E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Warehousing
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing, Visibility
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.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Logistics, Retail, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain
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, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
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, Last Mile Delivery, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
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
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
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
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?
E-commerce, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
E-commerce excellence and proximity to large population areas are the new drivers behind site selection for fulfillment centers.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing
E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Packaging
Cosmetics companies face challenges such as time- and temperature-sensitive shipments and retailer packaging requirements.
E-commerce, Customer Service, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
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, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.
E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail
Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Third-Party Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Implementing a drop shipping solution comes with its share of challenges for a 3PL provider, as these types of orders differ from a standard parcel shipment. Here’s what to consider.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Whether online or in-store, customers expect an immediate and frictionless shopping experience, thanks to Amazon. To compete, you must level the playing field with experiences that keep customers coming back to your branded e-commerce site.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Readers share how they keep their smaller retail businesses competitive against massive-commerce companies.
E-commerce, Global Economy, Asia, Demand Planning, Technology
Even as growth slowed from 2020's pandemic-fueled explosion in activity, the global e-commerce market still grew a robust 19.9% in 2021, according to Transport Intelligence (Ti). Indications are growth will slow but remain hefty.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Your 3PL should be a catalyst for producing unmatched retail logistics performance levels and total supply chain optimization. Here are 10 tips for choosing the right partner.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
E-commerce complications are multiplying as labor constraints continue and capacity challenges persist. These logistics providers have a winning formula.
E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Food Logistics
Get ready for another rollercoaster year. From limited transportation capacity to skyrocketing material costs to continuing supply chain disruption, here’s what to expect and what to do about it.
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-commerce has changed the way people shop for everything from razors to sofas, to the point where retailers with more traditional supply chains are catching on. New e-commerce brands and traditional retailers alike can follow these five DTC trends in 2022 to stay competitive.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
During a period of rapid growth, online grill retailer BBQGrills.com reduced damaged freight claims by more than 75% and lowered shipping costs by working with a logistics services provider for country-wide less-than-truckload services.
E-commerce, Buildings and Structures
From Walmart's new fulfillment center in Mississippi to the latest supply chain awards recipients, here's what new and notable in the supply chain.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Amazon’s amazing levels of industrial absorption is just the beginning of a greater evolution of how brick-and-mortar retail, distribution and even manufacturing will continue to evolve.
By thinking creatively and embracing new solutions, third-party logistics providers support shippers through demand surges, labor shortages, cost increases, and capacity constraints.
Canadian fulfillment services have risen to prominence in the import sector over the past decade. They save you money—on import duties and their related costs, which can be considerable. Let's look at this money-saving tactic that's changed the importing landscape
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
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.
LoadDex from Logistical Labs lets Sunset Transportation take a strategic focus when making pricing decisions, improving customer opportunities and fueling year-over-year growth.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
Outsourcing supply chain operations to a 3PL partner is a strategic decision that enhances multiple levels of a business’s value chain.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
Automation, when correctly applied, should have two benefits: performing tasks with fewer people, and increasing the value of (remaining) employee tasks.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Good cartonization software uses the weight and dimensions of objects to select the correct sized carton, assisting with accurate shipping cost calculations in near real-time when the customer places an order, essential for any e-commerce site.
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Transportation
Maintaining optimum cargo conditions and temperatures during transport takes experience and know-how. Here are four attributes of effective and reliable cold chain shippers.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Technology
By reshaping technology to support multiple delivery partners, Amazon ensured a system with fewer late deliveries, better customer experience, and minimal system downtime or bottlenecks.
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.
Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Risk Management
Supply chain leaders must balance efficiency and cost, with inventory management strategies that incorporate the Lean efficiencies of Just-in-Time with the higher inventory levels of Just-in-Case.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Buy Anywhere, Deliver Anywhere (BADA) capabilities will enable organizations to offer the services that meet consumers’ demands, increasing customer satisfaction and the organization’s bottom line.
To best serve those who serve, Lisa Mernin, director of operations at military equipment supplier ADS, doesn’t look for the cheapest partners; she looks for the best value and prioritizes customer service.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Technology
E-commerce acceleration and massive shifts in consumer expectations have changed the equation. Shippers are turning to 3PLs’ technology expertise to manage logistics costs and meet service expectations in an ever-changing marketplace.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
With consumer demand growing at a faster rate than many retailers can keep up with, it is imperative companies find a way to meet expectations and overcome the following challenges.
3PL, Demand Planning, Risk Management
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for more robust and responsive logistics, with more consumers and businesses expecting just-in-time delivery or products shipped directly to their front doors. One option is utilizing third-party logistics (3PL) suppliers to move and transport excess raw material or finished goods.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
The continued proliferation of third-party fulfillment options means Amazon and its shipping partners—FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL, and regional couriers—will have a hard time keeping up with the volume. Will the trend continue? Here are some predictions for 2021.
E-commerce, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure
Here are four ways to create a logistics-friendly business climate that is a win-win for municipalities and developers alike.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
An emerging hybrid model of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail brings together the best of both worlds, while automation and software remove challenges and empower this otherwise complex fulfillment model.
Supply chain leaders share their insight on the secret to a successful shipper/3PL partnership.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
As consumers become increasingly comfortable buying over-sized goods online, manufacturers and retailers partner with white-glove, last-mile delivery services to make in-home set-up and assembly a first-class experience.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
Navigating global logistics and setting up successful sales channels are huge problems for e-commerce retailers. Leveraging Section 321 can be a great way to reduce tax liability and help improve margins and customer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
E-commerce brands looking to protect merchandise and reduce their carbon footprint are exploring surprising new packaging materials, designs, uses, and re-uses.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Whether you're pushed over the edge by the pandemic, labor shortages, supply scarcity, or the surprise consumption explosion, the question is the same: Who has your back?
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Shippers trust their third-party logistics partners to be there through thick and thin.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
These third-party logistics providers have your back, earning shippers’ votes with their consistency and customer service.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Our 16th annual 3PL market research report reveals the current state of the union between shippers and their logistics service partners.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
When your enterprise faces supply chain and logistics challenges, these partners won't let you fall. In alphabetical order, here are the 100 third-party logistics providers deemed best of the best by Inbound Logistics editors.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
Peak season 2021 is gearing up to be one of the most active in recent history. If your business feels like it is often unprepared for a surge in shipping, this year will likely not pull any punches.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment
The shift to grocery e-commerce has retailers hungry for fulfillment improvements and supply chain efficiency gains.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Instead of using carriers to ship all its online orders, Target is building its own team of dedicated delivery personnel to get packages to customers' doors even faster
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment
How the COVID-19 pandemic changed demand in five product categories, the challenges those changes created for e-commerce fulfillment, and the strategies that merchants and their service providers deployed to meet the need.
Locus Robotics deployed autonomous mobile robots along with actionable reporting tools and dashboards for Taylored Services. The scalable solution brought immediate gains.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Materials Handling
The supply chain shift to dynamic, difficult-to-forecast e-commerce fulfillment channels is even more challenging for a particular type of product: the bulky and oversized. Any item that's too big or otherwise out of spec to properly run on automated infrastructure like conveyors or sorters presents a cumbersome materials handling problem, and this article conveys the solutions.
As e-commerce continues to dominate the retail landscape, many logistics services providers are evolving their solutions to meet this new demand. One example is LEGACY Supply Chain, a third-party logistics provider focused on e-commerce fulfillment in the United States and Canada.
3PL, Risk Management, Technology
The companies who develop long-term logistics solutions enabled by technology and data insights to adjust to consumer demand and pandemic uncertainty are the ones who position themselves for growth in the new reality for supply chain operations.
Profile of Mike Honious, president and CEO, GEODIS in Americas
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Retailers turn to augmented reality solutions to provide consumers with rich product information, personalization options, and a seamless omnichannel experience.
From providing seamless technology integrations to tailoring transportation networks, 3PLs reinforce supply chains of all shapes and sizes.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Hub Group Vice President of Supply Chain Operations Nathan Schmies discusses the future of retail and implementing a strategic e-commerce fulfillment strategy for optimal success.
Food Logistics, Fulfillment, Warehousing
Kroger continues to invest in its digital business. By opening America's first automated warehouse with digital and robotic capabilities in Monroe, Ohio, the supermarket chain can assemble a 50-item order in just six minutes.
Georgia’s solid logistics infrastructure provided the firm foundation needed to keep cargo moving efficiently and safely regardless of a pandemic and national economic stress. These providers and trade partners led the way.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
To survive—and thrive—in today’s accelerated e-commerce environment, companies are reworking fulfillment strategies and supply chain networks. These providers offer scalability and solutions.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
The real winners in e-commerce and omnichannel retail will be the ones who master managing their fulfillment and last-mile operations and costs.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Returns have become an integral part of online shopping. In order to ensure no delays in the return supply chain and give customers a first-class experience, retailers need a robust returns platform.
Understanding these seven key differences between shipping full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) allows shippers to achieve the best possible results and support planning.
It’s becoming imperative for manufacturers to adopt e-commerce. Here are some considerations as you contemplate the transition.
The pandemic accelerated the trend of consumers buying more and different products online. Manufacturers concerned about their brand reputations will impose new, or adjust current, brand management policies to account for this new reality.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
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.
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.
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Partnership
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..
These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Fulfillment
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
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.
BlueGrace Logistics named Mark Derks as its new Chief Marketing Officer. Strategic investments in leadership team augments customer focus and value.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, 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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Technology
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
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
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, Customer Service, Technology
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
A look at strategies used by shippers and their transportation partners to deliver e-commerce orders with the speed that consumers require.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
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.
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
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.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment
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.
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
Ramco Systems helps an e-commerce solution provider realize its vision of a robotic fulfillment center.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
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.
3PL, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
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
Parcels and cross-border e-commerce are taking precedence over traditional services for postal operators, who continuously manage growing postal e-commerce traffic.
E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail
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.
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.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
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.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.
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
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
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
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.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
The top 100 third-party logistics providers of 2020 as chosen by Inbound Logistics' editors.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Risk Management
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.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
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.
E-commerce, Finance, Risk Management
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.
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
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 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.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
Retailers need to address new challenges, from bolstering distribution networks to managing complexity, to continue to expand their e-commerce operations.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Fulfillment
Ten tips every digital retailer needs to know to streamline their e-commerce fulfillment process.
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Insurance
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
Third-party logistics providers are future-proofing supply chains, using a toolbox filled with business insights, predictive capabilities, and other new solution sets.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Supply Chain Management
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
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
One-third of online shoppers buying health and beauty products are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.
3PL, Customer Service, Technology
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, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Barcode labels are a smart and cost-effective way to make productivity gains in your warehouse.
Whatever challenges your perishable goods operation faces, it’s likely that the right 3PL can offer innovative solutions.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
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.
3PL, Supply Chain, Warehousing
A third-party logistics provider with its own dedicated workforce is still a company's best option for handling and storing sensitive goods.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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
Escalade Sports transforms supply chain to capture e-commerce growth, improve customer service levels, and better manage inventory and demand planning.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
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.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
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
Here's a look at the strategies that small- and medium-sized retailers use to help them thrive despite competiton from much larger companies.
Fulfillment, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Product spotlight on fulfillment innovations
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.
A look back over 21 years of Inbound Logistics' Top 10 3PLs.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics
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
Whether brand new, solidly up and running, or decades old, shipper-3PL partnerships thrive on open communications, flexibility and trust.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
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.
3PL, Risk Management, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Economic Development, Logistics
In good times and in bad, world-class third-party logistics providers will continue to solve fundamental business challenges wrapped around supply chain operations.
This story highlights the results of Inbound Logistics’ 14th annual survey of shippers and 3PLs.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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.
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, Fulfillment, 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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment
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
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
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
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.
Shippers can mitigate supply chain fluctuations and disruptions by leveraging the expertise of 3PLs.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
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, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics
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
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Fulfillment, Supply Chain
Is outsourcing your fulfillment the best option for your business? Here are 15 important questions to ask a potential partner.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
Some shippers find the 3PL model doesn’t go far enough. Here's how to make 4PLs work for you.
Careers, 3PL, Transportation Management
Profile of Denis Reilly, president and CEO of Kenco Logistics
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
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
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.
3PL, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
DLS Worldwide President Thomas Griffin reveals the 3PL efficiencies in highest demand as shippers face capacity constraints in 2017.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.
3PL, Expedited Shipping, Specialized Logistics
Readers share unexpected supply chain challenges and how they overcame them.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
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
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
In order to gain true end-to-end supply chain visibility and unlock the full potential for strategic savings opportunities, shippers must get beyond the shipment level to the PO level.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
By tapping collective, multi-modal intellectual capital of leading industry pioneers, shippers can transform the supply chain with a sweep of the dock.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
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
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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
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.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
MD Logistics’ customized supply chain solution helps a luxury brand manufacturer provide a personalized shopping experience while maintaining a high turnaround rate.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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 third-party logistics provider (3PL) is more important than ever. Use these tips to leverage your 3PL relationship.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
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
Produce distributor SunTerra Chicago uses technology to boost on-time deliveries and cut costs.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Readers share the best part about working in the supply chain.
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
As consumers demand a greater personal experience and more sophisticated product, the digital revolution will prove a competitive advantage to those who embrace it.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
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.
3PL, Forklifts, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Jungheinrich® reach trucks help LeanCor’s mission to advance the world’s supply chains.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
Fulfillment, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
From a Lean and agile supply chain perspective,an optimally designed supply chain can significantly improve margins,support expansion into new markets,enhance the customer experience,and reduce operating costs.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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
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.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Ariens' tailored transportation planning solution from Redwood Logistics has led to efficiency gains, delivery improvements, increased visibility and cost reductions.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Working with a specialized transportation provider will save you time and headaches while keeping your customers happy and costs down.
3PL, Manufacturing, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Wagner Logistics helps a leading manufacturer of lawn care equipment overcome growing pains.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
Readers choose between cost and customer service as the most important selection criterion for a carrier or supplier.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Profile of Mike Wagner, CEO of Target Freight Management.
E-commerce, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Visibility
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
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation
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
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
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.
E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
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
This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Inbound Logistics editor lists six cool things she learned (or just realized anew) as she edited the annual 3PL issue.
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Manufacturing, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.
3PL, Education, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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
Freight location and status updates, along with advanced predictive analytics capabilities, are making load tracking a valuable tool for shippers, brokers, 3PLs, and carriers
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A successful procurement project or event is all about the right preparation.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Industry expertise is the most impactful way to positively affect customer service requirements.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
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
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
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
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
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.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
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.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Transportation
Communication and transparency are key to being a good partner to your clients. Use this advice to effectively communicate with customers.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Warehouses can use a number of techniques to maintain service level agreements (SLAs) – the ”guaranteed” turnaround time for an order to go out – during peak demand periods.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
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.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Waveless fulfillment consistently maximizes warehouse productivity by assigning orders on a real-time basis as resources and fulfillment opportunities become available.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Transparency and communication are key in the RFP process to develop a true and lasting partnership with a 3PL provider.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology
This story looks at ways in which 3PLs help small and midsize companies implement and take full advantage of information technology.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Temperature Controlled
Working with a third-party logistics partner who also offers foreign trade zones can provide big benefits in the right scenarios.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
A predicted freight slowdown stalls driver wage increases for 2016; President Obama proposes oil tax to fund infrastructure; Logistics trends of 2016
3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
Big Data, 3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Technology , Transportation
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.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies that work with third-party logistics providers such as Penske Logistics get to share the pain when unexpected situations arise.
3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Why Inbound Logistics decided to re-publish Strikepoint, a fictional logistics novella originally published in 2001.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
When choosing a transportation management system, it’s important to ensure it will meet all of your requirements.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
With so many choices available, varying freight, and small package shipping needs, the 3PL service offering needs to be about more than the transaction.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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
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.
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation
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.
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Transportation
How milk and other dairy products moo-ve from tens of thousands of cows to store shelves across the country - with udder efficiency.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Timeliness is top of mind during the holiday season. Here's how analytics can help shippers meet delivery spikes and prepare their supply chains.
Careers, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Security
Keep these trends in mind when selecting an air logistics supplier to find the best solution to suits your needs
E-commerce, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Retail
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
E-commerce, Cross-Docking, Logistics, Packaging
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
EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.
Careers, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
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.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
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
E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
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.
3PL, Audit Services, Freight Payment Services, Third-Party Logistics
Freight audit and payment companies help shippers find the hidden cash in their supply chains by eliminating overbilling, and paying invoices accurately and quickly.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Core carriers participating in leveraged platforms typically receive consistent, attractive internal freight volumes and specific lanes of business.
3PL, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Third-Party Logistics
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
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.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Global Economy, China, Freight Forwarders, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Transportation
Use these seven tips to find a partner in China that is right for your company.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology , Warehousing
E-commerce is leaving a trail of brick-and-mortar debris in its wake.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Safety
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
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
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.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Increasing costs and challenges within the logistics industry affect your bottom line. Use these steps to reduce logistics costs.
E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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.
Bar-coding Systems, 3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Value-added services that fall outside the realm of traditional supply chain solutions can save millions of dollars and create mutually beneficial, collaborative relationships.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management
Freight damage, loss, and theft will always occur. Planning for those inevitabilities is key to prevention and faster claims settlement.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
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
Understanding less-than-truckload shipping challenges is the key to overcoming them.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management
An Enterprise Logistics partnership helps improve companies by delivering customized applications to improve market advantage.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
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
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 select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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
When it comes to transporting the oversized, the awkward, the exotic, and the endangered, the secret to success is planning, planning, and more planning.
3PL, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
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.
Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics
When selling products across the northern border, these three tips can help.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics
Companies are breaking through functional silos to initiate sweeping sustainability mandates.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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
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
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
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Aftermarket parts providers must take advantage of innovations in the supply chain to remain competitive in today’s global market.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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
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
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
A look at logistics trends and challenges that affect companies in the chemical industries, and their strategies for dealing with those issues.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Recent improvements in wireless cellular technology and mesh networks provide solutions that can be adapted for warehousing space, easing startup challenges and costs.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
This story looks at the role technology plays in the value that various third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer to their shipper customers.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Providing technology solutions helps third-party logistics providers stand out from competitors and adds value to their services.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Logistics, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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.
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Logistics, Retail, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
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.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Here are three ways companies are optimizing their oil and gas supply chains and creating more predictable financial returns.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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
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
A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Freight forwarders provide value-added services beyond just transportation and logistics. Here's advice for choosing the right one for your business.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.
Customer Service, 3PL, Global Economy, Freight Forwarders, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Technology
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.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Retailers need new technologies and capabilities to operate in a new omni-channel world.
3PL, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Saving a few bucks doesn’t always mean throwing the customer under the bus.
3PL, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.
E-commerce, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
With its subscription-based clothing rental model, Gwynnie Bee is tailoring the rules of e-commerce to make fashion fulfillment a perfect fit.
Mexico, Health Care Logistics, 3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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
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.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
With the holiday season in full swing, logistics managers must be able to rely on their vendors to perform.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
As e-commerce and ominchannel raise expectations, and consumers become more impatient, supply chain practitioners turn to technology to help them perform.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Lean, Ocean, Rail, Trucking
As transportation prices rise, shippers are engaging in smart planning to reduce logistics costs.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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
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.
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.
3PL, Mexico, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America
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.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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
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.
3PL, Intermodal, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
The trucking industry faces capacity constraints, but there are solutions available to help shippers minimize the impact.
3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Education & Careers, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.
E-commerce, Asia, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
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.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Intertape Polymer Group outsourced transportation to gain control of its diverse product line and protect profit margins.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking
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
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Rail
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
3PL, Food Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
Expanding beverage product lines are generating new stockkeeping units (SKUs) - and supply chain management challenges.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Third-party logistics services evolved to meet shippers' changing transportation, distribution, and warehousing needs.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Retail
When it comes to keeping up with demand, Game Stop's Bruce Kulp doesn’t play around.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
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
E-commerce, Asia, Canada, Global Logistics, Materials Handling, Latin America
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.
3PL, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Enterprise logistics providers are developing solutions that fuse data elements for insights that enable decisionmaking.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Integrated Logistics Services providers address supply chain challenges facing shippers to improve logistics operations.
3PL, Military Logistics, Education & Careers
Military veterans bring valuable skills and characteristics that make logistics operations stronger.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Logistics market report reveals trends in 3PL offerings and shippers' logistics outsourcing strategies.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Transporting and storing oil and gas products represents a complex challenge and big opportunity.
Export, Cross-border Trade, Canada, 3PL, Import, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Cross-border import and export trade between the United States and Canada requires planning and expertise.
3PL websites should offer tools that offer shippers information they need, and make working with carriers easier.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Fashion businesses must react instantly to fashion shifts and focus on getting goods to consumers quickly.
With warehouse capacity at a premium, shippers consult 3PLs to help locate shared space.
A strong corporate culture boosts productivity, improves service, and reduces workplace injuries and employee turnover.
Auto aftermarket shippers use supplier ship direct programs and high-velocity DCs to meet demand.
A long-term vision allows a shipper-3PL partnership to make long-lasting improvements.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain partners must work together to maximize the benefit to their customers – and boost their own bottom line.
Supply chain partner collaboration improves supply chain performance, create capabilities, and increase efficiencies.
Food Logistics, 3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
Shippers rely on 3PLs and refrigerated public warehouses to invest in technology, implement standards, and facilitate strategic business process change to drive greater efficiencies.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Security, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Shippers and logistics providers take extra precautions to protect high-value products from cargo theft.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Inland Barge, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Alaska’s extreme weather and geography create logistics challenges for shippers moving cargo to, from, and in the state.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Partnership, Trucking
Partnering with third-party logistics providers offers shippers numerous advantages for stronger supply chains.
3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Georgia offers manufacturers and distributors superior access to logistics providers and transportation infrastructure.
Scaling your supply chain can trigger significant adjustments in your partnerships.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
Garrick Pohl of Zipments discusses how the company facilitates same-day delivery.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.
3PL, Economic Development, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
U.S. companies stand to gain from establishing manufacturing operations in Mexico – if they manage the challenges.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Ensuring supply chain security requires that shippers and logistics providers stay one step ahead of thieves.
3PL, Distribution, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Safety, Warehousing
Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.
3PL, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.
3PL, Military Logistics, Manufacturing
The aerospace industry explores new strategies for producing planes quickly, efficiently, and profitably.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Packaging, Temperature Controlled
Air cargo shipments of perishable goods such as produce, flowers, and seafood require careful handling.
3PL, Finance, Global Logistics, Partnership, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
Import, Export, 3PL, Intermodal, Global Logistics, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Retailer DSW's new replenishment materials handling solution improves inventory control and reduces in-store markdowns.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
An enterprise logistics provider delivers holistic solutions that transform your business.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Security
Knowing your global trading partners can help maintain a smooth flow of goods, while ensuring safety and security.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
Expedited Shipping, 3PL, Global Logistics, Ocean, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Risk Management, Trucking, Security, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
3PL, Middle East, Asia, Panama Canal, China, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Risk Management
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”
3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management
Geodis Wilson helps integrated design technology company Dana Innovations expand its international supply chain.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
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.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Drive out inefficiencies and boost customer service by aligning with vendors to meet your supply chain goals.
Event logistics planners coordinate details to ensure precise requirements and deadlines are met.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Transportation
SmartWay data allows shippers and 3PLs to make business decisions that support their sustainability goals.
3PL, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
A large seasonal workforce complicates 3PL compliance with healthcare laws and could mean rate increases for shippers.
Freight management technology strengthens partnerships between third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.
Business to business (B2B) e-commerce sites must be well planned to increase revenue and support a growing client base.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Shippers’ needs dictate if a third party logistics provider or transportation management system is the best choice.
Flexible 3PLs drive business process improvements for shippers.
Outsourcing transportation and logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) blends function and flexibility into a supply chain feng shui.
Logistics providers can help shippers save money through decreased labor, lower overhead, and technology tools.
Four companies worked with 3PLs to make over their logistics operations, so they could meet evolving business demands.
A logistics and supply chain market research survey reveal trends and insights about the third-party logistics sector.
Inbound Logistics readers' choices for the best third party logistics providers.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Temperature Controlled
Perishable shipments such as produce and pharmaceuticals require temperature monitoring and careful handling.
For chemical logistics providers, safety on the truck and in the warehouse is of paramount importance.
3PL, Economic Development, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Minnesota's warehouse tax may push jobs out of state.
3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Site Selection, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure
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.
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.
Finding a third-party logistics (3PL) provider you can count on requires due diligence into performance history and resources, writes Kyle tGholston of Conexus.
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
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.
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.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Conduct a financial checkup of your potential 3PL partners before you sign the contract.
E-commerce, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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, Materials Handling
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Increasingly, 3PLs and shippers are working much more collaboratively, often sharing pains and gains, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
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
Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
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.
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can inspire shipper confidence by using technology tools to control loads and properly insuring their loads.
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.
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.
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer shippers a variety of beneficial supply chain services, writes Dan Lockwood of Unishippers Global.
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.
E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
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)
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
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Warehousing
Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping
UPS My Choice, a new direct-to-home delivery service, turns consumers into inbound logistics practitioners.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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)
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are bringing transportation management systems (TMS) to market.
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.
The new world of supply chain management requires that carriers and shippers both understand and respect the economics of the industry.
Jerry Levy of Specialized Transportation Inc. explains how to get the best service from white-glove logistics providers.
Chris Baltz of Transportation Insight explains how the right 3PL partner can help you achieve competitive advantage and dominate your market.
Third-party logistics provider mergers can disrupt shippers' supply chain performance. Brad Constantini of Comprehensive Logistics Inc. suggests strategies for preventing these problems.
4PLs guide transportation operations, manage product flow, and sometimes help avert disaster.
Outsource your way to a more efficient supply chain by selecting a knowledgeable and resourceful third-party logistics provider.
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?
Ford revamped its service parts network, processes, and technologies to boost efficiency and set the stage for global service parts logistics management.
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
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.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Distribution
The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.
3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
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.
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 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
Here is a look at the attributes that rank high on the list for any company seeking a location for supply chain activities.
3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.
Air Cargo, Intermodal, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
3PL, Global Economy, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Latin America
Jose Fernando Nava, president, DHL Supply Chain, Latin America shows shippers how to capitalize on Mexico's attraction as a growing consumer market.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
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.
3PL, Global Economy, Import, Export, Global Logistics
10 tips for what companies should consider when locating and choosing a global distribution hub.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
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.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing
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.
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
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.
3PL, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
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.
A new wave of demand for value-added services requires more capabilities of retail vendors and their logistics providers.
Inbound Logistics readers select the top third-party logistics (3PL) providers.
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
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
Shippers and service providers discuss their experience building a strong working relationship.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Freight Forwarders, Global Logistics, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
A professional freight forwarder that represents the interests of all supply chain participants can serve as the missing link in supply chain communication.
3PL, Forklifts, Safety, Warehousing
Warehousing risks can spring out at any moment. Some are meant to be shared, others avoided. Successful warehousing operations strike a balance.
Vested outsourcing yields innovative logistics relationships that deliver results, writes Kate Vitasek of the University of Tennessee's Center for Executive Education.
A combined truck-and-rail transport approach cuts costs and offers environmental benefits, writes John Patton of Trinity Transport Inc.
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.
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.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Reverse Logistics
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.
As truckload prices starting to rise, more shippers are choosing stability over short-term cost advantages, writes Jerry DeMeuse of Schneider Logistics.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Whether online or in-store, customers expect an immediate and frictionless shopping experience, thanks to Amazon. To compete, you must level the playing field with experiences that keep customers coming back to your branded e-commerce site.
Big Data, Demand Planning, Fulfillment, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Over the holidays, my wife and I decided to give ourselves the gift of a new couch. Because I work in transportation and logistics, I knew that constraints up and down the supply chain easily could result in a long delivery lead time. So it was a pleasant surprise when the home furnishings company said to expect the couch in about three weeks.
E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing
New supply chain services and solutions in 2022.
Intermodal, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment
Faced with a considerable supply chain challenge—a large-scale product launch in the middle of the pandemic—Hub Group took a holistic, end-to-end approach—from drayage to fulfillment—to help its client.
As the pandemic continues to impact supply chains, retailers go shopping for third-party logistics providers to gain end-to-end control.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Record retail sales, including a growing share of online purchases (see chart), mean that more returns than ever are flooding warehouses. U.S. holiday retail sales were up 8.5% compared to 2020, says data from Mastercard, and 66% of consumers will likely return at least one gift. At 18%, the e-commerce return rate is almost twice as high as retail returns overall.
3PL, Inventory Management, Technology
New forecasting tools, added 3PL services, and increased collaboration are among the strategies companies rely on to inform inventory management.
E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing
New supply chain services and solutions in 2022.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
The continued demand and expectation for last-mile delivery will require new solutions to optimize a strained supply chain.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
More than a year and a half into the pandemic, today’s logistics logjams are not expected to end anytime soon. That's why it's imperative brands today fortify their supply chains to best navigate the current environment and prepare for what unexpected challenges may lie ahead to limit future disruptions.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
Outsourcing supply chain operations to a 3PL partner is a strategic decision that enhances multiple levels of a business’s value chain.
From human-grade pet food to dog treats made with insect protein, here's what's trending in the pet product supply chain.
Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Warehousing
Few businesses use new technologies to tackle supply chain issues caused by the pandemic due to tighter costs and legacy work processes, resulting in lost revenue.
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
The pandemic and shift to home dining and takeout changed the recipe for the food supply chain. Here’s how food companies are addressing new challenges.
E-commerce, Retail, Risk Management
Here’s what you can expect from this year’s peak season and what you can do to avoid issues during this time.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Fulfillment
From e-commerce fulfillment strategies to warehouse layout to inventory approaches, here are the supply chain moves that translate to significant customer experience improvements, from the supplier’s customer to the end consumer.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
Recommerce is a fast-growing service focused on reselling problem inventory to extract value from existing products and reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing and transportation.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
E-commerce sales will keep growing during the 2021 holiday peak season as consumers continue to buy online across all categories.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Buy Anywhere, Deliver Anywhere (BADA) capabilities will enable organizations to offer the services that meet consumers’ demands, increasing customer satisfaction and the organization’s bottom line.
E-commerce, Cloud Computing, Technology
Google's two new supply chain management solutions—Supply Chain Twin and Supply Chain Pulse—provide a powerful business tool for small and mid-size enterprises.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
With pet adoptions soaring and consumer demand growing, makers of canine products increase production capacity and sniff out new delivery channels.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
It’s never too soon for retailers to start planning for the critical elements of the transaction process to ensure a successful holiday season and to avoid disruptions. Here are three items that should be on every online retailer’s holiday checklist.
Food Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail
As recreational fishing casts a wider net, equipment makers reel in new approaches to tackle supply chain challenges.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Supply chain leaders answer this month's Good Question, discussing whether brick-and-mortar retail can make a comeback.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
As e-commerce demand builds, online-only and omnichannel retailers alike lay the foundation for new partnerships and processes to keep pace, brick by brick.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
What companies need to do to streamline logistics operations and implement best practices so they will have the right inventory at the right location.
3PL, Agriculture Logistics, Partnership
From LTL and dedicated route service to seasonal and year-round storage, 3PLs need to be well-versed in the space to meet the specialized needs of agricultural companies.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
Peak season 2021 is gearing up to be one of the most active in recent history. If your business feels like it is often unprepared for a surge in shipping, this year will likely not pull any punches.
3PL, Partnership, Risk Management
Ruan’s approach to effective continuous improvement (CI) is centered around creating value within its partners’ businesses. CI begins with a clear understanding of each unique supply chain and baseline performance measures.
Robotics, Fulfillment, Warehousing
Forward-thinking 3PLs and retailers are making moves now to digitize their operations and prepare for possibly their best peak season yet. Locus’s Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) model offers considerable flexibility as volumes and workflows change.
E-commerce, Retail, Visibility
These five actions will help you meet retailers’ expectations and standards, from packaging and appointment scheduling to advanced ship notifications.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Amazon is testing a premium service where shoppers can have their orders assembled upon arrival, as online furniture and houseware sales soar and shoppers make more big-ticket purchases online.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment
How the COVID-19 pandemic changed demand in five product categories, the challenges those changes created for e-commerce fulfillment, and the strategies that merchants and their service providers deployed to meet the need.
Efficiency starts with an organized and free flowing work area. A Mezzanine and Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor (VRC) might be the perfect place to start.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Materials Handling
The supply chain shift to dynamic, difficult-to-forecast e-commerce fulfillment channels is even more challenging for a particular type of product: the bulky and oversized. Any item that's too big or otherwise out of spec to properly run on automated infrastructure like conveyors or sorters presents a cumbersome materials handling problem, and this article conveys the solutions.
As e-commerce continues to dominate the retail landscape, many logistics services providers are evolving their solutions to meet this new demand. One example is LEGACY Supply Chain, a third-party logistics provider focused on e-commerce fulfillment in the United States and Canada.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Stord, a cloud supply chain services provider for retail and e-commerce brands, raised a $65 million Series C round led by venture capital firm Bond, bringing its total capital raised in the past six months to $100 million.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
To survive—and thrive—in today’s accelerated e-commerce environment, companies are reworking fulfillment strategies and supply chain networks. These providers offer scalability and solutions.
While the grocery and home improvement sectors benefited from changes in consumer behavior during the pandemic, apparel and department stores struggled. Consequently, the following new rules will come into play for retailers in 2021.
Take a look at what's trending in the personal care products and cosmetics supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
Reverse logistics can be an opportunity for retailers and CPGs with the right approach.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Technology
To move goods to customers’ doorsteps efficiently, safely, and quickly, many companies need to overcome strained distribution networks, time-consuming manual processes, driver shortages, and urban congestion. Here are the latest last-mile innovations.
By working as partners, third-party logistics providers and shippers take on today's warehousing challenges.
E-commerce, 3PL, Food Logistics
A niche pet food company thrives during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to a long-standing partnership with its third-party logistics provider.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
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, Fulfillment, Retail, Technology
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.
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.
Fulfillment, Risk Management, Warehousing
Warehouses and fulfillment centers should take these precautions to mitigate COVID-19 risks, keep the workforce safe, and avoid costly downtime.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping
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.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment
A look at strategies used by shippers and their transportation partners to deliver e-commerce orders with the speed that consumers require.
3PL, Food Logistics, 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
From mall grocery stores and athleisure sales to data-sharing with blockchain, this is what's trending in the retail supply chain.
E-commerce, Packaging, 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.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership
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
From new hires to customer expectations, here's what's in store for shippers this holiday season.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment
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.
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
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.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, 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?
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
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, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
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.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Visibility
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.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation
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)
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)
TA Services' transportation management solutions helped MRC Global, a distributor of pipe, infrastructure products, and valves and fittings, improve visibility and enhance service levels.
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.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
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
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.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
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
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.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
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
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, Customer Service, Fulfillment
Ten tips every digital retailer needs to know to streamline their e-commerce fulfillment process.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
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, Cross-border Trade, Technology
As eCommerce continues to increase globally, shippers have to navigate customs to support their omnichannel strategy.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Trucking, Technology
Take a look at the top ten Inbound Logistics articles that got readers buzzing in 2019.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology
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, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain
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
Readers reveal the words and phrases that will have supply chain managers talking in 2020.
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.
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.
3PL, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Javelin Logistics removed their reliance on manual labor and now thrive in the e-commerce marketplace by partnering with 3PL Central.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
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
Nexus is a third-party logistics provider offering customized warehousing solutions and multi-modal transportation services.
3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.
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
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
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.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, 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.
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.’
Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Warehousing
A series of convergent events are raising national supply chain costs at every touch but investing in processes and people, and aligning with phenomenal logistics partners will offset a good measure of the costs and increase customer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain
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
Today, many 3PLs provide the technology solutions and expertise shippers need to manage increasingly complicated customer relationships.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Transportation
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain
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.
Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management
AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
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, Fulfillment, Logistics
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.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
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
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, Customer Service, Fulfillment, Supply Chain
Is outsourcing your fulfillment the best option for your business? Here are 15 important questions to ask a potential partner.
Fulfillment, Technology , Warehousing
Industry 4.0, the trend toward smart factories, will touch all aspects of the supply chain, and you should plan your mobile robotic system accordingly.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce is booming and everyone wants a piece of the pie, including Dubai .
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain
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, Global Logistics, Retail
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.
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.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
An experienced and knowledgeable 3PL provider can help life sciences and pharmaceutical customers adopt VMI as a supply chain management practice.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
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, Supply Chain
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
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
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
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, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
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
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
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.
Automation, Robotics, Fulfillment, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Choose the solution and vendor that can work hand in hand with you to analyze your objectives and design a solution that supports your needs. Here's how.
3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Connections 2022 is your expert resource for networking, gathering insights and helping your business be more successful. This industry-leading, supply chain-focused event will help you take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2022.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Small and mid-sized manufacturers and retailers are killing it in the middle and final miles.
E-commerce, Sourcing/Negotiations, Retail
From high fashion brands forgoing fur to surging jewelry sales, here's the latest on the luxury goods vertical segment.
Demand Planning, Fulfillment, Retail
Supply chain disruptions and other challenges are forcing retailers to find new ways to respond to demand surges, whether they’re anticipated or not. Here’s how they make sure they capture the sale.
Michael Shaughnessy, senior vice president of supply chain with seasonal home décor retailer Balsam Brands, cultivates strong relationships with carriers and uses his 23-year military background to master timing and movement.
As the pandemic continues to impact supply chains, retailers go shopping for third-party logistics providers to gain end-to-end control.
Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Partnership
While expedited shipping options are typically more expensive than standard freight services, they offer numerous benefits to organizations when sending and picking up cargo. Here are some of the major advantages.
By thinking creatively and embracing new solutions, third-party logistics providers support shippers through demand surges, labor shortages, cost increases, and capacity constraints.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Four tips to improve reverse logistics process.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
More than a year and a half into the pandemic, today’s logistics logjams are not expected to end anytime soon. That's why it's imperative brands today fortify their supply chains to best navigate the current environment and prepare for what unexpected challenges may lie ahead to limit future disruptions.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
Automation, when correctly applied, should have two benefits: performing tasks with fewer people, and increasing the value of (remaining) employee tasks.
Fulfillment, Transportation Management, Technology
In the face of an array of supply chain pain points, shippers can employ tech-based tools designed to tackle recurring challenges and create a more efficient and effective operation.
3PL, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
A warehouse management system should be adaptable, fast, affordable, and scalable to offer a low entry point into the warehouse, while providing a platform that expands exponentially according to the client's requirements, Mantis recommends.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Fulfillment
From e-commerce fulfillment strategies to warehouse layout to inventory approaches, here are the supply chain moves that translate to significant customer experience improvements, from the supplier’s customer to the end consumer.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
The global warehouse automation market continues to grow, largely driven by e-commerce retailers that sell groceries and general merchandise, such as JD.com, Amazon, and Target.
Chief executive officer Arch Thomason basks in a mentor list 33 names long, lean principles, and a team of smart people to keep Sunland Logistics Solutions shining bright and set customers up for success.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Faced with increasing e-commerce complexity, distribution centers have to balance flexibility with efficiency. Here are the products, equipment, and systems that streamline DC operations.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
E-commerce sales will keep growing during the 2021 holiday peak season as consumers continue to buy online across all categories.
With consumer confidence increasing and economies opening, goods are moving through North American ports at an unprecedented rate.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Workplace re-openings bring a host of new challenges to e-commerce retailers, including shifting from home to office delivery, predicting product mixes, and dealing with warehouse issues.
Fulfillment, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
When shopping for a warehouse management system (WMS), one size doesn't fit all. To narrow your search, look for solutions with these must-have features to meet your current and future business demands.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Julie Colona, Director, Forwarding Solutions and NVOCC at UniGroup, discusses why shippers might need a special commodities carrier, what to look for in a carrier, and how the business is evolving.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
An emerging hybrid model of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail brings together the best of both worlds, while automation and software remove challenges and empower this otherwise complex fulfillment model.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Transportation
Our "new normal" global consumption reality won't be ending soon. It's not just e-commerce—other factors augment long-term stress on your ability to marshal supplies and source transport to serve customers.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail
The need for supply chain resilience, visibility, agility, and control drives technology across multiple sectors.
E-commerce, Technology , Transportation
Small companies take big steps to navigate supply chain challenges.
DHL Supply Chain and Locus Robotics helped Brooks Running meet consumer demand during the pandemic.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment
The shift to grocery e-commerce has retailers hungry for fulfillment improvements and supply chain efficiency gains.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Technology
Manufacturing's traditional selling processes are broken. Our next chapter requires a savvy digital approach backed by a deep understanding of buyer expectations.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Instead of using carriers to ship all its online orders, Target is building its own team of dedicated delivery personnel to get packages to customers' doors even faster
3PL, Technology , Transportation
Optimizing a transportation network equires an ideal combination of personnel, tools, and strategic alignment.
E-commerce, Labor Management, Warehousing
Warehouse employment has reached new highs as e-commerce sales are higher than any previous point in time. Businesses may need to increase salaries by as much as 3.5% to compete for talent for such high-demand roles.
As e-commerce continues to dominate the retail landscape, many logistics services providers are evolving their solutions to meet this new demand. One example is LEGACY Supply Chain, a third-party logistics provider focused on e-commerce fulfillment in the United States and Canada.
E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Technology innovations help supply chain professionals access the qualities that can help them compete in a changed world: safety, visibility, flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Hub Group Vice President of Supply Chain Operations Nathan Schmies discusses the future of retail and implementing a strategic e-commerce fulfillment strategy for optimal success.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
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.
3PL, Food Logistics, Technology
These agile small and mid-sized businesses have picked up the pace to vault over supply chain challenges, including the pandemic.
E-commerce, Technology , Visibility
With the explosion of e-commerce delivery demands and shifts in supply chain practices, visibility is more important than ever. Here are 10 tips to help you optimize your business.
Fulfillment, Retail, Partnership
Leveraging its network of cross dock locations, Hub Group optimized a top retailer’s supply chain, reducing transportation spend, condensing inbound loads to the retailer’s fulfillment centers, and shortening transit times.
Fulfillment, Technology , Warehousing
Q&A with Locus Robotics, discussing how shippers can gain the flexible automation needed to meet today's demands and position themselves for growth.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
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
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, Fulfillment, Technology
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.
These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Technology
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.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Fulfillment
This was a year like no other for supply chain and logistics management. here's what we'll remember about 2020.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
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, Demand Planning, Retail
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
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, Technology , Warehousing
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
These companies are concocting innovative e-commerce solutions as alcohol sales flow online.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
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.
Fulfillment, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Learn how Brilliant Fulfillment stopped juggling spreadsheets and used WMS automation to grow its order volume by 175% in just one year.
3PL, Finance, Supply Chain Management
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
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?
The return-to-school shopping period is an important dress rehearsal for the upcoming peak season.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation
E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution
Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Ecentria deploys inVia Robotics’ Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) system to automate order fulfillment in its Aurora, Illinois, distribution center.
3PL, Risk Management, Security
Without proper identity access and management procedures for third-party users in place, entire supply chains are vulnerable to attacks.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Demand Planning
Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
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.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Warehousing
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
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, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
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:
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
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.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
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.
Fulfillment, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Fulfillment centers have adapted throughout COVID-19, supplying workers with masks, suspending in-person meetings, and enhancing their cleaning protocols. Suppliers will need to remember the lessons learned, even beyond the pandemic.
3PL, Freight Forwarders, Technology
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.
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, Global Economy, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The hot supply chain words or phrases for the coming year and the concepts behind them.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
Where the e-commerce boom intersects with urban centers, logisticians get street—and space—smart.
Careers, 3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain
Profile of Phil Yeager, president and COO, Hub Group
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.
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
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
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
Supply chain efficiencies can support brand strategies in key ways.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Technology
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.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
Fulfillment, Supply Chain, Technology
Product spotlight on mobile robotic systems
3PL, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
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
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.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Online retailers are winning in the market with all types of consumers, even in manufacturing industrial products.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology
A direct, automated EDI connection between its ERP system and retail partners gives eyebobs 20/20 visibility to its omnichannel orders.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
What’s needed is a new retail model for grocery shopping.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Fulfillment
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
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
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.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics, Technology
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
New and noteworthy in the supply chain.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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
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
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, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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
Logistics service providers reveal how they treat their customers like VIPs.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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.
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
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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
Saddle Creek helped allheart get orders out quickly, control costs, and keep up with demand spikes.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Time will tell if subscription retail is a viably long-term innovation for the retail industry as a whole, or merely the next iteration of online shopping. But it’s a retail trend that has certainly not yet reached its peak.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Here are the six most important elements to consider when creating an item-specific supply chain strategy.
E-commerce, Logistics, Ports, Supply Chain
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 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 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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Partnering with a 3PL could be the best solution to improved visibility and lower costs over the long haul.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouses who use this philosophy to create disciplined, rigorous strategies were able to achieve superior results.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A provider with these 10 qualities will put your logistics outsourcing on the path for success.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Shipper demands, customer expectations and 3PL capabilities increase, putting supply chain at the forefront.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
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
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, Logistics, Supply Chain
Key findings from the 2017 Global Shopper Study
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Target acquired same-day delivery company Shipt.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Use this advice to implement a leadership training program.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain
Status quo will not be the norm in 2018 as major and minor changes are brewing in business operations.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Transportation, logistics, and supply chain play an increasingly pivotal role in providing excellent customer service.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Transportation
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
Retailers and manufacturers can unlock significant competitive advantage by leveraging consumer insights to make category decisions and create localized merchandising assortments.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
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
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, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
Shippers share the most probing and effective questions to ask potential 3PL partners.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Year after year, the IL 3PL survey reveals the importance of great customer service to shippers.
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.
E-commerce, Canada, Cross-border Trade, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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
A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
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, Demand Planning, Fulfillment, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Investing time and money in making products available is more important today than ever before, thanks to the ripple effects of COVID-19. Capacity constraints and delivery agents have been upended, and product availability is at risk. Rising digital trends and changing consumer behavior and spending habits have also led to an urgency to respond to market conditions quickly.
Big Data, 3PL, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
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.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation
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, Fulfillment, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology
A direct, automated EDI connection between its ERP system and retail partners gives eyebobs 20/20 visibility to its omnichannel orders.
E-commerce, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Larry Hotz, of WDSrx - Woodfield Distribution, LLC, draws from his experiences in the fashion industry to predict the future of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
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
Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
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, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Consumer expectations are becoming increasingly demanding, and matching supply to demand is crucial for any successful supply chain.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Saddle Creek helped allheart get orders out quickly, control costs, and keep up with demand spikes.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
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, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
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
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
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
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 has driven a more than doubling of the average footprint of warehouses built in the United States since the early 2000s.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
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, China, Automotive Logistics, Global Logistics
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
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
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.
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain
Jump Start 2018 provides shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and other supply chain professionals with indispensable insights about trends and challenges in the wider logistics arena.
3PL, Health Care Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
Now more than ever healthcare supply chains are key differentiators for best-in-class manufacturers.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Technology from Crown Equipment helps a fine foods supplier optimize its order-picking process.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Innovations, such as Purchases on Google, enhance the customer experience by shortening the path to purchase. Here’s how retailers can prepare their supply chains.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Logistics, Supply Chain
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?
Careers, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Visibility
Profile on Paul Nugent, director of logistics for Kitchen and Bath Americas with Kohler Co.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
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
UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.
Last Mile Delivery, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Visibility
While the use of last-mile delivery has increased in the pandemic era, the process has experienced various growing pains. A new consumer survey shows customers have encountered regular delays and would like to have greater visibility of their deliveries.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics, Technology
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.
Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Technology is the backbone of today's logistics systems, and shippers want to make the right choices for mission-critical systems.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain
The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.
Global Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
SEKO Logistics helped virtualization technology company Sphere 3D Corp. gain global visibility and reduce warehousing and logistics costs.
E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
While machine learning and predictive intelligence will shape this era, creative companies which value collaboration, human expertise and servant leadership can change the game.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.
E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability
Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
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, China, Finance, Demand Planning, Supply Chain
Planet Fitness is one fitness club company that has thrived in recent years, growing from 918 locations in 2014 to more than 2,200 in 2021. Here's a sampling of statistics about the fitness equipment industry, compiled by RunRepeat and other sources, that helps to illustrate its status today.
Big Data, 3PL, Import, Export, High-Value/High-Risk Cargo, Ocean, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Readers share how they keep their smaller retail businesses competitive against massive-commerce companies.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Retail, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
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.
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