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E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Setting the E-Commerce Gold Standard
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Balancing Inventory for a Better Customer Experience
With the growth of e-commerce, retailers have identified a potential opportunity to reduce working capital by thinning inventory at brick-and-mortar stores—opting instead to maintain major portions of inventory at distribution centers upstream.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Dispelling Five Common Myths about Voice-Directed Work
Voice-directed technology can help improve worker safety and reduce employee-training time, yet some companies avoid them because of these five common misconceptions.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Materials Handling Equipment: Sorting Through the Options
Companies planning new distribution centers or warehouses weigh process data to choose materials handling equipment.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing
E-Commerce DC Site Selection: Connecting the Dots
E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Packaging
Cosmetics Logistics: The Beauty of an Optimized Supply Chain
Cosmetics companies face challenges such as time- and temperature-sensitive shipments and retailer packaging requirements.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Solving the E-Commerce Puzzle
To overcome the challenges that e-commerce presents to the supply chain, shippers need to succeed at omni-channel fulfillment. From leveraging brick-and-mortar stores to deploying an order management system, here’s how they can compete in an e-commerce world.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing, Visibility
Getting the Goods on Logistics this Holiday Season
In time for the holiday season and other peak periods, retailers are stepping up their game in delivery, fulfillment, and warehousing technology to improve the effectiveness of existing resources.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Alan Sargent: A Sweet Confection Connection
Profile of Alan Sargent, supply chain and logistics director, Just Born Candy
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—October 2016
Rise of e-commerce changing logistics real estate landscape; Companies who don’t sell globally may be sacrificing profits; Many smaller fleets non-compliant with upcoming ELD mandate
E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Using Tunnel Scanning to Meet
E-commerce Challenges
Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Optimizing Inbound for Improved E-Commerce Fulfillment
A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Girl Scout Cookie Sales Go Digital and Milk E-Commerce Innovation
The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) created and implemented a new way of taking and filling orders for its annual cookie drive. Here’s how it made sure cookie sales didn’t crumble.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse Makeover: Blueprint For Change
The warehouse design of tomorrow is flexing to meet the physical needs of basic warehouse operators as well as more highly automated e-commerce fulfillment centers.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Two Key Factors Drive WMS Adoption Today
The warehouse management system (WMS) has emerged as a valuable tool for tracking and streamlining tasks, the workforce, and material/equipment flows. Here are two factors driving its adoption today.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Warehousing
Fine-tuning the Modern Distribution Center
Sound strategies for maintaining, optimizing, and modernizing materials handling systems can mitigate risk in today’s DC and go a long way toward ensuring a smooth ride in the supply chain.
Distribution, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse Automation: The Next Generation
Investments in pick/put-to-light technology, wearables, robotic AGVs, high-speed conveyors, voice-directed picking, and a warehouse control system equate to an automated, smart, and efficient distribution center.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Why Parcel Sorting Automation Can't Wait
As e-commerce continues to surge, the case for automation is now too compelling to ignore. One good way to start can be to automate parcel sorting at local and regional distribution centers.
Distribution, Loading Dock, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
What’s in Your Warehouse?
Warehouse operations no longer allow for “business as usual” practices. New initiatives and strategic investments in capital improvements will lead to greater returns in productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Investing in the latest materials handling equipment, WMS technology, and physical building improvements will result in a fully integrated distribution center.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology , Warehousing
Just Another Brick in the Mall
E-commerce is leaving a trail of brick-and-mortar debris in its wake.
E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
CPG Market Demanding More Flexible Logistics Solutions
E-commerce and omni-channel retailing have a major impact on supply chain and logistics needs, and customers have to make sure their supply chain is equipped to offer maximum flexibility.
3PL, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Retail Collaboration: It’s All in the Jeans
Work with a team of service providers to get a new retail distribution center up and running in only six months? We should all be so lucky.
E-commerce, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Site Selection & E-Commerce: Tapping Regional Excellence
E-commerce excellence and proximity to large population areas are the new drivers behind site selection for fulfillment centers.
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Designing a New Strategy for a New Year
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Searching For the New Perfect Order
Retailers need new technologies and capabilities to operate in a new omni-channel world.
Customer Service, Distribution, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Supply Chain Management
From the Outside In: Supply Chain as Strategic Advantage
Executives at two leading companies weigh in on supply chain’s value to their organizations.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Automation That’s Worth the Weight
When a merger required Nature’s Way to consolidate distribution facilities, it called on the services of system supplier The Numina Group for a new design and technologies. Today, the facility successfully distributes products to customers in 50 states, and overseas through five supply chain channels.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
The New Retail: Three Legs to Stand On
Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
New Retail Strategies: It’s a Store! It’s a Site! It’s a Warehouse!
Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Diving Into Multi-Channel Fulfillment
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The Mechanics of 3PL Partnerships
Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Optimizing the Fashion Supply Chain
Fashion businesses must react instantly to fashion shifts and focus on getting goods to consumers quickly.
3PL, Distribution, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Safety, Warehousing
Materials Handling Meets Big Data
Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Minimizing the Financial Impact of Peak Season Returns
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Implementing a Pick-to-Light Solution
The right pick-to-light system can help increase productivity, improve accuracy, and increase picking speeds.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Inventory Optimization: A Natural Fit
A new inventory management system by Manhattan Associates nurses Nature's Best's fulfillment operations back to health.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Warehousing
DC Automation: Sorting It Out
Changing consumer expectations and demand for greater efficiency, economy, and productivity present new twists and turns in warehouse automation.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
E-Fulfillment Strategies That Deliver the Goods
This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.
E-commerce, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Improved Warehouse Operations: Cause to Celebrate
A warehouse control system that integrates voice-directed picking technology, a high-speed sortation system, and scanning technology streamlined party goods supplier Oriental Trading Company’s picking, packing, and shipping operations.
E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail
You Are Everywhere: Mapping the New Retail Supply Chain
Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Warehousing
Superstar Service: Supply Chain Strategies Win Satisfied Customers
Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.
Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
How to Drive Collaborative Distribution
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail
How to Develop a Direct-to-Store Delivery Model
A Direct-to-Store Delivery (DSD) delivery model helps consumer goods manufacturers gain speed and increase inventory turns.
3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
Logistics Outsourcing: An Active Culture at Dannon
Dannon's network design provides flexibility and speed to serve customers quickly, reduces transport time and costs, and delivers on the company's sustainability initiatives, while ensuring product freshness.
3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Integrate Contract Packaging Into Distribution Operations to Cut Costs by 30%
By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.
Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Xylophones, Checkerboards, and Gestalt Theory
Using colors, shapes, numbers, and mnemonics in warehouse signage can help reduce training and picking errors, while improving service.
Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
E-fulfillment: Finding the Perfect Fit
Online haberdasher Bonobos relies on its third-party fulfillment partner, Quiet Logistics, which operates warehousing facilities with Kiva's robotics materials handling solution.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Efficient Order Picking Speeds Distribution
Classic Distributing increases pick rates by 22% with the Jungheinrich® low-level order picker.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Enabling a Faster-to-Market Solution
Cath Kidston partnered with SEKO to expand the company’s inbound business from Asia to the UK and its distribution centers in Hong Kong and Shanghai supplying its international franchises.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
How 3PL Warehouses Can Capitalize on the Escalating Demands of Prospects and Customers
3PL warehouses are not only in demand, but in a position of strength. This provides 3PL operators a unique opportunity to build lasting relationships with key customers, suppliers, and retailers of their choice.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Walmart’s ShippingPass Has Ended. What Retailers Should Do Next.
The e-commerce race is only heating up. Here's what small to mid-size retailers should do to stay in the game.
E-commerce, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
Download the Inbound Logistics Planner App Today
Find the right solutions, carriers and partners to drive efficiency in your supply chain operations and enable your enterprise to navigate the twists and turns, ups and downs of the coming year.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Omni-Channel Retail: Roadmap To Profit
Omni-channel retail supply chains are forging new paths to profitability. Here's what they look like.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Risk Management, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | What’s your supply chain resolution for 2017?
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Shaking Up the Brown Box: Big Winners in Supply Chain Evolution
Business to consumer demand is set to outpace supply in the marketplace. Those who can solve that problem will be the big winners in the next phase of supply chain management.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Rethinking Reverse Logistics for Online Apparel Returns
As physical shopping bags are being replaced by virtual ones, it’s important for retailers to update their policies and logistics strategies to align with consumer behavior and expectations.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Tackling Retail Logistics: Build Your Team First
The flexible supply chain of the future is full of opportunities and challenges. With the right team and talent on your side, you’ll be well positioned for success. Here’s how to get the right people.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Warehousing
3PLs Up The Ante
Thirty years ago, third-party logistics providers offered mainly rudimentary logistics and warehousing services. Today, however, many 3PLs offer complex solutions that help companies achieve strategic goals.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Picking Solutions, Technology
The Who, What, When, and Why of Warehouse Wearables
As wearable technologies, such as smart glasses and augmented reality, grow less expensive and more accessible, an increasing number of companies are exploring whether wearables could benefit their warehouse operation.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hardware Upgrade Unwraps DC Improvements
Kelli’s Gift Shop Suppliers deployed Janam’s mobile computers and transformed its distribution center operations. From improving efficiency and productivity, find out how the handheld devices boosted inventory control and customer satisfaction for the wholesale distributor.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
Optimizing the Product Portfolio
The overall complexity of running the supply chain will drop as the product portfolio becomes more streamlined. Here's how to do just that.
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
How Precise Forecasting Tames Item Proliferation
More accurate forecasts enable better planning, lower inventory and manufacturing costs, and improved service levels.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain
Getting Distribution Centers in Peak Season Shape
Distribution centers (DCs) play a key role in the overall success of each peak season, as supply chain professionals must meet the surge in consumer demand and fulfill orders efficiently. Here are 10 ways to help you identify and fill seasonal needs of distribution centers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.
How to Beat Amazon at the Retail and Supply Chain Game in 2017
With heavy competition from Amazon in both retail and supply chain logistics, retailers that don’t begin making changes and investments in omni-channel in 2017 will see serious repercussions by 2020. For starters, they must invest in distributed order management and enterprise wide inventory visibility.
Distribution, Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain
Using a Systems Integrator for DC Automation
Implementing material handling automation within a distribution center requires an experienced systems integration, which acts as a matchmaker to ensure the software communicates fully and freely with the facility’s equipment.
E-commerce, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
How Supply Chain Strategies Impact
E-commerce Success
The emergence of e-commerce as part of a company’s omni-channel marketing program requires not only an agile, lean supply chain but also a strategy to get there.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Accurate Product Data Drives Supply Chain Systems
Supply chain applications stumble when the product data they’re using is inaccurate. Here's how to make sure data is consistent and comes from well-crafted and executed processes.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Retail Logistics: When Fast Isn't Fast Enough
This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Prepping Your DC for Peak Season
Use this advice to get your distribution center prepared before holiday orders come rolling in.
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Labor Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Is Your Warehouse Ready for Black Friday? Start Preparing This Summer
Rising consumer expectations are driving change throughout the supply chain. And there’s no tougher test for meeting increased expectations than Black Friday. The time is now for warehouse managers to examine the three critical success factors in warehouse labor management.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Become an Extension of Your Client’s Brand
As entities responsible for brokering appropriate carrier rates, ensuring accurate quantities of orders and guaranteeing high quality of products, third-party logistics providers are extensions of companies’ brands.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Materials Handling Equipment Kicks Into High Gear
New technology abounds inside the four walls of a distribution center. From narrow aisles configurations, specialized rack systems and lift equipment to optimize stacking capabilities, WMS software that integrates with automated sortation systems, and self-guided intelligent robotic vehicles, innovations in materials handling products are transforming the supply chain.
Materials Handling, Packaging, Pallets, Supply Chain, Warehousing
How to Use Pallet Collars to Improve Supply Chain Efficiency
Using pallet collars in the warehouse can increase how efficiently your goods are stored, shipped, and delivered.
Air Cargo, Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Rail, Pallets, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation, Warehousing
Creating a Lean and Green Culture
Launching a cost cutting, productivity-enhancing, or sustainability initiative creates efficiencies with environmental benefits and cost reductions.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Analyzing Freight & Logistics Operations
Disruption is coming to the freight and logistics industry. By seeing and understanding the full spectrum of operations, transport-oriented firms can survive and succeed in a dramatically changed environment.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Hospitality Supplier Reserves Room to Grow With WMS
Through automated, rules-based wave management and replenishment, American Hotel Register Company was able to eliminate manual sortation and create multiple, tailored options to proactively release orders by type.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Whiskey, Bartender—and Make it Quick!
If there’s one lesson that we’ve learned from fine bourbon or whiskey, it’s that good things come to those who wait. Distilleries know this better than anyone. But when it’s time to get that product out the door and in the hands of distributors, the last thing a distiller wants to do is wait.
Distribution, Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitude
When an outdated warehouse management system was putting a dent in a distributor’s workflow, it turned to a technology partner to grow its e-commerce business.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain
Accelerating Enterprise Logistics With Top-Tier Multi-Modal Solutions
Logistics has evolved into a strategic business concern, driving enterprises to seek third-party logistics (3PL) providers with multi-modal capabilities for complete end-to-end integration.
SWISH! Shippers Score with Small Box Deliveries
Companies are shipping ever-increasing volumes of small parcels as e-commerce grows. Read about the strategies that shippers and providers are using to offset the higher cost of small parcel delivery.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
IoT in the Supply Chain
As the world becomes increasingly connected via the Internet of Things (IoT), the amount of data being created and shared is skyrocketing. Your supply chain will be profoundly affected.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Naughty or Nice—Which Retailers and Delivery Services Will Make the Grade this Holiday Season?
The holiday season is well underway, increasing the pressure on companies to address transportation problems and change the outcome before they turn into costly errors.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
Trends—December 2015
Transportation and logistics deal value continues to rise; distribution centers prepare to reduce picking errors; mobile-based freight brokerage; predictive analytics and Internet of Things revolutionize procurement
Forklifts, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing, Visibility
Building the Connected Warehouse
A connected warehouse maximizes warehouse efficiency, as well as positions a company to decisively navigate constant changes across the supply chain. Real-time data intelligence delivers the visibility and control needed to effect measurable improvements.
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
RFID: More Than Just a Better Barcode
Radio Frequency Identification Technology has a multitude of benefits that can have a significant impact on reducing and eliminating waste in the extended supply chain.
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Azteca Foods Craves Inventory Management System
When Azteca Foods outgrew its manual pallet tracking system in its production facility, Barcoding Inc. delivered a solution.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Optimizing the Holiday Supply Chain With Reliable ETA
Timeliness is top of mind during the holiday season. Here's how analytics can help shippers meet delivery spikes and prepare their supply chains.
E-commerce, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Retail
How to Implement a Successful Retail Omni-Channel Logistics Operation in Asia Pacific
For any United States-based company interested in expanding its retail logistics operations outside of the country, Asia Pacific may be the most ideal location.
E-commerce, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
The Beauty of Global Logistics
EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Trends—October 2015
Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service gives industrial buyers a preview of how IoT may impact procurement; Private label sourcing faces new headwinds; Cloud Logistics debuts the latest twist in TMS deployments; CMA CGM launches first smart connected container ship; Automotive parts buyers are leveraging omni-channel options
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Reader Profile | Jeff Larson: A Gem of a Job
Jeff Larson, director of distribution engineering analysis at Tiffany & Co., works with the jewelry company’s international locations to help improve their operations.
E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Trends—September 2015
New York State minimum wage directive may be a tipping point for automation in the fast food industry; Organic food recalls are on the rise; Alix Partners reports that nearshoring trend continues to grow; Pro truck interests take weight restriction fight in new direction; 2015 holiday shoppers are looking for options; The cash handling supply chain is poised to move from manual processing to scanning technology, thanks to the new GS1 US Cash Visibility Discussion Group.
E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Channeling the Brick and Click Dilemma
As e-commerce continues to transform consumer behavior, retailers explore hybrid omni-channel supply chain models that deliver the best that online and in-store have to offer.
What Customers Expect in the E-Commerce Age
Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.
Customer Service, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Inventory Replenishment: Why Push When You Can Pull?
Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.
E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Building a Smarter Warehouse
Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?
Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
The World is Your Warehouse, 2.0
New lower-cost commercial systems and equipment are just over the horizon; they will provide an exciting array of inventory control to the logistics and supply chain community.
Forklifts, Materials Handling, Risk Management, Pallets, Safety, Warehousing
Best Practices for Preventing Pallet Rack Damage
It is essential to have damage prevention measures in place for racking systems to avoid employee injury and minimize loss.
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—March 2015
U.S. beef supply chain participants form partnership to improve sustainability; Manufacturers and retailers fail to adopt best-in-class processes and technology to address global complexities; Online retailers need to rethink how they align their distribution networks; Spot market rates dip seasonally as West Coast volumes catch up; Staples and Syracuse University partner to drive new research and innovation.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
How Omni-Channel Commerce Is Changing Traditional Supply Chains
Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.
Inventory Management, Warehousing
How to Make Physical Inventory Counts Less Stressful
Implementing a cycle-counting program makes physical inventory counts a lot less daunting.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management
The Luxury of Logistics Excellence
To expand its footprint in the luxury accessories market, Royce Leather indulged in a solution that connects it to new customers and streamlines fulfillment. That’s how Royce rolls.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Service With A Demand-driven Smile
As e-commerce and ominchannel raise expectations, and consumers become more impatient, supply chain practitioners turn to technology to help them perform.
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Supply Chain Integration + Collaboration = Time Travel?
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Why Retailers Put Their Sleighbells on in May
Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—October 2014
UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations
E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
Global Logistics—October 2014
Pilot program uses drones to deliver time-sensitive goods; Canadian government lines up two new bilateral trade agreements; Labor rights causing supply chain disruption; Using social media to understand carrier usage.
3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Star Search: Discovering the Best Site for Your Business
Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
A Mobile Cure for the Warehouse Blues
Mobile communication technologies facilitate warehouse efficiency and productivity.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
3PL e-Volution Continues
Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Bruce Kulp Scores Big
When it comes to keeping up with demand, Game Stop's Bruce Kulp doesn’t play around.
E-commerce, Asia, Canada, Global Logistics, Materials Handling, Latin America
Global Logistics—July 2014
CeMAT 2014 showcases the latest materials handling innovations; Alibaba buys stake in Singapore Post; Paris looks to reduce city speed limits; Canadian rail industry begins phasing out DOT-111 tankers amid crude-by-rail boom; EU and China sign Customs agreement; Chinese food imports continue to grow; Nigeria looks to resurrect defunct national steamship line; Latin America is the world’s fastest growing market for software; Maersk Line voice support for Nicaragua Canal proposal.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Rolling Back the Walmart Way
Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart, focuses on building transportation synergies.
Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Forecasting the Unexpected: Home Improvement Retailers and Emergency Response
When a natural disaster hits, consumers rely on home improvement stores for the products they need to repair or rebuild.
Distribution, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation, Warehousing
TMS: Getting in on the Ground Floor
TAJ Flooring used a transportation management system to improve shipment and freight spend visibility.
Bar-coding Systems, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Wheel Genius: Racing to Improve Data Collection
Bar-code reading errors slowed Champion Tire and Wheel’s operation; a new laser scanner got the company back on track.
Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Refreshing Your Logistics Network: 6 Steps to Success
This article provides a step-by-step guide to logistics network optimization.
Materials Handling, Pallets, Warehousing
Stack, Store & Transport: The Indispensable Pallet
Pallets are a vital piece of warehouse equipment for storing and moving products.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
The New 3PL Partnership: More Bang for Your Buck
Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.
Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The Direct Sales Supply Chain: Where There’s a Will There’s Amway
George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.
3PL, Expedited Shipping, Global Logistics, Ocean, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Risk Management, Trucking, Security, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
163 Ways to Supercharge Your Supply Chain
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Customer Service: Delivering the Royal Treatment
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Visions of Customer Service
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
China, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Putting Stock in Retail Analytics Tools
Kimberly-Clark China uses retail analytics tools to manage inventory and avoid stockouts at stores like Walmart.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
8 Ways to Strengthen Online Retailer Supply Chains
Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.
Trends—April 2013
E-commerce presents retailers with challenges and opportunities; Food regulation top of mind for 3PLs and shippers; Daktronics’ lean machine keeps production at home; Nike partners with Bluesign Technologies to facilitate sustainable sourcing program among supply chain partners.
E-commerce, Distribution, Site Selection
e-Commerce: Finding the Sweet Spot
Online retailers seeking new sites for DCs and warehouses need the transportation infrastructure to support a constant, rapid-fire flow of shipments – plus a capable workforce, affordable utilities, and business incentives to help them get the most from their investment.
Distribution, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Inventory Replenishment: A Push in the Right Direction
Close-out retailer Tuesday Morning implemented Interlink’s WHSe-LINK warehouse management system to receive, store, and allocate its daily inbound shipments of unique SKUs.
Maximizing Productivity in E-commerce Warehousing and Distribution Operations
Continuous e-commerce growth has prompted an increasing number of retailers to use third-party logistics (3PL) providers for handling their direct-to-consumer fulfillment. Jeffrey B. Graves of Sedlak Management Consultants explains that for retail logistics executives, assessing 3PL capabilities that best fit their company’s requirements can be a challenge, yet critical for optimum return on investment (ROI)
Retailers Rebalance Time vs. Cost?
Velocity is more important than price for some consumers, perhaps giving some retailers another component to consider as they compete, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
E-commerce, Materials Handling
Sorting Out Savings Opportunities in Your E-Commerce Warehouse
Savvy distribution and supply chain managers should be looking at sortation and its related disciplines as a means of addressing problems and achieving savings, writes Jay Moris of Invata Intralogistics.
Holiday Stocking: Preparing for the Seasonal Retail Rush
Strong forecasting, careful vendor management, solid partnerships with carriers and optimized use of labor and equipment all help retailers manage the year-end holiday rush.
Lean, Materials Handling, Warehousing
Making a Business Case for Lean MHE
Applying lean principles to materials handling equipment purchases and configurations helps companies cut costs, writes Robert Arndt, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
Dealing With Daily-Deal Sites
New e-commerce sites like Groupon and LivingSocial can bring huge sales volume in a very short period of time by reaching a targeted audience with appealing offers. Tod Yazdi of TAGGlogistics explains how shippers can work with fulfillment partners to make the most of this new opportunity.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation Management
Integration: The Dawning of a New Era
When baseball cap maker New Era’s business growth hit critical mass, it realigned its distribution operations, fusing Menlo Worldwide Logistics’ outsourced solutions with its global supply chain.
Materials Handling, Warehousing
Tracking Warehouse Inventory on the Move
Warehouse operations visibility means knowing the real-time location of your materials handling vehicles, drivers, and inventory so operations can be optimized for maximum productivity, says Phil Van Wormer of Sky-Trax.
Trends—March 2011
Amazon closes Texas distribution facility over sales tax dispute; Robert Guenther of United Fresh Produce Association comments on FDA Food Safety Modernization Act; U.S. General Services Administration rolls out green guidelines for government suppliers; Crossdocking use is on the rise
Materials Handling, Warehousing
Sorting Through Materials Handling Decisions
Optimizing materials handling equipment and processes in the warehouse impacts the entire supply chain.
Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Unleashing Logistics Excellence
Natural pet food manufacturer WellPet partnered with Aspen Logistics and Kane is Able to improve its supply chain and warehousing operations.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
Distribution, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Inbound 3.0 at Walmart
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing
Consumer Packaged Goods: Lightening the Load
Here's the story of one consumer product, starting with its origin as a variety of inbound ingredients and following its progress from plant to warehouse to retail store.
Economic Development, Distribution, Utilities, Site Selection, Warehousing
Energy Security for the Future
When selecting a site for a new warehouse or distribution center, there's a second infrastructure that demands attention: the power generation and delivery system.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
Brrr! It’s Cold in There!
A voice-enabled picking system keeps ice cream company Dreyer's Edy's workers productive and equipment functioning in sub-zero environments.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Flower Power: John Kuehn
ProFlowers' time- and temperature-sensitive shipments create plenty of challenges for John Kuehn, senior vice president of supply chain operations. Here's how he nips problems in the bud.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.
ALDO Boots Up a New System
Global shoe retailer ALDO implements a high-stepping, end-to-end inventory and distribution system.
Materials Handling, Warehousing
Using Distribution and Fulfillment as Strategic Weapons
Smart companies carefully select and intelligently apply automation not only to boost productivity, but also to turn the distribution center into a competitive weapon, writes Mick Mountz of Kiva Systems Inc.
Demand Planning, Retail, Supply Chain
Cycling at Full Speed
Bicycle manufacturers and retailers race to catch up to surging demand as consumer behaviors shift gears.
Distribution, Demand Planning, Labor Management
Reading the Room
With great adversity comes great creativity—that’s how Annette Danek-Akey, EVP of supply chain at Penguin Random House, helped quickly convert a new facility into a picking and shipping point to meet the fluctuating demand for books.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Reshaping Retail
Agile and innovative retailers transformed their operations during COVID-19. Will their new fulfillment options and increased digitization go out of style as stores reopen, or will they become retail staples?
Return-to-School Period Will Test Retailers and 3PLs
The return-to-school shopping period is an important dress rehearsal for the upcoming peak season.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Shaking Up Subscription Services
During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Responds
To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Last Mile Delivery
Postal Operators Deliver on E-Commerce
Parcels and cross-border e-commerce are taking precedence over traditional services for postal operators, who continuously manage growing postal e-commerce traffic.
Expedited Shipping, Retail, Logistics
DHL Debuts Retail Store
DHL Express opened a new 1,500-square-foot ServicePoint retail store in Southern Florida, the first exclusive DHL-branded retail store in the United States.
E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail
Vertical Files
This story examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on five vertical markets and describes some of the strategies used in those markets to meet the challenge.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Robotics-as-a-Service Automates Order Fulfillment
Ecentria deploys inVia Robotics’ Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) system to automate order fulfillment in its Aurora, Illinois, distribution center.
Distribution, Demand Planning, Retail
Home for the Holidays
Consumers are planning to do their holiday shopping mostly from home and earlier this year, presenting big challenges for distribution centers.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
5 Actions to Navigate Through the Retail Landscape
To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Scaling Your Warehouse Post-Pandemic
Don White, CEO, SnapFulfil North America, shares 10 tips for adjusting warehouse operations in a post-pandemic economy.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail
Traditional Retail Supply Chains Tackle Omni Challenges
As e-commerce demand grew, retailers went from using small, existing distribution centers to opening entire fulfillment centers to combining omnichannel facilities. Paul A. Myerson discusses the advantages.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Home Goods
Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology
How Small to Mid-Sized Businesses Can Recover Faster
On top of surging e-commerce demand, small and mid-sized businesses are facing increased shipping costs, logistical challenges, and extended shipping times. Here are a few things you can do to recover.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Demand Planning
Building a Supply Chain in One Week
When their client pivoted to make a low-cost, readily available bed to quickly serve those on the front lines, SEKO Logistics rapidly set up distribution operations to meet urgent demand.
Big Data, Inventory Management, Technology
Drone Technology Improves Warehouse Performance
An innovative drone-based technology solution enables Romark Logistics to automate pallet counts and offer inventory analytics and insights to its customers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
3 Ways Retailers Can Get on the Fast Track to Digital Transformation
Retailers can use these three practical tips to successfully execute their digital transformation: Make digital moves your strategy centerpiece, connect systems to please customers, and enable a touchless experience.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Warehousing
How Returns Impact the Warehouse and What You Can Do About It
While it’s easy to pass off returns as primarily an e-commerce or retail issue, the fact is it’s a challenge all distributors face.
Health Care Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
What COVID-19 supply chain pivot impressed you the most? Why?
Shippers around the globe pivoted their business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic—these are the innovative pivots that impressed supply chain leaders the most.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19
Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.
Retail Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail
Tailoring Apparel Supply Chains for the Future
Apparel brands and retailers can use the COVID-19 crisis to take stock of existing business models and create more stable and sustainable supply chains for the future.
Labor Management, Technology , Warehousing
The Next Generation of Warehouse Labor
How technology innovation is changing the nature of many warehouse jobs.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Automation Is the Key to Warehousing During COVID-19
Supply chain managers don’t have to sacrifice worker safety to maintain production levels during COVID-19. Incorporating automation into warehouses can help solve the problem.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Retailers: It's Time to Act
While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Pet Industry
Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.
Creating Differentiation Through Innovative E-Commerce Fulfillment
When shippers work with a 3PL that is consistently investing in technology and new distribution centers, they can increase service consistency and offer their customers unexpectedly fast fulfillment.
Fortune 500 Retailer Finds Cost Savings, Improves Performance with Data Solution
With RateLinx’s TracLinx module, an electronics retailer gained accurate tracking data and corrected sequential issues in real-time, allowing the company to make better logistics decisions and drive other initiatives.
Retail Logistics, Demand Planning, Retail
Providing Solutions Through Unprecedented Times
With the increased demand for essential supplies across the country, Hub Group’s collaboration with multiple retailers has helped suppliers deliver critical loads quickly and safely.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Efficiencies and Revenues Skyrocket for Distributor with Digital Order and Logistics Management
MPO’s cloud platform for order and logistics management allowed an agricultural spare parts distributor to streamline fulfillment, obtain full order visibility, and reduce shipping costs for customers.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Agility On Demand
When you combine consumer demand for deliveries at a breakneck pace, the historically tight labor market, and the unpredictability of the global trade landscape, e-commerce businesses must be just as fast as they are flexible to succeed today’s market.
E-commerce, Finance, Risk Management
Labeling Is Key in Keeping Up with Today’s Supply Chain
COVID-19 has created unprecedented challenges for supply chain and logistics management, and the pressure is on to deliver essential supplies, such as toilet paper and food, to consumers on time. Successfully delivering a product on time involves many factors, and labeling shipments correctly is one of them.
Battling Through Crisis Together
With retail stores being one of the few businesses that remain open to the general public, supply chains operations have had to embrace creativity to deliver effectively.
Materials Handling, Technology
SPOTLIGHT | Materials Handling Innovations
Take a look at the latest innovations in materials handling.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
Amazon Shoppers Won't Abandon Ship
Many U.S. consumers have negative feelings toward Amazon's impact on the retail industry and the environment, but that doesn't translate to lost sales.
Big Data, Technology , Warehousing
5 Crucial Ways Warehouse Managers Can Improve Warehouse Efficiency
In this competitive and sizable market, space availability is at an all-time low while competitive pressures have never been higher. Warehouse managers can achieve more with less using these five crucial tips.
Customer Service, Retail, Technology
There's No Business Like Shoe Business
Shoe retailer Shoe Station relies on Retail Pro 9 and other technology solutions to help employees provide top-of-the-line service and ensure customer satisfaction.
E-Commerce Engine Technology Revs Up Efficiency
E-commerce has remapped supply chains. Across both business-to-business and business-to-consumer transactions, technology is taking on the complexity caused by this shift and driving efficiency.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
The Need for Speed: Overcoming the Final Hurdles to Faster E-Commerce Deliveries
Retailers need to address new challenges, from bolstering distribution networks to managing complexity, to continue to expand their e-commerce operations.
State of Retail Tech
Equity funding to retail tech companies slowed globally in 2019, largely due to a slide in funding to e-commerce platforms. This is what retailers should watch for in 2020.
E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse 2020
E-commerce growth and warehouse labor shortages create the perfect storm for online retailers. Undaunted, companies face these challenges with ongoing technology, equipment, and warehouse space innovations.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Fulfillment
Streamlining E-Commerce Fulfillment
Ten tips every digital retailer needs to know to streamline their e-commerce fulfillment process.
Labor Management, Materials Handling, Technology
Automated Materials Handling Gets a Lift
A labor market in which it is increasingly difficult to recruit, train, and retain workers is a major factor driving growth of the automated materials handling equipment market in North America, finds BCC Research.
Freight Forwarders, Retail, Technology
I Like Big-Box and I Cannot Lie
Almost half of all small to mid-sized businesses decision-makers estimate an increase in shipping spend, and big-box retailers are influencing their strategy.
Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
VERTICAL FOCUS | Fast-Moving Consumer Goods
FMCG retailers need to be aware of four key areas as they build their future omnichannel supply chains, finds RSR Research's Supply Chain Management 2018 report.
Labor Management, Technology , Warehousing
5 Ways to Manage Warehousing Requirements During Peak Periods
Managing peak period shipment volume is a structural challenge in the U.S. economy. Thomas Eldridge Campbell, chief strategy officer of Capacity, shares five techniques that can help warehouses maintain service level agreements during peak demand periods.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
How Is Coronavirus Impacting E-Commerce?
As coronavirus continues to spread globally, new ramifications are revealed daily. How is the virus impacting e-commerce operations and the supply chain, and how can retailers respond?
Green Logistics, E-commerce, Packaging
How Green Was My Tally?
One-third of online shoppers buying health and beauty products are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
What if General George Patton was Walmart’s CEO?
General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Mitigating the Flood of Post-Holiday Returns
Fearing the flood of post-holiday returns? An optimized reverse logistics strategy may be the answer.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Need Speed Across the Supply Chain? It's All About the Barcode
Barcode labels are a smart and cost-effective way to make productivity gains in your warehouse.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
That's a Wrap: Holiday Shipping Tied Up in Knots
During the holiday shopping season, all eyes are on shipping, with more than half of consumers (60%), and nearly three-quarters of millennials (74%) claiming they were disappointed with holiday shopping services in the past.
Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
How Retailers Can Use this Holiday Season to Inform Future Supply Chain Strategies
As retailers and their supply chains face increasing pressures from rising consumer expectations, they must better leverage software solutions and the data it captures to achieve an integrated network and true smart warehouse ecosystem.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Parts & Parcel
Driven by an increase in e-commerce, global parcel volume grew from 74.4 billion shipments in 2017 to 87 billion last year. On average, 23 parcels per person were shipped globally, and 2,760 parcels were shipped every second, according to the Pitney Bowes Parcel Shipping Index.
E-commerce, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
E-Commerce Fulfillment: No Pain, No Gain
Escalade Sports transforms supply chain to capture e-commerce growth, improve customer service levels, and better manage inventory and demand planning.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Halloween: A Scary Supply Chain
A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Furniture
What is the outlook for the U.S. furniture market moving forward? Here's what to expect.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
Tackling E-Commerce Shipping
E-commerce is quickly becoming a part of our everyday lives – putting pressure on retailers. Here are tips to help e-commerce shippers keep costs down and customers happy.
CPG Brands Find Their Place Online
Established CPG brands accustomed to a pallet to pallet fulfillment model need to accommodate a pallet to piece approach in a growing direct-to-consumer marketplace. At the same time, these brands face competition from agile, online-only start-ups that begin with a direct-to-consumer fulfillment model.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Supply Chain
SMBs and E-Commerce
Here's a look at the strategies that small- and medium-sized retailers use to help them thrive despite competiton from much larger companies.
Distribution, Supply Chain, Transportation
Optimizing Coca-Cola Consolidated’s Post-Expansion Distribution Network
Red Classic created a complex regional transportation solution to optimize Coca-Cola Consolidated’s distribution network following a multi-year expansion effort.
VERTICAL FOCUS | Apparel
Take a look at some of the latest developments in the apparel industry.
Aftermarket Auto Parts Supply Chain: No Time To Spare
As in many other industries, technology is changing the aftermarket auto parts sector. Not only is e-commerce upending traditional distribution channels, but advances in technology are changing cars themselves, and these shifts are reverberating to the auto parts market.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics
E-Commerce Raises the Snack Bar
Nature's Bakery turns to a third-party logistics provider, ITS Logistics, to launch a direct-to-consumer e-commerce channel for its snack bars.
The IoT Reality: How to Prepare Your Warehouse
The Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced tags, cameras, sensors, robotics, and more, all generating and needing a steady flow of data to run your warehouse. Countless case studies have found them to be faster, more efficient, and less prone to errors than us humans.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Expertise, Strategic Warehousing Support Unexpected Spike in Inbound Deliveries - Hollingsworth
Hollingsworth assisted a leading automotive manufacturer with an unexpected surge via strategic negotiations and savvy adjustments to inventory management.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Sneaker Supply Chain: Big Shoes to Fill
In the sneaker supply chain, manufacturers and retailers need to know where the product is in every stage of design, production, and shipping.
Machine Learning Powers Smarter Warehouses
Machine learning provides valuable insights for warehouses that handle vast inventories, a broad product range, where each product requires different storage locations, picking procedures, and handling needs.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology
X Marks the Spot: Geocoding is Here and the Supply Chain Must Get Onboard
Geocoding and mobile solutions are two examples of innovative technology with the potential to shape the future of supply chain logistics for the better, by improving efficiency and the customer experience. Enterprises are wise to prepare for this shift in order to remain competitive within the market.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Subcoms Focused on the Future
In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Simplifying the Sophisticated Warehouse To Drive Efficiency - Serco Entrematic
Visibility to actions and status at the loading dock can be challenging, but providing that visibility, such as through the Kelley Digital Master Control Panel, can create powerful advantages to maximizing throughput.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Supply Chain
What to Look For When Taking Stock of an Inventory Management System
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
8 Great Ways to Waste Money in a B2C Warehouse
Outdated warehouse processes and procedures reduce productivity and raise costs, but some simple changes can help you save money and improve efficiency, according to Realtime Despatch.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Warehousing
Meeting Your Retailer's Expectations
A leading CPG company uses Hub Group’s consolidation expertise to eliminate cost and improve service.
Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
Your Next Walmart Run: Don't Forget the AI
A Walmart Neighborhood Market in Levittown, New York, featuring artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, interactive displays, and a massive data center is the retailer's new Intelligent Retail Lab (IRL).
Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS
Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.
Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Warehouse Focus as the Key to Optimizing Your Supply Chain - Ruan
To optimize their supply chains, shippers should leverage warehouse innovations, implement an optimal TMS and WMS, and determine the best warehouse site.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Addressing the Most Pressing Needs of the Warehouse - Serco Entrematic
Sectors such as food and beverage, industrial, and cold storage emphasize using data and metrics to improve efficiency, and loading dock control systems such as Serco Digital Master Control Panels can play a crucial role in that pursuit.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Supply Chain
Solving the Three Toughest Challenges In E-Commerce Fulfillment - DHL Supply Chain
E-commerce is continuing to create opportunity for a range of businesses, but supply chain challenges can limit growth and compromise customer relationships.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Time to Stop Hating the 'A' Word
The Amazons of the world are changing the way small and mid-sized business owners sell and distribute their products, which businesses can use to their advantage.
Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Help From Your Warehouse
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.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Bridal Wear Supply Chain
A harmonious marriage of brick-and-mortar services and online offerings is the path to fulfillment in the bridal wear supply chain.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Choose Your Own E-Venture
As the demand for faster shipping and better e-commerce availability increases, retailers will need to adopt new order fulfillment and shipping strategies to stay in prime shape.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Advanced Optimization Techniques For Enhanced Solutions - Hub Group
A leading retailer engaged Hub Group to develop an optimized solution that maximized the limited capacity in markets throughout its supply chain.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
The Leader of the Pack
Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Getting Up on the Right Side of the Bedding
E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.
Distribution, Supply Chain, Technology
Today's Distribution Center: You Say You Want an Evolution?
Distribution centers used for short-term storage and cross-docking are changing to accommodate the growth in online ordering and rising expectation for rapid delivery.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Retail
The latest news and trends impacting the retail supply chain
Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Robots on the March
A growing number of warehousing and logistics companies are incorporating robots to remain competitive in a market driven in large part by consumers that demand rapid fulfillment.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
News & Trends Impacting the Luxury Goods Supply Chain
Top trends impacting the travel and hospitality supply chain
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution
A New Argument for Pool Distribution as More Specialty E-Retailers Set Up Shop
Pool distribution is one strategy that’s getting a second wind in the face of intensifying e-commerce pressure and the changing face of America’s malls.
Forklifts, Technology , Warehousing
Beer Maker Boosts Warehouse Operations with Forklift Tracking Solution - Sewio
Budweiser Budvar Brewery increased warehouse utilization 19% by replacing RFID-Powered forklift tracking with SEWIO RTLS.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon Primed for New Regional Hub
In the first airport project of its kind in the Amazon Air network, the etailer has announced plans to open a regional air hub at the Fort Worth Alliance Airport in Texas.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment
Solving the Three Toughest Challenges in
E-commerce Fulfillment - DHL Supply Chain North America
E-commerce is continuing to create opportunity for a range of businesses, but supply chain challenges can limit growth and compromise customer relationships.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Real Estate, Warehousing
How the E-commerce Warehouse Is Adapting to Life in the Big City
The goalposts in e-commerce fulfillment continue to move. Consumers routinely expect two-day or even next-day delivery, and same-day delivery is on the horizon.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Not So Fast: Rethinking Multi-Item Orders
Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.
Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
The Changing Logistics of Grocery Delivery: It’s In The Bag
Grocers are working to satisfy consumers’ growing demand for rapid delivery of everything from apples to watermelon. To accomplish this, they’re educating personal shoppers, developing new technologies to handle the last mile of delivery, rethinking their distribution networks and inventory planning, and partnering with technology companies.
Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail
How Retailers Earn 5-Star Reviews
This story explores some of the ways retailers use customer service to build customer loyalty, both in stores and in the e-commerce channel.
Distribution, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Holiday Cargo Theft Q&A with Scott Cornell of Travelers
A Q&A with Scott Cornell, transportation business lead and crime and theft specialist at Travelers, on how to avoid theft during the holiday season.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Amway India Inks Digitized Warehouse Plan
Amway India boosted warehouse efficiency and accuracy by deploying JDA’s warehouse management solutions.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What Will Retailers Find Under The Tree?
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Logistics, Materials Handling, Technology , Warehousing
Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Lifts Growth Projections
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Click & Collect Not Clicking Yet
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Things are Looking Up for Multistory Warehouses
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Post Office Dings E-Commerce?
Two important developments–the US Postal Service’s relationship with Amazon and the U.S.withdrawal from the Universal Postal Union (UPU)–will impact domestic and international e-commerce shipments.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cold Comfort: Finding the Right Winter Warehouse
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Distribution, Logistics, Real Estate, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
How to Adapt an Aging Warehouse
When the time arrives to consider investing in additional space, many distribution centers, retailers and businesses dependent on warehouses face a dilemma: should the organization move to a new facility, build an addition, or try to retrofit an older warehouse? And, in the case of a retrofit or addition, what can be done to make an aging or existing warehouse space more suitable?
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Growth in the Line of Beauty
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Shipment Costs to Rise
Two recent and important developments will impact domestic and international e-commerce shipments. The first one concerns the U.S. Postal Service's relationship with Amazon. Let me set the stage.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What's Ahead for Retail Technology? Ask the Crystal Ball
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Black Friday Delivery Data
Consumer data is rolling in from Black Friday. Convey published data insights that show how deliveries are performing across various categories compared to year-over-year data from 2017.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics
New DHL Survey Reveals Expected Cyber Monday Growth for Businesses & More
A DHL distributed a poll to U.S. e-commerce businesses, reveals major challenges, priorities and more for e-comm businesses this Cyber Monday.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Supply Chain Insight: Improve Accuracy and Visibility with GS1 Standards
Greater adoption of GS1 standards could transform the way we work with barcodes and help warehouse managers achieve maximum efficiency.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehousing
Supply Chain Commentary: Boost Productivity, Efficiency, and Security in Your Warehouse
Today, software underpins many warehouse functions, giving leaders a new source of productivity and efficiency insights—and a new concern for corporate security. Here’s how to boost all three: productivity, efficiency, and security.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Essentials of a Healthy Supply Chain Partnership
To ensure brands are managing the most efficient, optimized supply chain, they need to assess their supply chain partner’s commitment across the following key areas.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary: Satisfying Customer Demand in a 365 E-Commerce Market
Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.
E-commerce, Sourcing/Negotiations, Logistics, Supply Chain
Simplifying Trade Complexity
Business continuity remains essential in building supply chain resilience; an Amber Road/AAEI survey on sourcing, trade and e-commerce highlights identifies challenges and strategies to help global supply chain managers proactively prepare for trade complexities; more temperature-sensitive medicines are moving by ocean freight despite market shake-up
Forklifts, Materials Handling, Warehousing
7 Common Warehouse Problems & How to Solve Them
Let’s dive into seven of the most common warehouse challenges and explore potential solutions to help make your warehouse operations more efficient.
Global Economy, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Get Your Supply Chain Up to E-Commerce Speed
Supply chains face a conundrum when it comes to speed: no matter how automated your processes are internally, you’re only as fast as the next guy in the chain. Here’s what it takes to be e-commerce fast.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail
How E-Tailers Can Reduce Return Rates for Large Items
By following these steps, e-tailers can lower return rates, increasing profits and creating happier customers.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Addressing Expedited Delivery Expectations
Amazon and other large retailers set customer expectations by offering expedited delivery at low or no cost. Retailers of all sizes must compete on the same turf, yet lack the negotiating power that could net meaningful discounts with commercial carriers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands
The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Boosting Warehouse Productivity
Brian C. Neuwirth of UNEX Manufacturing reveals how to boost warehouse productivity with improved order picking processes, better organization, and greater efficiencies in order to reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace
Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
H.O.W. | How to Transform the Supply Chain for Omnichannel Retailing
Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Staffing Your Warehouse:
Addressing Hidden Risks
Staffing is key to a warehouse’s ability to grow and manage a large and sometimes multi-state workforce. Here’s how to perform your due diligence on your staffing providers to ensure that you are minimizing your exposure to potential issues.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Reaching a Point of No Returns
Retailers around the world are slacking in the returns department.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever
With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker - Crane Worldwide Logistics
Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
E-commerce Retailers Target Germany
Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.
Global Logistics, Sourcing/Negotiations, Retail
Fashion Supply Chain: What to Where
Executives from leading fashion and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers reveal the supply chain challenges topping their list.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Engaging Customers Through AI
Retailers turn to artificial intelligence to boost customer service.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Best Practices for the Gift of Successful Holiday Sales
For some retailers, holiday sales can represent up to 27.4 percent of annual sales. Having a clear understanding of your historical trends for seasonal goods is critical for forecasting seasonal categories this upcoming season.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction
Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Third-Party Refurbishers Help Get
First-Quality Goods to Market
What if your shipment of apparel from overseas gets soaked with saltwater on its way to the distribution center? This supply chain solution can return merchandise to first-quality condition.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick
Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce
Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What Retail Apocalypse?
Retailers Open 4,000+ Stores in 2017
Store closings have grabbed headlines, but they're not telling the whole story. Find out what a new report says about the state of retail.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers
To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
Distribution, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Keeping Your DC in Peak Shape:
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Getting a distribution center in shape for a high-volume holiday or seasonal period requires advance planning to make sure all systems work, the facility is properly staffed, and temporary workers are properly trained. Inbound Logistics asked the experts for their holiday preparation advice; they provided these seven commandments that will light the way.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
5 Ways Automated Dimensioning Helps Optimize First Mile Logistics
Insurance, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Are Warehouse Insurance Policies Covering Today’s Emerging Risks?
Warehouse risks and vulnerabilities are increasingly complex, and many policies simply aren’t keeping up with today’s sophisticated new systems and regulations.
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary: How Amazon's Acquisition of Whole Foods Will Disrupt Industrial Real Estate
Whole Foods’ 460+ centrally located stores will augment Amazon’s physical infrastructure and allow it to use the stores as distribution centers. In return, Amazon’s targeted transaction data, technological expertise, and logistical prowess catapult Whole Foods into the online realm and suggest a new level of convenience.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Sweep the Dock for E-Commerce Insight - Transportation Insight
By tapping collective, multi-modal intellectual capital of leading industry pioneers, shippers can transform the supply chain with a sweep of the dock.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Direct Hit
E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop. Now businesses of all sizes must reassess their supply chains to go direct to the consumer with faster-than-fast delivery and free shipping.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Distributors Step Up Their Game
Distributors continue to play a valuable role within many supply chains. At the same time, changing business models, and especially the rise of e-commerce, are prompting many to enhance the services they offer.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Solved: Kane Thinks Outside the Box for Distribution of Insulation Products
Dow Building Solutions gained faster, more reliable distribution to customers at a reduced cost with help from KANE.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Customized Solution Helps Retailer Find Savings and Visibility - Unyson
A home goods retailer partnered with Unyson to increase efficiency and enhance visibility.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Improving Food Distribution: Knife, Spoon, and Forklift
Technology from Crown Equipment helps a fine foods supplier optimize its order-picking process.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Sofa So Good: Software Upgrade Bolsters Furniture Company’s Growth
Furniture retailer upgrades its warehouse management system to furnish growth.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line
Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon’s Prime Day: Primetime for Online Retailers to Get Logistics Lessons
Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services
Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain
Repositioning Inventory to Better Respond to Natural Disasters
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Report: New Data Shows Extent of E-Commerce's Differing Impact on Retail Categories
E-Commerce has generated significant volumes of sales in the U.S. electronics and clothing industries but has yet to gain traction in other retail sectors, according to a CBRE Group, Inc. analysis of recently released government data.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Online Shoppers Turning To International Retailers
Nearly half of avid U.S. online shoppers bought items from international retailers, demonstrating the need for retailers to offer more personalized services as a way to compete against lower prices, according to the sixth annual UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper study.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion
The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect
Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold
Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
E-commerce Logistics: Warehouse Slotting and Space Utilization
Slotting – determining the locations of your SKUs in your warehouse – used to be an easy concept. But in the new world of warehousing focusing exclusively to a large degree on e-commerce sales, this is no longer simple.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers
The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.
Automotive Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Tesla Warehouse Lease Deal: Largest in San Francisco Bay Area History
The deal comes at a critical time for the Silicon Valley-based electric car company, as it prepares for Model 3 production and readies to face one of the largest growth phases in the company’s history.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Future-Proof Your Warehouse: 6 Tips for Split Case Picking
Here are six ways to stay on top of the demands of split case picking in the face of the eCommerce revolution.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend - Unyson
A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns
In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouse Management & DC Optimization: Measuring What Matters
Selecting the best metrics at your company’s distribution centers requires the right tools, careful study, and constant collaboration.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants
To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouses Eye Robots
To better serve customers and remain globally competitive, warehousing and logistics providers are continuing to evaluate robotics solutions.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Adding Value to Your Supply Chain
Many companies are finding that value-added logistics services can help to give their supply chain a competitive edge. Use this advice to add value to your supply chain.
Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Predictive Analytics Takes Forecasting to a New Level
Predictive analytics utilizes various statistical techniques and models that analyze current and historical facts to make predictions about future.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Retail Logistics Bets on E-Commerce
E-commerce impacts not only consumer supply chains, but business to business supply chains as well.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Jonathan Parks: Planning is Key, to Say the Leased
Profile of Jonathan Parks, VP, global logistics and distribution, with Rent-A-Center
Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Lean, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Caldwell Hospital Gets a Lean Bill of Health
A North Carolina hospital improves patient care by prescribing a lean and healthy supply chain.
Forklifts, Pallets, Warehousing
Weighing Solutions for All Facets of Warehouse Operations
Tip the scales toward greater efficiency in your warehouse by investing in industrial weighing equipment. Start by weighing the following options.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Aaron Leach: A Bird’s Eye View of the Supply Chain
Aaron Leach is senior director of supply chain with Wayne Farms, LLC, in Oakwood, Ga. He has held this position since 2013. Wayne Farms is the sixth largest vertically integrated producer and processor of poultry in the United States.
3PL, Forklifts, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Improve Warehouse Productivity With Reach Trucks
Jungheinrich® reach trucks help LeanCor’s mission to advance the world’s supply chains.
Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Warehousing
What a Ride!
How powersports manufacturer Monster Moto worked with UPS to redesign its supply chain as it moved its product assembly from China to the U.S.
Big Data, Education & Careers, Inventory Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Winter Reading Guide 2017
Winter provides a great advantage–time. The hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and colder weather prevails. There’s no better time to hit the books and amp up your knowledge of important logistics and supply chain management issues.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
How Ariens Weathers Seasonal Demand
Ariens' tailored transportation planning solution from Redwood Logistics has led to efficiency gains, delivery improvements, increased visibility and cost reductions.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | What logistics concerns keep you up at night?
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
3PLs & Carriers: At Your Service
A look at the metrics that shippers and their service providers use to evaluate the quality of customer service.
Education & Careers, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Bert De Winter: Springing Forward with Innovation
Profile of Bert De Winter, director of EMEA logistics with HP Inc.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Trends—November 2016
Damaged holiday packages negatively impact brands; Robot cargo pilots successfully tested; Not having procurement department negatively affects bottom line
Air Cargo, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Latin America
What’s Driving the Air Freight Industry Today?
These developments are helping the transportation industry to continually evolve.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Visibility
Airfreight Forwarders Ride Headwinds and Tailwinds
Airfreight forwarders face headwinds — from shippers shifting to ocean freight and fewer routes for air cargo shipments — and must learn to leverage opportunities.
Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
How to Optimize Demand Chain Management
The demand chain model drastically reduces a distribution center’s footprint and associated costs by replacing safety stock with information.
Economic Development, Asia, Global Logistics, Retail
Why Retailers Need the TPP
Retailers need to come together in support of the trade agreement that will ultimately improve the industry for all. Here are three reasons why they should stand behind the passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Three Returns Strategies for Improving Omni-channel Retail
To cost-effectively leverage an omni-channel strategy, it is vital to proactively plan for returns and align your operations accordingly.
High-Value/High-Risk Cargo, Distribution, Intermodal, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure
An Intermodal Resurgence
The winter of 2013-14 disrupted the intermodal shipping industry in North America, causing service problems and impeding growth. However, intermodal now offers a number of attractive advantages for shippers, particularly as rail operations pour resources into their intermodal efforts to strengthen service and compete with trucking. Sites that specialize in intermodal utilize innovations to streamline the process and apply new resources to make for an increasingly efficient and effective distribution process.
Shedding Light on Warehouse Savings
Warehouse owners, operators, and facility managers can reap operational savings by looking up: at warehouse lighting. Switching to LED solutions cuts more than costs.
Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Reshape and Refresh Your Product Portfolio for a Streamlined Supply Chain
Product proliferation can bring supply chain inefficiencies. Here's a comprehensive approach to refreshing your product offerings that can reduce complexity and increase the bottom line.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Chainsaw Maker Massacres Supply Chain Inefficiencies
Oregon-based manufacturer Blount International was bleeding money from leaks all across its supply chain. It found that the correct application of the right data management technology provided and maintained by the right partner was the solution to the problem.
Global Economy, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Global Logistics—September 2016
India-based textile manufacturer accused of providing fraudulent products; Iran seeks to strengthen trade relationships in Latin America; British manufacturers get small boost in wake of Brexit referendum
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Visibility
Empower Users to Create and Update Labels for Supply Chain Efficiency
Ensuring labeling accuracy and consistency is critical to supporting efficiency up and down the supply chain. Here's one approach that can ensure your labels boost supply chain activities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Working at People Speed
Instantaneous, insatiable customer need runs the risk of forcing people out of the equation. But some logistics challenges can only be met by people working at ‘people speed.’
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Readers weigh in on the August question: Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Education & Careers, Distribution, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Peter Schuele: Injecting Life Into Supply Chains
Profile of Peter Schuele, head of global supply chain and distribution at the life science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Multiple Channels Are Making Supply Chains More Complex
It’s all about flexibility and speed in today’s changing retail and e-commerce markets.
Customer Service, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Global Retail Expansion: The Convergence of Marketing, Customer Service, and Supply Chain Strategies
Brands who never anticipated going global are finding that they all of a sudden are, thanks to the progression of e-commerce and increasing customer expectations.
Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Meal Delivery Services: You’ve Got to be Kitting Me!
The popularity of meal and meal kit delivery services makes for some very complicated supply chain management.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
B2B Commerce Technology Improves Fulfillment Times and Supply Management
With demand for speed and convenience at an all-time high, companies must streamline and speed up order fulfillment. Technology that allows sales reps and customers to rapidly write orders and submit them almost instantaneously for fulfillment is a major competitive advantage.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
6 Cool Things I Learned Editing This Issue
Inbound Logistics editor lists six cool things she learned (or just realized anew) as she edited the annual 3PL issue.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability
How to Be Fashionably Green
Going green is in style for retailers. Here’s how adopting a multi-faceted sustainability strategy can lower costs as well as boost brand loyalty.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Survey Says: Invest in Warehouse Technology
How do industry leaders plan to keep up with these unprecedented demands? The short answer is technology investment.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation, Warehousing
Tapping Military Talent: Shoes on the Ground
Supply chain logistics companies view veterans as a crucial pool of potential employees, and consequently they are using a range of methods to recruit and hire former members of the military for their workforces.
Distribution, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Delivery App Perks Up Coffee Sales
A new app helped a coffee merchant digitally transformed its retail sales and distribution processes.
Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Making Scents of Demand Planning
Bedoukian Research improves forecasting, demand planning, inventory management, and logistics processes with the help of Smart Software.
Warehouse Fires Can Cripple Your Business. Preventing Them Just Got Easier.
As warehouse heights have increased with the help of new materials handling technology, so have the risks. Here's one way to meet fire codes as well as cut sprinkler costs.
Green Logistics, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
G75: Inbound Logistics' 75 Green Supply Chain Partners
These supply chain, logistics, and transportation companies lead the way in supporting sustainability.
Finding a Cure for Sweating Slab Syndrome
A sweating warehouse floor slab is not easily eliminated. Here's how DC occupants and building owners can address this perplexing problem.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Choosing a Warehouse Management System
Before selecting a new Warehouse Management System (WMS), you have to know what drives your company to select features that target your specific needs. Use this advice to select the right WMS.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Dave Christensen: A Spirited Approach to Supply Chain Management
Dave Christensen, vice president, supply chain with Glazer’s, Inc., oversees demand planning, replenishment, logistics, and master data management.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Trends—May 2016
Robots coming soon to a warehouse near you; The supply chain plays a key role in developing circular economies; OSA-related driver fatigue causes new safety rule proposals
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Managing Warehousing Requirements During Peak Periods (Without Committing to Long-term Contracts)
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.
Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Advantages of Waveless Order Fulfillment
Waveless fulfillment consistently maximizes warehouse productivity by assigning orders on a real-time basis as resources and fulfillment opportunities become available.
Three Keys to Solving the Dimensional Weight Shipping Problem
Here are three immediate steps shippers can take to build more robust operations in their warehouses, helping them both deal with dimensional weight pricing and grow more efficient overall.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Retailers Get Help With New DOT “Reverse Logistics” Rules
The reverse logistics hazmat rule became effective immediately upon publication on March 31, 2016, making it critical that retail store owners and distribution managers get up to speed quickly. Here's how.
Labor Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
Trends—April 2016
Smart, connected cities are closer than you think; Inevitable minimum wage hike has supply chain implications
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
The “Direct-to-Consumer” Trend: Retail Shift Affects Logistics Operations
Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.
Intermodal, Distribution, Rail, Supply Chain
How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Can Improve Distribution for Rail Networks
There's no derailing hub-and-spoke networks. Find out why their adoption is arguably as significant an event in shipping efficiency as containerization itself.
Logistics, Ports, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
East Coast Warehouse & Distribution CEO Jamie Overley: Driven By Results and Big Dreams
Profile of Jamie Overley, CEO of East Coast Warehouse and Distribution
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Trends—March 2016
A predicted freight slowdown stalls driver wage increases for 2016; President Obama proposes oil tax to fund infrastructure; Logistics trends of 2016
3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Crossborder E-commerce Into the U.S. Just Got A Lot Easier – U.S. Retailers Should Take Note and Plan Accordingly
The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
They Might Be Giants
This story provides a look at how e-commerce and logistics information technology help small and medium-sized businesses gain advantages that allow them to compete as though they were larger companies.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
Supply Chains that Rock Around the Clock: Gimme Shelter
East Coast Warehouse & Distribution’s strategic port location brings both advantages and challenges. Its facility keeps supply chains rocking, serving as the crucial first step in importers’ distribution systems in the United States, through port delays and even Superstorm Sandy.
Education & Careers, Education, Materials Handling
Education, Outreach Keys to Changing the Face of Supply Chain
The key to promoting career opportunities in the supply chain is education, both in traditional and not-so-traditional ways.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shedding Light on DIM Weight Returns
Customer returns are inevitable, and without a clear understanding and plan for managing returns, DIM weight expenses can easily challenge budgets and profitability.
Automotive Logistics, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
The Automotive Aftermarket: Time for a Tuneup?
Three recent developments—a shift to omni-channel retailing, an increase in manufacturing investment in Mexico, and the approval of the Trans-Pacific Partnership—are having a pronounced impact on automotive aftermarket supply chains. Here’s how automakers, auto parts suppliers, and logistics service providers can respond effectively.
Retail Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
WMS Gives the Gift of Visibility
SendOutCards keeps its personal touch while improving its greeting card and gift order fulfillment processes with Snapfulfil’s warehouse management system.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics, Safety, Temperature Controlled, Specialized Logistics, Warehousing
Coming in Out of the Cold
When Thermo Fisher Scientific wanted to improve worker safety in its bioproducts cold chain warehouse, it developed a novel deli-door solution that reduced the number of pickers in the cold storage and freezer spaces, dramatically improved picking safety and efficiency, and created more product storage space.
Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Whatever It Takes
The true measure of customer service is what team members, carriers, and supply chain partners do when something goes wrong.
Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
Global Logistics—October 2015
The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Transportation
The Dairy Supply Chain: From Farm to Fridge
How milk and other dairy products moo-ve from tens of thousands of cows to store shelves across the country - with udder efficiency.
Careers, Education, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Sean Smith: Ingredients for a Great Career
Sean Smith, supply chain director at Agropur Ingredients, is always up for a logistics challenge.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Security
What Trends are Shaping the Global Air Freight Market?
Keep these trends in mind when selecting an air logistics supplier to find the best solution to suits your needs
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Don't Just Liquidate, Seek Scalable Solutions
Reassessing your reverse logistics plan for customer returns and excess inventory is a must in today’s retail environment. Look beyond traditional methods and approach this obsolete merchandise as an opportunity (versus a headache) to positively impact your business margin.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
The Sweet Smell of Success
A system developed by The Smart Cube pulls and aggregates information from all Elizabeth Arden’s contract manufacturers, providing a consolidated, accurate view of data across the company’s supply chain. The cosmetics giant now can see, in real time, the purchases its network of manufacturers makes on its behalf.
E-commerce, Cross-Docking, Logistics, Packaging
Shipping for the Digital Age
In order to create a consistent end-to-end logistics system, shippers need to connect the technological dots. Find out how.
China, Distribution, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
Doing Business in China
While doing business with China, many companies face a wide range of challenges trying to navigate the country’s complex trade programs.
Product Philanthropy: An Efficient Way to Move Unwanted Inventory
Excess inventory is a common problem that contains its own best solution: product philanthropy. Donating unwanted products to charity requires minimal time and labor, yet generates solid returns.
Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Great Logistics Sites: Prime Destinations, Unmistakable Results
The pursuit of perfection may seem an impossible goal. But, with the right combination of key elements, four regions in the United States have achieved logistics greatness.
Forklifts, Materials Handling, Technology
Analyzing Lift Truck Fleet Data
Good data assists fleet managers in budgeting short- and long-term costs, determining correct fleet size, and evaluating whether to lease or buy new equipment. Use these tips to get the most out lift truck fleet data.
3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Nourishing a Healthy Supply Chain
Nutrabolt’s rapid growth created several logistics challenges, including processing orders efficiently and quickly; absorbing dramatic swings in order volumes to support promotional campaigns; and providing omni-channel fulfillment through a single warehouse. A third-party logistics partnership with Kane Is Able helped Nutrabolt meet these challenges.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Global Economy, China, Canada, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Global Logistics—August 2015
In spite of U.S. dollar strength, domestic manufacturing remains competitive globally; UPS tests new electric cargo bikes to handle urban deliveries; Bi-national Great Lakes Seaway Partnership promotes commercial shipping along the Saint Lawrence Seaway system; Mercedes-Benz reconfigures its global supply chain; Global Logistic Properties shifts investment from China to United States; Freight rail gains traction in passenger transport-focused China; China debuts the world’s longest freight train route linking the northeast city of Harbin with Hamburg, Germany.
Bar-coding Systems, 3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
How Non-Traditional Service Offerings Are Enhancing Supply Chains
Value-added services that fall outside the realm of traditional supply chain solutions can save millions of dollars and create mutually beneficial, collaborative relationships.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Growing Efficiency and Weeding Out Waste
With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Turning Back the Pages: 20 Years of Top 100 3PLs
When you consider the rapid evolution of supply chain management over the past two decades the 3PL industry has been a featured piece in an increasingly pixelated mosaic.
E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Chemical Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Trends—July 2015
Amazon and Walmart vie for last-mile supremacy; Nevada community college establishes logistics program to meet Tesla labor demand; Industrial buyers think outside the box; Consortium establishes new chemical footprint assessment; VMI opportunities abound as shippers look to optimize inventory; study looks at the ghost economy
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
3PLs Can Deliver Big Benefits to Small Companies
The right 3PL partner can help to even the playing field between SMBs and their larger big box competitors.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology
2015 3PL Perspectives
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
BaubleBar Makes International Shipping Sparkle
When BaubleBar saw the untapped potential of the international market, they tapped an parcel shipping partner to help them succeed.
Forklifts, Materials Handling, Pallets, Safety
How to Use Safety Measures to Reduce Lift Truck Accident Damage
Proper safety measures can reduce costs, injuries, and down time caused by forklift impacts.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
When the Walls Come Tumbling Down
Supply management professionals are increasingly accepting cross-functional cooperation in purchasing, supply management, production and inventory control to optimize overall company performance and increase competitiveness.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Improving the Warehouse Startup Process
Recent improvements in wireless cellular technology and mesh networks provide solutions that can be adapted for warehousing space, easing startup challenges and costs.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Finding an Inventory Solution That’s Just Right for Your Small Business
Inventory management is often difficult and time-consuming for smaller businesses, but the right solution can remove some of the pressure.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
The Changing Face of the Warehouse Workforce
A look at the challenges warehouse managers face as they build a well-integrated warehouse workforce, and how they address those issues.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Pallets, Supply Chain Management
An Expanding Palette of Pallet Choices
Choosing the right pallet unlocks myriad benefits from improved process efficiency to cost savings and sustainability.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Awake at the Wheel: Delivering Customer Satisfaction
When Sleepy's customers got tired of short notice and missed deliveries, the specialty mattress retailer brought in a technology partner and dreamed up a solution that put those problems to bed.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Improving Customer Satisfaction with Consumer Engagement Apps
Offering apps with products helps manufacturers improve customer satisfaction and lower complaints and returns.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Communication is Key When Optimizing Logistics Networks
The key to any successful relationship is communication. Your logistics network is no different.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Judi Griffin: Sinks Her Teeth Into Her Work
Judi Griffin, director of logistics at Burkhart Dental, is responsible for three distribution centers, purchasing and customer service teams, and inbound and outbound freight costs.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—April 2015
Supply chain ‘modeling’ replicates real-world events; Retailers and manufacturers make the jump to RFID; U.S. trucking industry sees better utilization and financial results; Data analytics is a big growth market.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Collaborative Distribution: Taking Off the Training Wheels
To break the cycle of needless, duplicative logistics costs, many competitors are choosing to work in tandem.
E-commerce, Global Economy, Mexico, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Rethinking the Global Supply Chain
Shifting global dynamics and internal business process changes are compelling manufacturers and retailers to challenge the status quo and reinvent their supply chains.
3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Georgia: Super Hub of the Southeast
A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.
Intermodal, Cross-Docking, Forklifts, Loading Dock, Logistics, Warehousing
Fine-Tuning Your Warehouse Layout
Developing an efficient and safe warehouse can be challenging. Use this advice to get the most out of your warehouse.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Trends—February 2015
Digital technologies are shaking up supply chain solutions; Maritime industry opposes Keystone XL Pipeline amendment; Procurement is the gateway to innovation, collaboration, and revenue growth; Introducing the 10 best warehouse networks
Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—January 2015
Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Six Secrets to Controlling Supply Chain Costs Without Sacrificing Service
Saving a few bucks doesn’t always mean throwing the customer under the bus.
3PL, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Regulatory Update: Playing by the Rules
Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.
E-commerce, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
Clothes Encounters: The Logistics of a Revolving Closet
With its subscription-based clothing rental model, Gwynnie Bee is tailoring the rules of e-commerce to make fashion fulfillment a perfect fit.
Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Supply Chain Excellence: A Manufacturing Firestarter
Whirlpool is taking a page out of its Lean production manual and following Penske’s lead to create a more flexible and responsive North American supply chain.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
VMI 2.0: A Whole New Game
Vendor Managed Inventory is shaking off its old-school image and regaining popularity thanks to improved technology, robust communication, tighter demand signal linkage, and a new openness to collaboration that has turbo-charged enterprise benefits.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Mexico, Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Medical Devices: A Tale of Two Countries
It was the worst of times for U.S./Mexico healthcare. Can demand-driven logistics make it the best of times?
Bar-coding Systems, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
Steps to Take When Choosing a Bar-Code Scanning System
Managers must carefully consider all factors of their operation before selecting a new bar-coding system.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Keeping Vendor Risk Under Control During the Holiday Season
With the holiday season in full swing, logistics managers must be able to rely on their vendors to perform.
Green Logistics, Utilities, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Five LED Lighting Myths Debunked
Five common misconceptions about LED lighting in industrial and hazardous facilities.
Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
Four Reasons Retailers Should Pay Attention to Reverse Logistics
A good reverse logistics program saves retailers money, makes customers happy, and serves as a competitive advantage.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—November 2014
Reciprocal switching debate casts a cloud over railroad industry collaboration; Procurement execution gap costs U.S. businesses $1.5 billion per year; Holiday consumers plan to shop sooner to avoid last-minute parcel problems; Trucking costs continue to soar as driver shortage worsens; Amazon Supreme Court case will set a precedent for how companies secure facilities and compensate workers.
Inventory Management, Transportation
Critical Shipments: If I Only Had a Part
Bad things happen when systems break down. Flights get canceled. Production lines stop. The critical spare parts logistics involved in getting operations running again demand both precision and speed. Here’s how you can become a wizard at critical shipments.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Three Ways a WCS Can Improve Your Operation
A modular warehouse control system can help smaller operations keep up with larger competitors.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Education & Careers, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Memphis: America’s Multimodal City
Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.
E-commerce, Asia, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Global Logistics—September 2014
Plan now to avoid supply chain disruptions from the latest Icelandic volcano eruption; Australia struggles with home delivery challenges; EU and China sign landmark customs agreement.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Product Returns: 5 Myths Busted
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
3PL Partnership Provides The Total Package
Intertape Polymer Group outsourced transportation to gain control of its diverse product line and protect profit margins.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking
Trends—August 2014
Google and Barnes & Noble partner to provide same-day book delivery; Shippers prioritize day-to-day problem-solving over contingency planning; APICS and SCC merge; Transplace identifies four areas key to preferred shipper status
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Rail
Global Logistics—August 2014
DB Schenker tests silent brake blocks; India changes policy for e-commerce foreign investment; Canada opens Customs Self Assessment preferences to U.S. shippers; Global steamship lines raise rates; European ports struggle with congestion and larger ships
Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
First Aid for the Hospital Supply Chain
Hospitals can cut costs by improving supply chain operations, inventory control, and transportation management.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
How the Internet of Things Impacts Supply Chains
The Internet of Things can affect supply chain operations by increasing in-transit visibility.
Green Logistics, Retail, Risk Management
Retailers, Watch Your Waste Lines
Partnering with an expert can help retailers ensure they comply with hazardous waste regulations.
Demand Planning, Retail, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Forecasting Seasonal Surges Keeps Products on the Shelf
Transportation forecasting lets shippers collaborate with carriers to identify capacity gaps and reallocate assets.
Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
Why Every Manufacturer Needs a Reverse Logistics Solution
Reverse logistics solutions can improve the bottom line, and reduce potential regulatory liabilities.
Retail, Trucking, Transportation
Innovation in Business Processes from Northwest Arkansas
Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.
Forklifts, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Safety
How to Create a Forklift Safety Culture
New forklift-based technologies can positively impact safety goals in your facility.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Measuring the Value of Warehouse Data
Warehouse technology that supports communication and data analysis improves efficiency and reduces waste.
Forklift Design Reaches New Heights
Innovation in forklift design has reduced overall warehouse and DC footprints and increased throughput.
Education & Careers, Inventory Management
Senthil Arumugam: Building a Better Way
Senthil Arumugam, vice president of logistics & inventory management at US LBM Holdings, constructs a sturdy operation.
Lean Retail: It’s About Time – and Money
Retailers can identify and eliminate waste from their retail strategy, merchandise management, and store operations.
Need Warehouse Capacity? Outsourcing Gives You an In
With warehouse capacity at a premium, shippers consult 3PLs to help locate shared space.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Fight Inventory Pain Points
Avoid common inventory issues: inaccurate inventory counts, costly end-of-year write-offs, and lost inventory.
You Say You Need a Bigger Warehouse?
An improving economy and e-commerce growth spur demand for warehouse space.
Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—May 2014
TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network
How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Transformed the Transportation Industry
Hub-and-spoke transportation models maximize cargo shipping efficiency, delivering better visibility and cost savings.
Education & Careers, Inventory Management, Manufacturing
Bob Kalland Knows the Drill
Bob Kalland digs his job as inventory and logistics manager for Atlas Copco Mining and Rock Excavation.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Ocean, Supply Chain Management
Trends—April 2014
NRF’s Big Show unveils trends in the retail industry; Local couriers provide a solution to capacity constraints and empower same-day delivery; Ocean carrier industry beset by imbalances; Global RFID market primed for robust growth; Shippers plan for supply chain exceptions
Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Streamlining Inventory Through SKU Rationalization
The number of stockkeeping units has increased considerably. Doing an ABC analysis helps eliminate unneeded inventory.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Leveraging Big Data
Analyzing supply chain data allows shippers to improve their logistics operations.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
Cold Storage: Optimization by Degrees
Shippers rely on 3PLs and refrigerated public warehouses to invest in technology, implement standards, and facilitate strategic business process change to drive greater efficiencies.
5 Lift Truck Innovations That Will Change Your Warehouse
New lift trucks feature device mounts, rugged tablets, digital controls, hydrogen fuel cells and auto guided navigation.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
How to Profit from Outsourcing
Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.
3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Georgia: Logistics Sweet Spot
Georgia offers manufacturers and distributors superior access to logistics providers and transportation infrastructure.
Cloud Computing, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Cloud-based System Furnishes Supply Chain Visibility
Faced with long lead times and potential production delays, Badcock Furniture and More invested in a cloud-based tool.
Boosting Warehouse Productivity
Automated materials handling tools boost warehouse productivity and improve efficiency.
Economic Development, Asia, Cross-border Trade, China, Canada, Reverse Logistics, Global Logistics, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Retail, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America
Global—February 2014
China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard
Inventory Management, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Collaborative Programs: Not a Chore But an Opportunity
Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Managing Retail Returns: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
Same Day Delivery: The Amazing Race
Garrick Pohl of Zipments discusses how the company facilitates same-day delivery.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Cargo Security: Protecting the Supply Chain
Ensuring supply chain security requires that shippers and logistics providers stay one step ahead of thieves.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
7 Steps to Selecting a WMS
Follow these steps to choose a warehouse management system to improve fulfillment operations and inventory visibility.
Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Inbound Logistics Winter Reading Guide 2014
New books on supply chain, logistics, and transportation help logistics professionals stay sharp.
3PL, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Controlling Costs in the Healthcare Supply Chain
Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.
3PL, Intermodal, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
FTZ Basics & Benefits
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
Inventory Management, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
PVMI: A New Approach to Supply Chain Control
Production vendor managed inventory enables manufacturers to gain supply chain control.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
A New Paradigm in Vendor Partner Management
Implementing tools and processes that enable better shipment visibility and control of in-transit inventory helps improve vendor partner management.
Lean, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Tapping Technology To Improve Lean Warehouses
Tools such as electronic data interchange (EDI) and advanced picking solutions support lean supply chain operations.
Creating a Greener Warehouse
Reducing warehouse energy and water consumption helps companies improve their bottom line and bring value to customers.
Fine-Tuning Fulfillment for Happy Holidays
Successful order fulfillment begins with strategic and tactical planning well in advance of the holiday season.
Freight Payment Services, Warehousing
Trends—October 2013
Warehouses and DC networks adapt to changing supply chain trends; U.S. FTZ activity continues to grow; Trendset malfeasance raises red flag for shippers.
Automotive Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The Nuts & Bolts of the Automotive Aftermarket Supply Chain
The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.
Optimizing Your DC Network
Establishing an efficient distribution center network require careful planning and frequent updates.
The Five New Rules of E-commerce and the Path to Successful B2B Online Sales
Business to business (B2B) e-commerce sites must be well planned to increase revenue and support a growing client base.
Retailers Try I.T. On for Size
As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
Cintron Quenches Thirst For Order Management System
An order management system from DF Young and Superior Technology helps Cintron Beverage Company boost inventory accuracy, fulfill orders easily and quickly, and track products throughout the supply chain.
Bringing Supply Chain Visibility to the Last Frontier
A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.
Discount Apparel Logistics: Outfitting the Outlets
As consumers embrace bargain hunting, off-price apparel retailers reinvent their supply chains to meet demand.
Optimizing Warehouse Operations
To optimize warehouse operations, integrate solutions like warehouse management systems and warehouse control systems.
Green Logistics The Walmart Way
Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.
3PL, Economic Development, Manufacturing, Warehousing
We Need Jobs…Let’s Raise Taxes?
Minnesota's warehouse tax may push jobs out of state.
Pallet Strategies: Stacking the Odds in Your Favor
Decisions about buying pallets or leasing pallets require shippers to think strategically to acquire the best option for their operation.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
What Happens When Your Warehouse Is Unplugged?
Technology management can affect warehouse operations’ connectivity during and after a power outage. Whether the facility’s warehouse management system (WMS) is installed on-site, delivered via a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) program, or hosted in the cloud can have a huge impact on maintaining productivity, writes John Sterling of Foxfire Software.
Economic Development, Health Care Logistics, Finance, Picking Solutions
Trends—May 2013
Prologis Pulaski DC breaks ground, breaks new barriers in sustainable development; Voice technology finds traction in the supply chain; Healthcare industry stands to gain by adopting retail supply chain best practices; Freight spot market swings with seasonal demand; Midwest floods present new challenges for inland waterway shippers
Sporting Goods Logistics: Keeping the Ball Rolling
Sporting goods manufacturers and retailers must manage seasonal peaks to avoid stockouts and meet online customers’ demand for prompt delivery. Supply chain technology helps provide visibility and track items during product recalls.
Understanding Warehouseman’s Liens
Parties storing goods in warehouses need to be alert to liens on their goods, writes Ron Leibman of Riker, Danzig, Scherer, Hyland, & Perretti LLP. To avoid unpleasant surprises, both parties to a warehousing agreement must understand their rights and the documents that cover their transactions.
Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions
Take Your Pick
Companies choosing between voice-directed and pick-to-light technology often find that the right choice is a combination of both.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Latin America
Cloud-Based WMS Fires Up Supermercados Supply Chain
Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).
Distribution, Transportation Management
Transportation & Distribution: Geared to Demand
Schwan’s Home Services optimized its distribution network by using a hybrid insourced/outsourced model; and Sun-Maid Growers of California used collaborative distribution to create better economies of scale in its transportation operations.
Materials Handling Equipment: Flex Appeal
The materials handling landscape is shifting to accommodate traditional brick-and-mortar and Internet retailers’ changing needs.
Import, Export, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Comfort Zone: A Better, Faster FTZ
The Alternative Site Framework designation is changing the Foreign Trade Zone landscape, allowing shippers a more expedient process for streamlining the supply chain.
Surveying the Home Delivery Landscape
Retailers and shippers need to find ways to meet consumers’ changing demand for home delivery services, while maintaining adequate margins and finding new avenues for continued growth, writes Foster Finley of AlixPartners.
Distribution, Temperature Controlled
An Appetite for Refrigerated Warehousing Improvement
Food company Bob Evans entrusted Millard Refrigerated Services with its warehousing and distribution operations. The two businesses worked together to expand both their supply chain capabilities.
“Sell By” Dates Cost Shippers Billions in Wasted Perishable Goods
Shippers and business logistics professionals can easily use bar codes rather than ink stamps to ensure fresh food items are delivered to customers, writes Mark Croxton of Aldata.
3PL Value-Adds Mean Millions
By identifying the value-adds that brand and retail shippers want, logistics providers can position their offerings to bring millions in benefits to their customers and make the relationship stick, writes Greg White of Blue Ridge.
Better Efficiency Begins at the Loading Dock
By working together to align the processes by which shippers tender freight and carriers receive it, supply chain partners can achieve greater efficiency at the loading dock while improving safety, quality, performance, and margins for all stakeholders.
Retail, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Therapy Strikes a Balance
As retailers look to grow their business, the challenge of keeping up with the market becomes exponentially greater—especially as new channels emerge, writes Editor Felecia Stratton. Supply chain management can help create balance between supply and demand.
Determining If AS/RS Fits Your Facility
Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) can be an efficient materials handling option for warehouses and distribution centers, but they are not right for every facility. Norm Saenz, senior vice president and principal, TranSystems Corporation, offers advice on deciding if AS/RS is right for your facility.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Partnership
Failure is Not an Option: Questions and Answers with Brian Hancock
Brian Hancock, president, North America for Martin-Brower, discusses the unique supply chain and distribution operations supporting the McDonald’s restaurant chain.
Lift Truck Strategies Raise the Bar
Advancements in lift truck technology give distribution center and warehouse managers flexibility in using their forklift fleets.
Stacker Cranes Cure Pallet Pain
Pharmaceutical manufacturer Catalent upgraded its Philadelphia packaging center’s high-bay warehouse with an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) served by three aisle-changing stacker cranes developed by LTW Intralogistics.
Green Leadership for Lean Times
Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Cross-border Trade, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Supporting a Glass Act
Mexico-based automotive glassmaker Vitro Automotive opened a distribution center in the United States to serve Detroit automakers just-in-time requirements. Its long-time logistics service provider Evans Distribution Systems staffed the new DC for Vitro to ensure a quality workforce.
Materials Handling: A Better View
With production already at capacity and limited room for expansion, visual technologies manufacturer Christie installed two Shuttle Vertical Lift Module (VLM) storage and retrieval systems from Kardex Remstar – recovering 70 percent floor space, doubling capacity, and cutting labor requirements in half.
Warehousing 'Outside the Box'
Warehouses are one component within a much larger distribution ecosystem, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
The Bionic Warehouse
Companies such as Pep Boys and Georgia Pacific are harnessing technology to gain greater warehouse labor productivity through labor management systems; incentive programs; and warehouse management systems connected to forklift-mounted mobile computers.
Innovative Warehouse Strategies: Four Walls, Three Takes
A consultant, integrator, and wholesaler share some warehouse wisdom.
Tracking Rugged Tablets
Tablets offer several advantages over notebook computers and handheld devices, says Chris Wright, DRS Technologies.
Warehouse Automation Management Goes Mobile
Warehouse managers are using a mix of consumer-grade smartphone technology and rugged mobile devices to optimize their workflow, says Laura Kelleher of Honeywell.
A New Recipe for Effective Warehouse Management
Developing a customized warehouse management system (WMS) was a collaborative process for packaged food products direct-sales company Tastefully Simple and technology provider Softeon.
Four Simple Questions for Improved Picking Performance
Slotting is the concept of using data analysis to assign every part a location based on its specific attributes. Determining the best type of storage equipment, stock quantity, and location for each stock keeping unit (SKU) yields more efficient picking operations, writes Christian Rueckerl.
E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Integration: Making e-Fulfillment a Pet Project
Deploying a warehouse management system (WMS) on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis allowed online retailer PetFlow.com to manage its own fulfillment operations without a large capital investment.
Behind the Buzz About Flexible Automation
Thanks to e-commerce, many distribution centers are now fulfilling a greater number of smaller orders – rendering conventional materials handling automation systems somewhat outdated. Is flexible automation the next frontier?
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping
@Home With Demand-Driven Logistics
UPS My Choice, a new direct-to-home delivery service, turns consumers into inbound logistics practitioners.
Increasing Warehouse Productivity
More efficient operations are the key to warehouse productivity – and, in turn, more satisfied customers, according to Kenco’s Jason Minghini.
Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing
Retailers who succeed at integrating their inventory intelligence can cut costs, accelerate turns, and build revenue by driving high-fidelity information back into the supply chain, aligning it with shopper demand, write Tyco Retail Solutions’ Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill.
Enjoying the Perks of 3PL Order Management
Viewing order management as an opportunity to add value ensures that 3PLs act as a partner that adds real revenue-side value, and not just another vendor, writes Clyde Mount, 3PL Worldwide.
Bar-coding Systems, Inventory Management
The Secret Ingredient For Inventory Accuracy
Tomato canner Red Gold achieves 99-percent inventory accuracy with QuikTrac data collection software from Integrated Barcoding Systems.
Warehouse Fitness Guide: Simple Exercises to Get Your Warehouse in Shape
Healthy warehouses use strategies such as one-on-one training, layout optimization, materials handling equipment, adjustable partitions, performance measurement tools, wrist-mounted bar-code scanners, and energy-efficient lighting.
Mobile Robots Expand Warehouse Automation Options
Mobile-robotic systems are easy to design and install, with overall lower installation and operational costs than traditional warehouse automation systems, says Mick Mountz of Kiva Systems.
Upgrading Order Fulfillment Systems Boosts Warehouse Efficiency
Peter Hartman of Retrotech offers strategies for optimizing product flow through warehouse automation to achieve better order fulfillment performance.
Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.
RFID Delivers the Power to Transform Markets
RFID technologies allow computers, objects, and individuals to interact in new ways, supplying logistics providers and materials handlers with predictable and actionable data to enhance their service offerings and operations, explains Ravi Pappu of ThingMagic.
Distribution, Transportation Management
Colgate Logistics Delivers Smiles
Colgate took more than four million miles out of its network while handling five percent more cases of product – and even managed to cut logistics costs, sharing the savings with customers and suppliers.
Voice Technology Frees the Warehouse Workforce
Integrating voice-enabled logistics with hosted ERP solutions and warehouse management systems can improve productivity and accuracy.
Retail, Transportation Management
PETCO’s Pet Project
For pet supply retailer PETCO, honoring its commitment to superior customer service meant finding a loyal logistics partner.
Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Gaining Ground
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo cites real-world cases of supply chain gains, including Del Monte Foods, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and National Starch.
Supply Chain Gain: Simplified Sorting
Warehouse automation allows distribution centers to take a hands-off approach.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Security, Warehousing
Securing the Supply Chain
Industry experts explain how to avoid threats to warehoused goods, conduct a global security assessment, and benefit from renewed government and private sector attention to supply chain security initiatives.
Following the LEED
Industrial property developers are cultivating greener distribution facilities and nurturing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards compliance. The bounty? A harvest of benefits for their tenants.
Warehouse Slotting, Profiling: The Right Place at the Right Time
A warehouse optimization project enables leather goods distributor Tandy Brands to better serve customers.
Customer Service, Distribution
Nexus Distribution: A Fresh Sheet of Customer Service
When Boise Paper wanted to consolidate five Northeast region facilities into just one, it turned to Nexus Distribution for customer service excellence built on a sound implementation process.
Green Logistics, Materials Handling
Pallet-Sharing Programs: Better for the Planet
For shipping and receiving, there are three types of pallet programs: single-use or one-way, extended-use or buy/sell, and leasing or rental. Hillary Femal of IFCO Systems describes the uses and benefits of each type.
Lean: The Next Best Thing to ‘Clip-and-Save’
Charlie Jacobs of APL Logistics explains the cost savings and efficiency benefits of implementing lean practices, as demonstrated by three warehousing case studies.
Tapping Into the Power of Supply Chain Integration
Jeremy Woods of Summit Realty Group explains how an orchestrated strategy to integrate supply chain, energy use, and real estate costs can help save money.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
CSCMP Annual Conference: Can We Talk?
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Distribution
How to Ship to Alaska
The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Gemma Fillmore: Supply Chain Advocate
To improve supply chain performance at Medco Health Solutions, Gemma Fillmore focuses on getting C-level executives to give logistics issues the attention they deserve.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
Collaborative Distribution Eases the Capacity Crunch
Small and mid-sized manufacturers lack the scale to ship in full truckloads, creating thousands of separate, inefficient lines of supply—all moving to the same mass retailers. Collaborative distribution reduces the number of trucks on the road and cuts distribution costs.
Education & Careers, Forklifts, Ocean, Materials Handling, Ports, Supply Chain Management
Trends—August 2010
Gulf ports maintain container volumes despite Deepwater Horizon oil spill; Supply chain leaders climb the corporate ladder; Toyota Material Handling engineers work with MIT scientists and the U.S. Army to develop a remote-operated fork lift
Enhancing Cross-docking Efficiency
Boost your cross-docking operation's throughput for more efficient one-stop shipment, with these tips from Nelson Bettencourt of CEVA Logistics.
Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics, Distribution, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Humanitarian Aid: The Logistics of Doing Good
Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.
Warehousing Firm Thrives on Modernization
Ferber Warehousing's 650 clients benefit from the firm's innovative total business distribution software solution, Conveyor.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Managing Labor Boosts Warehouse Operations
Labor management tools can help you determine if your workforce is performing at the level necessary to deliver cost-effective service to customers.
Mapping Distribution to Demand
For a fictional company looking to expand its franchise nationally, DC network optimization is a measure of real success.
Green Logistics, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Greening the Supply Chain Through Warehouse Automation
Investing in automated storage and retrieval systems and WMS helps warehouses grow greener and reap financial benefits.
3PL, Forklifts, Safety, Warehousing
Keeping Surprises Out Of The Warehouse
Warehousing risks can spring out at any moment. Some are meant to be shared, others avoided. Successful warehousing operations strike a balance.
Growing a Greener Warehouse
Fuel-optimized forklifts? Check. Energy-efficient light bulbs? Check. Here's your cheat-sheet for warehouse sustainability efforts, courtesy of Rajiv Saxena of APL Logistics.
Today’s Warehouse Plays a New Role
Shared space environments, secondary packaging services, and reimagined cross-docking functions are helping manufacturers get more value from warehousing providers. Cliff Otto, president of Saddle Creek, outlines the benefits.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Warehouse Metrics: Measure What Matters
Managers should identify and focus on the most useful warehouse metrics to gather, report, and apply, writes Eric Allais of PathGuide Technologies.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Learning by Example
Acquiring a warehouse and implementing a warehouse management system from Cambar Solutions helped The School Box earn top grades for its distribution operation.
On the Road | Nashua, New Hampshire: The King of Beer Distribution
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly visits Bellavance Beverage Company, a Nashua, N.H. beer distributor.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Shaking Up Subscription Services
During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
We Scream for Ice Cream
Consumers are screaming for ice cream, and retailers are refining their e-commerce tactics for this frozen treat. Take a look at some ice cream supply chain trends.
Last Mile Delivery, Distribution, Logistics
Traffic Control
To prepare for the return of crowded streets in urban areas, cities and shippers explore alternative vehicles, apps, pricing solutions, and distribution centers to address last-mile gridlock.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution
Becoming the Next Leading Logistics Hub
Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.
E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail
Vertical Files
This story examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on five vertical markets and describes some of the strategies used in those markets to meet the challenge.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
Flexibility for the Win
The majority of retailers say that artificial intelligence and machine learning can add significant value to their demand forecasting processes, and more than half say it will improve other critical supply chain capabilities.
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
Cold Storage Heats Up
Booming e-commerce and online grocery sales during the pandemic increased the demand for cold storage warehousing space in North America, but developers are not building fast enough to meet demand.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Online Grocery Shifts into Hyperspeed
Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
5 Actions to Navigate Through the Retail Landscape
To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail
Traditional Retail Supply Chains Tackle Omni Challenges
As e-commerce demand grew, retailers went from using small, existing distribution centers to opening entire fulfillment centers to combining omnichannel facilities. Paul A. Myerson discusses the advantages.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Risk Management
Reopening Fulfillment and Distribution Centers in the Wake of COVID-19
As businesses slowly recover following COVID-19 fulfillment and distribution centers can't simply flip a switch and return to normal operations. Reopening will require a rigorous methodology backed by data and analytics, and creative thinking about how to leverage existing technology in the workplace.
Inventory Management, Technology , Warehousing
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | Labeling Solutions
Product Spotlight: Take a look at the latest supply chain labeling solutions, including barcode scanners, printers, software, and inventory management tools.
Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Technology
Formulating Solutions for Chemical Shippers
With exacting specifications and transportation challenges heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic, shippers are turning to these partners to move chemicals safely and optimize supply chains.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19
Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.
Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Warehousing
NACD Program Ensures Seamless Partnerships
The chemical distribution industry poses a unique challenge for warehouses and carriers due to the wide range of goods that fall under strict regulatory requirements for handling, storage, and shipping. Finding a 3PL partner who can meet these expectations is critical and often requires considerable research and evaluation.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Retailers: It's Time to Act
While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Smart Warehouses Boost Their IQ
Working together with IoT, AI, drones and other advanced technologies, WMS solutions help warehouses gain accuracy, efficiency, and speed.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Pet Industry
Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.
Fulfillment, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Supply Chain Cleanliness Matters—During and Beyond COVID-19
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.
Technology , Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
This Is Not a Drill
Don’t delay. Create an agile, real-time approach. Have an effective communication strategy, one that includes internal users, vendors, and carrier partners. This will have a critical impact on your success.
U.S. States Reopen During COVID-19 Pandemic
Take a look at each state's perspectives, guidelines, and deadlines as they make plans to reopen their local businesses and facilities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Demand Planning, Transportation, Warehousing
Continued Support Through Seasonality
A premium CPG company turned to Hub Group to develop a dynamic solution to eliminate supply chain inefficiencies and support a surge in volume.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
Amazon Shoppers Won't Abandon Ship
Many U.S. consumers have negative feelings toward Amazon's impact on the retail industry and the environment, but that doesn't translate to lost sales.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
5 Operational Actions Shippers Can Take to Build Resilience
Shippers can take these five operations-focused actions to build resilience and pave the way for success as they shift into the "operate" phase of the COVID-19 crisis—not only to efficiently operate in this new business environment, but also to prepare for the next phases of the crisis.
E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics
Supply Chain Labeling and Logistics: How to Deal with Customer and Regulatory Requirements
When it comes to logistics, the speed and convenience of e-commerce has led to changing expectations in the business-to-consumer sector. Meeting these expectations requires hitting an exact sequence of strict targets.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
True Next Day—Why It Matters
As retailers compete for the perfect delivery experience and consumers continue to pay premiums for speed and reliability, last-mile delivery is key for growth and profitability.
E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse 2020
E-commerce growth and warehouse labor shortages create the perfect storm for online retailers. Undaunted, companies face these challenges with ongoing technology, equipment, and warehouse space innovations.
3PL Market Revenue to Cross $1.8 Trillion by 2026
Growing demand for low-cost services and a rapidly expanding e-commerce sector will boost the market valuation of third-party logistics (3PL) to $1.8 trillion by 2026.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Map Mishaps Throw Last-Mile Drivers Off Course
Almost all last-mile delivery drivers say they would be more effective if their maps were more accurate—this includes better meeting delivery windows and fewer parking tickets.
E-commerce, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain
Gearing Up for a Bright Supply Chain Future
Logistics providers, retailers, and other global movers are using technologies and innovative business models to drive the supply chain efficiency and meet tomorrow's package volume demand, according to Deloitte. These are the three key pillars that will likely underpin the next-generation supply chain.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Demand Planning
Last Mile Delivery Strategies During COVID-19 and Other Supply Chain Disruptions
How do supply chain disruptions like COVID-19 impact the final mile, and how can retailers adjust their strategy? Some solutions include contactless delivery, offering accessible pickup points, and easing capacity constraints.
How Does Coronavirus Impact the Supply Chain, and How Can Retailers Minimize Disruption?
The new coronavirus, or COVID-19, has impacted the supply chain by limiting access to employees, closing factories or slowing down manufacturers, and limiting access to logistics to move goods. Here are three ways in which retailers can minimize supply chain disruption as the virus progresses.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Crossing the Final-Mile Finish Line
E-commerce revenue in 2020 will reach $3.52 trillion—this explosion is forcing retailers to find faster and more convenient modes to reach the final mile.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
How Is Coronavirus Impacting E-Commerce?
As coronavirus continues to spread globally, new ramifications are revealed daily. How is the virus impacting e-commerce operations and the supply chain, and how can retailers respond?
Inventory Management, Sourcing/Negotiations, Materials Handling
Applying Lean Thinking to Procurement
Here’s how to integrate demand and supply initiatives and techniques into your procurement strategies.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Technology
Technology Can Cure the Parcel Crisis at the Border
As eCommerce continues to increase globally, shippers have to navigate customs to support their omnichannel strategy.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Trucking, Technology
Most Read Articles of 2019
Take a look at the top ten Inbound Logistics articles that got readers buzzing in 2019.
Careers, Global Logistics, Warehousing
Taking the Wheel of GM's Service Parts
GM's executive director of global aftersales supply chain, warehousing, and logistics discusses her role and answers the big questions.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology
The CX Files
This story looks at elements that produce excellent customer service and at some of the technology tools companies use to help them deliver excellent service to their customers.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Need Speed Across the Supply Chain? It's All About the Barcode
Barcode labels are a smart and cost-effective way to make productivity gains in your warehouse.
Leverage Your 3PL's Real Estate Assets For In-Demand Cold Storage
Whatever challenges your perishable goods operation faces, it’s likely that the right 3PL can offer innovative solutions.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
That's a Wrap: Holiday Shipping Tied Up in Knots
During the holiday shopping season, all eyes are on shipping, with more than half of consumers (60%), and nearly three-quarters of millennials (74%) claiming they were disappointed with holiday shopping services in the past.
3PL, Supply Chain, Warehousing
What's the Deal With Flexible Warehousing?
A third-party logistics provider with its own dedicated workforce is still a company's best option for handling and storing sensitive goods.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain
The Logistics of Liquidation
This story looks at the logistics of managing good through the reverse logistics and liquidation process. The goal is to recover as much value as possible from returned or unsold goods, and to keep product out of landfills.
Loading Dock, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Shining New Light On Dock Operations
With better visibility into loading dock activity, companies can bring significant improvements to their warehouse operations.
E-commerce, Technology , Visibility
GOOD QUESTION | What's the 2020 supply chain buzzword or phrase?
Readers reveal the words and phrases that will have supply chain managers talking in 2020.
DHL Gives Mio Better Inbound Logistics Control
DHL provides Mio with more control over inbound orders from eight countries to reduce detention and demurrage costs while improving intake planning for distribution centers.
Loading Dock, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Data on Loading Dock Activities Improves Operations, Boosts ROI
With new technology that assembles objective information to support well-informed decisions, warehouse managers can base decisions about their loading docks on data rather than assumptions.
Fostering a Data-Centric Culture in Fulfillment Operations
Investing in data management can help your DC run smoother. However, you shouldn’t quit once you’ve rearranged a few aisles. Take your learnings from fulfillment and use them to encourage greater data investment in all aspects of your operation.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
The Impact of E-Commerce Growth on Logistics Companies
Consumers have become accustomed to extremely quick delivery and, as more retailers offer fast, free shipping options, logistics companies will need to adapt to the ever-increasing delivery pressures that align to evolving consumer expectations and preferences.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | How Can Brick-and-Mortar Retailers Compete with Amazon?
Readers reveal the supply chain moves that can let brick-and-mortar retailers compete with Amazon.
Fulfillment, Supply Chain, Warehousing
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | Fulfillment Innovations
Product spotlight on fulfillment innovations
E-commerce, Distribution, Technology
Best Buy's Shiny, New Supply Chain Strategy for the Holiday Season
Best Buy made its list and checked it twice, and it's ready to take on the holiday season with a new and improved supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Subcoms Focused on the Future
In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.
Retail, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
Feeding the Baby Products Supply Chain
The baby products category is one of the most highly regulated in the world. Rigorous testing and certification are designed to protect the smallest humans from injury and illness caused by everything from loose parts that could cause choking to flammable fabrics or toxic materials. In addition to intense regulation, manufacturers must deal with consumer preferences that change almost as quickly as a parent can diaper a baby.
Who’s Paying for Free Shipping?
While 3PLs and retailers have many options to compete in an Amazon world, inaction is not one of them. Amazon plans to invest an incremental $800 million in the second quarter alone to bring standard one-day shipping to Prime customers.
Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Retailers Are Looking to Invest in Warehouse Robotics
A look at how robotics are currently being used, as well as how they'll be used in the future.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Supply Chain
What to Look For When Taking Stock of an Inventory Management System
Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Technology
Automation Innovation
Innovations in material handling solutions are helping shippers cut costs and boost accuracy.
Supply Chain, Safety, Warehousing
Safe & Sound
This story examines the labor management challenges associated with warehouse safety and recommends some best practices.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain
Last-Mile Logistics: How Sellers Can Make It a Strength and Not a Setback
The last mile is often the most challenging, costly, and technologically deficient portion of the delivery process. But as more and more consumers use e-commerce to order and ship everything from medicine to artwork, the shipping and logistics sector has to move to making last mile a strength and not a setback.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Transportation
New Freight Train Could Boost Cross-Border E-Commerce in China
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Getting Up on the Right Side of the Bedding
E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.
Lean Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Omnichannel Retail: 4 Rules for Success
It is possible to anticipate and plan for future omnichannel retail challenges by following these four rules.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Georgia: The Logistics Advantage
Georgia, a leading point of origin for companies to move products to their customers, has an inherent geographical advantage that is enhanced by a superior infrastructure and its status as home to many of the leading logistics companies and practitioners anywhere in the world.
Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail
Canada Bupkus on BOPIS
Canada is still ahead of the United States when it comes to Buy Online Pickup In-Store (BOPIS) options.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain
Super-sizing E-commerce Deliveries
Companies that manufacture, sell, and deliver an increasing number of e-commerce oversize goods face a unique set of challenges when delivering to homes. Delivery teams not only need access to home interiors for set-up, they must also communicate in real-time with recipients so they’re home when orders are delivered. What’s more, they need far more customer service skills than the typical delivery driver.
Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Ryder Redefines the Smart Warehouse
Supply chain solutions provider Ryder System has successfully transformed its smart warehouses in the Miami, Dallas, and Chicago markets. The facilities feature the four technologies Ryder defines as definitive benchmarks of an effective smart warehouse.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology
Take Two Tablets
Two-thirds (66 percent) of retail store associates believe that if they are equipped with tablets, they could provide better customer service and improve the shopping experience, according to the results of Zebra Technologies Corporation's 11th annual Global Shopper Study, which analyzes the attitudes, opinions, and expectations of shoppers, retail associates, and retail decision makers.
Distribution, Logistics, Safety, Trucking
The Secret to Combatting the Hidden Costs of Detention Time
Dock appointment scheduling solutions enable shippers, carriers and consignees to avoid decreases in annual earnings and improve driver safety.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
How Data Collection and Artificial Intelligence Are Building and Digitizing the Next-Generation Warehouse
As supply chains increasingly transition from being viewed as a cost center to a competitive differentiator, optimization and efficiency has become critical to success in today’s world focused on next day delivery. To support this transition, the importance of real-time data and analysis is rising rapidly.
Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Evolving Warehouse Processes as the Supply of AS/400 Talent Tightens
A conversation with a supply chain executive about how he was trying to enhance his company’s inventory management and overall warehouse processes, with a customized AS/400 system in place.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers
A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Not So Fast: Rethinking Multi-Item Orders
Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.
Cloud Computing, Distribution, Supply Chain, Technology
How the Cloud Creates Cost Savings—and Tax Benefits
Modernizing your distribution business isn’t just about adopting the latest and greatest technology. From seamless scalability to cost-efficiency to tax benefits, the right solutions can pave the way to significant results.
Distribution, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Holiday Cargo Theft Q&A with Scott Cornell of Travelers
A Q&A with Scott Cornell, transportation business lead and crime and theft specialist at Travelers, on how to avoid theft during the holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What Will Retailers Find Under The Tree?
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Click & Collect Not Clicking Yet
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Things are Looking Up for Multistory Warehouses
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cold Comfort: Finding the Right Winter Warehouse
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season
According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
12 Ways to Increase Supply Chain Velocity
This article recommends 12 strategies companies can implement to speed product flow in the supply chain.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics
New DHL Survey Reveals Expected Cyber Monday Growth for Businesses & More
A DHL distributed a poll to U.S. e-commerce businesses, reveals major challenges, priorities and more for e-comm businesses this Cyber Monday.
Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Industrial Technology and the Supply Chain: Is 2018 the Year We Turn a Corner?
Maturing systems, implementation expertise, and newly enacted tax incentives bode well for significant leaps in supply chain efficiency. Here’s why 2018 will be the year for technology ROI.
Forklifts, Materials Handling, Warehousing
7 Common Warehouse Problems & How to Solve Them
Let’s dive into seven of the most common warehouse challenges and explore potential solutions to help make your warehouse operations more efficient.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Do Buy, Says Dubai
E-commerce is booming and everyone wants a piece of the pie, including Dubai .
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain
Primed for Amazon
In September 2017, Amazon announced plans to open another headquarters in North America. Called "HQ2," the facility will cost at least $5 billion to construct. Locations are going the extra mile to win the bid for HQ2.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
How AR Can Take the Sting Out of Seasonal Surge Training Costs
Every holiday season, warehouses expand their workforces two times or more to handle peak retail demand that can make or break the entire year. Here’s how augmented reality can help.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace
Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
Logistics, Packaging, Warehousing
Reducing Packaging Costs
Try these packaging moves, says APL Logistics Supply Chain Solutions Head Rajiv Saxena, to help offset higher parcel costs further up the supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever
With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker - Crane Worldwide Logistics
Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
E-commerce Retailers Target Germany
Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.
Forklifts, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Supply Chain Shout Out: Forklift Power
A new report details the economic impact of a warehouse workhorse: the powered industrial truck or forklift.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick
Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
U.S. Manufacturers Respond to Regulatory Plans
Manufacturers and wholesale distributors are optimistic about the perceived impact of the Trump administration’s plans for trade deregulation on their businesses, according to new research commissioned by business software provider Exact.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers
To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply Chain Commentary: Grocery Retailers Need to Embrace Digitization Now
Grocers will have to transform aggressively and adapt swiftly if they want to avoid the fate of retailers in other segments. They will need to digitize their stores and consumer experiences. Here's how they should optimize their supply chain.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Direct Hit
E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop. Now businesses of all sizes must reassess their supply chains to go direct to the consumer with faster-than-fast delivery and free shipping.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line
Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Warehousing
Reconstructing Supply Chains
Supply chain infrastructure is rebuilding itself, below the surface where only logisticians can see it.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Thinking Inside the Unbox
Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion
The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect
Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold
Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
E-commerce Logistics: Warehouse Slotting and Space Utilization
Slotting – determining the locations of your SKUs in your warehouse – used to be an easy concept. But in the new world of warehousing focusing exclusively to a large degree on e-commerce sales, this is no longer simple.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
Same-Day Delivery Powers Grocery
E-commerce Revolution
E-commerce grocery delivery is seeing massive growth, and is expected to continue to shake up the traditional grocery industry as online grocery sales are forecasted to account for as much as 20% of all grocery sales by 2025.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers
The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Choosing a Warehouse Management System
The right WMS solution can streamline order fulfillment, increase inventory accuracy, enhance the performance of your people, and maximize equipment utilization. Use these tips to help select a WMS.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns
In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouse Management & DC Optimization: Measuring What Matters
Selecting the best metrics at your company’s distribution centers requires the right tools, careful study, and constant collaboration.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants
To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Customized App Puts Bat Distributor in the Big Leagues
When a paper-based order management system slowed a baseball bat manufacturer’s growth, the company digitized for out-of-the-park growth.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology
New Product Launches
Stay up to date on the latest products to hit the marketplace.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouses Eye Robots
To better serve customers and remain globally competitive, warehousing and logistics providers are continuing to evaluate robotics solutions.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Achieving Greater Visibility and Agility
Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.
Distribution, Technology , Visibility
Improving Visibility: And Sew It Goes
Timely deliveries are critical for Tacony, a manufacturer and distributor of sewing and floor care products. Learn how the family-owned company cut costs, streamlined transportation, and boosted service levels by collaborating with Sunset Transportation.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Reshaping Retail
Agile and innovative retailers transformed their operations during COVID-19. Will their new fulfillment options and increased digitization go out of style as stores reopen, or will they become retail staples?
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
We Scream for Ice Cream
Consumers are screaming for ice cream, and retailers are refining their e-commerce tactics for this frozen treat. Take a look at some ice cream supply chain trends.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Responds
To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation
Supply Chain, Sustainability, Warehousing
Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief
Read the latest good works, sustainability efforts, mergers and acquisitions, new hires, and sealed deals happening in the supply chain.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution
Becoming the Next Leading Logistics Hub
Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.
Distribution, Demand Planning, Retail
Home for the Holidays
Consumers are planning to do their holiday shopping mostly from home and earlier this year, presenting big challenges for distribution centers.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Online Grocery Shifts into Hyperspeed
Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Technology
True Manufacturing Embraces More Efficient, Visual Load Building
Looking to streamline load building, True Manufacturing turned to MagicLogic Optimization and integrated Cube-IQ, a software solution that optimizes load planning. The result was reduced work hours and increased efficiency.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail
Traditional Retail Supply Chains Tackle Omni Challenges
As e-commerce demand grew, retailers went from using small, existing distribution centers to opening entire fulfillment centers to combining omnichannel facilities. Paul A. Myerson discusses the advantages.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Home Goods
Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Sustaining Operational Excellence
TA Services' transportation management solutions helped MRC Global, a distributor of pipe, infrastructure products, and valves and fittings, improve visibility and enhance service levels.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
How Will the Future Unfold?
As the coronavirus continues to disrupt global supply chains, Gartner developed three scenarios to help chief supply chain officers (CSCOs) prepare for recovery and make preemptive decisions to set up their organizations for success.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Warehousing
How Returns Impact the Warehouse and What You Can Do About It
While it’s easy to pass off returns as primarily an e-commerce or retail issue, the fact is it’s a challenge all distributors face.
Inventory Management, Technology , Warehousing
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | Labeling Solutions
Product Spotlight: Take a look at the latest supply chain labeling solutions, including barcode scanners, printers, software, and inventory management tools.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19
Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.
Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Warehousing
NACD Program Ensures Seamless Partnerships
The chemical distribution industry poses a unique challenge for warehouses and carriers due to the wide range of goods that fall under strict regulatory requirements for handling, storage, and shipping. Finding a 3PL partner who can meet these expectations is critical and often requires considerable research and evaluation.
Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Technology
Extreme Networks Rewires Its Supply Chain
Extreme Networks’ acquisition spree provided the perfect reason to overhaul its supply chain practices and processes.
Pallets, Sustainability, Warehousing
Pallets Take the Spotlight
Before the advent of warehouse club stores, pallets were usually found behind the scenes. Now considered a crucial part of a systems approach to the supply chain, pallets are front and center in companies' sustainability strategies.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
We Must Learn to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruption from Disasters
While the speed with which the supply chain was disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic put supply chain weaknesses on display, it has also shined a light on where we need to strengthen our capabilities to mitigate future disruptions. Here are some areas the supply chain must address moving forward:
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Staying Productive in Unproductive Times
Rather than wait for the next man-caused disruption or pandemic, smart business managers are extracting knowledge from a forensic investigation of their operations based on COVID-19 stress and kicking bad practices to the curb.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Agility On Demand
When you combine consumer demand for deliveries at a breakneck pace, the historically tight labor market, and the unpredictability of the global trade landscape, e-commerce businesses must be just as fast as they are flexible to succeed today’s market.
Distribution, Finance, Manufacturing
Distributors, Shippers Eye Surcharging to Stay Afloat Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
Accepting credit cards can be a major differentiator for businesses, enabling customers to pay however is most convenient for them. To balance this need with the necessity of maintaining margins, consider credit card surcharging.
3PLs Flex Their Tech Muscle
Increasing visibility, flexibility, and accuracy, these technological tools enable 3PLs to more effectively move, store, and fulfill shippers’ orders—even during supply chain disruptions.
Risk Management, Technology , Warehousing
How IoT Can Optimize Overwhelmed Supply Chains
With more and more brick-and-mortar shops temporarily closing their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s immense pressure on retailers to deliver much-needed supplies to individuals at home. The Internet of Things (IoT) can help mitigate this risk and ensure supply chains operate as swiftly as possible.
E-commerce, Global Economy, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Flexing Muscle on China Trade Compliance
Inbound Logistics publisher Keith Biondo discusses whether e-commerce shipment enforcement will ensure that China complies with Phase 1 of the U.S.-China trade deal signed in January 2020.
Green Logistics, Materials Handling, Sustainability
Cultivating Raw Talent
Stephanie Benedetto, co-founder and CEO of Queen of Raw, created a blockchain-enabled marketplace for unused materials that empowers people, fosters profit, and protects the planet.
Green Logistics, Distribution, Technology
Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief
Take a look at notable good works, green projects, acquisitions, and more from February 2020.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Map Mishaps Throw Last-Mile Drivers Off Course
Almost all last-mile delivery drivers say they would be more effective if their maps were more accurate—this includes better meeting delivery windows and fewer parking tickets.
3PL, Distribution, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | What Supply Chain Terms Do People Sometimes Confuse?
We asked and you answered—these are the supply chain terms and phrases that you think people often confuse.
Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Robot Return Ratios
Using robots to clearly monitor and better match demand to supply pays huge dividends.
Automotive Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation
Transporting Cars: RoRo or Containers
Using containerization in place of the traditional roll-on roll-off, or Ro-Ro, transport style has many advantages to the driver, the automotive supplier and the consumer.
Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail
Coronavirus Precautions
Manufacturers with primary and sub-tier suppliers near Wuhan, China, can use these five guidelines to plan ahead for any COVID-19 impact.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Crossing the Final-Mile Finish Line
E-commerce revenue in 2020 will reach $3.52 trillion—this explosion is forcing retailers to find faster and more convenient modes to reach the final mile.
Big Data, Retail, Sustainability, Warehousing
Supply Chain Predictions 2020
Industry leaders look to the future, offering advice and strategies to help you successfully navigate the year ahead.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Navigating Amazon's Move into Freight
Amazon's launching of a full-service freight brokerage has a number of implications for supply chain professionals—some obvious and some not so clear.
Third-Party Logistics, Materials Handling, Real Estate
Turning Fixed Logistics Costs Into Variable Costs via Outsourcing
Variable costs offer an ideal way for many shippers to keep money in their proverbial pocket. Fixed costs can be converted to variable costs by enlisting a third-party logistics (3PL) provider.
Inventory Management, Sourcing/Negotiations, Materials Handling
Applying Lean Thinking to Procurement
Here’s how to integrate demand and supply initiatives and techniques into your procurement strategies.
Health Care Logistics, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Conquering Overflow Leads to a Long-Term Partnership
Read how Suddath secured a long-term partnership with medical device manufacturer after managing its overflow product through warehouse management and value-added services.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation
Winning Moves for the Last Mile
Take a look at the strategies that retailers and their service partners use to improve last-mile delivery for direct-to-consumer sales.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
What if General George Patton was Walmart’s CEO?
General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.
Food Logistics, Demand Planning, Inventory Management
Hunger Games: Managing Food Logistics Challenges When Demand Spikes
When consumers are ravenous for a trendy food or beverage, whether an unexpected, one-time jump or a seasonal occurrence, supply chain professionals can meet demand and boost sales by leveraging analytics to more accurately forecast demand shifts and working closely with business partners to expand capacity.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
What's the Word?
The hot supply chain words or phrases for the coming year and the concepts behind them.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Paper
As a result of recent trends in customer preferences, demand for printing and writing paper continues to drop. Over the past decade, production of printing and writing papers has declined by 6% annually.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Transportation
Urban Logistics
Where the e-commerce boom intersects with urban centers, logisticians get street—and space—smart.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Halloween: A Scary Supply Chain
A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Warehousing
Optimizing the Last Mile
Doing the final mile correctly leads to repeat business and loyal customers, but last mile processes involve more than just a truck and driver.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
Economic Development, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Warehousing
The State of Logistics
CSCMP's annual State of Logistics Report presents an overview of the economy during the past year, key logistics trends, and the total U.S. logistics costs for 2018 (see chart). Here are some top takeaways.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Supply Chain
Building Brand Love
Supply chain efficiencies can support brand strategies in key ways.
E-commerce, Distribution, Technology
Best Buy's Shiny, New Supply Chain Strategy for the Holiday Season
Best Buy made its list and checked it twice, and it's ready to take on the holiday season with a new and improved supply chain.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain
Enabling Faster Distribution in the Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical Industry - MD Logistics
New facilities in Indianapolis and Reno enable 3PL MD Logistics to support faster time to market for its life sciences and pharmaceutical customers.
Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
How SMB Warehouses Can Ramp Up Agility
Since barcode labels play essential roles in supply chain operations, making the most of advanced mobile printers and strategically located stationary printers can help small and medium-size businesses strengthen their competitive edge.
Retail, Supply Chain, Sustainability
Green Supply Chains: Sustainability Sells
This article looks at three companies that aim for environmental sustainability in their operations. It examines their “green” practices and also considers the financial impact of those activities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology
Achieving Transportation and Logistics Success in the On-demand Age
With heightened consumer demand for rapid delivery showing no sign of slowing, companies and their transportation partners are under immense pressure to produce an unprecedented amount of consumer goods, while at the same time deliver positive shopping experiences.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Warehousing
Meeting Your Retailer's Expectations
A leading CPG company uses Hub Group’s consolidation expertise to eliminate cost and improve service.
Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS
Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.
The Bot Revolution: 3PLs Go High-Tech to Streamline Warehouse Operations
3PL executives charged with making their company’s operations more efficient and cost-effective to the associates on the floor who pick the orders, all are singing the praises of the ‘bot revolution.’
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Bringing Logistics In-House
Without an in-house delivery option, enterprises are often held back if they rely on external providers. Even if the third party helps them increase their sales volumes, they can end up being order rich but money and data poor. To provide an answer to these questions, enterprises need a platform that allows them to manage an in-house delivery service, while flexibly deploying third-party solutions as needed.
Retail, Supply Chain, Visibility
A Good Night's Rest With Peace of Mind
Boll & Branch promises full comfort with zero chemicals.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
The Leader of the Pack
Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
CPG Success: Top-Shelf Solutions
Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are among those most impacted by the proliferation of delivery channels over the past several years. To succeed in this changing marketplace, successful CGP businesses are refining factory operations and developing new distribution and transportation models.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Setting Up Shop
This story examines some of the new models for e-commerce fulfillment that retailers are using today, particularly ones that involve the use of physical stores.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
When Worlds Collide
Online retailers are winning in the market with all types of consumers, even in manufacturing industrial products.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution
A New Argument for Pool Distribution as More Specialty E-Retailers Set Up Shop
Pool distribution is one strategy that’s getting a second wind in the face of intensifying e-commerce pressure and the changing face of America’s malls.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Today's Technology, Tomorrow's Demand
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Mark Bakker: Change Agent
A profile of Mark Bakker, head of supply chain operations, Americas, with HP Inc.
Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Supply Chain Automation Surges
Supply chain automation is gaining ground, particularly in warehousing and middle- and last-mile logistics.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology
Automated EDI Brings Benefits as Far as Eyebobs Can See
A direct, automated EDI connection between its ERP system and retail partners gives eyebobs 20/20 visibility to its omnichannel orders.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions - Verst Logistics
Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Finding Capacity and Savings In a Dynamic Market - Hub Group
Hub Group generated savings and efficiency for a leading national retailer.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Mobile Warehousing & Storage: The Warehouse Manager's Secret Weapon - Milestone
To improve warehouse utilization and efficiency, dry van trailers can be a cost-effective solution, allowing manufacturers, retailers and distributors to rapidly (in 24 to 48 hours) flex up their warehouse space on a month-to-month basis and at costs savings of 50% over traditional warehouse space.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Maximizing Global E-Commerce Profits
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Disrupting the Future of Grocery Retailing
What’s needed is a new retail model for grocery shopping.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Game Has Changed—Time for a New Playbook - Transportation Insight, LLC
Shippers need a playbook that charts a strategy for obtaining better operational understanding while improving processes that most directly affect customer satisfaction.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Today's Warehouse: Armed For Speed
More warehouses are moving “eaches” as well as traditional pallet orders, and facing ever-increasing demands for speed. To manage the diverse product flows in a timely manner, shippers are bringing different technologies to their warehouses, including robotics and robust warehouse management systems. They’re also supplementing mammoth warehouses with smaller “micro-centers” that they can locate closer to population centers.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Warehousing
Driver Shortage or Lack of Innovation?
Here are a few ways to think differently about the truck driver shortage to make the industry more efficient and technology friendly.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers
A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.
Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Accuracy and Time Savings Through AI-Driven Forecasting
AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Technology , Warehousing
Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Lifts Growth Projections
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Walgreens Launches Home Delivery Program for Prescriptions
Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics, Technology
Holiday Shipping Guidance for 2018: Analyzing FedEx 2017 Holiday Ship-By Dates
To better understand when shippers should send their packages during the holiday season, GrandCanals, the market leader in analytics-driven fulfillment, is launching an AI-powered website at where companies can view holiday ship-by predictions for 2018, updated nightly. These predictions are determined by artificial intelligence and consider both historical and current shipping trends across the GrandCanals Delivery Performance tracking network.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Growth in the Line of Beauty
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season
According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.
Expedited Shipping, Logistics, Transportation Management, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
Benefits of New Mobile Weighing Technologies
Mobile weighing technologies meet the emerging “need for speed” trend by providing a means of weighment at the point of loading and unloading. They do this while at the same time immediately communicating a wealth of specific business and logistical data, eliminating inefficient traffic patterns, and improving safety by reducing traffic congestion.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What's Ahead for Retail Technology? Ask the Crystal Ball
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Scorecards: A Tool for the Times
There’s a lot of interest in the industry right now regarding advanced technologies like blockchain and AI and the benefits they could bring to logistics operations – and with good reason. But, for all the promise these appear to hold, there are proven enhancement-focused tools already available – in particular, scorecards – that supply chain managers should take full advantage right now to ensure optimized performance across all supply chain functions.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Retailers Plug Into AI
Nearly two-thirds of retail supply chain professionals struggle with disconnects between systems, finds Symphony RetailAI's Strengthening the Retail Supply Chain survey of North American retailers.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hone for the Holidays
Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Rethink Fulfillment During Peak Season
Peak season is a great opportunity to determine where your warehouse priorities should lie. Here are the biggest stories to watch this holiday season.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shipping and Delivery: How to Get it Right
Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain
Store Delivery Keeps Retailers in the Game
The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returning Experience
The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Will Airbnb for Warehouses Take Off?
On-demand services are becoming so much a part of our daily lives that millennials can't imagine a world before Uber or Postmates. Now, on-demand service is becoming a reality in the logistics real estate sector.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returns in the E-Commerce Retail Supply Chain - MD Logistics
In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Overcoming Omni-channel Challenges in Retail - Crane Worldwide Logistics
Supply chains should allocate product across today's complex omni-channel networks to fulfill customer demand.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Footwear Chain Steps Up E-Commerce Efficiency
Independent footwear chain Browns Shoes reduced order lead time and more quickly filled e-commerce orders with an order management system.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain
Product Spotlight: Materials Handling Innovations
Here are the latest materials handling technologies.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Supply Chains in 2018: Millennial Consumers Most Concerned With Speed and Affordability of Deliveries
The e-commerce space is evolving quickly, and retailers must take care to consider consumers' shifting expectations, especially when dealing with younger shoppers.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Footwear E-Tailers: Shoe Me The Money
As e-commerce continues to grow, footwear brands and retailers benefit from continually increasing sales. The challenge for e-tailers is to be profitable while dealing with fickle consumer tastes and product seasonality, a high return rate and large number of SKUs, and packaging that’s larger and bulkier than its parent category, apparel.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Are You Ready for Omnichannel Retail?
While many challenges arise from an omnichannel retail strategy, supply chain professionals must rise to the occasion and stay ahead of these changes.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Fulfillment Makeover Reveals A Glowing Supply Chain
Faced with rapidly-accelerating demand for its products, skin care company Rodan + Fields, an e-commerce merchant, chooses a distribution solution that includes a new location and automation.
Demand Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Managing Warehousing Requirements During Peak Periods (Without Committing to Long-term Contracts) - Capacity, LLC
Warehouses should use these techniques to maintain service level agreements—the guaranteed turnaround time for an order to go out—during peak demand periods.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
5 Ways Warehousing is Going Green
5 Ways Warehousing is Going Green
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Full-Service Fulfillment Solution Helps E-commerce Company Deliver - Saddle Creek
Saddle Creek helped allheart get orders out quickly, control costs, and keep up with demand spikes.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
GOOD QUESTION | What’s the first thing you would do to solve the warehouse labor shortage?
Readers discuss ways to solve the warehouse labor shortage.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Reinventing Your Warehouse or DC
Here are some warehouse operations moves—some small steps, some not—companies can do to boost their bottom lines and improve customer satisfaction, including layout and organization, docking, picking and receiving, fulfillment, and packaging.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Product Spotlight: Warehouse Workhorses
Spotlight on efficiency-boosting products for warehouses and distribution centers.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
2018 Business Trends: For Better, For Worse
Investing in new and improved information technology and robotic process automation (RPA), talent shortages, and trade protectionism are predicted to be the top trends in service delivery for 2018 and the next several years, according to the latest quarterly KPMG Global Insights Pulse survey.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Competing With E-Commerce Giants
Despite the highly competitive environment, it’s possible to compete with e-commerce giants. It just takes creativity, a strong, optimized supply chain and, of course, excellent customer service.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Strategy and E-Commerce Success - Unyson
Here are the six most important elements to consider when creating an item-specific supply chain strategy.
E-commerce, Logistics, Ports, Supply Chain
Imports, E-Commerce Drive Industrial Real Estate Demand
Seaports are a vital economic engine for the United States and a huge driver of demand for industrial real estate. Imports represented 63 percent of the total loaded cargo volume in 2017 for the top 13 ports in the United States.
Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Ports, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Warehousing
Georgia: Pathways to Progress
In the logistics sphere, Georgia offers every important road—as well as air and sea route—to success.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Trends
E-commerce is an increasingly powerful engine for growth, and offers the best opportunities for small and mid-sized businesses, according to research conducted by DHL.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-Commerce: Cultivating a New Logistics Landscape
E-commerce continues to mow down traditional business practices. To adapt, companies serving manufacturing, industrial, and retail customers are seeding their portfolios with new services, and not letting any grass grow under their feet.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
New Floor & Decor Facility
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
The Human Experience
In the rush to satisfy ever-increasing demands for speed and efficiency, and the clarion calls to deliver your best customer experience, supply chain managers need to consider that impact on the worker experience.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Fashion Icon Designs Supply Chain Solution
With its distribution center approaching capacity, Michael Kors had several options to consider, including one that would expand the existing facility. The fashion company turned to supply chain software company LLamasoft for help evaluating possible solutions. The collaboration also led to Michael Kors developing a core supply chain decision-making capability as well as systems it could use for other purposes.
Fulfillment, Technology , Warehousing
Supply Chain Commentary: Picking a Robot for Your Warehouse
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, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Supply Chain Impatience: No Time To Wait
Artificial intelligence, hidden cameras, robots—These are not part of a new movie, but reflect daily life in a "hurry up" world of impatient consumers. Read how supply chains are adapting to serve a market increasingly driven by e-commerce and Amazon-like business models.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shopper Expectations Outpace Retail Investments
Key findings from the 2017 Global Shopper Study
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Acquiring Shipt Will Bring Target Shoppers Same-Day Delivery
Target acquired same-day delivery company Shipt.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
E-Commerce Warehouses: SuperSize Me
E-commerce has driven a more than doubling of the average footprint of warehouses built in the United States since the early 2000s.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain
Status Quo? No.
Status quo will not be the norm in 2018 as major and minor changes are brewing in business operations.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Collaboration: Myth or Reality?
Supply chain collaboration (SCC) is vital for companies to make critical decisions quickly and outpace the competition. But, are the key concepts of collaboration a current reality or a myth? This article breaks them down.
4PLs, Food Logistics, Transportation, Warehousing
Why Adherence to SQF Requirements Is Crucial to Supply Chain Integrity
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) finalized the Safe Quality Food (SQF) rule as part of the Food Safety Modernization Act in 2016. Even though SQF compliance isn’t federally mandated, the repercussions of failure to comply can be felt throughout the supply chain.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
CX in the Era of Supply Chain Impatience
Transportation, logistics, and supply chain play an increasingly pivotal role in providing excellent customer service.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands
The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Supply Chain Commentary: How to Reduce Supplier Inventory Costs
Many shippers rely on the Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN) in which the supplier alerts you of pending deliveries. You may see a product name, a PO#, and select dates, but the ASN does not contain the details that receiving or warehouse management needs. There is a better way.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Survey: Customers Place a High Priority on On-Time Holiday Shipping
Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Tim O’Brien: Exuding Star Power
Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Transportation
The Last Mile—History Repeating As Supply Managers Face Peak Season - Crane Worldwide Logistics
To prepare for this coming shopping season, supply chain managers need to engage key stakeholders to review current logistics operations and strategically assess whether or not they are prepared to meet existing consumer expectations.
E-commerce, Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Consumer Behavior: The Missing Link
Retailers and manufacturers can unlock significant competitive advantage by leveraging consumer insights to make category decisions and create localized merchandising assortments.
Humanitarian Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Calm After the Storms
FedEx and UPS set aside rivalry to lobby White House on infrastructure, Retailers will rely heavily on technologies such as live chat, Facebook Messenger and Amazon Alexa for customer service, according to new research from Linc and Brand Garage, Research shows that U.S. industry executives are most concerned about the impact of trade protectionism, risk management, and border adjustment tax proposal
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction
Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce
Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
Amazon Closes Whole Foods Acquisition: 3 Experts Weigh In
Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods Market closes today August 28, 2017. Find out what it means today and for retailers in the near future.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Reverse Logistics: Earning a High Rate of Return
Opportunities that will make a difference in reverse logistics programs, and establishing goals for returns programs.
Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Ports
Florida: Logistics & Distribution—The Future is Here
Florida's state-of-the-art seaports and airports, and strong highway and rail networks, have helped establish a strong and growing logistics sector.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans
Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon’s Prime Day: Primetime for Online Retailers to Get Logistics Lessons
Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
U.S./Canada Trade Remains Strong, With Plenty of Opportunity for Growth - Purolator
John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Warehousing
Reconstructing Supply Chains
Supply chain infrastructure is rebuilding itself, below the surface where only logisticians can see it.
Careers, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Visibility
Paul Nugent: Feed the Flow
Profile on Paul Nugent, director of logistics for Kitchen and Bath Americas with Kohler Co.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Thinking Inside the Unbox
Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Top 3 CEOs in the Transportation and Warehousing Industry
These companies have the most likeable CEOs in the transportation and warehousing industry, according to a new report from Owler.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
3 Main Sources of Supply Chain Complexity
Once you understand where the complexities lie in your supply chain, you can get to the source of your problem and streamline issues to help your organization.
Forklifts, Logistics, Supply Chain, Safety, Warehousing
5 Ways to Prevent Forklift Accidents
Forklift accidents have a devastating effect on warehouses – and they happen more often than you think. Use these five keys to prevent forklift accidents and promote warehouse safety.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend - Unyson
A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Apparel Logistics: Stepping Out in Style
This feature provides examines the supply chain challenges arising from some recent trends in the fashion industry, and looks at how brand owners and retailers are meeting those challenges.
Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Picking Solutions, Specialized Logistics, Technology
Super-fast Fulfillment
When it comes to ASAP, quick-thinking shippers redefine what's possible.
Big Data, Retail, Sustainability, Warehousing
Supply Chain Predictions 2020
Industry leaders look to the future, offering advice and strategies to help you successfully navigate the year ahead.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation
Winning Moves for the Last Mile
Take a look at the strategies that retailers and their service partners use to improve last-mile delivery for direct-to-consumer sales.
Manufacturing Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Implementing Industry 4.0 to Streamline Your Supply Chain
How beneficial will the fourth industrial revolution be for manufacturers? Adrian Burton, from Harrison Castings, explores three ways Industry 4.0 may help streamline your supply chain.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Ensuring Supply Chain Visibility
In today's increasingly omnichannel marketplace, good visibility is vital throughout the supply chain. Here's how to maintain optimal visibility at 10 key touchpoints.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Hidaka Forges Automated Inventory Solution
An unusually large customer order drives Hidaka to implement the Mobility Physical Inventory App from AIM Computer Solutions. Along with automating the inventory process, the solution provides accurate and timely information.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
159 Expert Tips to AMP Your Supply Chain
Get moving with these actionable tips to jolt your warehousing, transportation, and logistics operations.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Trends on the Horizon in 2019
The four trends that will have the greatest impact on operations in North America in the coming year, according to DHL Supply Chain.
E-commerce, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
When Logistics Worlds Collide: Fashion History Predicts Future of Pharma Fulfillment
Larry Hotz, of WDSrx - Woodfield Distribution, LLC, draws from his experiences in the fashion industry to predict the future of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Real Estate, Warehousing
How the E-commerce Warehouse Is Adapting to Life in the Big City
The goalposts in e-commerce fulfillment continue to move. Consumers routinely expect two-day or even next-day delivery, and same-day delivery is on the horizon.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Lori Fellmer Keeps It Moving
A profile of Lori Fellmer, vice president of logistics and carrier management with BassTech International.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Walgreens Launches Home Delivery Program for Prescriptions
Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics
How Shippers Can Relieve Consumers' Delivery Anxiety
Delivery anxiety is the anxiety consumers feel when they don’t know when they are going to receive their order or when shipping costs push the total order cost too high. Removing delivery anxiety, your single largest obstacle to converting orders, can result in an up to 20% increase in sales, happier customers, fewer calls to customer support, and an optimized delivery network.
Distribution, Logistics, Real Estate, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
How to Adapt an Aging Warehouse
When the time arrives to consider investing in additional space, many distribution centers, retailers and businesses dependent on warehouses face a dilemma: should the organization move to a new facility, build an addition, or try to retrofit an older warehouse? And, in the case of a retrofit or addition, what can be done to make an aging or existing warehouse space more suitable?
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season
According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hone for the Holidays
Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shipping and Delivery: How to Get it Right
Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.
Customer Service, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain
Tuning Into Supply Chain Orchestration
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Send It Back! How to Manage E-Commerce Returns
Up to 30 percent of e-commerce orders shipped to customers wind up coming back. Here's how smart retailers box up their reverse logistics strategies.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returning Experience
The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returns in the E-Commerce Retail Supply Chain - MD Logistics
In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.
Automotive Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Expertise, Strategic Warehousing Facilitates Unexpected Spike in Inbound Deliveries - Hollingsworth
Hollingsworth assisted a leading automotive manufacturer with an unexpected surge with strategic negotiations and savvy adjustments to inventory management.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Thinking Beyond Home Delivery - SEKO Logistics
Consumer expectations are becoming increasingly demanding, and matching supply to demand is crucial for any successful supply chain.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Reinventing Your Warehouse or DC
Here are some warehouse operations moves—some small steps, some not—companies can do to boost their bottom lines and improve customer satisfaction, including layout and organization, docking, picking and receiving, fulfillment, and packaging.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Product Spotlight: Warehouse Workhorses
Spotlight on efficiency-boosting products for warehouses and distribution centers.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
A Cool Supply Chain Solution
A 3PL's cold call leads to a cool technology solution that streamlines processes and minimizes service disruptions
Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain, Technology
Robots in the Supply Chain: The Perfect Employee?
Various uses of robots in the supply chain and the benefits those systems provide.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Efficiency: Packaging for the Automotive E-Commerce Era
To improve the bottom line and take advantage of the e-commerce automotive aftermarket sector’s rising popularity, OEMs should focus on the role packaging plays in supply chain efficiency.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
H&M Tries on Supply Chain Improvements
Retailer H&M will increase supply chain investments and continue cost control measures to address slow growth in 2017, and keep pace with e-commerce rivals.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Supply Chain Needs More Accurate Costing Information
Supply chain professionals need more accurate and effective cost information to help their decision-making.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
The Human Experience
In the rush to satisfy ever-increasing demands for speed and efficiency, and the clarion calls to deliver your best customer experience, supply chain managers need to consider that impact on the worker experience.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Truckload Carriers and E-commerce: Serving the Middle Mile
E-commerce is redrawing the landscape for freight transportation. Do truckload carriers have a place in this new world of high-velocity supply chains, especially as shipments get smaller and delivery windows shrink?
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
E-Commerce Warehouses: SuperSize Me
E-commerce has driven a more than doubling of the average footprint of warehouses built in the United States since the early 2000s.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
LTL Carriers: E-Commerce Powerhouse
As more consumers choose e-commerce for a variety of goods, how are less-than-truckload carriers being impacted? Trucking companies are developing new strategies to serve retailers and manufacturers creating the goods that impatient consumers expect fast and free.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary: Satisfying Customer Demand in a 365 E-Commerce Market
Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.
E-commerce, China, Automotive Logistics, Global Logistics
U.S.-Cuba Trade: Where Do Sanctions, Sourcing, and Compliance Meet?
U.S.-Cuba trade–The intersection of sanctions, sourcing and compliance; Chilean multinational logistics agency Agunsa has teamed up with Japanese shipping firm K-Line to form a dedicated automotive logistics company, KAR Logistics; UPS and SF Holding joint venture receives regulatory approval in China; Dubai introduces e-commerce center
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
How AR Can Take the Sting Out of Seasonal Surge Training Costs
Every holiday season, warehouses expand their workforces two times or more to handle peak retail demand that can make or break the entire year. Here’s how augmented reality can help.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
H.O.W. | How to Transform the Supply Chain for Omnichannel Retailing
Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain
Educating the Supply Chain - SMC³
Jump Start 2018 provides shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and other supply chain professionals with indispensable insights about trends and challenges in the wider logistics arena.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Top 6 Factors for Selecting and Implementing a WMS
Warehouse management systems provide organizations with a boost to their operations and help them keep up with the growing demands of their customers and partners. Still, implementing a WMS is a complex process that requires extensive planning, study and patience. Experts point to a number of key factors to consider when shopping for a system for your organization.
Lean Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Golf Ball Maker Hits Supply Chain Sweet Spot
With a pull instead of a push replenishment strategy, golf ball maker Acushnet increased supply chain efficiency.
E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability
How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability
Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
The Perfect Amount of Packaging
Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Distributors Step Up Their Game
Distributors continue to play a valuable role within many supply chains. At the same time, changing business models, and especially the rise of e-commerce, are prompting many to enhance the services they offer.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
Solved: Increasing Retail Presence - SEKO
When Dippin’ Dots needed more visibility in retail locations they teamed up with SEKO to get display freezers to market quickly.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Logistics, Supply Chain
An Inside Look at Freight-Based Development in Kansas City
CVS Pharmacy, Amazon, and others have invested more than $456 million in warehousing and distribution centers in the KC region, adding 4,700 jobs since 2015. How has this mid-sized Midwestern region been so successful attracting logistics operations? Why are experts predicting continued growth?
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
U.S./Canada Trade Remains Strong, With Plenty of Opportunity for Growth - Purolator
John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Commentary: Wearable Technology Set to Permeate the Supply Chain Workforce
Think of wearable technology as consumer facing? Think again. Wearables one-up handheld devices and have real supply chain implications.
E-commerce, Logistics, Partnership, Packaging, Supply Chain
New Packaging Innovation Center
UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Uniformed Booking Platform Improves Vendor Compliance
A retailer needed to bring suppliers together and optimize processes so they teamed up with Unyson for a solution.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Jennifer Daniel: Mastering the Art of Logistics
A profile of Jennifer Daniel, head of global logistics for Redbubble, an online marketplace that connects independent artists of graphic design, fine art, or photography with customers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Minimize Returns While Improving Sales
Minimizing costs and even making a profit in reverse logistics is critical to an e-commerce company’s health. Here are some ways to do that.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers
A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Remains the “Next Big Thing”
Symphony RetailAI, and CPG manufacturers, announced the findings of a benchmark report. The fourth annual study, conducted by Retail Systems Research (RSR) and sponsored by Symphony RetailAI, shows enhanced efficiencies from previous years, but clear room for improvement in fulfillment strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory accuracy and visibility.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain
Store Delivery Keeps Retailers in the Game
The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
Inventory Management, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Supply Chain Productivity Boosters: Three Technologies Making Maximum Impact
No hype here. These three technological innovations are already enhancing effectiveness, lowering operational costs, and increasing customer satisfaction in supply chain management.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Want to Run a More Successful 3PL? Learn from the Best. - 3PL Central
Warehouses who use this philosophy to create disciplined, rigorous strategies were able to achieve superior results.
E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Accelerate Breakthrough by Helping Human Experts - Transportation Insight
While machine learning and predictive intelligence will shape this era, creative companies which value collaboration, human expertise and servant leadership can change the game.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Ways Your 3PL Can Help Meet E-commerce Challenges
A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction
Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability
How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability
Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
Distribution, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Keeping Your DC in Peak Shape:
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Getting a distribution center in shape for a high-volume holiday or seasonal period requires advance planning to make sure all systems work, the facility is properly staffed, and temporary workers are properly trained. Inbound Logistics asked the experts for their holiday preparation advice; they provided these seven commandments that will light the way.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans
Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
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