offer maximum flexibility.

E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Channeling the Brick and Click Dilemma

As e-commerce continues to transform consumer behavior, retailers explore hybrid omni-channel supply chain models that deliver the best that online and in-store have to offer.

3PL, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Retail Collaboration: It’s All in the Jeans

Work with a team of service providers to get a new retail distribution center up and running in only six months? We should all be so lucky.

E-commerce, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Site Selection & E-Commerce: Tapping Regional Excellence

E-commerce excellence and proximity to large population areas are the new drivers behind site selection for fulfillment centers.

Peter Zaballos

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Searching For the New Perfect Order

Retailers need new technologies and capabilities to operate in a new omni-channel world.

Pol Sweeny

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Why Retailers Put Their Sleighbells on in May

Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.

Customer Service, Distribution, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Supply Chain Management

From the Outside In: Supply Chain as Strategic Advantage

Executives at two leading companies weigh in on supply chain’s value to their organizations.

3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Star Search: Discovering the Best Site for Your Business

Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.

The New Retail: Three Legs to Stand On

Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management

New Retail Strategies: It’s a Store! It’s a Site! It’s a Warehouse!

Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.

Workers in the KaiKini Bikinis production facility

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Diving Into Multi-Channel Fulfillment

Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management

3PL e-Volution Continues

Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.

Bob McKee

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Optimizing the Fashion Supply Chain

Fashion businesses must react instantly to fashion shifts and focus on getting goods to consumers quickly.

Chris Halkyard

E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Setting the E-Commerce Gold Standard

Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.

Curtis Greve

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Minimizing the Financial Impact of Peak Season Returns

Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.

E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Customer Service: Delivering the Royal Treatment

As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.

John Haber

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management

8 Ways to Strengthen Online Retailer Supply Chains

Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.

Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail

How to Develop a Direct-to-Store Delivery Model

A Direct-to-Store Delivery (DSD) delivery model helps consumer goods manufacturers gain speed and increase inventory turns.

3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing

Logistics Outsourcing: An Active Culture at Dannon

Dannon's network design provides flexibility and speed to serve customers quickly, reduces transport time and costs, and delivers on the company's sustainability initiatives, while ensuring product freshness.

Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Enabling a Faster-to-Market Solution

Cath Kidston partnered with SEKO to expand the company’s inbound business from Asia to the UK and its distribution centers in Hong Kong and Shanghai supplying its international franchises.

Spencer Moore

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Walmart’s ShippingPass Has Ended. What Retailers Should Do Next.

The e-commerce race is only heating up. Here's what small to mid-size retailers should do to stay in the game.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Omni-Channel Retail: Roadmap To Profit

Omni-channel retail supply chains are forging new paths to profitability. Here's what they look like.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Risk Management, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What’s your supply chain resolution for 2017?

Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.

Paul Thompson

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Shaking Up the Brown Box: Big Winners in Supply Chain Evolution

Business to consumer demand is set to outpace supply in the marketplace. Those who can solve that problem will be the big winners in the next phase of supply chain management.

Howard Rosenberg

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Rethinking Reverse Logistics for Online Apparel Returns

As physical shopping bags are being replaced by virtual ones, it’s important for retailers to update their policies and logistics strategies to align with consumer behavior and expectations.

Jessica Dankert

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Tackling Retail Logistics: Build Your Team First

The flexible supply chain of the future is full of opportunities and challenges. With the right team and talent on your side, you’ll be well positioned for success. Here’s how to get the right people.

E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Warehousing

3PLs Up The Ante

Thirty years ago, third-party logistics providers offered mainly rudimentary logistics and warehousing services. Today, however, many 3PLs offer complex solutions that help companies achieve strategic goals.

Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain

Hardware Upgrade Unwraps DC Improvements

Kelli’s Gift Shop Suppliers deployed Janam’s mobile computers and transformed its distribution center operations. From improving efficiency and productivity, find out how the handheld devices boosted inventory control and customer satisfaction for the wholesale distributor.

John Lash

Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

How Precise Forecasting Tames Item Proliferation

More accurate forecasts enable better planning, lower inventory and manufacturing costs, and improved service levels.

Bill Ravenscroft

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain

Getting Distribution Centers in Peak Season Shape

Distribution centers (DCs) play a key role in the overall success of each peak season, as supply chain professionals must meet the surge in consumer demand and fulfill orders efficiently. Here are 10 ways to help you identify and fill seasonal needs of distribution centers.

Nick McLean

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.

How to Beat Amazon at the Retail and Supply Chain Game in 2017

With heavy competition from Amazon in both retail and supply chain logistics, retailers that don’t begin making changes and investments in omni-channel in 2017 will see serious repercussions by 2020. For starters, they must invest in distributed order management and enterprise wide inventory visibility.

Chris Jones

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing, Visibility

Getting the Goods on Logistics this Holiday Season

In time for the holiday season and other peak periods, retailers are stepping up their game in delivery, fulfillment, and warehousing technology to improve the effectiveness of existing resources.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

How Supply Chain Strategies Impact
E-commerce Success

The emergence of e-commerce as part of a company’s omni-channel marketing program requires not only an agile, lean supply chain but also a strategy to get there.

Isabel DuPont

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

Accurate Product Data Drives Supply Chain Systems

Supply chain applications stumble when the product data they’re using is inaccurate. Here's how to make sure data is consistent and comes from well-crafted and executed processes.

Food Logistics, Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation, Warehousing

Alan Sargent: A Sweet Confection Connection

Profile of Alan Sargent, supply chain and logistics director, Just Born Candy

Matt Engle

E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Using Tunnel Scanning to Meet
E-commerce Challenges

Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Retail Logistics: When Fast Isn't Fast Enough

This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing

Warehouse Makeover: Blueprint For Change

The warehouse design of tomorrow is flexing to meet the physical needs of basic warehouse operators as well as more highly automated e-commerce fulfillment centers.

Air Cargo, Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Rail, Pallets, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation, Warehousing

Creating a Lean and Green Culture

Launching a cost cutting, productivity-enhancing, or sustainability initiative creates efficiencies with environmental benefits and cost reductions.

Bruce Moore

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Analyzing Freight & Logistics Operations

Disruption is coming to the freight and logistics industry. By seeing and understanding the full spectrum of operations, transport-oriented firms can survive and succeed in a dramatically changed environment.

Eric Allais

E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing

Two Key Factors Drive WMS Adoption Today

The warehouse management system (WMS) has emerged as a valuable tool for tracking and streamlining tasks, the workforce, and material/equipment flows. Here are two factors driving its adoption today.

Mark White

3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Crossborder E-commerce Into the U.S. Just Got A Lot Easier – U.S. Retailers Should Take Note and Plan Accordingly

The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.

Brett Conner

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Naughty or Nice—Which Retailers and Delivery Services Will Make the Grade this Holiday Season?

The holiday season is well underway, increasing the pressure on companies to address transportation problems and change the outcome before they turn into costly errors.

Paul A. Myerson

Retail Logistics, Distribution, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

RFID: More Than Just a Better Barcode

Radio Frequency Identification Technology has a multitude of benefits that can have a significant impact on reducing and eliminating waste in the extended supply chain.

Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Azteca Foods Craves Inventory Management System 

When Azteca Foods outgrew its manual pallet tracking system in its production facility, Barcoding Inc. delivered a solution.

Jim Hayden

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Optimizing the Holiday Supply Chain With Reliable ETA

Timeliness is top of mind during the holiday season. Here's how analytics can help shippers meet delivery spikes and prepare their supply chains.

E-commerce, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Retail

How to Implement a Successful Retail Omni-Channel Logistics Operation in Asia Pacific

For any United States-based company interested in expanding its retail logistics operations outside of the country, Asia Pacific may be the most ideal location.

Jeremy Bodenhamer

E-commerce, Cross-Docking, Logistics, Packaging

Shipping for the Digital Age

In order to create a consistent end-to-end logistics system, shippers need to connect the technological dots. Find out how.

E-commerce, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership

The Beauty of Global Logistics

EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.

E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology

Trends—October 2015

Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service gives industrial buyers a preview of how IoT may impact procurement; Private label sourcing faces new headwinds; Cloud Logistics debuts the latest twist in TMS deployments; CMA CGM launches first smart connected container ship; Automotive parts buyers are leveraging omni-channel options

Retail Logistics, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics

Reader Profile | Jeff Larson: A Gem of a Job

Jeff Larson, director of distribution engineering analysis at Tiffany & Co., works with the jewelry company’s international locations to help improve their operations.

E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation

Trends—September 2015

New York State minimum wage directive may be a tipping point for automation in the fast food industry; Organic food recalls are on the rise; Alix Partners reports that nearshoring trend continues to grow; Pro truck interests take weight restriction fight in new direction; 2015 holiday shoppers are looking for options; The cash handling supply chain is poised to move from manual processing to scanning technology, thanks to the new GS1 US Cash Visibility Discussion Group.

Felecia Stratton

E-commerce, Retail, Technology , Warehousing

Just Another Brick in the Mall 

E-commerce is leaving a trail of brick-and-mortar debris in its wake.

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Packaging, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Be a Logistics Superhero

Increasing costs and challenges within the logistics industry affect your bottom line. Use these steps to reduce logistics costs.

Felecia Stratton

E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Turning Back the Pages: 20 Years of Top 100 3PLs

When you consider the rapid evolution of supply chain management over the past two decades the 3PL industry has been a featured piece in an increasingly pixelated mosaic.

E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Chemical Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Trends—July 2015

Amazon and Walmart vie for last-mile supremacy; Nevada community college establishes logistics program to meet Tesla labor demand; Industrial buyers think outside the box; Consortium establishes new chemical footprint assessment; VMI opportunities abound as shippers look to optimize inventory; study looks at the ghost economy

Mike Grayson

E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics

3PLs Can Deliver Big Benefits to Small Companies

The right 3PL partner can help to even the playing field between SMBs and their larger big box competitors.

E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology

2015 3PL Perspectives

Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.

Tom Caporaso

E-commerce, Retail

What Customers Expect in the E-Commerce Age

Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.

Joe Bellini

Customer Service, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Inventory Replenishment: Why Push When You Can Pull?

Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.

E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Building a Smarter Warehouse

Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?

E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—March 2015

U.S. beef supply chain participants form partnership to improve sustainability; Manufacturers and retailers fail to adopt best-in-class processes and technology to address global complexities; Online retailers need to rethink how they align their distribution networks; Spot market rates dip seasonally as West Coast volumes catch up; Staples and Syracuse University partner to drive new research and innovation.

John Sell

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

How Omni-Channel Commerce Is Changing Traditional Supply Chains

Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.

Paul A. Myerson

Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Designing a New Strategy for a New Year

Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.

3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Mexico, Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Medical Devices: A Tale of Two Countries

It was the worst of times for U.S./Mexico healthcare. Can demand-driven logistics make it the best of times?

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management

The Luxury of Logistics Excellence

To expand its footprint in the luxury accessories market, Royce Leather indulged in a solution that connects it to new customers and streamlines fulfillment. That’s how Royce rolls.

Sonal Sinha

3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management

Keeping Vendor Risk Under Control During the Holiday Season

With the holiday season in full swing, logistics managers must be able to rely on their vendors to perform.

Felecia Stratton

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail

Service With A Demand-driven Smile

As e-commerce and ominchannel raise expectations, and consumers become more impatient, supply chain practitioners turn to technology to help them perform.

Paul A. Myerson

Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Supply Chain Integration + Collaboration = Time Travel?

Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.

Air Cargo, E-commerce, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—October 2014

UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations

E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership

Global Logistics—October 2014

Pilot program uses drones to deliver time-sensitive goods; Canadian government lines up two new bilateral trade agreements; Labor rights causing supply chain disruption; Using social media to understand carrier usage.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Automation That’s Worth the Weight

When a merger required Nature’s Way to consolidate distribution facilities, it called on the services of system supplier The Numina Group for a new design and technologies. Today, the facility successfully distributes products to customers in 50 states, and overseas through five supply chain channels.

Intertape Polymer Group products

3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

3PL Partnership Provides The Total Package

Intertape Polymer Group outsourced transportation to gain control of its diverse product line and protect profit margins.

Bruce Kulp, SVP of supply chain and refurbishment, Game Stop

E-commerce, Customer Service, Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Bruce Kulp Scores Big

When it comes to keeping up with demand, Game Stop's Bruce Kulp doesn’t play around.

Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart

Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Rolling Back the Walmart Way

Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart, focuses on building transportation synergies.

Various types of extreme weather attack a home

Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Forecasting the Unexpected: Home Improvement Retailers and Emergency Response

When a natural disaster hits, consumers rely on home improvement stores for the products they need to repair or rebuild.

Curtis Greve

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

How to Profit from Outsourcing

Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.

Illustration of satisfied customer

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Managing Retail Returns: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.

3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing

The New 3PL Partnership: More Bang for Your Buck

Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.

Packages on a conveyor belt

3PL, Distribution, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Safety, Warehousing

Materials Handling Meets Big Data

Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.

doorbell to the world

Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

The Direct Sales Supply Chain: Where There’s a Will There’s Amway

George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.

x-ray image of piggy bank

3PL, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management

Controlling Costs in the Healthcare Supply Chain

Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.

Seafood shipments

Air Cargo, 3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Packaging, Temperature Controlled

Perishable Logistics: Cold Chain on a Plane

Air cargo shipments of perishable goods such as produce, flowers, and seafood require careful handling.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Visions of Customer Service

Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.

Walmart store in China

China, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.

Putting Stock in Retail Analytics Tools

Kimberly-Clark China uses retail analytics tools to manage inventory and avoid stockouts at stores like Walmart.

Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Warehousing

Inventory Optimization: A Natural Fit

A new inventory management system by Manhattan Associates nurses Nature's Best's fulfillment operations back to health.

E-commerce, Retail

Trends—April 2013

E-commerce presents retailers with challenges and opportunities; Food regulation top of mind for 3PLs and shippers; Daktronics’ lean machine keeps production at home; Nike partners with Bluesign Technologies to facilitate sustainable sourcing program among supply chain partners.

E-commerce, Distribution, Site Selection

e-Commerce: Finding the Sweet Spot

Online retailers seeking new sites for DCs and warehouses need the transportation infrastructure to support a constant, rapid-fire flow of shipments – plus a capable workforce, affordable utilities, and business incentives to help them get the most from their investment.

Distribution, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Inventory Replenishment: A Push in the Right Direction

Close-out retailer Tuesday Morning implemented Interlink’s WHSe-LINK warehouse management system to receive, store, and allocate its daily inbound shipments of unique SKUs.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Retail

Retailers Rebalance Time vs. Cost?

Velocity is more important than price for some consumers, perhaps giving some retailers another component to consider as they compete, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.

E-commerce, Retail

Holiday Stocking: Preparing for the Seasonal Retail Rush

Strong forecasting, careful vendor management, solid partnerships with carriers and optimized use of labor and equipment all help retailers manage the year-end holiday rush.

Greg White

3PL, Inventory Management

3PL Value-Adds Mean Millions

By identifying the value-adds that brand and retail shippers want, logistics providers can position their offerings to bring millions in benefits to their customers and make the relationship stick, writes Greg White of Blue Ridge.

Tod Yazdi

E-commerce, Retail

Dealing With Daily-Deal Sites

New e-commerce sites like Groupon and LivingSocial can bring huge sales volume in a very short period of time by reaching a targeted audience with appealing offers. Tod Yazdi of TAGGlogistics explains how shippers can work with fulfillment partners to make the most of this new opportunity.

Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation Management

Integration: The Dawning of a New Era

When baseball cap maker New Era’s business growth hit critical mass, it realigned its distribution operations, fusing Menlo Worldwide Logistics’ outsourced solutions with its global supply chain.

gold medal customer service

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Warehousing

Superstar Service: Supply Chain Strategies Win Satisfied Customers

Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.

Clyde Mount

3PL, Retail

Enjoying the Perks of 3PL Order Management

Viewing order management as an opportunity to add value ensures that 3PLs act as a partner that adds real revenue-side value, and not just another vendor, writes Clyde Mount, 3PL Worldwide.

Distribution, Retail

Trends—March 2011

Amazon closes Texas distribution facility over sales tax dispute; Robert Guenther of United Fresh Produce Association comments on FDA Food Safety Modernization Act; U.S. General Services Administration rolls out green guidelines for government suppliers; Crossdocking use is on the rise

3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

CSCMP Annual Conference: Can We Talk?

Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.

Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

How to Drive Collaborative Distribution

Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.

3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Distribution

How to Ship to Alaska

The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.

Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis

Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.

3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Gemma Fillmore: Supply Chain Advocate

To improve supply chain performance at Medco Health Solutions, Gemma Fillmore focuses on getting C-level executives to give logistics issues the attention they deserve.

Chris Kane

3PL, Distribution, Partnership

Collaborative Distribution Eases the Capacity Crunch

Small and mid-sized manufacturers lack the scale to ship in full truckloads, creating thousands of separate, inefficient lines of supply—all moving to the same mass retailers. Collaborative distribution reduces the number of trucks on the road and cuts distribution costs.

Keith Biondo

Distribution, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Inbound 3.0 at Walmart

Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.

3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing

Consumer Packaged Goods: Lightening the Load

Here's the story of one consumer product, starting with its origin as a variety of inbound ingredients and following its progress from plant to warehouse to retail store.

John Kuehn

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Flower Power: John Kuehn

ProFlowers' time- and temperature-sensitive shipments create plenty of challenges for John Kuehn, senior vice president of supply chain operations. Here's how he nips problems in the bud.

Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

E-fulfillment: Finding the Perfect Fit

Online haberdasher Bonobos relies on its third-party fulfillment partner, Quiet Logistics, which operates warehousing facilities with Kiva's robotics materials handling solution.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Reverse Logistics: It's All Coming Back to Me Now

Using reverse logistics strategies, shippers can recoup maximum value on a product when the first sale doesn't work out.

Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology

Legend Valve Opens Fulfillment Spigot

The integration between 6 River Systems collaborative mobile robots called Chucks, Packsize, and JD Edwards’ ERP systems doubled Legend Valves’ pick rates and increased its order management and shipping accuracy.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Retail Optimization Through a Revamped Network

With an expanding customer base and recent surge in volume, a CPG company turned to Hub Group to construct a dynamic solution. The 3PL streamlined the company’s handling process while increasing service levels.

Clark Cassell

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology

E-Commerce Trends Drive Automation Initiatives

Automation is the answer when it comes to adjusting supply chain operations to support increasing e-commerce fulfillment. It’s a tool set to make your employees more productive, and more effective. Instead of bringing on more people, you increase the value of the people you have.

Doug Mefford

Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Warehousing

Inventory Management: Two Key Indicators to Improve Warehouse Operations

Calculating the coverage rate and the turnover rate are excellent ways to add resiliency to your supply chain. To do this you will need a solution in which you can accurately track data in real time.

Hannah Testani

E-commerce, Technology

The Three Trends Driving Supply Chain Efficacy in 2021

An advanced solution that marries both technology and people through business intelligence reporting and automation is the only way forward for today's supply chains.

Big Data, 3PL, Technology

Aptitive Helps 3PL Derive Insights from Data with Real-Time Analytics Platform

A Chicago-based 3PL turned to Aptitive to design a scalable data and analytics modernization platform. Aptitive delivered a solution that not only helped the provider, but their customers as well.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership

3PL Outsourcing Beyond the Initial Goals

RedStone understands that cost savings are just a part of each client relationship; a 3PL must provide more if the relationship is to withstand the demands of an ever-changing supply chain.

E-commerce, Retail, Partnership

SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers

Retailer Shein streamlined supply chain operations by leveraging a partnership with Air-City and SEKO, which enables shippers to move express e-commerce orders quickly across international borders..

Mario Rivera

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution

Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges

These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.

Brandon Buckley

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Technology

Speed, Reach & Flexibility Are Critical to Supply Chain Success in COVID Era

The growth of digital commerce is relentless, and the only way 3PLs can stay ahead is to adapt to market-driven needs to strengthen customers’ supply chains.

Health Care Logistics, Distribution

Are We Ready to Deliver the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Is the supply chain ready to deliver COVID-19 vaccines? The supporting technology exists and the resources are in place, but now that the vaccine is available, it's up to the logisticians to connect those dots from end to end.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Fulfillment

Revisiting 2020

This was a year like no other for supply chain and logistics management. here's what we'll remember about 2020.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

DHL Shares Strategy for Peak Season and Beyond

E-commerce is up 65% year over year, and expected to surge more than 50% during the busiest peak week, according to Chet Paul, senior vice president at DHL Express; Kraig Foreman, president at DHL Supply Chain; and Craig Morris, chief information officer at DHL eCommerce Solutions.

Careers, 3PL, Technology

BlueGrace Logistics Names Mark Derks As New Chief Marketing Officer

BlueGrace Logistics named Mark Derks as its new Chief Marketing Officer. Strategic investments in leadership team augments customer focus and value.

Careers, Distribution, Manufacturing

Tonya Jackson: Signed, Sealed, Delivered

A profile of Tonya Jackson, senior vice president and chief supply chain officer with Lexmark, a creator of imaging solutions and technologies. 

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership

Ensuring a Successful 3PL Partnership

With the pandemic forcing companies to embrace a new normal, many are reimagining their supply chains and turning to third-party logistics (3PL) providers for guidance. Here’s how to get the most out of your 3PL relationship.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Logistics, Technology

Think Big, Act Small

Do small to mid-sized logistics solutions providers have the upper hand in this COVID-created business environment? Or are huge multi-nationals doing just fine, or at least as good as everyone else?

3PL, Distribution, Partnership

Taylored Fulfillment Services Acquires U.S. Operations of Toll Global Logistics

The acquisition triples Taylored’s footprint in key areas, totaling more than 4.1 million square feet of distribution space.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Partnership

What Makes a Go-To Ecommerce Partner? Ask Baboon To The Moon

Gaining command over their inventory as well as every order, return, and exchange, bag maker Baboon to the Moon is over the moon about its logistics partner.

E-commerce, Retail

Home Improvement on a Winning Streak

The pandemic continues to boost sales for home improvement retailers as consumers spend much of their time at home. Total retail sales in the category were up 11% in July 2020 year over year according to the Department of Commerce.

Inventory Management, Logistics, Warehousing

Picking an Inventory Solution

With the right inventory management solution, businesses can flex and adapt quickly regardless of market conditions. These eight tips from Oracle NetSuite will help you pick an inventory management solution that positions your business for success.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology

Easing E-Commerce Pain Points

Although key logistics capabilities are needed to build and maintain successful e-commerce operations, few brands excel at them, according to a study from Geodis and Accenture Interactive.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment

E-Fulfillment Picks Up Speed

A look at strategies used by shippers and their transportation partners to deliver e-commerce orders with the speed that consumers require.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Omnichannel and Supply Chain Work Together for Competitive Advantage

Accomplishing omnichannel service with high levels of service, while remaining profitable, requires real-time visibility of inventory across the supply chain and a single view of the consumer as they move from one channel to another.

Keri Corbin

3PL, Technology , Warehousing

Top Priorities for 3PL Warehouse IT in 2021

Information technology leaders should focus on these three key areas in their warehouse operations to stay competitive in 2021 and beyond.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

What's the Holiday Sales Scenario?

The holiday retail season will play out in one of two ways sales-wise, both of which are lower than prior years. The gift that keeps on giving? E-commerce sales.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

5 Must-Take Actions to Prepare for the 2020 Holiday Season

Given this new normal, what are global supply chains to do? How are they supposed to keep inbound goods flowing, deliver products, and reduce bottom-line risk? Now that your expectations are realistic, let’s dive into a few actions you should take this holiday season.

Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Top Hat and Tales

Wallaroo Hat Company co-founder Stephanie Carter applies her entrepreneurial spirit to tackling outsourcing, tariffs, and pandemic challenges, and to pursuing new ventures, such as a nonprofit that assists women and girls in Cameroon.

Maureen Sullivan

Distribution, Finance

Solving Distributor Liquidity Shortages

Distributors face liquidity shortages brought on by the pandemic. Pressed between both struggling ends of the supply chain, they can only negotiate so far. What are they to do? The answer may lie in their receivables.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology

Vertical Focus | Retail

From mall grocery stores and athleisure sales to data-sharing with blockchain, this is what's trending in the retail supply chain.

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail

Stirring Up Solutions

These companies are concocting innovative e-commerce solutions as alcohol sales flow online.

Alicemarie Geoffrion

E-commerce, Packaging, Sustainability

Top Packaging Innovations Enable E-Commerce Growth and Sustainability

Packaging is one of the important processes within e-commerce fulfillment. Working with a 3PL such as DHL Supply Chain can help you develop packaging that improves sustainability, lowers costs, and delivers the desired customer experience.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

12 Ways of Christmas

From new hires to customer expectations, here's what's in store for shippers this holiday season.

Mark Wheeler

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment

Shopping for E-Fulfillment Efficiencies

Online grocery shopping has morphed from a temporary necessity to a new way of life. Retailers with the best order fulfillment process and the highest-quality customer service will gain the upper hand.

E-commerce, 3PL, Warehousing

3PLs Play Pivotal Role

Order volumes increased by 81% for third-party logistics (3PL) providers supporting e-commerce since the lockdown began, according to data from 3PL Central's customer base. These are the highest order volumes per 3PL ever, on par with Black Friday in 2019.

E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology

A Storehouse of Innovation—WMS for E-Commerce

Ramco Systems helps an e-commerce solution provider realize its vision of a robotic fulfillment center.

Distribution, Technology , Warehousing

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | Order Picking Solutions

Take a look at the latest order picking solutions taking distribution and fulfillment to the next level.

Demand Planning, Retail, Supply Chain

Cycling at Full Speed

Bicycle manufacturers and retailers race to catch up to surging demand as consumer behaviors shift gears.

Distribution, Demand Planning, Labor Management

Reading the Room

With great adversity comes great creativity—that’s how Annette Danek-Akey, EVP of supply chain at Penguin Random House, helped quickly convert a new facility into a picking and shipping point to meet the fluctuating demand for books.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail

Reshaping Retail

Agile and innovative retailers transformed their operations during COVID-19. Will their new fulfillment options and increased digitization go out of style as stores reopen, or will they become retail staples?

Kraig Foreman

3PL, Retail, Supply Chain

Return-to-School Period Will Test Retailers and 3PLs

The return-to-school shopping period is an important dress rehearsal for the upcoming peak season.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Shaking Up Subscription Services

During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Retail Responds

To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation

Nick Shroeger

3PL, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management

Addressing Shippers' Top Concerns

Although shippers should be prepared to see varying results compared to their original 2020 goals, a recovery in consumer demand is not too far away.

E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Last Mile Delivery

Postal Operators Deliver on E-Commerce

Parcels and cross-border e-commerce are taking precedence over traditional services for postal operators, who continuously manage growing postal e-commerce traffic.

Expedited Shipping, Retail, Logistics

DHL Debuts Retail Store

DHL Express opened a new 1,500-square-foot ServicePoint retail store in Southern Florida, the first exclusive DHL-branded retail store in the United States.

E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail

Vertical Files

This story examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on five vertical markets and describes some of the strategies used in those markets to meet the challenge.

Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology

Robotics-as-a-Service Automates Order Fulfillment

Ecentria deploys inVia Robotics’ Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) system to automate order fulfillment in its Aurora, Illinois, distribution center.

Distribution, Demand Planning, Retail

Home for the Holidays

Consumers are planning to do their holiday shopping mostly from home and earlier this year, presenting big challenges for distribution centers.

Pat Brugger

3PL, Finance, Manufacturing

Outsourced Manufacturing: Achieving Quality and Financial Goals

Manufacturers have been outsourcing noncore production processes for decades, and the trend continues. The key to successful outsourcing is assuring the 3PL value-added assembler (VAA) has a quality management system.

Chris Hoffmeister

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail

5 Actions to Navigate Through the Retail Landscape

To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership

What Can 3PLs Do?

Can third-party logistics (3PL) providers bring chaos to order? Or order to chaos? For starters, they can help you wrangle and bring some order to the current COVID-caused confusion in your logistics process.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail

Traditional Retail Supply Chains Tackle Omni Challenges

As e-commerce demand grew, retailers went from using small, existing distribution centers to opening entire fulfillment centers to combining omnichannel facilities. Paul A. Myerson discusses the advantages.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Vertical Focus: Home Goods

Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.

3PL, Partnership, Technology

3PLs Coming to the Rescue

When supply chain and logistics trouble brews, shippers summon third-party logistics (3PL) providers for their expertise, technology, and dedication to customer service.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership

2020 Top 10 3PL Readers' Choice Excellence Awards

When shippers send out distress signals, 3PLs answer the call. The providers that earned a 2020 Readers' Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Award are among the most responsive and respected in the industry.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership

3PL Perspectives 2020

Inbound Logistics' newest exclusive 3PL market research provides a snapshot of how the world appears to shippers and their logistics service providers.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology

How Small to Mid-Sized Businesses Can Recover Faster

On top of surging e-commerce demand, small and mid-sized businesses are facing increased shipping costs, logistical challenges, and extended shipping times. Here are a few things you can do to recover.

Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Demand Planning

Building a Supply Chain in One Week

When their client pivoted to make a low-cost, readily available bed to quickly serve those on the front lines, SEKO Logistics rapidly set up distribution operations to meet urgent demand.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership

2020 Top 100 3PLs

The top 100 third-party logistics providers of 2020 as chosen by Inbound Logistics' editors.

Big Data, Inventory Management, Technology

Drone Technology Improves Warehouse Performance

An innovative drone-based technology solution enables Romark Logistics to automate pallet counts and offer inventory analytics and insights to its customers.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology

3 Ways Retailers Can Get on the Fast Track to Digital Transformation

Retailers can use these three practical tips to successfully execute their digital transformation: Make digital moves your strategy centerpiece, connect systems to please customers, and enable a touchless experience.

Health Care Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

What COVID-19 supply chain pivot impressed you the most? Why?

Shippers around the globe pivoted their business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic—these are the innovative pivots that impressed supply chain leaders the most.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19

Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.

Retail Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail

Tailoring Apparel Supply Chains for the Future

Apparel brands and retailers can use the COVID-19 crisis to take stock of existing business models and create more stable and sustainable supply chains for the future.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Retailers: It's Time to Act

While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Vertical Focus: Pet Industry

Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.

Kraig Foreman

E-commerce, 3PL, Fulfillment

Creating Differentiation Through Innovative E-Commerce Fulfillment

When shippers work with a 3PL that is consistently investing in technology and new distribution centers, they can increase service consistency and offer their customers unexpectedly fast fulfillment.

Big Data, Finance, Retail

Fortune 500 Retailer Finds Cost Savings, Improves Performance with Data Solution

With RateLinx’s TracLinx module, an electronics retailer gained accurate tracking data and corrected sequential issues in real-time, allowing the company to make better logistics decisions and drive other initiatives.

Retail Logistics, Demand Planning, Retail

Providing Solutions Through Unprecedented Times

With the increased demand for essential supplies across the country, Hub Group’s collaboration with multiple retailers has helped suppliers deliver critical loads quickly and safely.

Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology

Efficiencies and Revenues Skyrocket for Distributor with Digital Order and Logistics Management

MPO’s cloud platform for order and logistics management allowed an agricultural spare parts distributor to streamline fulfillment, obtain full order visibility, and reduce shipping costs for customers.

Randy Tucker

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail

Agility On Demand

When you combine consumer demand for deliveries at a breakneck pace, the historically tight labor market, and the unpredictability of the global trade landscape, e-commerce businesses must be just as fast as they are flexible to succeed today’s market.

Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Packaging

Packaging Improvements: Reducing Costs and Improving Visuals

MagicLogic Optimization’s BlackBox significantly improved cartonization for True Manufacturing. The solution automatically determined the optimal size and fill material needed for each box, optimizing the manufacturer’s fulfillment processes.

Marty Wadle

3PL, Finance, Supply Chain

Choose a 3PL with a Culture and Vision that Match Your Own

A low-cost provider may produce short-term savings but will not deliver sustainable efficiencies and the level of service shippers expect. Strategic partnerships that are mutually beneficial stand the test of time and drive waste out of shippers’ supply chains.

E-commerce, Finance, Risk Management

Labeling Is Key in Keeping Up with Today’s Supply Chain

COVID-19 has created unprecedented challenges for supply chain and logistics management, and the pressure is on to deliver essential supplies, such as toilet paper and food, to consumers on time. Successfully delivering a product on time involves many factors, and labeling shipments correctly is one of them.

Dan Sanker

Retail Logistics, Retail

Battling Through Crisis Together

With retail stores being one of the few businesses that remain open to the general public, supply chains operations have had to embrace creativity to deliver effectively.

E-commerce, 3PL, Technology

3PLs Flex Their Tech Muscle

Increasing visibility, flexibility, and accuracy, these technological tools enable 3PLs to more effectively move, store, and fulfill shippers’ orders—even during supply chain disruptions.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail

Amazon Shoppers Won't Abandon Ship

Many U.S. consumers have negative feelings toward Amazon's impact on the retail industry and the environment, but that doesn't translate to lost sales.

Customer Service, Retail, Technology

There's No Business Like Shoe Business

Shoe retailer Shoe Station relies on Retail Pro 9 and other technology solutions to help employees provide top-of-the-line service and ensure customer satisfaction.

E-commerce, Technology

E-Commerce Engine Technology Revs Up Efficiency

E-commerce has remapped supply chains. Across both business-to-business and business-to-consumer transactions, technology is taking on the complexity caused by this shift and driving efficiency.

Kraig Foreman

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery

The Need for Speed: Overcoming the Final Hurdles to Faster E-Commerce Deliveries

Retailers need to address new challenges, from bolstering distribution networks to managing complexity, to continue to expand their e-commerce operations.

Retail, Technology

State of Retail Tech

Equity funding to retail tech companies slowed globally in 2019, largely due to a slide in funding to e-commerce platforms. This is what retailers should watch for in 2020.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Fulfillment

Streamlining E-Commerce Fulfillment

Ten tips every digital retailer needs to know to streamline their e-commerce fulfillment process.

E-commerce, 3PL, Finance

3PL Market Revenue to Cross $1.8 Trillion by 2026

Growing demand for low-cost services and a rapidly expanding e-commerce sector will boost the market valuation of third-party logistics (3PL) to $1.8 trillion by 2026.

David Osorio

3PL, Customer Service, Insurance

How 3PLs Can Minimize Claims and Help Customers Understand Liability

3PLs can become an ally for their customers in the event of a loss, damage, or delay, providing outstanding customer service and support.

Big Data, 3PL, Transportation Management

3PLs Do It All

Third-party logistics providers are future-proofing supply chains, using a toolbox filled with business insights, predictive capabilities, and other new solution sets.

Freight Forwarders, Retail, Technology

I Like Big-Box and I Cannot Lie

Almost half of all small to mid-sized businesses decision-makers estimate an increase in shipping spend, and big-box retailers are influencing their strategy.

Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

VERTICAL FOCUS | Fast-Moving Consumer Goods

FMCG retailers need to be aware of four key areas as they build their future omnichannel supply chains, finds RSR Research's Supply Chain Management 2018 report.

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Supply Chain Management

Logistics Leaders Into Outsourcing

Logistics leaders meet or exceed their end-to-end supply chain goals with the help of logistics outsourcing, such as third-party logistics providers.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail

How Is Coronavirus Impacting E-Commerce?

As coronavirus continues to spread globally, new ramifications are revealed daily. How is the virus impacting e-commerce operations and the supply chain, and how can retailers respond?

Green Logistics, E-commerce, Packaging

How Green Was My Tally?

One-third of online shoppers buying health and beauty products are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.

Kyle Krug

3PL, Customer Service, Technology

What to Look For in a 3PL

A business looking to outsource part or all of its logistics to a 3PL should consider a variety of factors to identify a logistics provider that is part tactical service provider and part strategic business partner.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology

What if General George Patton was Walmart’s CEO?

General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.

Tray Anderson

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Mitigating the Flood of Post-Holiday Returns

Fearing the flood of post-holiday returns? An optimized reverse logistics strategy may be the answer.

Ravi Panjwani

E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Need Speed Across the Supply Chain? It's All About the Barcode

Barcode labels are a smart and cost-effective way to make productivity gains in your warehouse.

Robert Kriewaldt

3PL, Real Estate, Warehousing

Leverage Your 3PL's Real Estate Assets For In-Demand Cold Storage

Whatever challenges your perishable goods operation faces, it’s likely that the right 3PL can offer innovative solutions.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

That's a Wrap: Holiday Shipping Tied Up in Knots

During the holiday shopping season, all eyes are on shipping, with more than half of consumers (60%), and nearly three-quarters of millennials (74%) claiming they were disappointed with holiday shopping services in the past.

Steve Elliott

3PL, Supply Chain, Warehousing

What's the Deal With Flexible Warehousing?

A third-party logistics provider with its own dedicated workforce is still a company's best option for handling and storing sensitive goods.

Retail, Supply Chain, Technology

How Retailers Can Use this Holiday Season to Inform Future Supply Chain Strategies

As retailers and their supply chains face increasing pressures from rising consumer expectations, they must better leverage software solutions and the data it captures to achieve an integrated network and true smart warehouse ecosystem.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Parts & Parcel

Driven by an increase in e-commerce, global parcel volume grew from 74.4 billion shipments in 2017 to 87 billion last year. On average, 23 parcels per person were shipped globally, and 2,760 parcels were shipped every second, according to the Pitney Bowes Parcel Shipping Index.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

3PLs Add Value

Increasing consumer expectations, market uncertainty, and other recent trends, have only enhanced the value 3PLs bring to shippers. From technology innovations to process insights, here are the ways 3PLs unlock and increase supply chain efficiencies.

Tracy Rosser

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Designing Your Business to Meet Customer Expectations

Companies must take a holistic approach to serving customers by eliminating silos and fully understanding their end-to-end supply chain today, especially in terms of customer service. 3PLs can help.

E-commerce, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

E-Commerce Fulfillment: No Pain, No Gain

Escalade Sports transforms supply chain to capture e-commerce growth, improve customer service levels, and better manage inventory and demand planning.

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Halloween: A Scary Supply Chain

A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.

Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Supply Chain

VERTICAL FOCUS | Furniture

What is the outlook for the U.S. furniture market moving forward? Here's what to expect.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery

Tackling E-Commerce Shipping

E-commerce is quickly becoming a part of our everyday lives – putting pressure on retailers. Here are tips to help e-commerce shippers keep costs down and customers happy.

Brian Thompson

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Automated Bidding Tools Benefit Shippers, 3PLs, and Carriers

Automated bidding tools bring benefits to shippers and carriers alike. Carriers that receive complete shipment history and future volume forecasts from shippers are able to make the most competitive offers, which can lead to shipper savings.

Packaging, Supply Chain

Reusable Packaging Maker Increases Savings and Reduces Waste with Transplace Solution

By adopting Transplace’s Dynamic Continuous Moves solution, reusable packaging company Tosca was able to reduce transportation costs related to the program by more than 10% while continuing to provide exceptional service to its customers.

Derek Browning

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain

Choosing a 3PL: How to Make a Mature Decision

A 3PL partner that is aligned on purpose, value, strategy, and culture can provide far more value than what is seen in a transportation budget variance report.

E-commerce, Supply Chain

CPG Brands Find Their Place Online

Established CPG brands accustomed to a pallet to pallet fulfillment model need to accommodate a pallet to piece approach in a growing direct-to-consumer marketplace. At the same time, these brands face competition from agile, online-only start-ups that begin with a direct-to-consumer fulfillment model.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Supply Chain

SMBs and E-Commerce

Here's a look at the strategies that small- and medium-sized retailers use to help them thrive despite competiton from much larger companies.

Distribution, Supply Chain, Transportation

Optimizing Coca-Cola Consolidated’s Post-Expansion Distribution Network

Red Classic created a complex regional transportation solution to optimize Coca-Cola Consolidated’s distribution network following a multi-year expansion effort.

Retail, Supply Chain

VERTICAL FOCUS | Apparel

Take a look at some of the latest developments in the apparel industry.

E-commerce, Supply Chain

Aftermarket Auto Parts Supply Chain: No Time To Spare

As in many other industries, technology is changing the aftermarket auto parts sector. Not only is e-commerce upending traditional distribution channels, but advances in technology are changing cars themselves, and these shifts are reverberating to the auto parts market.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics

21 Years of Top Ten 3PLs: A History of Excellence

A look back over 21 years of Inbound Logistics' Top 10 3PLs.

E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics

E-Commerce Raises the Snack Bar

Nature's Bakery turns to a third-party logistics provider, ITS Logistics, to launch a direct-to-consumer e-commerce channel for its snack bars.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

3PL Power

Whether brand new, solidly up and running, or decades old, shipper-3PL partnerships thrive on open communications, flexibility and trust.

Thomas Griffin

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How to Choose a 3PL and Reap the Benefits - DLS Worldwide

When a shipper finds a 3PL who can be a true partner, the choice should be easy and the benefits evident, from letting team members focus on core competencies to leveraging the 3PL’s expertise.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Sneaker Supply Chain: Big Shoes to Fill

In the sneaker supply chain, manufacturers and retailers need to know where the product is in every stage of design, production, and shipping.

3PL, Supply Chain

2019 Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards

The Inbound Logistics audience has stamped it license-plate official: These top-tier third-party logistics providers deserve accolades and the distinction of being a Top 10 3PL.

Robert Kriewaldt

3PL, Risk Management, Supply Chain

Five Ways a 3PL Helps Mitigate Supply Chain Risk - Phoenix Logistics

Partnering with a 3PL does much more than free up time to focus on core competencies—it offers a buffer between the shipper and the ever-shifting challenges of the logistics realm.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Economic Development, Logistics

3PL Growth Spurt. Why?

In good times and in bad, world-class third-party logistics providers will continue to solve fundamental business challenges wrapped around supply chain operations.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain

3PL Perspectives 2019

This story highlights the results of Inbound Logistics’ 14th annual survey of shippers and 3PLs.

E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology

X Marks the Spot: Geocoding is Here and the Supply Chain Must Get Onboard

Geocoding and mobile solutions are two examples of innovative technology with the potential to shape the future of supply chain logistics for the better, by improving efficiency and the customer experience. Enterprises are wise to prepare for this shift in order to remain competitive within the market.

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Subcoms Focused on the Future

In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Looking for a New Logistics Provider? First Things First

For sellers looking for a new logistics provider, knowing what to look for in a 3PL or ISP — and what to avoid — is difficult, especially for businesses that are trying to make their way in the e-commerce economy.

Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Maximizing Packaging Efficiency

Packaging is a significant element of the supply chain. Optimizing packaging strategy and processes can significantly impact your ability to maintain a smooth and efficient supply chain.

E-commerce, 3PL, Supply Chain

Who’s Paying for Free Shipping?

While 3PLs and retailers have many options to compete in an Amazon world, inaction is not one of them. Amazon plans to invest an incremental $800 million in the second quarter alone to bring standard one-day shipping to Prime customers.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Supply Chain

What to Look For When Taking Stock of an Inventory Management System

Retail Logistics, Retail, Warehousing

Meeting Your Retailer's Expectations

A leading CPG company uses Hub Group’s consolidation expertise to eliminate cost and improve service.

Retail, Supply Chain, Technology

Your Next Walmart Run: Don't Forget the AI

A Walmart Neighborhood Market in Levittown, New York, featuring artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, interactive displays, and a massive data center is the retailer's new Intelligent Retail Lab (IRL).

Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail

Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS

Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.

Jim Gehr

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Supply Chain

Solving the Three Toughest Challenges In E-Commerce Fulfillment - DHL Supply Chain

E-commerce is continuing to create opportunity for a range of businesses, but supply chain challenges can limit growth and compromise customer relationships.

Kevin Beasley

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Time to Stop Hating the 'A' Word

The Amazons of the world are changing the way small and mid-sized business owners sell and distribute their products, which businesses can use to their advantage.

Graham Page

3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

How to Leverage a 3PL's Expertise with Packaged Applications

Knowing how to quickly set up and configure supply chain technology so the solutions work for individual customers is the key to getting the most flexible and powerful performance from industry leading package applications.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Bridal Wear Supply Chain

A harmonious marriage of brick-and-mortar services and online offerings is the path to fulfillment in the bridal wear supply chain.

Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

On-Demand, One Package at a Time

Profile of Victor Finnegan, president and CEO, American Expediting

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Choose Your Own E-Venture

As the demand for faster shipping and better e-commerce availability increases, retailers will need to adopt new order fulfillment and shipping strategies to stay in prime shape.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Advanced Optimization Techniques For Enhanced Solutions - Hub Group

A leading retailer engaged Hub Group to develop an optimized solution that maximized the limited capacity in markets throughout its supply chain.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail

The Leader of the Pack

Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

No Light at End of Retail Tunnel

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Getting Up on the Right Side of the Bedding

E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.

Distribution, Supply Chain, Technology

Today's Distribution Center: You Say You Want an Evolution?

Distribution centers used for short-term storage and cross-docking are changing to accommodate the growth in online ordering and rising expectation for rapid delivery.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

VERTICAL FOCUS | Retail

The latest news and trends impacting the retail supply chain

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

News & Trends Impacting the Luxury Goods Supply Chain

Top trends impacting the travel and hospitality supply chain

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution

A New Argument for Pool Distribution as More Specialty E-Retailers Set Up Shop

Pool distribution is one strategy that’s getting a second wind in the face of intensifying e-commerce pressure and the changing face of America’s malls.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Amazon Primed for New Regional Hub

In the first airport project of its kind in the Amazon Air network, the etailer has announced plans to open a regional air hub at the Fort Worth Alliance Airport in Texas.

Jim Gehr

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment

Solving the Three Toughest Challenges in
E-commerce Fulfillment - DHL Supply Chain North America

E-commerce is continuing to create opportunity for a range of businesses, but supply chain challenges can limit growth and compromise customer relationships.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Real Estate, Warehousing

How the E-commerce Warehouse Is Adapting to Life in the Big City

The goalposts in e-commerce fulfillment continue to move. Consumers routinely expect two-day or even next-day delivery, and same-day delivery is on the horizon.

Nick McLean

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Not So Fast: Rethinking Multi-Item Orders

Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.

3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Technology

The Fastest Growing 3PLs Spell Success “C-L-O-U-D”

Third-party logistics (3PL) companies have it tough. Not only do they need air-tight control of their data, 3PLs need to prove to customers that their data is safer than Fort Knox. In today’s world where one person in a black hoodie sitting at a coffee shop can do more damage to a business than a ten-ton bomb, that’s a big ask.

Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

The Changing Logistics of Grocery Delivery: It’s In The Bag

Grocers are working to satisfy consumers’ growing demand for rapid delivery of everything from apples to watermelon. To accomplish this, they’re educating personal shoppers, developing new technologies to handle the last mile of delivery, rethinking their distribution networks and inventory planning, and partnering with technology companies.

Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail

How Retailers Earn 5-Star Reviews

This story explores some of the ways retailers use customer service to build customer loyalty, both in stores and in the e-commerce channel.

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain

Tis the Season to be Agile - WSI

Shippers can mitigate supply chain fluctuations and disruptions by leveraging the expertise of 3PLs.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

What Will Retailers Find Under The Tree?

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Click & Collect Not Clicking Yet

The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains

E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Things are Looking Up for Multistory Warehouses

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Post Office Dings E-Commerce?

Two important developments–the US Postal Service’s relationship with Amazon and the U.S.withdrawal from the Universal Postal Union (UPU)–will impact domestic and international e-commerce shipments.

E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Growth in the Line of Beauty

The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

E-commerce Shipment Costs to Rise

Two recent and important developments will impact domestic and international e-commerce shipments. The first one concerns the U.S. Postal Service's relationship with Amazon. Let me set the stage.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

What's Ahead for Retail Technology? Ask the Crystal Ball

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics

Black Friday Delivery Data

Consumer data is rolling in from Black Friday. Convey published data insights that show how deliveries are performing across various categories compared to year-over-year data from 2017.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics

New DHL Survey Reveals Expected Cyber Monday Growth for Businesses & More

A DHL distributed a poll to U.S. e-commerce businesses, reveals major challenges, priorities and more for e-comm businesses this Cyber Monday.

3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

How to Make Your Holiday Shipping Less Frightful - Ascent Global Logistics

With so much at stake this holiday shipping season, retailer suppliers and 3PL partners must have a plan to deal with the inevitable disasters and near disasters.

E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Efficiency: Packaging for the Automotive E-Commerce Era

To improve the bottom line and take advantage of the e-commerce automotive aftermarket sector’s rising popularity, OEMs should focus on the role packaging plays in supply chain efficiency.

3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Essentials of a Healthy Supply Chain Partnership

To ensure brands are managing the most efficient, optimized supply chain, they need to assess their supply chain partner’s commitment across the following key areas.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Commentary: Satisfying Customer Demand in a 365 E-Commerce Market

Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.

E-commerce, Sourcing/Negotiations, Logistics, Supply Chain

Simplifying Trade Complexity

Business continuity remains essential in building supply chain resilience; an Amber Road/AAEI survey on sourcing, trade and e-commerce highlights identifies challenges and strategies to help global supply chain managers proactively prepare for trade complexities; more temperature-sensitive medicines are moving by ocean freight despite market shake-up

Global Economy, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Get Your Supply Chain Up to E-Commerce Speed

Supply chains face a conundrum when it comes to speed: no matter how automated your processes are internally, you’re only as fast as the next guy in the chain. Here’s what it takes to be e-commerce fast.

Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail

How E-Tailers Can Reduce Return Rates for Large Items

By following these steps, e-tailers can lower return rates, increasing profits and creating happier customers.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Addressing Expedited Delivery Expectations

Amazon and other large retailers set customer expectations by offering expedited delivery at low or no cost. Retailers of all sizes must compete on the same turf, yet lack the negotiating power that could net meaningful discounts with commercial carriers.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands

The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.

Bob Farrell

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

6 Strategies for Finding the Right 3PL Partner

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace

Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

H.O.W. | How to Transform the Supply Chain for Omnichannel Retailing

Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.

3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

Why the Rise of the 4PL Is Good News for Your Business

Some shippers find the 3PL model doesn’t go far enough. Here's how to make 4PLs work for you.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Reaching a Point of No Returns

Retailers around the world are slacking in the returns department.

Logistics, Packaging, Warehousing

Reducing Packaging Costs

Try these packaging moves, says APL Logistics Supply Chain Solutions Head Rajiv Saxena, to help offset higher parcel costs further up the supply chain.

Careers, 3PL, Transportation Management

Finding the Right Strategy for Each Situation

Profile of Denis Reilly, president and CEO of Kenco Logistics

Kristian O’Meara

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever

With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker - Crane Worldwide Logistics

Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.

Thomas Griffin

3PL, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Shippers Seek 3PL Efficiencies Amidst Capacity Constraints - DLS Worldwide

DLS Worldwide President Thomas Griffin reveals the 3PL efficiencies in highest demand as shippers face capacity constraints in 2017.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail

E-commerce Retailers Target Germany

Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.

Global Logistics, Sourcing/Negotiations, Retail

Fashion Supply Chain: What to Where

Executives from leading fashion and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers reveal the supply chain challenges topping their list.

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Engaging Customers Through AI

Retailers turn to artificial intelligence to boost customer service.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Best Practices for the Gift of Successful Holiday Sales

For some retailers, holiday sales can represent up to 27.4 percent of annual sales. Having a clear understanding of your historical trends for seasonal goods is critical for forecasting seasonal categories this upcoming season.

Jonathan Tran

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction

Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Third-Party Refurbishers Help Get
First-Quality Goods to Market

What if your shipment of apparel from overseas gets soaked with saltwater on its way to the distribution center? This supply chain solution can return merchandise to first-quality condition.

Pan Chen

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick

Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce

Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.

3PL, Expedited Shipping, Specialized Logistics

What's the most interesting or unusual supply chain problem you've solved?

Readers share unexpected supply chain challenges and how they overcame them.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

What Retail Apocalypse?
Retailers Open 4,000+ Stores in 2017

Store closings have grabbed headlines, but they're not telling the whole story. Find out what a new report says about the state of retail.

3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology

The Key to Seamless Order Fulfillment: Combine the Digital with the Physical in EDI and 3PL Outsourcing

Choosing the third-party logistics partner (3PL) that has the resources and expertise to handle every fulfillment challenge will help suppliers adapt to ever-evolving market conditions and complex customer requirements.

Rob Kriewaldt

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI

The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.

Lori Mitchell-Keller

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers

To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.

3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail

Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson

Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation

E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer

This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.

Distribution, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing

Keeping Your DC in Peak Shape:
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Getting a distribution center in shape for a high-volume holiday or seasonal period requires advance planning to make sure all systems work, the facility is properly staffed, and temporary workers are properly trained. Inbound Logistics asked the experts for their holiday preparation advice; they provided these seven commandments that will light the way.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management

The Perfect Amount of Packaging

Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs

To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

5 Ways Automated Dimensioning Helps Optimize First Mile Logistics

Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Discovering Eight Truths of the New Era of Retail

Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Commentary: How Amazon's Acquisition of Whole Foods Will Disrupt Industrial Real Estate

Whole Foods’ 460+ centrally located stores will augment Amazon’s physical infrastructure and allow it to use the stores as distribution centers. In return, Amazon’s targeted transaction data, technological expertise, and logistical prowess catapult Whole Foods into the online realm and suggest a new level of convenience.

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Need Flexibility? Seek Out Full-Service 3PLs - WSI

By quickly adapting to various industries and commodities and responding to client requests with urgency and an extremely high level of customer service quality, a strong 3PL will find it can outlast even the most convenient warehousing options.

Todd Benge

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Sweep the Dock for E-Commerce Insight - Transportation Insight

By tapping collective, multi-modal intellectual capital of leading industry pioneers, shippers can transform the supply chain with a sweep of the dock.

Michael Khalil

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

3 Ways Your 3PL Can Help You Overcome E-commerce Challenges

By collaborating with a knowledgeable third-party logistics (3PL) provider, shippers can add both scale and visibility to their supply chain.

E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Direct Hit

E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop. Now businesses of all sizes must reassess their supply chains to go direct to the consumer with faster-than-fast delivery and free shipping.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain

Distributors Step Up Their Game

Distributors continue to play a valuable role within many supply chains. At the same time, changing business models, and especially the rise of e-commerce, are prompting many to enhance the services they offer.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

3PL Change Agents

Trying to plot a different course? Figuring out how to spread your wings? A third-party partner might offer…just the kind of help you need.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

3PL Perspectives 2017

Inbound Logistics’ 12th annual 2017 3PL Perspectives market research report examines the trends and challenges shaping logistics outsourcing strategy and the third-party logistics industry.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Solved: Kane Thinks Outside the Box for Distribution of Insulation Products

Dow Building Solutions gained faster, more reliable distribution to customers at a reduced cost with help from KANE.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Customized Solution Helps Retailer Find Savings and Visibility - Unyson

A home goods retailer partnered with Unyson to increase efficiency and enhance visibility.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Sofa So Good: Software Upgrade Bolsters Furniture Company’s Growth

Furniture retailer upgrades its warehouse management system to furnish growth.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line 

Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study: Traditional Industrial Distributors Face Mounting Risk

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Amazon’s Prime Day: Primetime for Online Retailers to Get Logistics Lessons

Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services

Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain

Repositioning Inventory to Better Respond to Natural Disasters

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Report: New Data Shows Extent of E-Commerce's Differing Impact on Retail Categories

E-Commerce has generated significant volumes of sales in the U.S. electronics and clothing industries but has yet to gain traction in other retail sectors, according to a CBRE Group, Inc. analysis of recently released government data.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Getting the Most From Your 3PL Provider

Getting the most from your third-party logistics provider (3PL) is more important than ever. Use these tips to leverage your 3PL relationship.

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Handle With Care: How to Be the Best At Fulfilling Your Clients’ Chemical Handling Needs - WSI

If your firm is looking to break into chemical handling or currently handles chemicals and wants to perform better, this guide offers key factors to becoming the best in the industry.

Ken Chrisman

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

Thinking Inside the Unbox

Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Online Shoppers Turning To International Retailers

Nearly half of avid U.S. online shoppers bought items from international retailers, demonstrating the need for retailers to offer more personalized services as a way to compete against lower prices, according to the sixth annual UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper study.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion


The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect

Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold

Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers

The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend - Unyson

A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.

Peter Sobotta

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns

In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.

Tony Coletto

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants

To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.

E-commerce, Logistics, Partnership, Packaging, Supply Chain

New Packaging Innovation Center

UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing

Adding Value to Your Supply Chain

Many companies are finding that value-added logistics services can help to give their supply chain a competitive edge. Use this advice to add value to your supply chain.

3PL, Food Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology

Carrier Network Plants Seeds of Delivery Efficiency

Produce distributor SunTerra Chicago uses technology to boost on-time deliveries and cut costs.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What part of working in supply chain do you find the most rewarding?

Readers share the best part about working in the supply chain.

Paul A. Myerson

Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Predictive Analytics Takes Forecasting to a New Level

Predictive analytics utilizes various statistical techniques and models that analyze current and historical facts to make predictions about future.

Sean Riley

3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation

Today's Competitive Supply Chain: Digital, Smaller, More Resilient

As consumers demand a greater personal experience and more sophisticated product, the digital revolution will prove a competitive advantage to those who embrace it.

Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Retail Logistics Bets on E-Commerce

E-commerce impacts not only consumer supply chains, but business to business supply chains as well.

Jeff Luthman

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Extending the Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical Supply Chain

In the life science and pharmaceutical area, an inefficient supply chain can cause serious problems. Here are the benefits in adopting innovative approaches to the pharmaceuticals supply chain.

Distribution, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

Jonathan Parks: Planning is Key, to Say the Leased

Profile of Jonathan Parks, VP, global logistics and distribution, with Rent-A-Center

Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Lean, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Caldwell Hospital Gets a Lean Bill of Health

A North Carolina hospital improves patient care by prescribing a lean and healthy supply chain.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation

Leveraging Your Routing Guide

A routing guide plays an important role in setting the strategy for carrier selection across a variety of shipments within an organization. Use these tips to get the most out of your routing guide.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Aaron Leach: A Bird’s Eye View of the Supply Chain

Aaron Leach is senior director of supply chain with Wayne Farms, LLC, in Oakwood, Ga. He has held this position since 2013. Wayne Farms is the sixth largest vertically integrated producer and processor of poultry in the United States.

3PL, Forklifts, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Improve Warehouse Productivity With Reach Trucks

Jungheinrich® reach trucks help LeanCor’s mission to advance the world’s supply chains.

Bob Daymon

3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Going for Brokers

To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.

Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Warehousing

What a Ride!

How powersports manufacturer Monster Moto worked with UPS to redesign its supply chain as it moved its product assembly from China to the U.S.

3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

3PL Partnerships: You're In Good Company

As product demand continues to rise, companies in all industries are partnering with third-party logistics (3PL) providers to ensure their products are delivered to customers on time and cost effectively.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Picking Solutions, Technology

The Who, What, When, and Why of Warehouse Wearables

As wearable technologies, such as smart glasses and augmented reality, grow less expensive and more accessible, an increasing number of companies are exploring whether wearables could benefit their warehouse operation.

Big Data, Education & Careers, Inventory Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Winter Reading Guide 2017

Winter provides a great advantage–time. The hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and colder weather prevails. There’s no better time to hit the books and amp up your knowledge of important logistics and supply chain management issues.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing

How Ariens Weathers Seasonal Demand

Ariens' tailored transportation planning solution from Redwood Logistics has led to efficiency gains, delivery improvements, increased visibility and cost reductions.

Amar Shah, Danielle Moushon, and Sunil Agarwal

Distribution, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management

Optimizing the Product Portfolio

The overall complexity of running the supply chain will drop as the product portfolio becomes more streamlined. Here's how to do just that.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What logistics concerns keep you up at night?

Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.

Andrew Lynch

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

How Specialized Transportation Can Improve Customer Service

Working with a specialized transportation provider will save you time and headaches while keeping your customers happy and costs down.

Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

3PLs & Carriers: At Your Service

A look at the metrics that shippers and their service providers use to evaluate the quality of customer service.

3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

The Grass is Greener

Wagner Logistics helps a leading manufacturer of lawn care equipment overcome growing pains.

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility

GOOD QUESTION | When choosing a carrier/supplier, what’s more important: cost or customer service?

Readers choose between cost and customer service as the most important selection criterion for a carrier or supplier.

Distribution, Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain

Using a Systems Integrator for DC Automation

Implementing material handling automation within a distribution center requires an experienced systems integration, which acts as a matchmaker to ensure the software communicates fully and freely with the facility’s equipment.

3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation

Right on Target

Profile of Mike Wagner, CEO of Target Freight Management.

Education & Careers, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Bert De Winter: Springing Forward with Innovation

Profile of Bert De Winter, director of EMEA logistics with HP Inc.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Trends—November 2016

Damaged holiday packages negatively impact brands; Robot cargo pilots successfully tested; Not having procurement department negatively affects bottom line

Andreas P. Pohl

Air Cargo, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Latin America

What’s Driving the Air Freight Industry Today?

These developments are helping the transportation industry to continually evolve.

Air Cargo, E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Visibility

Airfreight Forwarders Ride Headwinds and Tailwinds

Airfreight forwarders face headwinds — from shippers shifting to ocean freight and fewer routes for air cargo shipments — and must learn to leverage opportunities.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How to Choose a Single-Source Logistics Provider

Working with a single-source third-party logistics provider offers many benefits. Here are tips for choosing a partner with capabilities that fit your company’s needs.

Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

How to Optimize Demand Chain Management

The demand chain model drastically reduces a distribution center’s footprint and associated costs by replacing safety stock with information.

Sue Welch

Economic Development, Asia, Global Logistics, Retail

Why Retailers Need the TPP

Retailers need to come together in support of the trade agreement that will ultimately improve the industry for all. Here are three reasons why they should stand behind the passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Ryan Kelly

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Three Returns Strategies for Improving Omni-channel Retail

To cost-effectively leverage an omni-channel strategy, it is vital to proactively plan for returns and align your operations accordingly.

High-Value/High-Risk Cargo, Distribution, Intermodal, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure

An Intermodal Resurgence

The winter of 2013-14 disrupted the intermodal shipping industry in North America, causing service problems and impeding growth. However, intermodal now offers a number of attractive advantages for shippers, particularly as rail operations pour resources into their intermodal efforts to strengthen service and compete with trucking. Sites that specialize in intermodal utilize innovations to streamline the process and apply new resources to make for an increasingly efficient and effective distribution process.

Neal Walters, Matthew Getz, and Mike Piccarreta

Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Reshape and Refresh Your Product Portfolio for a Streamlined Supply Chain

Product proliferation can bring supply chain inefficiencies. Here's a comprehensive approach to refreshing your product offerings that can reduce complexity and increase the bottom line.

Danny Slaton

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology

Accurate Transit Times: The Backbone of Efficient Supply Chains

As transit times shift and service areas are updated, customers need a reliable source of data that delivers a standard messaging output that can be easily understood.

Walter Lynch

3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain

Instill Passion, Purpose, and Leadership To Attract and Retain Logistics Talent

Hiring challenges in the supply chain sector include attracting the best talent, developing leaders, and retaining high performers. To solve these issues, employers must step up and build training programs that instill passion, share purpose, provide clear leadership and promotion tracks, are authentic, and ultimately diminish turnover.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Chainsaw Maker Massacres Supply Chain Inefficiencies

Oregon-based manufacturer Blount International was bleeding money from leaks all across its supply chain. It found that the correct application of the right data management technology provided and maintained by the right partner was the solution to the problem.

Global Economy, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Global Logistics—September 2016

India-based textile manufacturer accused of providing fraudulent products; Iran seeks to strengthen trade relationships in Latin America; British manufacturers get small boost in wake of Brexit referendum

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation

18 Sure-Fire Ways to Save on LTL Shipments

Inbound Logistics talks to carriers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers about sure-fire ways to save money on LTL shipments and serves up a list of 18 tips that will help shippers of all types and sizes.

Keith Biondo

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Working at People Speed

Instantaneous, insatiable customer need runs the risk of forcing people out of the equation. But some logistics challenges can only be met by people working at ‘people speed.’

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?

Readers weigh in on the August question: Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Prepping Your DC for Peak Season

Use this advice to get your distribution center prepared before holiday orders come rolling in.

Education & Careers, Distribution, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

Peter Schuele: Injecting Life Into Supply Chains

Profile of Peter Schuele, head of global supply chain and distribution at the life science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Complying With Big-box Retailer Requirements

Complying with big-box retailer requirements isn’t always easy, but it pays off in the result of a cohesive 3PL team, satisfied employees and continued business.

Torben Kock

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Multiple Channels Are Making Supply Chains More Complex

It’s all about flexibility and speed in today’s changing retail and e-commerce markets.

Brian Bourke

Customer Service, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Global Retail Expansion: The Convergence of Marketing, Customer Service, and Supply Chain Strategies

Brands who never anticipated going global are finding that they all of a sudden are, thanks to the progression of e-commerce and increasing customer expectations.

Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Meal Delivery Services: You’ve Got to be Kitting Me!

The popularity of meal and meal kit delivery services makes for some very complicated supply chain management.

Steve Simmerman

Retail Logistics, Distribution, Labor Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing

Is Your Warehouse Ready for Black Friday? Start Preparing This Summer

Rising consumer expectations are driving change throughout the supply chain. And there’s no tougher test for meeting increased expectations than Black Friday. The time is now for warehouse managers to examine the three critical success factors in warehouse labor management.

Michael Elmgreen

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Supply Chain

B2B Commerce Technology Improves Fulfillment Times and Supply Management

With demand for speed and convenience at an all-time high, companies must streamline and speed up order fulfillment. Technology that allows sales reps and customers to rapidly write orders and submit them almost instantaneously for fulfillment is a major competitive advantage.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Still Pushing Your Customers Around?

Using the best logistics IT available, and partnering with world-class carriers and 3PLs, can help you find a better way towards supply chain success.

Felecia Stratton

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

6 Cool Things I Learned Editing This Issue

Inbound Logistics editor lists six cool things she learned (or just realized anew) as she edited the annual 3PL issue.

Jamie Overley

3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

How to Stand Out From the Crowd

To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.

Jerry Levy (pictured) and Gary Barker

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability

How to Be Fashionably Green

Going green is in style for retailers. Here’s how adopting a multi-faceted sustainability strategy can lower costs as well as boost brand loyalty.

Peter L. Coratola Jr.

3PL, Education, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

The Potential of Change

With schools across the country rapidly increasing the use of technology in the classroom, recent graduates entering into the logistics workforce expect similar atmospheres.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Increased Visibility

Freight location and status updates, along with advanced predictive analytics capabilities, are making load tracking a valuable tool for shippers, brokers, 3PLs, and carriers

Richard G. Piontek

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Preparation: The Key to Successful Business…and Procurement Projects

A successful procurement project or event is all about the right preparation.

John Rodeheffer

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

3PL Customer Service Specialization

Industry expertise is the most impactful way to positively affect customer service requirements.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation

6 Technologies Guaranteed to Disrupt Your Supply Chain

Emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, 3-D printing, collaborative robotics, self-driving trucks, drones and the Uberization of deliveries are poised to be disruptive influences on logistics in the coming years.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

3PL Partnerships: How to Ink the Deal

This story examines the secrets behind a successful shipper-3PL relationship, as seen through the eyes of four pairs of successful business partners.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

3PL Perspectives 2016

Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

Readers' Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2016

Year after year, the IL 3PL survey reveals the importance of great customer service to shippers.

3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation, Warehousing

Tapping Military Talent: Shoes on the Ground

Supply chain logistics companies view veterans as a crucial pool of potential employees, and consequently they are using a range of methods to recruit and hire former members of the military for their workforces.

Air Cargo, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Summer Reading Guide: 16 Must-Reads This Summer

A handy reading guide summarizing supply chain books and their key takeaways.

Distribution, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology

Delivery App Perks Up Coffee Sales

A new app helped a coffee merchant digitally transformed its retail sales and distribution processes.

Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Making Scents of Demand Planning

Bedoukian Research improves forecasting, demand planning, inventory management, and logistics processes with the help of Smart Software.

Thomas Griffin

3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation

Addressing Vendor Management and Shifting Global Trade Currents

Thomas Griffin of DLS Worldwide explains the most important aspects in good vendor management and how manufacturers can deal with increasing regulations and security concerns.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Dave Christensen: A Spirited Approach to Supply Chain Management

Dave Christensen, vice president, supply chain with Glazer’s, Inc., oversees demand planning, replenishment, logistics, and master data management.

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Transportation

Three Key Points to Communicate to Become Your Customers’ Dream Provider

Communication and transparency are key to being a good partner to your clients. Use this advice to effectively communicate with customers.

Aleksejs Volcenkovs

Materials Handling, Packaging, Pallets, Supply Chain, Warehousing

How to Use Pallet Collars to Improve Supply Chain Efficiency

Using pallet collars in the warehouse can increase how efficiently your goods are stored, shipped, and delivered.

Roger Marks

Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Retailers Get Help With New DOT “Reverse Logistics” Rules

The reverse logistics hazmat rule became effective immediately upon publication on March 31, 2016, making it critical that retail store owners and distribution managers get up to speed quickly. Here's how.

Rob Kriewaldt

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Using RFPs to Optimize Partnerships

Transparency and communication are key in the RFP process to develop a true and lasting partnership with a 3PL provider.

Gary Barraco

Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

The “Direct-to-Consumer” Trend: Retail Shift Affects Logistics Operations

Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology

Logistics Technology: 3PLs Span the Gamut

This story looks at ways in which 3PLs help small and midsize companies implement and take full advantage of information technology.

Mark Sell

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Temperature Controlled

Should I Work With a Third-Party Logistics Provider Offering Foreign Trade Zone Services?

Working with a third-party logistics partner who also offers foreign trade zones can provide big benefits in the right scenarios.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing

Hospitality Supplier Reserves Room to Grow With WMS

Through automated, rules-based wave management and replenishment, American Hotel Register Company was able to eliminate manual sortation and create multiple, tailored options to proactively release orders by type.

Bill Johnson, Ph.D.

Intermodal, Distribution, Rail, Supply Chain

How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Can Improve Distribution for Rail Networks

There's no derailing hub-and-spoke networks. Find out why their adoption is arguably as significant an event in shipping efficiency as containerization itself.

Josh Roffman

Bar-coding Systems, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Packaging, Supply Chain

Enterprise Labeling for a Connected, Flexible, and Efficient Supply Chain

Companies are beginning to understand that they need to develop a labeling strategy to meet all of the challenges of today’s global supply chain. Here's how to implement an enterprise labeling approach.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation

Trends—March 2016

A predicted freight slowdown stalls driver wage increases for 2016; President Obama proposes oil tax to fund infrastructure; Logistics trends of 2016

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

They Might Be Giants

This story provides a look at how e-commerce and logistics information technology help small and medium-sized businesses gain advantages that allow them to compete as though they were larger companies.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing

Whiskey, Bartender—and Make it Quick!

If there’s one lesson that we’ve learned from fine bourbon or whiskey, it’s that good things come to those who wait. Distilleries know this better than anyone. But when it’s time to get that product out the door and in the hands of distributors, the last thing a distiller wants to do is wait.

Jannine Miller

Big Data, 3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Technology , Transportation

Georgia: Enabling Business Growth Through Collaboration

From well-designed redundancies across intermodal shipping methods to creative solutions when the unexpected happens, Georgia’s logistics industry is positioned to help shippers connect, compete, and grow.

Distribution, Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing

Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitude

When an outdated warehouse management system was putting a dent in a distributor’s workflow, it turned to a technology partner to grow its e-commerce business.

Clint Lasher

Distribution, Materials Handling, Warehousing

Fine-tuning the Modern Distribution Center

Sound strategies for maintaining, optimizing, and modernizing materials handling systems can mitigate risk in today’s DC and go a long way toward ensuring a smooth ride in the supply chain.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chains that Rock Around the Clock: A Hard Day's Night

Companies that work with third-party logistics providers such as Penske Logistics get to share the pain when unexpected situations arise.

Felecia Stratton

3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

The Supply Chain of the Past

Why Inbound Logistics decided to re-publish Strikepoint, a fictional logistics novella originally published in 2001.

Doug Waggoner

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation

Advantages of Partial Truckload Shipping

Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.

Jim Hoefflin

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

A Five-Step Blueprint for 3PL Success

It is critical that 3PLs take a hard look at operations to determine areas for cost reduction, productivity and efficiency improvements, and opportunities for new service offerings and revenue streams.

Tom Madzy

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology

So You’ve Decided to Invest in a Global TMS – Now What?

When choosing a transportation management system, it’s important to ensure it will meet all of your requirements.

Dave Silva

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Shedding Light on DIM Weight Returns

Customer returns are inevitable, and without a clear understanding and plan for managing returns, DIM weight expenses can easily challenge budgets and profitability.

Steve Wood

Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Security, Technology

Serialization: It's the Real Thing

To help combat counterfeiting, the premium beverage industry is taking advantage of serial numbers on product packages to uniquely identify each product for increased connectivity throughout packaging operations and the supply chain.

Steve Leavitt

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How to Stand Out in a Crowded Marketplace

With so many choices available, varying freight, and small package shipping needs, the 3PL service offering needs to be about more than the transaction.

Automotive Logistics, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics

The Automotive Aftermarket: Time for a Tuneup?

Three recent developments—a shift to omni-channel retailing, an increase in manufacturing investment in Mexico, and the approval of the Trans-Pacific Partnership—are having a pronounced impact on automotive aftermarket supply chains. Here’s how automakers, auto parts suppliers, and logistics service providers can respond effectively.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

Keeping Partnerships Strong in a Shifting Landscape

As shippers evaluate existing, merged, or new 3PL providers, they should also be aware of their own processes and approach to vendor relationships and choose partners that best align with their strategies and needs.

3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology

Liquor Logistics: Solutions on Tap

The booming liquor business has added several layers of complexity to the supply chain with the addition of many new product SKUs. Shippers are using technology, data, and collaboration to keep the supply chain moving efficiently.

Distribution, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing

Warehouse Automation: The Next Generation

Investments in pick/put-to-light technology, wearables, robotic AGVs, high-speed conveyors, voice-directed picking, and a warehouse control system equate to an automated, smart, and efficient distribution center.

Inventory Management, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing

IoT in the Supply Chain

As the world becomes increasingly connected via the Internet of Things (IoT), the amount of data being created and shared is skyrocketing. Your supply chain will be profoundly affected.

Felecia Stratton

Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Whatever It Takes

The true measure of customer service is what team members, carriers, and supply chain partners do when something goes wrong.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing

Trends—December 2015

Transportation and logistics deal value continues to rise; distribution centers prepare to reduce picking errors; mobile-based freight brokerage; predictive analytics and Internet of Things revolutionize procurement

Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation

Global Logistics—October 2015

The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index

Chuck Fattore

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation

Realizing the Power of a Leveraged Platform

One way a manufacturer can mitigate the effects of increasing regulations and demand volatility is by working with a third-party logistics provider with a leveraged platform.

Sid Geddam

Forklifts, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing, Visibility

Building the Connected Warehouse

A connected warehouse maximizes warehouse efficiency, as well as positions a company to decisively navigate constant changes across the supply chain. Real-time data intelligence delivers the visibility and control needed to effect measurable improvements.

E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Transportation

The Dairy Supply Chain: From Farm to Fridge

How milk and other dairy products moo-ve from tens of thousands of cows to store shelves across the country - with udder efficiency.

Careers, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

People Person

Bobby Harris, President and CEO of BlueGrace Logistics, discusses the talent gap, entrepreneurship, the importance of keeping employees happy, and more.

3PL, HazMat, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Trends—November 2015

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification (GHS), which ensures hazardous materials are safely produced, used, and disposed of, continues to evolve. Supply chain management technology tools remain a priority. Third-party logistics providers project future growth. St. Louis, Mo. remains an epicenter for all transportation modes, and is ripe for future growth opportunities.

Andreas Pohl

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Security

What Trends are Shaping the Global Air Freight Market?

Keep these trends in mind when selecting an air logistics supplier to find the best solution to suits your needs

Howard Rosenberg

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Don't Just Liquidate, Seek Scalable Solutions

Reassessing your reverse logistics plan for customer returns and excess inventory is a must in today’s retail environment. Look beyond traditional methods and approach this obsolete merchandise as an opportunity (versus a headache) to positively impact your business margin.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

The Sweet Smell of Success

A system developed by The Smart Cube pulls and aggregates information from all Elizabeth Arden’s contract manufacturers, providing a consolidated, accurate view of data across the company’s supply chain. The cosmetics giant now can see, in real time, the purchases its network of manufacturers makes on its behalf.

Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Picking Solutions, Specialized Logistics, Technology

Super-fast Fulfillment

When it comes to ASAP, quick-thinking shippers redefine what's possible.

Kae-Por Chang

China, Distribution, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility

Doing Business in China

While doing business with China, many companies face a wide range of challenges trying to navigate the country’s complex trade programs.

Gary C. Smith

Inventory Management

Product Philanthropy: An Efficient Way to Move Unwanted Inventory

Excess inventory is a common problem that contains its own best solution: product philanthropy. Donating unwanted products to charity requires minimal time and labor, yet generates solid returns.

Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation

Great Logistics Sites: Prime Destinations, Unmistakable Results

The pursuit of perfection may seem an impossible goal. But, with the right combination of key elements, four regions in the United States have achieved logistics greatness.

Careers, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics

An Acquiring Mind

Inbound Logistics interviews XPO Logistics’ Brad Jacobs to discuss his vision for XPO Logistics, and shares insight into what it takes to be a successful leader in today’s business world.

Distribution, Loading Dock, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing

What’s in Your Warehouse?

Warehouse operations no longer allow for “business as usual” practices. New initiatives and strategic investments in capital improvements will lead to greater returns in productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Investing in the latest materials handling equipment, WMS technology, and physical building improvements will result in a fully integrated distribution center.

3PL, Audit Services, Freight Payment Services, Third-Party Logistics

Freight Payment and Auditing Services: Cash is King 

Freight audit and payment companies help shippers find the hidden cash in their supply chains by eliminating overbilling, and paying invoices accurately and quickly.

Chuck Fattore

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Technology , Transportation

Leveraged Platforms: The More Efficient Road Ahead

Core carriers participating in leveraged platforms typically receive consistent, attractive internal freight volumes and specific lanes of business.

Steve Syfan

3PL, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Third-Party Logistics

Outsourcing to a Third-Party Logistics Provider

From a shipping perspective, manufacturers can best address today’s increasing regulations and demand volatility by outsourcing shipping to a third-party logistics provider.

3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Nourishing a Healthy Supply Chain 

Nutrabolt’s rapid growth created several logistics challenges, including processing orders efficiently and quickly; absorbing dramatic swings in order volumes to support promotional campaigns; and providing omni-channel fulfillment through a single warehouse. A third-party logistics partnership with Kane Is Able helped Nutrabolt meet these challenges.

Daniel Cser

Air Cargo, 3PL, Global Economy, China, Freight Forwarders, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Transportation

Seven Tips for Finding the Right Chinese Partner

Use these seven tips to find a partner in China that is right for your company.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Safety

Safeguarding Your Loading Dock

No matter how thoroughly safety training requirements are followed, there are still likely to be gaps in your company’s loading dock safety efforts. Use these tips to better shape safety training plans.

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—August 2015

3PLs tout IoT as top disruptive innovation in the supply chain; Hyundai and Accenture team up to design smarter ship; TMS use has tripled over the past decade; new sustainability web platform helps shippers assess key trends and best practices.

E-commerce, Economic Development, Global Economy, China, Canada, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Global Logistics—August 2015

In spite of U.S. dollar strength, domestic manufacturing remains competitive globally; UPS tests new electric cargo bikes to handle urban deliveries; Bi-national Great Lakes Seaway Partnership promotes commercial shipping along the Saint Lawrence Seaway system; Mercedes-Benz reconfigures its global supply chain; Global Logistic Properties shifts investment from China to United States; Freight rail gains traction in passenger transport-focused China; China debuts the world’s longest freight train route linking the northeast city of Harbin with Hamburg, Germany.

John Sell

Bar-coding Systems, 3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

How Non-Traditional Service Offerings Are Enhancing Supply Chains

Value-added services that fall outside the realm of traditional supply chain solutions can save millions of dollars and create mutually beneficial, collaborative relationships.

Green Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Getting Packaging Costs Down to Size

Sustainability and cost savings are driving shippers to reduce packaging waste.

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management

8 Ways to File Effective Freight Claims

Freight damage, loss, and theft will always occur. Planning for those inevitabilities is key to prevention and faster claims settlement.

Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Growing Efficiency and Weeding Out Waste

With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices.


Keith Biondo

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics

You Say You Want a Co-Evolution?

The third-party logistics (3PL) segment evolved from shippers driving the process based on their needs, to collaboratively working together to create new solutions and change business operations. 

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Overcoming LTL Shipping Challenges

Understanding less-than-truckload shipping challenges is the key to overcoming them.

Chris Baltz

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management

Working With the Right Enterprise Logistics Provider Makes Good Companies Significantly Better

An Enterprise Logistics partnership helps improve companies by delivering customized applications to improve market advantage.

Nathan Pieri

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management

What “Digital Business” Means for your Business

Digital Business integrates the value chain to realize a constant stream of operational data and transform it into balanced, end-to-end metrics that improve decision making.

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management

The Evolution of Third-Party Logistics

Join us as we turn back the clock and consider how outsourcing demand has changed over the past 20 years – and perhaps shed some light on where the 3PL industry is tracking.

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

Readers’ Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2015

Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.

3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Prepare for Impact

All global supply chains carry some element of risk, but working with third-party logistics providers, with transparency in full effect, can help you achieve the best risk management outcome.

3PL, Project Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics

Special Deliveries: Moving the Gargantuan, the Precious, and the Peculiar

When it comes to transporting the oversized, the awkward, the exotic, and the endangered, the secret to success is planning, planning, and more planning.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

BaubleBar Makes International Shipping Sparkle

When BaubleBar saw the untapped potential of the international market, they tapped an parcel shipping partner to help them succeed.

Steven Page

3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics

Three Tips for Doing Business in Canada

When selling products across the northern border, these three tips can help.

Felecia Stratton

Green Logistics, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics

Engineering Green DNA

Companies are breaking through functional silos to initiate sweeping sustainability mandates.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Cutting Costs While Delighting Customers

Cost reductions are uncovered from raw materials to end delivery, but companies must focus on its customers to keep them satisfied.

3PL, Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Global Logistics—June 2015

Middle East countries show signs of regional collaboration around transportation and logistics; China’s “red supply chain” threatens Taiwanese semiconductor industry; India looks to Korea as both a model and partner for its economic modernization program; U.S. fashion industry supports extension of African Growth & Opportunity Act; Cuba’s Port of Mariel attracts investment from CMA CGM; China looks to replicate U.S. rail freight model

3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ports, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—June 2015

Short-term Highway Trust Fund extension renews call for national transportation strategy; Medical cost inflation and cyber risk are the most prying business concerns; Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach create shared working groups to explore operational efficiencies; GS1 Simple Product Listing creates new standard for e-commerce marketplace

John Costanzo

3PL, Cross-border Trade, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

It's Time for an Automotive Aftermarket Logistics Tuneup

Aftermarket parts providers must take advantage of innovations in the supply chain to remain competitive in today’s global market.

Doug Waggoner

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Benefits of Partial Truckload Shipping

Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.

Green Logistics, 3PL, Lean, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Growing a Culture of Sustainability

Finding a common ground between cost and corporate social responsibility remains a challenging proposition – unless organizations nurture a culture of sustainability.

Green Logistics, 3PL, Lean, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

G75: Inbound Logistics' 75 Green Supply Chain Partners

These supply chain, logistics, and transportation companies lead the way in supporting sustainability.

3PL, Chemical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Safety, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Chemical Logistics: Keep it Moving, Keep it Safe

A look at logistics trends and challenges that affect companies in the chemical industries, and their strategies for dealing with those issues.

Joe Johnson

3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Improving the Warehouse Startup Process

Recent improvements in wireless cellular technology and mesh networks provide solutions that can be adapted for warehousing space, easing startup challenges and costs.

Brian Sutter

Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Finding an Inventory Solution That’s Just Right for Your Small Business

Inventory management is often difficult and time-consuming for smaller businesses, but the right solution can remove some of the pressure.

Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Awake at the Wheel: Delivering Customer Satisfaction

When Sleepy's customers got tired of short notice and missed deliveries, the specialty mattress retailer brought in a technology partner and dreamed up a solution that put those problems to bed.

Nate Henderson

Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics I.T.

Improving Customer Satisfaction with Consumer Engagement Apps

Offering apps with products helps manufacturers improve customer satisfaction and lower complaints and returns.

Jeff Vielhaber

Inventory Management, Logistics, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management

Communication is Key When Optimizing Logistics Networks

The key to any successful relationship is communication. Your logistics network is no different.

Keith Biondo

Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

The World is Your Warehouse, 2.0

New lower-cost commercial systems and equipment are just over the horizon; they will provide an exciting array of inventory control to the logistics and supply chain community.

Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Judi Griffin: Sinks Her Teeth Into Her Work

Judi Griffin, director of logistics at Burkhart Dental, is responsible for three distribution centers, purchasing and customer service teams, and inbound and outbound freight costs.

Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—April 2015

Supply chain ‘modeling’ replicates real-world events; Retailers and manufacturers make the jump to RFID; U.S. trucking industry sees better utilization and financial results; Data analytics is a big growth market.

3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management

3PLs Put Technology Front and Center

This story looks at the role technology plays in the value that various third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer to their shipper customers.

Tom Heine

3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management

Using Technology to Maximize Value Chain Partnerships

Providing technology solutions helps third-party logistics providers stand out from competitors and adds value to their services.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Collaborative Distribution: Taking Off the Training Wheels

To break the cycle of needless, duplicative logistics costs, many competitors are choosing to work in tandem.

Air Cargo, 3PL, Logistics, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Freight Transport in Alaska: The Haul of the Wild

Challenging weather and a remote location make delivering freight to and from Alaska a complex operation. To simplify operations, many shippers turn to transportation companies and logistics service providers that have the expertise to make sure freight flows smoothly despite the complexities.

David Bouchard

3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

What is Globalization Doing to the World of Logistics?

Globalization has a dramatic impact on strategic sourcing, logistics excellence, and supply chain management. Here’s how your company can become a preferred employer in today’s global age.

Ty Bordner

3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Three Ways to Drill Down Costs in Oil & Gas Supply Chains

Here are three ways companies are optimizing their oil and gas supply chains and creating more predictable financial returns.

Doug Pasquale

3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Unlocking the Hidden Green Value in Mobile Devices

A good reverse logistics program offers mobile device retailers and OEMs a world of opportunity.

E-commerce, Global Economy, Mexico, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Rethinking the Global Supply Chain

Shifting global dynamics and internal business process changes are compelling manufacturers and retailers to challenge the status quo and reinvent their supply chains.

3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing

Georgia: Super Hub of the Southeast

A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.

Joseph Hoban

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

The Value of a Freight Forwarder

Freight forwarders provide value-added services beyond just transportation and logistics. Here's advice for choosing the right one for your business.

Green Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Inspecting the Unexpected: The Science of Packaging Perfection

Here are 10 common packaging errors and how to overcome them.

3PL, Global Economy, Customer Service, Freight Forwarders, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Technology

The Kings of ACE

When it came time to face the ACE, HW St. John bet on an automated solution that streamlines processes and deals customers a winning hand.

Brandon Levey

Inventory Management, Warehousing

How to Make Physical Inventory Counts Less Stressful

Implementing a cycle-counting program makes physical inventory counts a lot less daunting.

Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Trends—January 2015

Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers

Laura Easley

3PL, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Leverage Data to Navigate Uncertain Times

Companies are seeking data to help them understand their supply chain networks, and strategic enterprise partners are providing the needed information to them through logistics.

Bob Richard

Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Changing Regulations Regarding Shipping Lithium Batteries Present Unique Hazards for Shippers, Carriers and Receivers

Shippers, carriers, manufacturers – everyone in the business of shipping Dangerous Goods needs to stay up to date on what’s going on in the industry.

Tom Patterson

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Six Secrets to Controlling Supply Chain Costs Without Sacrificing Service

Saving a few bucks doesn’t always mean throwing the customer under the bus.

Chris Miget

Manufacturing, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain Management

Reimagining Molded Pulp Packaging: It’s Not Just For Eggs Anymore

Many manufacturers have turned to molded pulp as an environmentally friendly packaging alternative.

3PL, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing

Regulatory Update: Playing by the Rules

Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.

E-commerce, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management

Clothes Encounters: The Logistics of a Revolving Closet

With its subscription-based clothing rental model, Gwynnie Bee is tailoring the rules of e-commerce to make fashion fulfillment a perfect fit.

Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Supply Chain Excellence: A Manufacturing Firestarter

Whirlpool is taking a page out of its Lean production manual and following Penske’s lead to create a more flexible and responsive North American supply chain.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

VMI 2.0: A Whole New Game

Vendor Managed Inventory is shaking off its old-school image and regaining popularity thanks to improved technology, robust communication, tighter demand signal linkage, and a new openness to collaboration that has turbo-charged enterprise benefits.

Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain Management

A DIM Future for Packaging

Inbound Logistics asked these experts to weigh in on the dimensional weight pricing changes that UPS and FedEx implemented on January 1, 2015.

3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Building a Bridge to Continuous Improvement

Tired of relying on e-mail blasts to place freight, L.B. Foster ups its game with a third-party solution that has transformed the enterprise.

Air Cargo, 3PL, Lean, Ocean, Rail, Trucking

Reducing Freight Costs

As transportation prices rise, shippers are engaging in smart planning to reduce logistics costs.

3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.

Trends—December 2014

To mark SmartWay's 10th anniversary, several shipper partners share their best tactics for getting the most out of the program... Sourcing and procurement functions have become areas of core incompetency says new survey.

Karl Swensen

Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail

Four Reasons Retailers Should Pay Attention to Reverse Logistics

A good reverse logistics program saves retailers money, makes customers happy, and serves as a competitive advantage.

3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Customer Service: It’s the Thought That Counts

Technology is enabling an unprecedented level of transparency and communication to help shippers and their logistics providers understand each other's operations, and collaborate in ways that were much more difficult in the past.

3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Specialized Logistics

Food Safety Modernization Act: Safe Travels

Smart shippers are already preparing and making changes to their supply chain operations to ensure they will be in compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act from day one.

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Building an Effective Supply Chain Team

A successful supply chain team needs just the right mix of talent, skills, and personalities, not to mention a clear mission, the freedom to pursue it, and the structure to succeed.

Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation

Trends—November 2014

Reciprocal switching debate casts a cloud over railroad industry collaboration; Procurement execution gap costs U.S. businesses $1.5 billion per year; Holiday consumers plan to shop sooner to avoid last-minute parcel problems; Trucking costs continue to soar as driver shortage worsens; Amazon Supreme Court case will set a precedent for how companies secure facilities and compensate workers.

Jose Luis Carrazco Velazquez

3PL, Mexico, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America

3PL Partnerships Can Ease Burden on LATAM Manufacturers

Latin America is fast becoming the destination of choice for companies looking to expand their global footprint, and 3PLs with knowledge and regional expertise will be valuable partners.

Inventory Management, Transportation

Critical Shipments: If I Only Had a Part

Bad things happen when systems break down. Flights get canceled. Production lines stop. The critical spare parts logistics involved in getting operations running again demand both precision and speed. Here’s how you can become a wizard at critical shipments.

Paul Boothe

3PL, Intermodal, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation

Understanding Capacity Constraints

The trucking industry faces capacity constraints, but there are solutions available to help shippers minimize the impact.

Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Education & Careers, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing

Memphis: America’s Multimodal City

Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.

An executive finds one path blocked and considers an alternative

E-commerce, Asia, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management

Global Logistics—September 2014

Plan now to avoid supply chain disruptions from the latest Icelandic volcano eruption; Australia struggles with home delivery challenges; EU and China sign landmark customs agreement.

Curtis Greve

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

Product Returns: 5 Myths Busted

Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.

Google Shopping Express driver and delivery van

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking

Trends—August 2014

Google and Barnes & Noble partner to provide same-day book delivery; Shippers prioritize day-to-day problem-solving over contingency planning; APICS and SCC merge; Transplace identifies four areas key to preferred shipper status

Port of Hamburg

E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Rail

Global Logistics—August 2014

DB Schenker tests silent brake blocks; India changes policy for e-commerce foreign investment; Canada opens Customs Self Assessment preferences to U.S. shippers; Global steamship lines raise rates; European ports struggle with congestion and larger ships

John Deris

3PL, Food Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management

Managing SKU Proliferation in the Beverage Industry

Expanding beverage product lines are generating new stockkeeping units (SKUs) - and supply chain management challenges.

Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management

First Aid for the Hospital Supply Chain

Hospitals can cut costs by improving supply chain operations, inventory control, and transportation management.

Udaya Shankar

Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.

How the Internet of Things Impacts Supply Chains

The Internet of Things can affect supply chain operations by increasing in-transit visibility.

Felecia Stratton

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

3PL Evolution Continues

Third-party logistics services evolved to meet shippers' changing transportation, distribution, and warehousing needs.

Packaging, Risk Management

Preventing Shipment Damage

Properly prepare shipments and test packaging to prevent product damage and returns.

Green Logistics, 3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Trends—July 2014

State of Logistics Report predicts moderate growth for freight industry in 2014; freight brokerage M&A shakes up industry; FMCSA extends comment period for ELD rulemaking; Online consumers willing to pay more for sustainable delivery options; Shippers register growing discontent with parcel carriers and trucking companies; University of Kansas MSB program prepares active-duty military for private sector roles

CeMAT 2014 attendees observe an equipment demonstration

E-commerce, Asia, Canada, Global Logistics, Materials Handling, Latin America

Global Logistics—July 2014

CeMAT 2014 showcases the latest materials handling innovations; Alibaba buys stake in Singapore Post; Paris looks to reduce city speed limits; Canadian rail industry begins phasing out DOT-111 tankers amid crude-by-rail boom; EU and China sign Customs agreement; Chinese food imports continue to grow; Nigeria looks to resurrect defunct national steamship line; Latin America is the world’s fastest growing market for software; Maersk Line voice support for Nicaragua Canal proposal.

Paul Thompson

3PL, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

The Evolution of Enterprise Logistics

Enterprise logistics providers are developing solutions that fuse data elements for insights that enable decisionmaking.

David Bouchard

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

What is a True Integrated Logistics Services Partner and How Do You Find One?

Integrated Logistics Services providers address supply chain challenges facing shippers to improve logistics operations.

Mike Rozembajgier

Green Logistics, Retail, Risk Management

Retailers, Watch Your Waste Lines

Partnering with an expert can help retailers ensure they comply with hazardous waste regulations.

Robert F. Byrne

Demand Planning, Retail, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Forecasting Seasonal Surges Keeps Products on the Shelf

Transportation forecasting lets shippers collaborate with carriers to identify capacity gaps and reallocate assets.

Curtis Greve

Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail

Why Every Manufacturer Needs a Reverse Logistics Solution

Reverse logistics solutions can improve the bottom line, and reduce potential regulatory liabilities.

A businessman casts a shadow shaped like a soldier

3PL, Military Logistics, Education & Careers

Casting Vets Into the Private Sector

Military veterans bring valuable skills and characteristics that make logistics operations stronger.

Overlapping gears

3PL, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Market Research: 3PL Perspectives 2014

Logistics market report reveals trends in 3PL offerings and shippers' logistics outsourcing strategies.

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

Readers’ Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2014

Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.

An oil refinery

3PL, Chemical Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Transportation

Fueling the Oil and Gas Supply Chain

Transporting and storing oil and gas products represents a complex challenge and big opportunity.

Canada and U.S. flags juxtaposed

3PL, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation

U.S.-Canada Trade: Getting a Line on Cross-Border Shipments

Cross-border import and export trade between the United States and Canada requires planning and expertise.

Tom Heine

3PL

Does Your Website Help You Stand Out from Your Competition?

3PL websites should offer tools that offer shippers information they need, and make working with carriers easier.

TAJ Flooring executives Julie Kyle and Denise Johnson

Distribution, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation, Warehousing

TMS: Getting in on the Ground Floor

TAJ Flooring used a transportation management system to improve shipment and freight spend visibility.

Dr. Matthew Waller

Retail, Trucking, Transportation

Innovation in Business Processes from Northwest Arkansas

Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.

Senthil Arumugam

Education & Careers, Inventory Management

Senthil Arumugam: Building a Better Way

Senthil Arumugam, vice president of logistics & inventory management at US LBM Holdings, constructs a sturdy operation.

Paul A. Myerson

Lean, Retail

Lean Retail: It’s About Time – and Money

Retailers can identify and eliminate waste from their retail strategy, merchandise management, and store operations.

Brian Smith

3PL, Warehousing

Need Warehouse Capacity? Outsourcing Gives You an In

With warehouse capacity at a premium, shippers consult 3PLs to help locate shared space.

Brian Sutter

Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.

Fight Inventory Pain Points

Avoid common inventory issues: inaccurate inventory counts, costly end-of-year write-offs, and lost inventory.

Mike Miller

Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing

Dispelling Five Common Myths about Voice-Directed Work

Voice-directed technology can help improve worker safety and reduce employee-training time, yet some companies avoid them because of these five common misconceptions.

Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management

Trends—May 2014

TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network

Ron Cain

3PL

5 Steps to Revolutionize Your Corporate Culture

A strong corporate culture boosts productivity, improves service, and reduces workplace injuries and employee turnover.

Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehousing

Refreshing Your Logistics Network: 6 Steps to Success

This article provides a step-by-step guide to logistics network optimization.

Distribution, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing

Materials Handling Equipment: Sorting Through the Options

Companies planning new distribution centers or warehouses weigh process data to choose materials handling equipment.

Tom Kroswek

3PL, Automotive Logistics

Understanding the Auto Aftermarket Supply Chain

Auto aftermarket shippers use supplier ship direct programs and high-velocity DCs to meet demand.

Sue Delve

Distribution, Transportation

How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Transformed the Transportation Industry

Hub-and-spoke transportation models maximize cargo shipping efficiency, delivering better visibility and cost savings.

Bob Kalland, inventory and logistics manager, Atlas Copco Mining and Rock Excavation

Education & Careers, Inventory Management, Manufacturing

Bob Kalland Knows the Drill

Bob Kalland digs his job as inventory and logistics manager for Atlas Copco Mining and Rock Excavation.

Retail trends including social commerce, multi-channel efficiency, marketing

Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Ocean, Supply Chain Management

Trends—April 2014

NRF’s Big Show unveils trends in the retail industry; Local couriers provide a solution to capacity constraints and empower same-day delivery; Ocean carrier industry beset by imbalances; Global RFID market primed for robust growth; Shippers plan for supply chain exceptions

Sean Coakley

3PL, Partnership

Laying the Foundation For a Long-Term 3PL Partnership

A long-term vision allows a shipper-3PL partnership to make long-lasting improvements.

Paul A. Myerson

Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management

Streamlining Inventory Through SKU Rationalization

The number of stockkeeping units has increased considerably. Doing an ABC analysis helps eliminate unneeded inventory.

Servers holding supply chain data

Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.

Leveraging Big Data

Analyzing supply chain data allows shippers to improve their logistics operations.

George Kontoravdis, PhD

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

The Fundamentals of Successful Value Chain Partnerships

Supply chain partners must work together to maximize the benefit to their customers – and boost their own bottom line.

Tom Sproat

3PL, Ocean, Partnership

Keys to Developing Strong Supply Chain Partnerships

Supply chain partner collaboration improves supply chain performance, create capabilities, and increase efficiencies.

Thermometer registering a low temperature

3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing

Cold Storage: Optimization by Degrees

Shippers rely on 3PLs and refrigerated public warehouses to invest in technology, implement standards, and facilitate strategic business process change to drive greater efficiencies.

Cargo security guards monitoring high value shipments

3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Security, Specialized Logistics, Transportation

Protecting High-Value Cargo: A Sense of Security

Shippers and logistics providers take extra precautions to protect high-value products from cargo theft.

Alaska's geography creates logistics challenges

Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Inland Barge, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Heading North: Navigating Alaska’s Supply Chain

Alaska’s extreme weather and geography create logistics challenges for shippers moving cargo to, from, and in the state.

Tom Griffin

Green Logistics, 3PL, Partnership, Trucking

A Strategic Approach to Strengthening Supply Chains

Partnering with third-party logistics providers offers shippers numerous advantages for stronger supply chains.

Two businessmen overlook a train loaded with intermodal containers

3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Georgia: Logistics Sweet Spot

Georgia offers manufacturers and distributors superior access to logistics providers and transportation infrastructure.

A shipping container, a pallet of boxes, and boxes of various sizes

Packaging

Finding Cost Savings: It's the Whole Package

Looking at packaging and freight costs together boxes up logistics and transportation efficiencies

Home furnishings from Badcock Hom Furniture & More

Cloud Computing, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management

Cloud-based System Furnishes Supply Chain Visibility

Faced with long lead times and potential production delays, Badcock Furniture and More invested in a cloud-based tool.

Boomerang with symobls representing U.S. and Canada on each end

Economic Development, Asia, Cross-border Trade, China, Canada, Reverse Logistics, Global Logistics, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Retail, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America

Global—February 2014

China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard

Chris Timmer

3PL, Partnership

Scaling Supply Chain Partnerships

Scaling your supply chain can trigger significant adjustments in your partnerships.

Paul A. Myerson

Inventory Management, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

Collaborative Programs: Not a Chore But an Opportunity

Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.

Illustration of expedited courier

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery

Same Day Delivery: The Amazing Race

Garrick Pohl of Zipments discusses how the company facilitates same-day delivery.

Made in Mexico tag

3PL, Economic Development, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Latin America

Cross-Border Trade: Made in Mexico

U.S. companies stand to gain from establishing manufacturing operations in Mexico – if they manage the challenges.

Illustration of a criminal's and a businessman's hands on a container

3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing

Cargo Security: Protecting the Supply Chain

Ensuring supply chain security requires that shippers and logistics providers stay one step ahead of thieves.

Aircraft components

3PL, Military Logistics, Manufacturing

Aerospace Logistics: Building for Growth

The aerospace industry explores new strategies for producing planes quickly, efficiently, and profitably.

businesswoman on a tightrope

3PL, Finance, Global Logistics, Partnership, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Risk Mitigation: Supply Chain Safety Net

Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.

Illustration of containers arranged to spell out FTZ

3PL, Intermodal, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing

FTZ Basics & Benefits

Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.

Chris Baltz

3PL, Partnership, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Looking for One Logistics Partner That Does Everything with Excellence?

An enterprise logistics provider delivers holistic solutions that transform your business.

Henry Cone

Inventory Management, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

PVMI: A New Approach to Supply Chain Control

Production vendor managed inventory enables manufacturers to gain supply chain control.

Sri Ramadas

3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Security

Know Thy Partner: Beyond C-TPAT

Knowing your global trading partners can help maintain a smooth flow of goods, while ensuring safety and security.

163 illustration

3PL, Expedited Shipping, Global Logistics, Ocean, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Risk Management, Trucking, Security, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

163 Ways to Supercharge Your Supply Chain

Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.

Iron ore mining in Australia

3PL, Middle East, Asia, Panama Canal, China, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Risk Management

Global Logistics—January 2014

Global dry-bulk commodity trade reveals rate growth, steadying inflation in China; Preparations for 2022 World Cup trigger DC explosion in Qatar; Supplier risk analysis will become more complex as companies expand into new global markets; Pakistani protests force U.S. military drawdown to consider $1 billion airfreight alternative; Asia truck bans taking toll on logistics industry; Africa’s piracy problem shifting to continent’s west coast; Trans-Pacific Partnership pact stalls, 2014 ratification expected; China’s Nicaraguan Canal stirs intrigue; Tesco acquires stake in “Asia’s Amazon”

Geoff Milsom

Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.

A New Paradigm in Vendor Partner Management

Implementing tools and processes that enable better shipment visibility and control of in-transit inventory helps improve vendor partner management.

3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management

Plugging Multiple Brands Into Multiple Channels

Geodis Wilson helps integrated design technology company Dana Innovations expand its international supply chain.

Darin J. Cooprider

Packaging, Supply Chain Management

Packaging Postponement: A Game Changer for F&B Companies

Positioning product packaging downstream in the supply chain offers food manufacturers varied selling opportunities.

Ed Smith

3PL, Specialized Logistics

Improving Efficiencies and Costs in the Energy Supply Chain

Energy companies have responded to the escalating cost of doing business by looking for savings in the indirect material supply chain. As a result, many are struggling to optimize maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) functions.

Ducks in a row being turned to face the same direction

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Vendor Compliance: Setting Them Straight

Drive out inefficiencies and boost customer service by aligning with vendors to meet your supply chain goals.

Illustration of a ringmaster

3PL, Specialized Logistics

Event Logistics: On With the Show

Event logistics planners coordinate details to ensure precise requirements and deadlines are met.

Ashton Shaw

Green Logistics, 3PL, Transportation

Using SmartWay Data to Inform Transportation Purchasing Decisions

SmartWay data allows shippers and 3PLs to make business decisions that support their sustainability goals.

Joel Anderson

3PL, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations

How Will the Affordable Care Act Impact Shippers?

A large seasonal workforce complicates 3PL compliance with healthcare laws and could mean rate increases for shippers.

Packaging

Leveraging Packaging-On-Demand Solutions

Packaging on-demand solutions enable businesses to save inventory space and cut packaging and labor costs.

Greg Syfan

3PL, Logistics I.T.

Technology Supports 3PL-Carrier Partnerships

Freight management technology strengthens partnerships between third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.

Illustration of a car

Automotive Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management

The Nuts & Bolts of the Automotive Aftermarket Supply Chain

The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.

Distribution

Optimizing Your DC Network

Establishing an efficient distribution center network require careful planning and frequent updates.

Linda Taddonio

E-commerce

The Five New Rules of E-commerce and the Path to Successful B2B Online Sales

Business to business (B2B) e-commerce sites must be well planned to increase revenue and support a growing client base.

Suit on hanger

Retail, Logistics I.T.

Retailers Try I.T. On for Size

As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.

Cintron Quenches Thirst For Order Management System

An order management system from DF Young and Superior Technology helps Cintron Beverage Company boost inventory accuracy, fulfill orders easily and quickly, and track products throughout the supply chain.

Michael P. Dolan

3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

TMS or 3PL: Which Suits Your Business Best?

Shippers’ needs dictate if a third party logistics provider or transportation management system is the best choice.

Classic Alaska employee using an automated shipping system

Retail, Logistics I.T.

Bringing Supply Chain Visibility to the Last Frontier

A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Business Process Improvement? Flexibility.

Flexible 3PLs drive business process improvements for shippers.

Felecia Stratton

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Finding Supply Chain Feng Shui

Outsourcing transportation and logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) blends function and flexibility into a supply chain feng shui.

Bobby Harris

3PL, Supply Chain Management

3PLs Can Provide Soft Cost Savings for Small Businesses

Logistics providers can help shippers save money through decreased labor, lower overhead, and technology tools.

3PL blueprint illustration

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Remodeling

Four companies worked with 3PLs to make over their logistics operations, so they could meet evolving business demands.

3PL

2013 3PL Perspectives: Drafting a Blueprint for Growth

A logistics and supply chain market research survey reveal trends and insights about the third-party logistics sector.

3PL

Readers’ Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2013

Inbound Logistics readers' choices for the best third party logistics providers.

Purple handbag

Retail

Discount Apparel Logistics: Outfitting the Outlets

As consumers embrace bargain hunting, off-price apparel retailers reinvent their supply chains to meet demand.

Broccoli embedded in ice

3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Temperature Controlled

Temperature-controlled Logistics: Cool Under Pressure

Perishable shipments such as produce and pharmaceuticals require temperature monitoring and careful handling.

Illustration of Earth within Walmart logo

Green Logistics, Retail

Green Logistics The Walmart Way

Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.

Tank truck hauling chemicals

3PL, Chemical Logistics

Outsourcing for Optimum Supply Chain Effectiveness

For chemical logistics providers, safety on the truck and in the warehouse is of paramount importance.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Economic Development, Manufacturing, Warehousing

We Need Jobs…Let’s Raise Taxes?

Minnesota's warehouse tax may push jobs out of state.

3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Site Selection, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure

Site Selection: The Rise of Intermodal

Transporting goods via truck and rail services offers shippers economy and efficiency benefits. Site selection teams evaluating intermodal sites also consider factors such as labor, transportation infrastructure, and utility costs.

Distribution, Materials Handling, Warehousing

DC Automation: Sorting It Out

Changing consumer expectations and demand for greater efficiency, economy, and productivity present new twists and turns in warehouse automation.

3PL, Finance, Partnership

Assessing Your Provider’s Financial Stability

Danny Monson of States Logistics Services Inc. offers tips to help shippers confirm a logistics service provider is financially stable before signing a logistics service contract.

Kyle Gholston

3PL, Partnership

6 Secrets to Finding the Right 3PL

Finding a third-party logistics (3PL) provider you can count on requires due diligence into performance history and resources, writes Kyle tGholston of Conexus.

Retail, Specialized Logistics

Sporting Goods Logistics: Keeping the Ball Rolling

Sporting goods manufacturers and retailers must manage seasonal peaks to avoid stockouts and meet online customers’ demand for prompt delivery. Supply chain technology helps provide visibility and track items during product recalls.

Justin Woulfe

3PL, Partnership

Performance-Based Negotiations: Simulation as Support for Decision-Making

Using an advanced logistics simulation tool to analyze system performance and lifecycle cost can help logisticians negotiate better performance-based logistics contracts, writes Justin Woulfe of WPI Services.

3PL finance

3PL, Finance, Partnership

Is Your 3PL Financially Healthy?

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Conduct a financial checkup of your potential 3PL partners before you sign the contract.

Grocery retail

Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Latin America

Cloud-Based WMS Fires Up Supermercados Supply Chain

Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).

E-commerce, Picking Solutions, Warehousing

Improved Warehouse Operations: Cause to Celebrate

A warehouse control system that integrates voice-directed picking technology, a high-speed sortation system, and scanning technology streamlined party goods supplier Oriental Trading Company’s picking, packing, and shipping operations.

Distribution strategies

Distribution, Transportation Management

Transportation & Distribution: Geared to Demand

Schwan’s Home Services optimized its distribution network by using a hybrid insourced/outsourced model; and Sun-Maid Growers of California used collaborative distribution to create better economies of scale in its transportation operations.

John Wagner Jr.

3PL

Outsourcing for Newbies, and a Refresher for All

To preserve working capital and promote flexibility, many companies choose to leverage the capabilities of a third-party-logistics (3PL) provider for carrier spend, facility occupancy, and more, writes John Wagner Jr. of Wagner Logistics.

Ray Greer

3PL

Using Strategic Acquisitions to Satisfy Your Customer Base

Shippers want 3PL partners that not only responsively evolve service networks and capabilities to flex with the market, but also can anticipate and be ready to meet future service requirements, writes Ray Greer of BNSF Logistics.

Foster Finley

E-commerce

Surveying the Home Delivery Landscape

Retailers and shippers need to find ways to meet consumers’ changing demand for home delivery services, while maintaining adequate margins and finding new avenues for continued growth, writes Foster Finley of AlixPartners.

Jeffrey B. Graves

E-commerce, Warehousing

Maximizing Productivity in E-commerce Warehousing and Distribution Operations

Continuous e-commerce growth has prompted an increasing number of retailers to use third-party logistics (3PL) providers for handling their direct-to-consumer fulfillment. Jeffrey B. Graves of Sedlak Management Consultants explains that for retail logistics executives, assessing 3PL capabilities that best fit their company’s requirements can be a challenge, yet critical for optimum return on investment (ROI)

John Paugh

3PL, Partnership

Redefining the Race to Profitability Through Innovation

As manufacturers strive to strike the perfect balance between parts delivered and parts consumed in production, technology innovations allow logistics providers to ensure companies receive only the parts they need when they need them, writes John Paugh of Carter Logistics.

Distribution, Temperature Controlled

An Appetite for Refrigerated Warehousing Improvement

Food company Bob Evans entrusted Millard Refrigerated Services with its warehousing and distribution operations. The two businesses worked together to expand both their supply chain capabilities.

Jay Moris

E-commerce, Materials Handling

Sorting Out Savings Opportunities in Your E-Commerce Warehouse

Savvy distribution and supply chain managers should be looking at sortation and its related disciplines as a means of addressing problems and achieving savings, writes Jay Moris of Invata Intralogistics.

Packaging

How to Reduce Costs by Integrating Packaging with Distribution Center Operations

Performing final product packaging in the distribution center can reduce combined warehousing, logistics, and freight costs by 30 percent and order-to-delivery cycle times by seven days.

3PL, Partnership

How to Foster a Long-Term 3PL Partnership

The value of third-party logistics (3PL) provider partnerships grows infinitely greater when shippers take a long-term approach that focuses on sustainable gains rather than short-term savings.

Mark Croxton

Retail

“Sell By” Dates Cost Shippers Billions in Wasted Perishable Goods

Shippers and business logistics professionals can easily use bar codes rather than ink stamps to ensure fresh food items are delivered to customers, writes Mark Croxton of Aldata.

Emily Ross

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Emily Ross: Good Blood

As senior supply chain manager at blood management devices manufacturer Haemonetics Corporation, Emily Ross monitors the pulse of the company’s transportation and warehousing services sourcing.

Felecia Stratton

Retail, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Therapy Strikes a Balance

As retailers look to grow their business, the challenge of keeping up with the market becomes exponentially greater—especially as new channels emerge, writes Editor Felecia Stratton. Supply chain management can help create balance between supply and demand.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Partnership

3PL Partnerships: From Tactical to Strategic

If shippers use their third-party logistics partners for more than brokerage—not just as tactical providers, but as strategic partners—a whole new world of logistics excellence and accomplishments could open up, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.

Felecia Stratton

3PL, Partnership

3PL Partnerships: From Transactions to Trust

Increasingly, 3PLs and shippers are working much more collaboratively, often sharing pains and gains, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.

Food Logistics, Distribution, Partnership

Failure is Not an Option: Questions and Answers with Brian Hancock

Brian Hancock, president, North America for Martin-Brower, discusses the unique supply chain and distribution operations supporting the McDonald’s restaurant chain.

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

Great Partnerships: 3PLs and Shippers

Many companies, including Kimberly-Clark, Ebro, and USG Corporation, are moving beyond the traditional, transactional shipper-3PL relationship to form collaborative partnerships focused on mutual gain.

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

3PL Perspectives 2012: Shippers and 3PLs—Perfect Together

Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.

3PL

Readers’ Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2012

Inbound Logistics' readers voted on the third-party logistics providers (3PLs) that give them the best service and deliver outstanding results. Here is the list of top-rated 3PLs.

Jim Syfan

3PL

3PLs Control Loads to Provide Shippers Superior Service

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can inspire shipper confidence by using technology tools to control loads and properly insuring their loads.

Nathan Pieri

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Control Towers Offer a Bird’s-Eye View

Companies are increasingly realizing that supply chain must become a core competency. Adding a supply chain control tower and taking on the fourth-party logistics (4PL) role offers them the ability to accelerate collaboration and achieve higher performance levels.

Keith Biondo

Green Logistics, Retail

Green Leadership for Lean Times

Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.

Green Logistics, Packaging

Packaging Grows Green

Many shippers are looking to replace fossil-fuel based packaging materials with something more sustainable. But they must do their homework to find the best – and greenest – fit.

3PL, Partnership

Gaining More From 3PL Relationships

Getting your money’s worth from third-party logistics (3PL) service providers  requires willingness to commit to key relationships, according to these tips from supply chain consultant Valerie Bonebrake, Tompkins International.

Dan Lockwood

3PL, Partnership

3PLs: Going Beyond Savings to True Value

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer shippers a variety of beneficial supply chain services, writes Dan Lockwood of Unishippers Global.

E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Integration: Making e-Fulfillment a Pet Project

Deploying a warehouse management system (WMS) on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis allowed online retailer PetFlow.com to manage its own fulfillment operations without a large capital investment.

3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Trends—December 2011

C.H. Robinson and Menlo Logistics Worldwide streamline managed TMS services; Ohio, Wisconsin, and California transportation legislation; GE opens renewable energy DC; Order fulfillment process grows in complexity

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping

@Home With Demand-Driven Logistics 

UPS My Choice, a new direct-to-home delivery service, turns consumers into inbound logistics practitioners.

3PL, Partnership

How to Evaluate a 3PL Partner

Shippers, carriers, and small intermediaries that rely on third-party logistics (3PL) service providers to manage non-core logistics and supply functions, access capacity, and tap technology capabilities must review 3PL performance periodically to ensure quality service.

Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill

Retail, Logistics I.T.

Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing

Retailers who succeed at integrating their inventory intelligence can cut costs, accelerate turns, and build revenue by driving high-fidelity information back into the supply chain, aligning it with shopper demand, write Tyco Retail Solutions’ Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill.

3PL, Global Logistics

The Bright Side of Logistics in India

There is more to India’s supply chain scene than its shortcomings. APL Logistics’ David Frentzel shares insights from a recent tour of his company’s Indian facilities and meetings with shippers.

Packaging

Material Difference: Packaging Innovation, Inside and Out

Manufacturers are adapting their shipping cartons to effect supply chain change by reducing waste, slashing transport costs, and boosting efficiency.

Keith Biondo

3PL

Using a 3PL: Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?

Shippers that use only the transactional solutions offered by their 3PL partners are missing the opportunity to benefit from advanced logistics solutions and expertise they helped pay to initiate, implement, and build-out, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.

Felecia Stratton

3PL

Close Encounters of the Third-Party Kind 

Editor Felecia Stratton describes the highlights of the July 2011 issue, which documents the many ways 3PLs of all shapes and sizes are moving the outsourcing needle in different directions.

Brad Constantini

3PL, Supply Chain Management

3PL Capability is Key to Logistics Cost Reduction 

Capable third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help you manage rising logistics costs because they have highly developed processes and critical infrastructures in place, writes Brad Constantini, Comprehensive Logistics.

Bar-coding Systems, Inventory Management

The Secret Ingredient For Inventory Accuracy 

Tomato canner Red Gold achieves 99-percent inventory accuracy with QuikTrac data collection software from Integrated Barcoding Systems.

3PL

3PLs Save the Day

Just when a shipper needs help most, in steps a partner with super powers. These three case studies show how third-party logistics providers can swoop in to solve problems for shippers.

3PL

3PL Perspectives 2011: The Power of Three

Inbound Logistics' annual 3PL market research report reveals how the dynamic duo of shippers and 3PLs are responding to changing forces in the outsourcing industry.

3PL

Readers' Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2011

Responding to our annual Readers' Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence survey, Inbound Logistics readers voted on the best third-party logistics providers and related the ways in which they count on their 3PLs.

3PL

Does Size Matter? Tier II 3PLs Find Their Niche

3PLs, like shippers, come in many shapes and sizes. The "not-too-big and not-too-small" size of Tier II 3PLs makes them just right for many shippers.

John Rodeheffer

3PL, Customer Service

Does Your 3PL Provide ‘Golden Rule’ Customer Service?

John Rodeheffer of Zipline Logistics outlines how to find a 3PL that delivers "Golden Rule" customer service: who treat others as they want to be treated, with honest and transparent communication.

3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

New Kids in Town: 3PLs Move Into the TMS Market

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are bringing transportation management systems (TMS) to market.

Distribution, Transportation Management

Colgate Logistics Delivers Smiles

Colgate took more than four million miles out of its network while handling five percent more cases of product – and even managed to cut logistics costs, sharing the savings with customers and suppliers.

Retail, Transportation Management

PETCO’s Pet Project

For pet supply retailer PETCO, honoring its commitment to superior customer service meant finding a loyal logistics partner.

3PL, Partnership

A New Day Dawns for 3PL Partnerships

Most logistics outsourcers today use an RFQ to select their 3PLs. But that model is outdated and ineffective. A handful of forward-thinking shippers and logistics providers are instead embracing a collaborative outsourcing method, with powerful results.

Mark Laufer

3PL, Partnership

Balancing Shipper and Carrier Interests

The new world of supply chain management requires that carriers and shippers both understand and respect the economics of the industry.

Jerry Levy

3PL, Last Mile Delivery

White Glove Services: Ask for What You Need

Jerry Levy of Specialized Transportation Inc. explains how to get the best service from white-glove logistics providers.

Keith Biondo

Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management

Gaining Ground

Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo cites real-world cases of supply chain gains, including Del Monte Foods, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and National Starch.

Chris Baltz

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Achieving Competitive Advantage: How the Right 3PL Partner Can Help You Dominate Your Market

Chris Baltz of Transportation Insight explains how the right 3PL partner can help you achieve competitive advantage and dominate your market.

Brad Constantini

3PL

Protect Your Supply Chain From Merger Mania

Third-party logistics provider mergers can disrupt shippers' supply chain performance. Brad Constantini of Comprehensive Logistics Inc. suggests strategies for preventing these problems.

3PL

4PLs Take Control

4PLs guide transportation operations, manage product flow, and sometimes help avert disaster.

3PL, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Gain: Call In the Experts

Outsource your way to a more efficient supply chain by selecting a knowledgeable and resourceful third-party logistics provider.

3PL, Certifications

Certifiable Results

Logistics service providers are eligible for a range of certifications, such as C-TPAT, SmartWay, FAST, and IATA. But what they must do to qualify, and why should these certifications matter to shippers?

3PL, Automotive Logistics

Auto Logistics: Revving Up Service Parts Logistics Operations

Ford revamped its service parts network, processes, and technologies to boost efficiency and set the stage for global service parts logistics management.

Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

Unleashing Logistics Excellence

Natural pet food manufacturer WellPet partnered with Aspen Logistics and Kane is Able to improve its supply chain and warehousing operations.

3PL, Project Logistics

The Shipper’s Guide to Project Logistics

Handling oversized cargo requires a special touch. Here's how to find a project logistics provider with the know-how to get the job done right.

3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management

Managing a Customer-Driven Supply Chain

Logistics providers who work to understand shippers' needs help create customer service success, as illustrated by case studies involving Pep Boys, McCain Foods, and USG Corporation.

Customer Service, Distribution

Nexus Distribution: A Fresh Sheet of Customer Service

When Boise Paper wanted to consolidate five Northeast region facilities into just one, it turned to Nexus Distribution for customer service excellence built on a sound implementation process.

Duane Sizemore

3PL, Partnership

Gaining Alignment With Your 3PL is Key to Supply Chain Success

Duane Sizemore of Total Logistic Control discusses how companies can build better relationships with third-party logistics providers through measurement, monitoring, and rewards.

Robert Russo

3PL, Partnership

3PL Partnerships: Finding Your Better Half

Robert Russo of Port Jersey Logistics explains how to choose the best third-party logistics provider for your company.

3PL, Economic Development, Utilities, Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management

Great Logistics Sites: Supply Chain Central

Here is a look at the attributes that rank high on the list for any company seeking a location for supply chain activities.

Jose Fernando Nava

3PL, Global Economy, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Latin America

Capitalizing on Mexico’s Economic Growth

Jose Fernando Nava, president, DHL Supply Chain, Latin America shows shippers how to capitalize on Mexico's attraction as a growing consumer market.

3PL, Global Economy, Import, Export, Global Logistics

Locating a Global Distribution Hub

10 tips for what companies should consider when locating and choosing a global distribution hub.

Ike Ortiz-Luis

3PL, Project Logistics

Oversized Shipments: Good to Grow

Ike Ortiz-Luis of DGX-Dependable Global Express explains how to navigate oversized cargo's specialized needs, from transportation requirements to project financing.

3PL, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Your Guide to Routing Guides

Retailers publish routing guides to establish rules for manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors to follow when fulfilling and shipping orders. Here are the benefits of establishing a routing guide.

Economic Development, Distribution, Utilities, Site Selection, Warehousing

Energy Security for the Future

When selecting a site for a new warehouse or distribution center, there's a second infrastructure that demands attention: the power generation and delivery system.

3PL, Lean, Supply Chain Management

Lean Six Sigma: Leaning by Degrees

Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

What We’ve Got Here is Failure to Communicate

A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.

Steve Sensing

3PL

Value Added Services Bring Flexibility to the Supply Chain

A new wave of demand for value-added services requires more capabilities of retail vendors and their logistics providers.

3PL

The Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards

Inbound Logistics readers select the top third-party logistics (3PL) providers.

Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics, Distribution, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Humanitarian Aid: The Logistics of Doing Good

Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.

3PL, Partnership

3PL Perspectives 2010: A Paradox Bound by Demand

Inbound Logistics' exclusive market research compiles shipper and 3PL input to illustrate the outsourcing sector's rapidly changing dynamics.

Air Cargo, 3PL, Intermodal, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management

Trends—July 2010

21st annual State of Logistics Report: Beating the Recession; Making dollars and Sense out of Jabulanis and Vuvuzelas; Mergers and Acquisitions Show signs of Recovery

3PL, Partnership

Tying the 3PL Knot

Shippers and service providers discuss their experience building a strong working relationship.

Felecia Stratton

3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management

Are You Talkin’ to Me?

To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.

Packaging

Choosing the Right Product Packaging

Packaging decisions can be complex. Here are 10 tips on choosing the right packaging for your products.

Simon Kaye

Air Cargo, 3PL, Global Logistics, Freight Forwarders, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management

Freight Forwarders: The Vital Link in Logistics Communication

A professional freight forwarder that represents the interests of all supply chain participants can serve as the missing link in supply chain communication.

Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.

ALDO Boots Up a New System

Global shoe retailer ALDO implements a high-stepping, end-to-end inventory and distribution system.

3PL, Forklifts, Safety, Warehousing

Keeping Surprises Out Of The Warehouse

Warehousing risks can spring out at any moment. Some are meant to be shared, others avoided. Successful warehousing operations strike a balance.

Kate Vitasek

3PL, Partnership

Why You Should Vest With Your Outsourcing Partners, Now!

Vested outsourcing yields innovative logistics relationships that deliver results, writes Kate Vitasek of the University of Tennessee's Center for Executive Education.

John Patton

3PL, Intermodal

Giving Intermodal the Green Light

A combined truck-and-rail transport approach cuts costs and offers environmental benefits, writes John Patton of Trinity Transport Inc.

Bill Armstrong

Green Logistics, Packaging

Hold Everything: Adopting Protective Packaging Practices

Green packaging strategies can reduce cargo emissions, conserve resources, cut transport costs, and enhance your brand's reputation; Bill Armstrong of Sealed Air Corporation and Arnold Barlow of UPS explain how to apply them.

Chip Smith

3PL, Partnership

Building Better 3PL Relationships

Third-party logistics providers can provide capacity, expertise, technology, and buying power. Chip Smith, president of CS Advisory Group, discusses how to ensure you're getting the most from your 3PL.

Cliff Otto

3PL, Warehousing

Today’s Warehouse Plays a New Role

Shared space environments, secondary packaging services, and reimagined cross-docking functions are helping manufacturers get more value from warehousing providers. Cliff Otto, president of Saddle Creek, outlines the benefits.

Distribution

On the Road | Nashua, New Hampshire: The King of Beer Distribution

Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly visits Bellavance Beverage Company, a Nashua, N.H. beer distributor.

Green Logistics, 3PL, Reverse Logistics

Green Reverse Logistics Brings Many Happy Returns

Companies that combine the reduce, reuse, recycle mantra with the supply chain wisdom of managing costs and stamping out inefficiencies are developing reverse supply chains that help the Earth, the customer, and the bottom line.

Jerry DeMeuse

3PL, Trucking

It's Time to Start Looking at the Future and Preparing for the Long Haul

As truckload prices starting to rise, more shippers are choosing stability over short-term cost advantages, writes Jerry DeMeuse of Schneider Logistics.

3PL

Is Your 3PL a Brand Builder?

3PL

Choosing and Using a Freight Forwarder

3PL

Defining the Ideal Pacific Rim Warehouse

3PL

Learning to Play by New Rules: Managing Logistics Through the Recession

3PL

Mission-Critical Service Parts Logistics: Making the Impossible Possible

3PL

Offshoring vs. Right-shoring: How to Decide

3PL

Brokering Change

3PL

Why You Don't Want an Obedient 3PL

3PL

Cultivating Healthy Carrier Relationships

Simon Kaye

3PL

Incoterms Let Importers Control Their Destiny

3PL

Choosing a 3PL: Safety First

3PL

Logistics Managers Earn Job Security

3PL

Managing the Mess on the High Seas

3PL

Co-Sourcing: Two Companies Acting As One

3PL

Six Essential Strategies for Selecting a Global 3PL

3PL

Take a Deep Breath Before Diving Into Global Outsourcing

3PL

Shortcuts Sound Appealing, But at What Cost?

3PL

The Seven Abilities of Highly Effective 3PLs

3PL

First-Time Outsourcers Can Keep Customers Happy

3PL

Last Mile Logistics: Key to Competing in the Retail Race

3PL

Freight Payment: Getting Back to Basics

3PL

Premium Freight Makes JIT Fit

3PL

Minimize Total Landed Cost: Strategize, Model, Act

3PL

Selecting a Logistics Supplier? Think Supple

3PL

3PLs Deliver on the Global Promise

3PL

The Five Inventories: Invisible to Customers, Crucial to the Bottom Line

3PL

Premium Freight: Costly Expense or Strategic Initiative?

3PL

8 Steps to Protecting Against Parcel Fraud

3PL

5 Best Practices to Boost Import Efficiency

3PL

It's Capacity Crunch Time. Can Multi-Shipper Collaboration Help?

3PL

Mission Possible: Expand Business Without Adding DCs

3PL

Service Parts & Logistics: Should You In-source or Outsource?

3PL

Optimize Your Transportation Program for Greater Efficiency

3PL

Outsourced Manufacturing Changes the Face of 3PLs

3PL

The Logistics of Doing Business in China

3PL

Knowing What and When to Outsource

3PL

Penetrating the U.S. Market With No Warehousing Investment

3PL

Please Don't Squeeze the 3PL

3PL

Pulling the Profit Lever of Spare Parts Logistics

3PL

Becoming Truly Global: 3PLs Face New Challenges

3PL

Retailers Take Outsourcing to the Next Level

3PL

Six Ways to Grow in a Down Economy

3PL

What's Next in Outsourcing's Evolution?

3PL

Orchestrating Successful Product Launches

3PL

Riding Outsourcing Waves: Hang Five to Thrive

3PL

One Throat to Choke: The Case for One-Stop Logistics

3PL

Consolidating Reverse Logistics and Warehousing Yields Greater Returns

3PL

Shifting Gears from Inventory to Motor Freight Costs

3PL

Contingency Planning: Get Ahead of the Game NOW

3PL

Building Bridges With Your 3PLs

3PL

Transforming Density into Savings

3PL

Proactive Involvement Ensures Clean 3PL Startup

3PL

The 4 T's of SC Excellence: Timing, Trust, Transparency, Technology

3PL

Outsourcing from the Buyer's Side of the Table

3PL

When Should You Outsource Transportation?

3PL

Do-It-Yourselfers Need Help Too

3PL, Partnership, Warehousing

3PL Warehousing Gets In the Zone

By working as partners, third-party logistics providers and shippers take on today's warehousing challenges.

E-commerce, 3PL, Food Logistics

Working Like a Dog to Fill Pet Food Surge Orders

A niche pet food company thrives during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to a long-standing partnership with its third-party logistics provider.

E-commerce, Retail, Partnership

SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers

Retailer Shein streamlined supply chain operations by leveraging a partnership with Air-City and SEKO, which enables shippers to move express e-commerce orders quickly across international borders..

Mario Rivera

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution

Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges

These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.

Brandon Buckley

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Technology

Speed, Reach & Flexibility Are Critical to Supply Chain Success in COVID Era

The growth of digital commerce is relentless, and the only way 3PLs can stay ahead is to adapt to market-driven needs to strengthen customers’ supply chains.

Inventory Management, Risk Management, Technology

What supply chain adjustment would you have made at the start of 2020 if you knew then what you know now?

From preparing for e-commerce growth to auditing cybersecurity practices, supply chain leaders share the adjustments they'd make at the start of 2020 knowing what they know now.

Food Logistics, Packaging, Sustainability

Food Packaging: That's a Wrap

Environmental impacts, cost concerns, and technology advances drive food packaging innovation.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Partnership

What Makes a Go-To Ecommerce Partner? Ask Baboon To The Moon

Gaining command over their inventory as well as every order, return, and exchange, bag maker Baboon to the Moon is over the moon about its logistics partner.

E-commerce, Retail

Home Improvement on a Winning Streak

The pandemic continues to boost sales for home improvement retailers as consumers spend much of their time at home. Total retail sales in the category were up 11% in July 2020 year over year according to the Department of Commerce.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology

Macy's Parades Digital Lead

Digitally mature retailers better reacted to COVID-19 disruptions, finds a study by technology company Incisiv. Based on performance along the customer journey, the study names the top North American apparel retailers in digital maturity.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping

The Need for Shipping Speed

Consumers now make 58% of their purchases online since COVID-19 began compared to just 32% before the pandemic, and many will spend more for expedited shipping, a new survey says.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Omnichannel and Supply Chain Work Together for Competitive Advantage

Accomplishing omnichannel service with high levels of service, while remaining profitable, requires real-time visibility of inventory across the supply chain and a single view of the consumer as they move from one channel to another.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology

Consumers Set Their Sights on Visibility

With more consumers expecting to find, buy, and receive products wherever and however they desire, the need for retailers to optimize and elevate their supply chain capabilities is imperative for maintaining sales and brand loyalty.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

5 Must-Take Actions to Prepare for the 2020 Holiday Season

Given this new normal, what are global supply chains to do? How are they supposed to keep inbound goods flowing, deliver products, and reduce bottom-line risk? Now that your expectations are realistic, let’s dive into a few actions you should take this holiday season.

3PL, Food Logistics, Partnership

West Pak Avocado Grows a Ripe 3PL Partnership

West Pak Avocado distributes avocados to hundreds of customers around the globe. To maintain efficient transportation through seasonal peaks, West Pak partnered with a third-party logistics provider to move produce as quickly as possible.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology

Vertical Focus | Retail

From mall grocery stores and athleisure sales to data-sharing with blockchain, this is what's trending in the retail supply chain.

Alicemarie Geoffrion

E-commerce, Packaging, Sustainability

Top Packaging Innovations Enable E-Commerce Growth and Sustainability

Packaging is one of the important processes within e-commerce fulfillment. Working with a 3PL such as DHL Supply Chain can help you develop packaging that improves sustainability, lowers costs, and delivers the desired customer experience.

Thomas Griffin

3PL, Customer Service, Partnership

Partnering with a Logistics Specialist Brings Major Benefits

Thomas Griffin, president at DLS Worldwide, discusses how partnering with a large, experienced logistics company can offer technology, agility, and customer service benefits.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

12 Ways of Christmas

From new hires to customer expectations, here's what's in store for shippers this holiday season.

Distribution, Technology , Warehousing

GE Appliances Flips Its Smart Switch

GE recently launched its in-house SmartHQ Solutions suite. The SmartHQ Distribution module uses big data and smart warehouse technology to track real-time traffic, reduce product handling, and improve on-time delivery.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

3 Ways Retailers Can Fully Prepare for the Holiday Season

COVID-19 created a whole new world of retail, with more online orders, increased transparency, and a focus on scalable redundancy. Retailers that meet these three goals may have a joyful holiday season after all.

E-commerce, 3PL, Warehousing

3PLs Play Pivotal Role

Order volumes increased by 81% for third-party logistics (3PL) providers supporting e-commerce since the lockdown began, according to data from 3PL Central's customer base. These are the highest order volumes per 3PL ever, on par with Black Friday in 2019.

E-commerce, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Getting Out of the Woods

COVID-19 radically changed the workplace and how supply chains operate. Shippers that scale their technical infrastructure, put the customer first, and improve the remote working environment will thrive.

Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Retail

Food Fights

With restaurants providing only delivery or takeout during the pandemic, consumers turn to retailers and grocers to fill the gap. The impact on the food industry varies both by state and by sales channel. New trends touch on food retail, delivery, service, distribution, and more.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Shaking Up Subscription Services

During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail

We Scream for Ice Cream

Consumers are screaming for ice cream, and retailers are refining their e-commerce tactics for this frozen treat. Take a look at some ice cream supply chain trends.

Last Mile Delivery, Distribution, Logistics

Traffic Control

To prepare for the return of crowded streets in urban areas, cities and shippers explore alternative vehicles, apps, pricing solutions, and distribution centers to address last-mile gridlock.

Chris Gutierrez

E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution

Becoming the Next Leading Logistics Hub

Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.

E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail

Vertical Files

This story examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on five vertical markets and describes some of the strategies used in those markets to meet the challenge.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology

Flexibility for the Win

The majority of retailers say that artificial intelligence and machine learning can add significant value to their demand forecasting processes, and more than half say it will improve other critical supply chain capabilities.

E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics

Cold Storage Heats Up

Booming e-commerce and online grocery sales during the pandemic increased the demand for cold storage warehousing space in North America, but developers are not building fast enough to meet demand.

Ryan Richard

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail

Online Grocery Shifts into Hyperspeed

Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.

Robert Walters

3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Visibility

Tracking Shipments in Today’s World

Shippers can track inbound shipments until delivered and know if they may be delayed or delivered with damages or shortages by enlisting the assistance of a 3PL.

Chris Hoffmeister

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail

5 Actions to Navigate Through the Retail Landscape

To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail

Traditional Retail Supply Chains Tackle Omni Challenges

As e-commerce demand grew, retailers went from using small, existing distribution centers to opening entire fulfillment centers to combining omnichannel facilities. Paul A. Myerson discusses the advantages.

Thomas Griffin

3PL, Partnership, Transportation

Finding the Right 3PL Partner Delivers Key Benefits

Thomas Griffin, president with DLS Worldwide, discusses how finding the right 3PL partner is more important than ever in the transportation sector as companies recover from COVID-19.

3PL, Freight Forwarders, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Improve 3PL Warehouse Order Growth by 300% with the Right WMS

Learn how 3PL Central's warehouse management solutions helped Woodland Group become an "invisible" partner for its customers while growing their businesses.

3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Sustaining Operational Excellence

TA Services' transportation management solutions helped MRC Global, a distributor of pipe, infrastructure products, and valves and fittings, improve visibility and enhance service levels.

Distribution, Fulfillment, Risk Management

Reopening Fulfillment and Distribution Centers in the Wake of COVID-19

As businesses slowly recover following COVID-19 fulfillment and distribution centers can't simply flip a switch and return to normal operations. Reopening will require a rigorous methodology backed by data and analytics, and creative thinking about how to leverage existing technology in the workplace.

3PL, Risk Management

COVID-19 Resets: Logistics Draws the Line

While the human and financial tolls wrought by COVID-19 are horrific, the pandemic has also brought out the best in many people and the logistics and supply chain organizations with which they work.

Inventory Management, Technology , Warehousing

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | Labeling Solutions

Product Spotlight: Take a look at the latest supply chain labeling solutions, including barcode scanners, printers, software, and inventory management tools.

Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Technology

Formulating Solutions for Chemical Shippers

With exacting specifications and transportation challenges heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic, shippers are turning to these partners to move chemicals safely and optimize supply chains.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19

Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Retailers: It's Time to Act

While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Vertical Focus: Pet Industry

Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.

Ana Maria Giménez

Packaging, Sustainability, Technology

Get RIP-Roaring Results with IoT

Companies are increasingly investing in returnable industrial packaging (RIP) to ship products to customers as sustainably as possible, and significantly reduce the amount of packaging-related waste they create, while also improving efficiencies and cutting costs.

Retail, Risk Management

U.S. States Reopen During COVID-19 Pandemic

Take a look at each state's perspectives, guidelines, and deadlines as they make plans to reopen their local businesses and facilities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail

Amazon Shoppers Won't Abandon Ship

Many U.S. consumers have negative feelings toward Amazon's impact on the retail industry and the environment, but that doesn't translate to lost sales.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management

5 Operational Actions Shippers Can Take to Build Resilience

Shippers can take these five operations-focused actions to build resilience and pave the way for success as they shift into the "operate" phase of the COVID-19 crisis—not only to efficiently operate in this new business environment, but also to prepare for the next phases of the crisis.

E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics

Supply Chain Labeling and Logistics: How to Deal with Customer and Regulatory Requirements

When it comes to logistics, the speed and convenience of e-commerce has led to changing expectations in the business-to-consumer sector. Meeting these expectations requires hitting an exact sequence of strict targets.

Brian Bourke

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery

True Next Day—Why It Matters

As retailers compete for the perfect delivery experience and consumers continue to pay premiums for speed and reliability, last-mile delivery is key for growth and profitability.

E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing

Warehouse 2020

E-commerce growth and warehouse labor shortages create the perfect storm for online retailers. Undaunted, companies face these challenges with ongoing technology, equipment, and warehouse space innovations.

E-commerce, 3PL, Finance

3PL Market Revenue to Cross $1.8 Trillion by 2026

Growing demand for low-cost services and a rapidly expanding e-commerce sector will boost the market valuation of third-party logistics (3PL) to $1.8 trillion by 2026.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

Map Mishaps Throw Last-Mile Drivers Off Course

Almost all last-mile delivery drivers say they would be more effective if their maps were more accurate—this includes better meeting delivery windows and fewer parking tickets.

3PL, Distribution, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What Supply Chain Terms Do People Sometimes Confuse?

We asked and you answered—these are the supply chain terms and phrases that you think people often confuse.

E-commerce, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain

Gearing Up for a Bright Supply Chain Future

Logistics providers, retailers, and other global movers are using technologies and innovative business models to drive the supply chain efficiency and meet tomorrow's package volume demand, according to Deloitte. These are the three key pillars that will likely underpin the next-generation supply chain.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Demand Planning

Last Mile Delivery Strategies During COVID-19 and Other Supply Chain Disruptions

How do supply chain disruptions like COVID-19 impact the final mile, and how can retailers adjust their strategy? Some solutions include contactless delivery, offering accessible pickup points, and easing capacity constraints.

Careers, Retail, Supply Chain

How Does Coronavirus Impact the Supply Chain, and How Can Retailers Minimize Disruption?

The new coronavirus, or COVID-19, has impacted the supply chain by limiting access to employees, closing factories or slowing down manufacturers, and limiting access to logistics to move goods. Here are three ways in which retailers can minimize supply chain disruption as the virus progresses.

3PL, Finance, Partnership

The Ultimate RFP Checklist for Shippers: Essential Things to Include in Every Bid

The clearer your RFP, the easier it will be for 3PLs to understand your requirements and provide you with the information you need to make an informed selection.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

Crossing the Final-Mile Finish Line

E-commerce revenue in 2020 will reach $3.52 trillion—this explosion is forcing retailers to find faster and more convenient modes to reach the final mile.

Oren Zaslansky

3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

Navigating Amazon's Move into Freight

Amazon's launching of a full-service freight brokerage has a number of implications for supply chain professionals—some obvious and some not so clear.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail

How Is Coronavirus Impacting E-Commerce?

As coronavirus continues to spread globally, new ramifications are revealed daily. How is the virus impacting e-commerce operations and the supply chain, and how can retailers respond?

Bob Malley

E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Technology

Technology Can Cure the Parcel Crisis at the Border

As eCommerce continues to increase globally, shippers have to navigate customs to support their omnichannel strategy.

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Trucking, Technology

Most Read Articles of 2019

Take a look at the top ten Inbound Logistics articles that got readers buzzing in 2019.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology

The CX Files

This story looks at elements that produce excellent customer service and at some of the technology tools companies use to help them deliver excellent service to their customers.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

That's a Wrap: Holiday Shipping Tied Up in Knots

During the holiday shopping season, all eyes are on shipping, with more than half of consumers (60%), and nearly three-quarters of millennials (74%) claiming they were disappointed with holiday shopping services in the past.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain

The Logistics of Liquidation

This story looks at the logistics of managing good through the reverse logistics and liquidation process. The goal is to recover as much value as possible from returned or unsold goods, and to keep product out of landfills.

E-commerce, Technology , Visibility

GOOD QUESTION | What's the 2020 supply chain buzzword or phrase?

Readers reveal the words and phrases that will have supply chain managers talking in 2020.

Distribution, Logistics

DHL Gives Mio Better Inbound Logistics Control

DHL provides Mio with more control over inbound orders from eight countries to reduce detention and demurrage costs while improving intake planning for distribution centers.

Big Data, Distribution

Fostering a Data-Centric Culture in Fulfillment Operations

Investing in data management can help your DC run smoother. However, you shouldn’t quit once you’ve rearranged a few aisles. Take your learnings from fulfillment and use them to encourage greater data investment in all aspects of your operation.

E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing

Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?

New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.

3PL, Trucking

The Value of a Trucking Company Offering 3PL Services

Combining trucking assets with 3PL services is not an entirely new concept — but it’s one that’s been refined and improved to give shippers a freight model that outperforms past models in the marketplace.

E-commerce, Logistics

The Impact of E-Commerce Growth on Logistics Companies

Consumers have become accustomed to extremely quick delivery and, as more retailers offer fast, free shipping options, logistics companies will need to adapt to the ever-increasing delivery pressures that align to evolving consumer expectations and preferences.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | How Can Brick-and-Mortar Retailers Compete with Amazon?

Readers reveal the supply chain moves that can let brick-and-mortar retailers compete with Amazon.

3PL, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Automating Labor-Intensive Tasks Cuts 3PL's Costs by 50%

Javelin Logistics removed their reliance on manual labor and now thrive in the e-commerce marketplace by partnering with 3PL Central.

Tara Meier

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Choosing the Right 3PL and Supporting Supply Chain Excellence

Choosing the right third-party logistics provider (3PL) can make or break your goal of achieving supply chain excellence. Here’s how to select the right 3PL.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics

2019 Top 100 3PLs

Providing innovative and reliable supply chain solutions, these third-party logistics providers drive home the goods. Presented in alphabetical order, these are the 100 3PLs Inbound Logistics editors selected as the best of the best.

3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

The Nexus Way

Nexus is a third-party logistics provider offering customized warehousing solutions and multi-modal transportation services.

E-commerce, Distribution, Technology

Best Buy's Shiny, New Supply Chain Strategy for the Holiday Season

Best Buy made its list and checked it twice, and it's ready to take on the holiday season with a new and improved supply chain.

3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain

Home Care Manufacturer Gets a 3PL to Make the Hard Decisions - Hub Group

Harnessing Hub Group’s optimization and management expertise, a CPG company received a dynamic and responsive solution that ensured every PO met cost-effective precision service.

Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability

Packaging Solutions Contain Green Ingenuity

These organizations are wrapping their minds around the packaging waste problem and coming up with out-of-the-box solutions.

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Subcoms Focused on the Future

In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.

Retail, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics

Feeding the Baby Products Supply Chain

The baby products category is one of the most highly regulated in the world. Rigorous testing and certification are designed to protect the smallest humans from injury and illness caused by everything from loose parts that could cause choking to flammable fabrics or toxic materials. In addition to intense regulation, manufacturers must deal with consumer preferences that change almost as quickly as a parent can diaper a baby.

Food Logistics, Packaging, Sustainability

Losing Waste, Finding Value

Profile of Michael Wasson, chief operations officer with Tosca, a leading provider of reusable packaging and supply chain solutions for retailers and suppliers that are focused on the perishable food supply chain.

E-commerce, 3PL, Supply Chain

Who’s Paying for Free Shipping?

While 3PLs and retailers have many options to compete in an Amazon world, inaction is not one of them. Amazon plans to invest an incremental $800 million in the second quarter alone to bring standard one-day shipping to Prime customers.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Supply Chain

What to Look For When Taking Stock of an Inventory Management System

Dave Sapienza

3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management

The Latest TMS Capabilities for Brokerage and Managed Services - 3Gtms

Today’s Tier 1 TMSs can help you get work done faster, cut the need for calls and emails, reduce the number of screens and clicks, and increase your profitability.

3PL, Technology , Warehousing

The Bot Revolution: 3PLs Go High-Tech to Streamline Warehouse Operations

3PL executives charged with making their company’s operations more efficient and cost-effective to the associates on the floor who pick the orders, all are singing the praises of the ‘bot revolution.’

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

The Best of BOPIS

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain

Last-Mile Logistics: How Sellers Can Make It a Strength and Not a Setback

The last mile is often the most challenging, costly, and technologically deficient portion of the delivery process. But as more and more consumers use e-commerce to order and ship everything from medicine to artwork, the shipping and logistics sector has to move to making last mile a strength and not a setback.

3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

IT Gap? 3PLs Close the Loop

Today, many 3PLs provide the technology solutions and expertise shippers need to manage increasingly complicated customer relationships.

E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Transportation

New Freight Train Could Boost Cross-Border E-Commerce in China

Cloud Computing, Retail, Supply Chain

Let’s Get Digital

Materials Handling, Packaging, Supply Chain

AMH Equipment Gets a Lift

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Getting Up on the Right Side of the Bedding

E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.

Paul A. Myerson

Lean Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Omnichannel Retail: 4 Rules for Success

It is possible to anticipate and plan for future omnichannel retail challenges by following these four rules.

Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail

Canada Bupkus on BOPIS

Canada is still ahead of the United States when it comes to Buy Online Pickup In-Store (BOPIS) options.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain

Super-sizing E-commerce Deliveries

Companies that manufacture, sell, and deliver an increasing number of e-commerce oversize goods face a unique set of challenges when delivering to homes. Delivery teams not only need access to home interiors for set-up, they must also communicate in real-time with recipients so they’re home when orders are delivered. What’s more, they need far more customer service skills than the typical delivery driver.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology

Take Two Tablets

Two-thirds (66 percent) of retail store associates believe that if they are equipped with tablets, they could provide better customer service and improve the shopping experience, according to the results of Zebra Technologies Corporation's 11th annual Global Shopper Study, which analyzes the attitudes, opinions, and expectations of shoppers, retail associates, and retail decision makers.

Distribution, Logistics, Safety, Trucking

The Secret to Combatting the Hidden Costs of Detention Time

Dock appointment scheduling solutions enable shippers, carriers and consignees to avoid decreases in annual earnings and improve driver safety.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing

Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers

A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.

Nick McLean

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Not So Fast: Rethinking Multi-Item Orders

Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.

Cloud Computing, Distribution, Supply Chain, Technology

How the Cloud Creates Cost Savings—and Tax Benefits

Modernizing your distribution business isn’t just about adopting the latest and greatest technology. From seamless scalability to cost-efficiency to tax benefits, the right solutions can pave the way to significant results.

Distribution, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing

Holiday Cargo Theft Q&A with Scott Cornell of Travelers

A Q&A with Scott Cornell, transportation business lead and crime and theft specialist at Travelers, on how to avoid theft during the holiday season.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

What Will Retailers Find Under The Tree?

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Click & Collect Not Clicking Yet

The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains

3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology

3PLs, Tech Providers Empower Ethical Supply Chains

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Cold Comfort: Finding the Right Winter Warehouse

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Supply Chain

The State Of Logistics Outsourcing

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics

New DHL Survey Reveals Expected Cyber Monday Growth for Businesses & More

A DHL distributed a poll to U.S. e-commerce businesses, reveals major challenges, priorities and more for e-comm businesses this Cyber Monday.

Packaging, Supply Chain, Transportation

UPS Doesn’t Want Your Large Items in Its Small Parcel Network

A warning to shippers was sounded during the current UPS earnings report. Here’s what you should know about the Shipping Charge Correction Audit fee.

3PL, Customer Service, Fulfillment, Supply Chain

15 Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Outsourced Fulfillment Partner

Is outsourcing your fulfillment the best option for your business? Here are 15 important questions to ask a potential partner.

Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Industrial Technology and the Supply Chain: Is 2018 the Year We Turn a Corner?

Maturing systems, implementation expertise, and newly enacted tax incentives bode well for significant leaps in supply chain efficiency. Here’s why 2018 will be the year for technology ROI.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

Do Buy, Says Dubai

E-commerce is booming and everyone wants a piece of the pie, including Dubai .

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain

Primed for Amazon

In September 2017, Amazon announced plans to open another headquarters in North America. Called "HQ2," the facility will cost at least $5 billion to construct. Locations are going the extra mile to win the bid for HQ2.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace

Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.

Nick Jensen

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency

Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.

Kristian O’Meara

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever

With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker - Crane Worldwide Logistics

Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail

E-commerce Retailers Target Germany

Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.

Pan Chen

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick

Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.

3PL, Trucking, Transportation

10 Tips for Transportation Sourcing

Selecting a transportation mode and carrier isn’t as simple as identifying the fastest or least expensive option. It’s a complicated process that takes into account timelines and risks as well as budgets. Industry experts share best practices that will help save money and prevent costly mistakes.

Jeff Luthman

3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

VMI Solutions Carried Out by 3PLs in the Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Industry - MD Logistics

An experienced and knowledgeable 3PL provider can help life sciences and pharmaceutical customers adopt VMI as a supply chain management practice.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Supply Chain

U.S. Manufacturers Respond to Regulatory Plans

Manufacturers and wholesale distributors are optimistic about the perceived impact of the Trump administration’s plans for trade deregulation on their businesses, according to new research commissioned by business software provider Exact.

Lori Mitchell-Keller

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers

To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation

E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer

This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs

To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.

Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology

Supply Chain Commentary: Grocery Retailers Need to Embrace Digitization Now

Grocers will have to transform aggressively and adapt swiftly if they want to avoid the fate of retailers in other segments. They will need to digitize their stores and consumer experiences. Here's how they should optimize their supply chain.

E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Direct Hit

E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop. Now businesses of all sizes must reassess their supply chains to go direct to the consumer with faster-than-fast delivery and free shipping.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line 

Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains

Keith Biondo

Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Warehousing

Reconstructing Supply Chains

Supply chain infrastructure is rebuilding itself, below the surface where only logisticians can see it.

Ken Chrisman

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

Thinking Inside the Unbox

Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion


The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect

Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold

Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing

E-commerce Logistics: Warehouse Slotting and Space Utilization

Slotting – determining the locations of your SKUs in your warehouse – used to be an easy concept. But in the new world of warehousing focusing exclusively to a large degree on e-commerce sales, this is no longer simple.

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics

Same-Day Delivery Powers Grocery
E-commerce Revolution

E-commerce grocery delivery is seeing massive growth, and is expected to continue to shake up the traditional grocery industry as online grocery sales are forecasted to account for as much as 20% of all grocery sales by 2025.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers

The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.

Peter Sobotta

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns

In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Warehouse Management & DC Optimization: Measuring What Matters

Selecting the best metrics at your company’s distribution centers requires the right tools, careful study, and constant collaboration.

Tony Coletto

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants

To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Customized App Puts Bat Distributor in the Big Leagues

When a paper-based order management system slowed a baseball bat manufacturer’s growth, the company digitized for out-of-the-park growth.

Ty Bordner

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Achieving Greater Visibility and Agility

Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail

Reverse Logistics: It's All Coming Back to Me Now

Using reverse logistics strategies, shippers can recoup maximum value on a product when the first sale doesn't work out.

E-commerce, 3PL, Food Logistics

Working Like a Dog to Fill Pet Food Surge Orders

A niche pet food company thrives during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to a long-standing partnership with its third-party logistics provider.

Big Data, Inventory Management, Technology

SerVaas Laboratories Cleans Up with Business Intelligence

When a company's employee roster includes 100 workers but the products are sold in one dozen countries, accurate sales and inventory data is critical. Business intelligence solutions, however, have traditionally exceeded the budgets of small to mid-sized companies.

Felecia Stratton

Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management

A Valid Question

"Inbound logistics" doesn't sound odd now. But in 1980, it was counterculture. Today, many call this approach supply chain management or the demand-driven enterprise. No matter what you call it, the benefits and value are clear.

Robert Kriewaldt

Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Health Care Logistics, Distribution

Is the Logistics Sector Ready for the COVID-19 Vaccine?

The last mile will have to accommodate the reliable distribution of the billions of vaccines that providers will manufacture and ship in 2021. Here are the obstacles facing the supply chain.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions - Verst Logistics

Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Retail Optimization Through a Revamped Network

With an expanding customer base and recent surge in volume, a CPG company turned to Hub Group to construct a dynamic solution. The 3PL streamlined the company’s handling process while increasing service levels.

John Paxton

Distribution, Technology , Warehousing

Pandemic Spurs Accelerated Investment in Supply Chain Automation, Digital Technologies

How will digital technologies and automated solutions help your supply chain succeed in this new, post-pandemic reality? For starters, they increase resilience in the face of disruption and support your workforce.

Mario Rivera

E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution

Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges

These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

DHL Shares Strategy for Peak Season and Beyond

E-commerce is up 65% year over year, and expected to surge more than 50% during the busiest peak week, according to Chet Paul, senior vice president at DHL Express; Kraig Foreman, president at DHL Supply Chain; and Craig Morris, chief information officer at DHL eCommerce Solutions.

3PL, Distribution, Partnership

Taylored Fulfillment Services Acquires U.S. Operations of Toll Global Logistics

The acquisition triples Taylored’s footprint in key areas, totaling more than 4.1 million square feet of distribution space.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology

Macy's Parades Digital Lead

Digitally mature retailers better reacted to COVID-19 disruptions, finds a study by technology company Incisiv. Based on performance along the customer journey, the study names the top North American apparel retailers in digital maturity.

Last Mile Delivery, Inventory Management, Warehousing

Supply Chain Checklist for a COVID-19 World

Here are some key strategies for improving your supply chain in the current environment, as well as preparing to adapt to the uncertainties ahead.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

Omnichannel and Supply Chain Work Together for Competitive Advantage

Accomplishing omnichannel service with high levels of service, while remaining profitable, requires real-time visibility of inventory across the supply chain and a single view of the consumer as they move from one channel to another.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

What's the Holiday Sales Scenario?

The holiday retail season will play out in one of two ways sales-wise, both of which are lower than prior years. The gift that keeps on giving? E-commerce sales.

E-commerce, Retail, Technology

Consumers Set Their Sights on Visibility

With more consumers expecting to find, buy, and receive products wherever and however they desire, the need for retailers to optimize and elevate their supply chain capabilities is imperative for maintaining sales and brand loyalty.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing

The World Is Your Warehouse 3.0

LEO satellites will enable e-commerce companies to take orders from everywhere and anywhere, allowing all countries, developed or not, to share what we take for granted.

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail

Stirring Up Solutions

These companies are concocting innovative e-commerce solutions as alcohol sales flow online.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

12 Ways of Christmas

From new hires to customer expectations, here's what's in store for shippers this holiday season.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

3 Ways Retailers Can Fully Prepare for the Holiday Season

COVID-19 created a whole new world of retail, with more online orders, increased transparency, and a focus on scalable redundancy. Retailers that meet these three goals may have a joyful holiday season after all.

Distribution, Technology , Visibility

Improving Visibility: And Sew It Goes

Timely deliveries are critical for Tacony, a manufacturer and distributor of sewing and floor care products. Learn how the family-owned company cut costs, streamlined transportation, and boosted service levels by collaborating with Sunset Transportation.

Randy Ofiara

3PL, Finance, Supply Chain Management

3 M's to Cut Supply Chain Costs

The three M’s are key areas to explore and break down to realize the full potential of your company and help you to get the biggest, fastest savings in your supply chain, today.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail

Reshaping Retail

Agile and innovative retailers transformed their operations during COVID-19. Will their new fulfillment options and increased digitization go out of style as stores reopen, or will they become retail staples?

Kraig Foreman

3PL, Retail, Supply Chain

Return-to-School Period Will Test Retailers and 3PLs

The return-to-school shopping period is an important dress rehearsal for the upcoming peak season.

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail

We Scream for Ice Cream

Consumers are screaming for ice cream, and retailers are refining their e-commerce tactics for this frozen treat. Take a look at some ice cream supply chain trends.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Retail Responds

To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation

Chris Gutierrez

E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution

Becoming the Next Leading Logistics Hub

Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.

Distribution, Demand Planning, Retail

Home for the Holidays

Consumers are planning to do their holiday shopping mostly from home and earlier this year, presenting big challenges for distribution centers.

Ryan Richard

E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail

Online Grocery Shifts into Hyperspeed

Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.

Distribution, Manufacturing, Technology

True Manufacturing Embraces More Efficient, Visual Load Building

Looking to streamline load building, True Manufacturing turned to MagicLogic Optimization and integrated Cube-IQ, a software solution that optimizes load planning. The result was reduced work hours and increased efficiency.

David Pignolet

3PL, Risk Management, Security

Three Ways to Mitigate Insider Risk in Your Supply Chain

Without proper identity access and management procedures for third-party users in place, entire supply chains are vulnerable to attacks.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail

Traditional Retail Supply Chains Tackle Omni Challenges

As e-commerce demand grew, retailers went from using small, existing distribution centers to opening entire fulfillment centers to combining omnichannel facilities. Paul A. Myerson discusses the advantages.

E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail

Vertical Focus: Home Goods

Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.

3PL, Customer Service, Demand Planning

Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions

Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.

3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Sustaining Operational Excellence

TA Services' transportation management solutions helped MRC Global, a distributor of pipe, infrastructure products, and valves and fittings, improve visibility and enhance service levels.

E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management

How Will the Future Unfold?

As the coronavirus continues to disrupt global supply chains, Gartner developed three scenarios to help chief supply chain officers (CSCOs) prepare for recovery and make preemptive decisions to set up their organizations for success.

Eric Allais

E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Warehousing

How Returns Impact the Warehouse and What You Can Do About It

While it’s easy to pass off returns as primarily an e-commerce or retail issue, the fact is it’s a challenge all distributors face.

E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail

The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19

Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.

Eric R. Byer

Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Warehousing

NACD Program Ensures Seamless Partnerships

The chemical distribution industry poses a unique challenge for warehouses and carriers due to the wide range of goods that fall under strict regulatory requirements for handling, storage, and shipping. Finding a 3PL partner who can meet these expectations is critical and often requires considerable research and evaluation.

Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Technology

Extreme Networks Rewires Its Supply Chain

Extreme Networks’ acquisition spree provided the perfect reason to overhaul its supply chain practices and processes.

Robert Kriewaldt

E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management

We Must Learn to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruption from Disasters

While the speed with which the supply chain was disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic put supply chain weaknesses on display, it has also shined a light on where we need to strengthen our capabilities to mitigate future disruptions. Here are some areas the supply chain must address moving forward:

Kraig Foreman

E-commerce, 3PL, Fulfillment

Creating Differentiation Through Innovative E-Commerce Fulfillment

When shippers work with a 3PL that is consistently investing in technology and new distribution centers, they can increase service consistency and offer their customers unexpectedly fast fulfillment.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management

Staying Productive in Unproductive Times

Rather than wait for the next man-caused disruption or pandemic, smart business managers are extracting knowledge from a forensic investigation of their operations based on COVID-19 stress and kicking bad practices to the curb.

Randy Tucker

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail

Agility On Demand

When you combine consumer demand for deliveries at a breakneck pace, the historically tight labor market, and the unpredictability of the global trade landscape, e-commerce businesses must be just as fast as they are flexible to succeed today’s market.

Distribution, Finance, Manufacturing

Distributors, Shippers Eye Surcharging to Stay Afloat Amid COVID-19 Outbreak

Accepting credit cards can be a major differentiator for businesses, enabling customers to pay however is most convenient for them. To balance this need with the necessity of maintaining margins, consider credit card surcharging.

3PL, Freight Forwarders, Technology

10 Tips | Managing Inbound Freight

Inbound freight can be a challenge to analyze or control, but it significantly impacts operational and cost results. Traverse this ‘final frontier’ of supply chain management by collaborating on these strategies, across departments.

E-commerce, 3PL, Technology

3PLs Flex Their Tech Muscle

Increasing visibility, flexibility, and accuracy, these technological tools enable 3PLs to more effectively move, store, and fulfill shippers’ orders—even during supply chain disruptions.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Global Economy, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations

Flexing Muscle on China Trade Compliance

Inbound Logistics publisher Keith Biondo discusses whether e-commerce shipment enforcement will ensure that China complies with Phase 1 of the U.S.-China trade deal signed in January 2020.

Green Logistics, Distribution, Technology

Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief

Take a look at notable good works, green projects, acquisitions, and more from February 2020.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

Map Mishaps Throw Last-Mile Drivers Off Course

Almost all last-mile delivery drivers say they would be more effective if their maps were more accurate—this includes better meeting delivery windows and fewer parking tickets.

3PL, Distribution, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What Supply Chain Terms Do People Sometimes Confuse?

We asked and you answered—these are the supply chain terms and phrases that you think people often confuse.

Keith Biondo

Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology

Robot Return Ratios

Using robots to clearly monitor and better match demand to supply pays huge dividends.

Christoph Seitz

Automotive Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation

Transporting Cars: RoRo or Containers

Using containerization in place of the traditional roll-on roll-off, or Ro-Ro, transport style has many advantages to the driver, the automotive supplier and the consumer.

Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail

Coronavirus Precautions

Manufacturers with primary and sub-tier suppliers near Wuhan, China, can use these five guidelines to plan ahead for any COVID-19 impact.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

Crossing the Final-Mile Finish Line

E-commerce revenue in 2020 will reach $3.52 trillion—this explosion is forcing retailers to find faster and more convenient modes to reach the final mile.

Oren Zaslansky

3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail

Navigating Amazon's Move into Freight

Amazon's launching of a full-service freight brokerage has a number of implications for supply chain professionals—some obvious and some not so clear.

Inventory Management, Sourcing/Negotiations, Materials Handling

Applying Lean Thinking to Procurement

Here’s how to integrate demand and supply initiatives and techniques into your procurement strategies.

Green Logistics, E-commerce, Packaging

How Green Was My Tally?

One-third of online shoppers buying health and beauty products are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation

Winning Moves for the Last Mile

Take a look at the strategies that retailers and their service partners use to improve last-mile delivery for direct-to-consumer sales.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology

What if General George Patton was Walmart’s CEO?

General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.

Food Logistics, Demand Planning, Inventory Management

Hunger Games: Managing Food Logistics Challenges When Demand Spikes

When consumers are ravenous for a trendy food or beverage, whether an unexpected, one-time jump or a seasonal occurrence, supply chain professionals can meet demand and boost sales by leveraging analytics to more accurately forecast demand shifts and working closely with business partners to expand capacity.

Aman Sangha

Green Logistics, Packaging, Sustainability

Four Ways Reusables Benefit the Circular Economy

Reusable packaging supports a circular economy. It can be manufactured, used, reused, and reprocessed without impacting the solid waste stream—a huge benefit, considering limited- and one-time-use packaging contributes to the waste crisis.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

What's the Word?

The hot supply chain words or phrases for the coming year and the concepts behind them.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

VERTICAL FOCUS | Paper

As a result of recent trends in customer preferences, demand for printing and writing paper continues to drop. Over the past decade, production of printing and writing papers has declined by 6% annually.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Transportation

Urban Logistics

Where the e-commerce boom intersects with urban centers, logisticians get street—and space—smart.

Careers, 3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain

Building a Hub of Vision and Passion

Profile of Phil Yeager, president and COO, Hub Group

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

Halloween: A Scary Supply Chain

A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.

3PL, Supply Chain, Technology

3PLs: Responsive, Cost-Effective, and Green

The modern supply chain is complex, and in order for the world's leading companies to deliver their goods and services in an expedient, cost-conscious, and environmentally friendly fashion, they are increasingly turning to third-party logistics (3PL) companies to achieve these goals. These are among the themes of the 2020 Third-Party Logistics Study.

3PL, Logistics I.T., Technology

Control Tower Approach Drives Visibility, Aids Planning and Supply Chain Reliability

LANXESS, a global specialty chemicals supplier, selected Odyssey Logistics & Technology to track multiple assets for four business units that provide products across 33 countries.

E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing

Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?

New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.

E-commerce, Customer Service, Supply Chain

Building Brand Love

Supply chain efficiencies can support brand strategies in key ways.

E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics

E-Commerce Raises the Snack Bar

Nature's Bakery turns to a third-party logistics provider, ITS Logistics, to launch a direct-to-consumer e-commerce channel for its snack bars.

Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability

Walmart-Owned Flipkart Aims for Sustainability 

Electronics e-tailer Flipkart is putting in the work to maximize sustainability across its supply chain.

E-commerce, Distribution, Technology

Best Buy's Shiny, New Supply Chain Strategy for the Holiday Season

Best Buy made its list and checked it twice, and it's ready to take on the holiday season with a new and improved supply chain.

Pharmaceutical Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain

Enabling Faster Distribution in the Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical Industry - MD Logistics

New facilities in Indianapolis and Reno enable 3PL MD Logistics to support faster time to market for its life sciences and pharmaceutical customers.

Retail, Supply Chain, Sustainability

Green Supply Chains: Sustainability Sells

This article looks at three companies that aim for environmental sustainability in their operations. It examines their “green” practices and also considers the financial impact of those activities.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief

New and noteworthy in the supply chain

E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology

Achieving Transportation and Logistics Success in the On-demand Age

With heightened consumer demand for rapid delivery showing no sign of slowing, companies and their transportation partners are under immense pressure to produce an unprecedented amount of consumer goods, while at the same time deliver positive shopping experiences.

Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail

Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS

Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.

3PL, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Choosing a TMS: How to Make the Right Move

The variety of transportation management systems available can make it difficult for shippers to target the solution that is the best fit for their organization. Experts say companies should strive to identify the features that will support their unique operation rather than falling into the trap of chasing options that will not provide a useful impact. The process for selecting a TMS should be marked by disciplined decision-making and a focus on the business case.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Bringing Logistics In-House

Without an in-house delivery option, enterprises are often held back if they rely on external providers. Even if the third party helps them increase their sales volumes, they can end up being order rich but money and data poor. To provide an answer to these questions, enterprises need a platform that allows them to manage an in-house delivery service, while flexibly deploying third-party solutions as needed.

Retail, Supply Chain, Visibility

A Good Night's Rest With Peace of Mind

Boll & Branch promises full comfort with zero chemicals.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail

The Leader of the Pack

Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software

Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Planning for Unplanned Spend

E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain

No Light at End of Retail Tunnel

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

CPG Success: Top-Shelf Solutions

Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are among those most impacted by the proliferation of delivery channels over the past several years. To succeed in this changing marketplace, successful CGP businesses are refining factory operations and developing new distribution and transportation models.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Setting Up Shop

This story examines some of the new models for e-commerce fulfillment that retailers are using today, particularly ones that involve the use of physical stores.

Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

Container Loading System Helps Sawmill Meet Loading Challenge - SmartTEH

SmartTEH's container loading system helps a sawmill with a loading challenge.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

When Worlds Collide

Online retailers are winning in the market with all types of consumers, even in manufacturing industrial products.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution

A New Argument for Pool Distribution as More Specialty E-Retailers Set Up Shop

Pool distribution is one strategy that’s getting a second wind in the face of intensifying e-commerce pressure and the changing face of America’s malls.

Mohammed (Mo) Hajibashi

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Today's Technology, Tomorrow's Demand

The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Mark Bakker: Change Agent

A profile of Mark Bakker, head of supply chain operations, Americas, with HP Inc.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology

Automated EDI Brings Benefits as Far as Eyebobs Can See

A direct, automated EDI connection between its ERP system and retail partners gives eyebobs 20/20 visibility to its omnichannel orders.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Finding Capacity and Savings In a Dynamic Market - Hub Group

Hub Group generated savings and efficiency for a leading national retailer.

Chris Mehlfelder

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Maximizing Global E-Commerce Profits

The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Disrupting the Future of Grocery Retailing

What’s needed is a new retail model for grocery shopping.

John Richardson

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

The Game Has Changed—Time for a New Playbook - Transportation Insight, LLC

Shippers need a playbook that charts a strategy for obtaining better operational understanding while improving processes that most directly affect customer satisfaction.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing

Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers

A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.

Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Accuracy and Time Savings Through AI-Driven Forecasting

AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics

Walgreens Launches Home Delivery Program for Prescriptions

Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics, Technology

Holiday Shipping Guidance for 2018: Analyzing FedEx 2017 Holiday Ship-By Dates

To better understand when shippers should send their packages during the holiday season, GrandCanals, the market leader in analytics-driven fulfillment, is launching an AI-powered website at where companies can view holiday ship-by predictions for 2018, updated nightly. These predictions are determined by artificial intelligence and consider both historical and current shipping trends across the GrandCanals Delivery Performance tracking network.

3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Supply Chain

NOTED | The Supply Chain in Brief

New and noteworthy in the supply chain.

E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Growth in the Line of Beauty

The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing

Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season

According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

What's Ahead for Retail Technology? Ask the Crystal Ball

3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024

E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Scorecards: A Tool for the Times

There’s a lot of interest in the industry right now regarding advanced technologies like blockchain and AI and the benefits they could bring to logistics operations – and with good reason. But, for all the promise these appear to hold, there are proven enhancement-focused tools already available – in particular, scorecards – that supply chain managers should take full advantage right now to ensure optimized performance across all supply chain functions.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Retailers Plug Into AI

Nearly two-thirds of retail supply chain professionals struggle with disconnects between systems, finds Symphony RetailAI's Strengthening the Retail Supply Chain survey of North American retailers.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Hone for the Holidays

Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.

Stevie Hay

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain

Rethink Fulfillment During Peak Season

Peak season is a great opportunity to determine where your warehouse priorities should lie. Here are the biggest stories to watch this holiday season.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Great(er) Expectations: Meeting E-Commerce Consumer Demands

Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Hello, Good Buy

Sean Wilcox

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Shipping and Delivery: How to Get it Right

Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain

Store Delivery Keeps Retailers in the Game

The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Returning Experience

The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.

John Sell

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Returns in the E-Commerce Retail Supply Chain - MD Logistics

In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.

John Jergens

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Overcoming Omni-channel Challenges in Retail - Crane Worldwide Logistics

Supply chains should allocate product across today's complex omni-channel networks to fulfill customer demand.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Footwear Chain Steps Up E-Commerce Efficiency

Independent footwear chain Browns Shoes reduced order lead time and more quickly filled e-commerce orders with an order management system.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Supply Chains in 2018: Millennial Consumers Most Concerned With Speed and Affordability of Deliveries

The e-commerce space is evolving quickly, and retailers must take care to consider consumers' shifting expectations, especially when dealing with younger shoppers.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

3PLs Put on the White Gloves

Logistics service providers reveal how they treat their customers like VIPs.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Footwear E-Tailers: Shoe Me The Money

As e-commerce continues to grow, footwear brands and retailers benefit from continually increasing sales. The challenge for e-tailers is to be profitable while dealing with fickle consumer tastes and product seasonality, a high return rate and large number of SKUs, and packaging that’s larger and bulkier than its parent category, apparel.

Paul A. Myerson

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Are You Ready for Omnichannel Retail?

While many challenges arise from an omnichannel retail strategy, supply chain professionals must rise to the occasion and stay ahead of these changes.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Manufacturers Take on Amazon

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

To 3PL or Not to 3PL?

Retailers may face significant challenges when expanding further into the online/e-commerce business. Some challenges may involve supply chain management issues.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

2018 Top 100 3PL Providers

It’s a boon year for third-party logistics providers offering innovative, flexible, and reliable solutions to meet shipper demands. Presented alphabetically, these are the 100 3PLs Inbound Logistics editors chose as the best of the best. Search the 3PL Decision Support Tool for an even deeper dive.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

Fulfillment Makeover Reveals A Glowing Supply Chain

Faced with rapidly-accelerating demand for its products, skin care company Rodan + Fields, an e-commerce merchant, chooses a distribution solution that includes a new location and automation.

Bill Goodgion

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain

Is Your 3PL Provider Causing You Headaches? Here is What to Look for in a 3PL Partnership - Ascent Global Logistics

While technology is helpful in executing specific tasks, it cannot alone replace quality human interaction. Shippers should make sure their 3PL provider is working with them in an efficient, friendly, and attentive manner.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Why do you use a third-party logistics provider?

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Readers Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2018

Each year, the Inbound Logistics Readers’ Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence survey gives shippers the chance to give a shout-out to providers that have taken on so much of their load. Here are the best of the best.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain

Full-Service Fulfillment Solution Helps E-commerce Company Deliver - Saddle Creek

Saddle Creek helped allheart get orders out quickly, control costs, and keep up with demand spikes.

John Watkins

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

2018 State of the Third-Party Logistics Industry Report - 3PL Central

This second-annual report is designed to help warehouses increase both their market share and profitability by addressing the most dramatic change of all—The Rising Demand for a Superior Customer Experience.

John Costanzo

3PL, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Simplifying Supply Chain Complexities

As technology and innovation continue to enable new options, supply chains will be sure to keep pace and take us to new heights.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

2018 Business Trends: For Better, For Worse

Investing in new and improved information technology and robotic process automation (RPA), talent shortages, and trade protectionism are predicted to be the top trends in service delivery for 2018 and the next several years, according to the latest quarterly KPMG Global Insights Pulse survey.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Competing With E-Commerce Giants

Despite the highly competitive environment, it’s possible to compete with e-commerce giants. It just takes creativity, a strong, optimized supply chain and, of course, excellent customer service.

Steve Wilson

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Strategy and E-Commerce Success - Unyson

Here are the six most important elements to consider when creating an item-specific supply chain strategy.

E-commerce, Logistics, Ports, Supply Chain

Imports, E-Commerce Drive Industrial Real Estate Demand

Seaports are a vital economic engine for the United States and a huge driver of demand for industrial real estate. Imports represented 63 percent of the total loaded cargo volume in 2017 for the top 13 ports in the United States.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Trends

E-commerce is an increasingly powerful engine for growth, and offers the best opportunities for small and mid-sized businesses, according to research conducted by DHL.

E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain

E-Commerce: Cultivating a New Logistics Landscape

E-commerce continues to mow down traditional business practices. To adapt, companies serving manufacturing, industrial, and retail customers are seeding their portfolios with new services, and not letting any grass grow under their feet.

Bill Goodgion

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking

Trouble Finding Capacity? How a 3PL Can Help

Partnering with a 3PL could be the best solution to improved visibility and lower costs over the long haul.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain

New Floor & Decor Facility

New and noteworthy in the supply chain

Jennifer Benson

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Want to Run a More Successful 3PL? Learn from the Best. - 3PL Central

Warehouses who use this philosophy to create disciplined, rigorous strategies were able to achieve superior results.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Choosing a Third-Party Logistics Provider

A provider with these 10 qualities will put your logistics outsourcing on the path for success.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Fashion Icon Designs Supply Chain Solution

With its distribution center approaching capacity, Michael Kors had several options to consider, including one that would expand the existing facility. The fashion company turned to supply chain software company LLamasoft for help evaluating possible solutions. The collaboration also led to Michael Kors developing a core supply chain decision-making capability as well as systems it could use for other purposes.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Current State of the 3PL Market

Shipper demands, customer expectations and 3PL capabilities increase, putting supply chain at the forefront.

Jonathan Tran

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Inventory Strategies That Satisfy and Retain Customers

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Supply Chain Impatience: No Time To Wait

Artificial intelligence, hidden cameras, robots—These are not part of a new movie, but reflect daily life in a "hurry up" world of impatient consumers. Read how supply chains are adapting to serve a market increasingly driven by e-commerce and Amazon-like business models.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

3PLs & Shippers: In It For the Long Haul

Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) drive continuous improvement for the shippers they serve through innovative solutions, up-to-date technology, and sheer effort.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Realigning Logistics

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Shopper Expectations Outpace Retail Investments

Key findings from the 2017 Global Shopper Study

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Acquiring Shipt Will Bring Target Shoppers Same-Day Delivery

Target acquired same-day delivery company Shipt.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

How Leadership Training Can Improve Company Culture - MD Logistics

Use this advice to implement a leadership training program.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain

Status Quo? No.

Status quo will not be the norm in 2018 as major and minor changes are brewing in business operations.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Collaboration: Myth or Reality?

Supply chain collaboration (SCC) is vital for companies to make critical decisions quickly and outpace the competition. But, are the key concepts of collaboration a current reality or a myth? This article breaks them down.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

CX in the Era of Supply Chain Impatience

Transportation, logistics, and supply chain play an increasingly pivotal role in providing excellent customer service.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands

The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.

Nick Jensen

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency

Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain

Survey: Customers Place a High Priority on On-Time Holiday Shipping

Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Tim O’Brien: Exuding Star Power

Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions

Dr. David Widdifield

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Transportation

The Last Mile—History Repeating As Supply Managers Face Peak Season - Crane Worldwide Logistics

To prepare for this coming shopping season, supply chain managers need to engage key stakeholders to review current logistics operations and strategically assess whether or not they are prepared to meet existing consumer expectations.

E-commerce, Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

Consumer Behavior: The Missing Link

Retailers and manufacturers can unlock significant competitive advantage by leveraging consumer insights to make category decisions and create localized merchandising assortments.

Humanitarian Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

The Calm After the Storms

FedEx and UPS set aside rivalry to lobby White House on infrastructure, Retailers will rely heavily on technologies such as live chat, Facebook Messenger and Amazon Alexa for customer service, according to new research from Linc and Brand Garage, Research shows that U.S. industry executives are most concerned about the impact of trade protectionism, risk management, and border adjustment tax proposal

Jonathan Tran

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction

Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail

Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce

Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology

Amazon Closes Whole Foods Acquisition: 3 Experts Weigh In

Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods Market closes today August 28, 2017. Find out what it means today and for retailers in the near future.

Tim Casey

E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability

How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability

Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.

3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail

Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson

Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

Reverse Logistics: Earning a High Rate of Return

Opportunities that will make a difference in reverse logistics programs, and establishing goals for returns programs.

Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Ports

Florida: Logistics & Distribution—The Future is Here

Florida's state-of-the-art seaports and airports, and strong highway and rail networks, have helped establish a strong and growing logistics sector.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Goes Back to School

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain

GOOD QUESTION | What’s the most important question you should ask a potential 3PL partner?

Shippers share the most probing and effective questions to ask potential 3PL partners.

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Readers' Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2017

Year after year, the IL 3PL survey reveals the importance of great customer service to shippers.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans

Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Amazon’s Prime Day: Primetime for Online Retailers to Get Logistics Lessons

Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain and Logistics Services Delivery: Study Reveals Future Trends

Organizations have already begun to transition the delivery of supply chain and logistics services from an internal model to an external one, says a recent market study by KPMG and HfS Research. Here's how companies should leverage future trends revealed by the study to create intelligent supply chains.

John Costanzo

E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail

U.S./Canada Trade Remains Strong, With Plenty of Opportunity for Growth - Purolator

John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains

Careers, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Visibility

Paul Nugent: Feed the Flow

Profile on Paul Nugent, director of logistics for Kitchen and Bath Americas with Kohler Co.

Ken Chrisman

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

Thinking Inside the Unbox

Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

3 Main Sources of Supply Chain Complexity

Once you understand where the complexities lie in your supply chain, you can get to the source of your problem and streamline issues to help your organization.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend - Unyson

A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.

Stephen Wilson

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

The Advantages of a Pop Up Supply Chain

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Apparel Logistics: Stepping Out in Style

This feature provides examines the supply chain challenges arising from some recent trends in the fashion industry, and looks at how brand owners and retailers are meeting those challenges.

Frank McGuigan

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology

Consumer Demand Helping Drive 3PL Industry Growth

Organizations are turning to third party logistics providers and enhanced transportation management technology to deliver the velocity, visibility, predictability, and control they need.

Big Data, 3PL, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management

Plan B: 5 Ways to Weatherproof Your Supply Chain

From establishing secondary suppliers to setting up alternative routes, here’s a look at how Plan B strategies can keep you up and running even during extreme weather events.

Big Data, Retail, Sustainability, Warehousing

Supply Chain Predictions 2020

Industry leaders look to the future, offering advice and strategies to help you successfully navigate the year ahead.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation

Winning Moves for the Last Mile

Take a look at the strategies that retailers and their service partners use to improve last-mile delivery for direct-to-consumer sales.

Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility

Ensuring Supply Chain Visibility

In today's increasingly omnichannel marketplace, good visibility is vital throughout the supply chain. Here's how to maintain optimal visibility at 10 key touchpoints.

Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology

Hidaka Forges Automated Inventory Solution

An unusually large customer order drives Hidaka to implement the Mobility Physical Inventory App from AIM Computer Solutions. Along with automating the inventory process, the solution provides accurate and timely information.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

159 Expert Tips to AMP Your Supply Chain

Get moving with these actionable tips to jolt your warehousing, transportation, and logistics operations.

E-commerce, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

When Logistics Worlds Collide: Fashion History Predicts Future of Pharma Fulfillment

Larry Hotz, of WDSrx - Woodfield Distribution, LLC, draws from his experiences in the fashion industry to predict the future of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management

Lori Fellmer Keeps It Moving

A profile of Lori Fellmer, vice president of logistics and carrier management with BassTech International.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics

Walgreens Launches Home Delivery Program for Prescriptions

Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.

E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics

How Shippers Can Relieve Consumers' Delivery Anxiety

Delivery anxiety is the anxiety consumers feel when they don’t know when they are going to receive their order or when shipping costs push the total order cost too high. Removing delivery anxiety, your single largest obstacle to converting orders, can result in an up to 20% increase in sales, happier customers, fewer calls to customer support, and an optimized delivery network.

Distribution, Logistics, Real Estate, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing

How to Adapt an Aging Warehouse

When the time arrives to consider investing in additional space, many distribution centers, retailers and businesses dependent on warehouses face a dilemma: should the organization move to a new facility, build an addition, or try to retrofit an older warehouse? And, in the case of a retrofit or addition, what can be done to make an aging or existing warehouse space more suitable?

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing

Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season

According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.

E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Scorecards: A Tool for the Times

There’s a lot of interest in the industry right now regarding advanced technologies like blockchain and AI and the benefits they could bring to logistics operations – and with good reason. But, for all the promise these appear to hold, there are proven enhancement-focused tools already available – in particular, scorecards – that supply chain managers should take full advantage right now to ensure optimized performance across all supply chain functions.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Hone for the Holidays

Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.

3PL, Intermodal, Logistics, Supply Chain

Bye, a la Mode

Sean Wilcox

E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Shipping and Delivery: How to Get it Right

Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.

Martin Verwijmeren

Customer Service, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain

Tuning Into Supply Chain Orchestration

The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach.

Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Send It Back! How to Manage E-Commerce Returns

Up to 30 percent of e-commerce orders shipped to customers wind up coming back. Here's how smart retailers box up their reverse logistics strategies.

Keith Biondo

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Returning Experience

The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.

John Sell

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Returns in the E-Commerce Retail Supply Chain - MD Logistics

In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.

Keith Biondo

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Dual Dynamics

Clearly, increased trucking costs are the new normal. Also as clear is the other dynamic, which is emphasized a little less these days but all the more important to offset cost increases in other areas: Use your logistics partner strategically and offset rising transport costs.

Brian Bourke

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Thinking Beyond Home Delivery - SEKO Logistics

Consumer expectations are becoming increasingly demanding, and matching supply to demand is crucial for any successful supply chain.

Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Reinventing Your Warehouse or DC

Here are some warehouse operations moves—some small steps, some not—companies can do to boost their bottom lines and improve customer satisfaction, including layout and organization, docking, picking and receiving, fulfillment, and packaging.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Leave IT to Your 3PL

Still struggling to get your logistics technology up to speed? You're not alone. See why companies are increasingly outsourcing IT to their third-party logistics providers.

Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain

A Cool Supply Chain Solution

A 3PL's cold call leads to a cool technology solution that streamlines processes and minimizes service disruptions

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Engaging the Informed Consumer

E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Efficiency: Packaging for the Automotive E-Commerce Era

To improve the bottom line and take advantage of the e-commerce automotive aftermarket sector’s rising popularity, OEMs should focus on the role packaging plays in supply chain efficiency.

John Sell

3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

Advantages of a Niche Third Party Logistics Provider - MD Logistics

Providers that specialize and target a specific industry, geographical market, or will limit their service offering are referred to as niche 3PL’s. Here are some of the advantages to using a niche 3PL over a traditional provider.

3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain

Essentials of a Healthy Supply Chain Partnership

To ensure brands are managing the most efficient, optimized supply chain, they need to assess their supply chain partner’s commitment across the following key areas.

E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

H&M Tries on Supply Chain Improvements

Retailer H&M will increase supply chain investments and continue cost control measures to address slow growth in 2017, and keep pace with e-commerce rivals.

Keith Biondo

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

The Human Experience

In the rush to satisfy ever-increasing demands for speed and efficiency, and the clarion calls to deliver your best customer experience, supply chain managers need to consider that impact on the worker experience.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation

Truckload Carriers and E-commerce: Serving the Middle Mile

E-commerce is redrawing the landscape for freight transportation. Do truckload carriers have a place in this new world of high-velocity supply chains, especially as shipments get smaller and delivery windows shrink?

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing

E-Commerce Warehouses: SuperSize Me

E-commerce has driven a more than doubling of the average footprint of warehouses built in the United States since the early 2000s.

Perry Belcastro

E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

5 Ways Your 3PL Can Help Meet E-commerce Challenges

A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking

LTL Carriers: E-Commerce Powerhouse

As more consumers choose e-commerce for a variety of goods, how are less-than-truckload carriers being impacted? Trucking companies are developing new strategies to serve retailers and manufacturers creating the goods that impatient consumers expect fast and free.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Commentary: Satisfying Customer Demand in a 365 E-Commerce Market

Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.

E-commerce, China, Automotive Logistics, Global Logistics

U.S.-Cuba Trade: Where Do Sanctions, Sourcing, and Compliance Meet?

U.S.-Cuba trade–The intersection of sanctions, sourcing and compliance; Chilean multinational logistics agency Agunsa has teamed up with Japanese shipping firm K-Line to form a dedicated automotive logistics company, KAR Logistics; UPS and SF Holding joint venture receives regulatory approval in China; Dubai introduces e-commerce center

Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing

How AR Can Take the Sting Out of Seasonal Surge Training Costs

Every holiday season, warehouses expand their workforces two times or more to handle peak retail demand that can make or break the entire year. Here’s how augmented reality can help.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

H.O.W. | How to Transform the Supply Chain for Omnichannel Retailing

Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.

3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

H.O.W. | How to Turn Data Into Supply Chain Action

Simply generating supply chain data doesn’t eliminate waste, reduce costs, or improve service. Shippers should implement systems that give managers insights behind the data. Find a TMS that is available as a customized solution to incorporate your unique industry and supply chain requirements.

Andrew Slusher

E-commerce, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain

Educating the Supply Chain - SMC³

Jump Start 2018 provides shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and other supply chain professionals with indispensable insights about trends and challenges in the wider logistics arena.

Lean Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Golf Ball Maker Hits Supply Chain Sweet Spot

With a pull instead of a push replenishment strategy, golf ball maker Acushnet increased supply chain efficiency.

Tim Casey

E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability

How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability

Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.

Brandon C. Bennett

3PL, Health Care Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain

5 Ways to Execute a High-Performing Demo Program for Medical Devices - SEKO

Now more than ever healthcare supply chains are key differentiators for best-in-class manufacturers.

Rob Kriewaldt

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI

The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.

3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail

Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson

Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.

Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management

The Perfect Amount of Packaging

Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.

E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Supply Chain Goes Back to School

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain

Distributors Step Up Their Game

Distributors continue to play a valuable role within many supply chains. At the same time, changing business models, and especially the rise of e-commerce, are prompting many to enhance the services they offer.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility

Solved: Increasing Retail Presence - SEKO

When Dippin’ Dots needed more visibility in retail locations they teamed up with SEKO to get display freezers to market quickly.

Chris Gutierrez

E-commerce, Economic Development, Logistics, Supply Chain

An Inside Look at Freight-Based Development in Kansas City

CVS Pharmacy, Amazon, and others have invested more than $456 million in warehousing and distribution centers in the KC region, adding 4,700 jobs since 2015. How has this mid-sized Midwestern region been so successful attracting logistics operations? Why are experts predicting continued growth?

John Costanzo

E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail

U.S./Canada Trade Remains Strong, With Plenty of Opportunity for Growth - Purolator

John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.

Scott McDevitt

3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Why Supply Chain Visibility Is Vital to Company Success

Visibility is a key issue in the management of supply chains. Introducing transparency throughout all aspects of your business will bring about remarkable results. Here's how.

E-commerce, Logistics, Partnership, Packaging, Supply Chain

New Packaging Innovation Center

UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.

Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

Uniformed Booking Platform Improves Vendor Compliance

A retailer needed to bring suppliers together and optimize processes so they teamed up with Unyson for a solution.

E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation

Jennifer Daniel: Mastering the Art of Logistics

A profile of Jennifer Daniel, head of global logistics for Redbubble, an online marketplace that connects independent artists of graphic design, fine art, or photography with customers.

Andrea McFarling

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain

Minimize Returns While Improving Sales

Minimizing costs and even making a profit in reverse logistics is critical to an e-commerce company’s health. Here are some ways to do that.

Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain Remains the “Next Big Thing”

Symphony RetailAI, and CPG manufacturers, announced the findings of a benchmark report. The fourth annual study, conducted by Retail Systems Research (RSR) and sponsored by Symphony RetailAI, shows enhanced efficiencies from previous years, but clear room for improvement in fulfillment strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory accuracy and visibility.

Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology

How to Prioritize and Select Logistics Technology - SEKO Logistics

Technology is the backbone of today's logistics systems, and shippers want to make the right choices for mission-critical systems.

Paul A. Myerson

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain

Store Delivery Keeps Retailers in the Game

The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.

E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Supply Chains in 2018: Millennial Consumers Most Concerned With Speed and Affordability of Deliveries

The e-commerce space is evolving quickly, and retailers must take care to consider consumers' shifting expectations, especially when dealing with younger shoppers.

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain

Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.

Inventory Management, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology

Supply Chain Productivity Boosters: Three Technologies Making Maximum Impact

No hype here. These three technological innovations are already enhancing effectiveness, lowering operational costs, and increasing customer satisfaction in supply chain management.

E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Engaging the Informed Consumer

Paul Thompson

E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology

Accelerate Breakthrough by Helping Human Experts - Transportation Insight

While machine learning and predictive intelligence will shape this era, creative companies which value collaboration, human expertise and servant leadership can change the game.

Perry Belcastro

E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain

5 Ways Your 3PL Can Help Meet E-commerce Challenges

A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.

Jonathan Tran

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain

E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction

Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.

Tim Casey

E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability

How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability

Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.

Rob Kriewaldt

E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain

Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI

The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.

E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation

E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer

This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.

E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain

Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans

Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain

Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.

Big Data, 3PL, Import, Export, High-Value/High-Risk Cargo, Ocean, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology

Ocean Freight Visibility on the Horizon?

E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing

Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain

Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.

Related Resources

Send a 3PL RFPSend a Retail RFPFind a 3PL providerRead 3PL web sitesRead Warehousing web sites

Related Company Profiles

Brothers Freight ManagementPolaris Transportation GroupApproved Freight ForwardersEvans Distribution SystemsSyfan LogisticsSunset TransportationID LogisticsTaylored ServicesRomark LogisticsUniGroup LogisticsMore related company profiles...



ARTICLES

  • News
  • This Month
  • Articles by Subject
  • Features
  • Case Studies
  • How-To
  • Commentary
  • Online Exclusives
  • Trends
  • Global
  • Sponsored Articles
  • Digital Issues & Editions

LOGISTICS PLANNER

  • View Profiles by Category
  • View Profiles by Company
  • Logistics Planner RFP

SEND RFP/RFI

  • See all RFPs
  • 3PL RFP
  • Alaska RFP/RFI
  • Air Cargo/Air Forwarder RFP
  • Chemical Logistics RFP
  • ECommerce RFP
  • Economic Development RFP
  • Education RFI
  • Food Logistics/Temp Controlled RFP
  • Forklift/Pallets/Materials Handling RFP
  • Freight Payment/Audit Services RFP
  • Global Logistics RFP
  • Latin America RFP
  • Logistics IT RFP
  • Logistics Planner RFP
  • Materials Handling RFP
  • Ocean/Intermodal/Rail RFP
  • Retail RFP
  • Site Selection RFP
  • Sustainable Supply Chain Partner RFP
  • TMS RFP
  • Trucking RFP
  • WMS RFP
  • Warehousing RFP

FIND SOLUTIONS

  • Find a 3PL/Warehouse
  • Find an Air Forwarder
  • Find a Logistics Education Program
  • Find a Technology Company
  • Find a Trucking Company

WEB_CITE CITY®

  • Search Our Web Directory
  • Add Your Company

MODES & SERVICES

  • 3PL
  • Air Cargo
  • Chemical Logistics
  • Forklifts, Pallets, & Materials Handling
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Education
  • Green Supply Chain Partners Survey
  • Logistics IT
  • Ocean/Intermodal/Rail
  • Site Selection & Economic Development
  • Trucking
  • Warehousing

PODCASTS

  • All Podcasts
  • PANYNJ Podcast
  • DHL Podcast

STAY CONNECTED

  • Subscribe
  • Connect

ADVERTISE

  • Sponsor Content
  • Request a Content Guide
  • Request a BPA Audit Statement

DIGITAL EDITIONS

About Inbound Logistics | Contact Us | Advertising Opportunities | Editorial Submissions | Order Reprints | Glossary | Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions | Get the App!

©2021 Thomas Publishing Company