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Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Designing a New Strategy for a New Year
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
3PL, 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.
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.
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, 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, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Diving Into Multi-Channel Fulfillment
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
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.
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.
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).
Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
E-fulfillment: Finding the Perfect Fit
Online haberdasher Bonobos relies on its third-party fulfillment partner, Quiet Logistics, which operates warehousing facilities with Kiva's robotics materials handling solution.
E-commerce, 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, 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.
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, 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.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Trucking, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Leading by Example and Empowerment
Profile of Marc Althen, president, Penske Logistics
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.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
How to Succeed With a Supply Chain Technological Rollout
When considering, procuring, and implementing new logistics/supply chain technology, here are three steps to take to ensure a smooth rollout.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Terri Anderson: Care and Feeding of the WMS
Terri Anderson, production warehouse management systems analyst at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, configures, enhances, and tests the company's WMS by the book.
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?
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, 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.
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.
Cloud Computing, Demand Planning, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
Inbound Logistics’ annual Logistics Technology Perspectives offers market research to help IT buyers and users make better sense of what’s going on in the industry. And, the Top 100 Logistics Technology Providers list celebrates best-in-class innovators that are helping shippers revolutionize their supply chains.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
On Your Mark, Headset, Go!
To increase fulfillment efficiency and order picking accuracy, eBay Enterprise gives its warehouse a voice.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Is Your Warehouse Software Holding You Back?
New software helps warehouse operators keep up with the real-time demands of omni-channel fulfillment.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Five Key Questions to Ask a Vendor Before Buying Supply Chain Software
Five key questions to ask a software vendor to make sure they are the right fit for your operation.
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, 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Empowering Companies Through Integrated Data Flows
An integrated warehouse management system improves data flow, efficiency, and accuracy, reducing operational costs.
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.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Taking a Smarter Approach to WMS RFPs
Create your WMS RFP with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of potential suppliers.
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.
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.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Leveraging Big Data
Analyzing supply chain data allows shippers to improve their logistics operations.
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.
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.
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
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, 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.
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.
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.
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, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
DSW Tries On New SKUs and Stocks
Retailer DSW's new replenishment materials handling solution improves inventory control and reduces in-store markdowns.
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.
Retailers Try I.T. On for Size
As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.
Bringing Supply Chain Visibility to the Last Frontier
A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics I.T.
The Three Pillars of Effective Returns Management
Software solutions can help shippers maximize value recovery from inbound shipments of returned material, writes Tamara Dwyer of TAKE Solutions.
Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing
Retailers who succeed at integrating their inventory intelligence can cut costs, accelerate turns, and build revenue by driving high-fidelity information back into the supply chain, aligning it with shopper demand, write Tyco Retail Solutions’ Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
CSCMP Annual Conference: Can We Talk?
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
Distribution, 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.
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.
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.
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, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Responds
To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation
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.
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.
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.
3PL, Freight Forwarders, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Improve 3PL Warehouse Order Growth by 300% with the Right WMS
Learn how 3PL Central's warehouse management solutions helped Woodland Group become an "invisible" partner for its customers while growing their businesses.
Big Data, Inventory Management, Technology
Drone Technology Improves Warehouse Performance
An innovative drone-based technology solution enables Romark Logistics to automate pallet counts and offer inventory analytics and insights to its customers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
3 Ways Retailers Can Get on the Fast Track to Digital Transformation
Retailers can use these three practical tips to successfully execute their digital transformation: Make digital moves your strategy centerpiece, connect systems to please customers, and enable a touchless experience.
Health Care Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
What COVID-19 supply chain pivot impressed you the most? Why?
Shippers around the globe pivoted their business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic—these are the innovative pivots that impressed supply chain leaders the most.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19
Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.
Retail Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail
Tailoring Apparel Supply Chains for the Future
Apparel brands and retailers can use the COVID-19 crisis to take stock of existing business models and create more stable and sustainable supply chains for the future.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Retailers: It's Time to Act
While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Pet Industry
Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.
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.
The High Cost of Invisibility
Supply chain visibility is one of the key drivers to a company’s success, yet still remains a top challenge.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T.
2020 Logistics IT Market Research Survey
To help logistics professionals plan for the future, Inbound Logistics conducts an annual survey of logistics technology providers. Assembling data on current logistics IT trends, we paint a picture of the capabilities available today and the technology investments shippers are making to gain a competitive edge.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T.
2020 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers
Our annual Inbound Logistics Top 100 Logistics IT Providers list is a guide of the leading logistics IT solutions providers in the market in 2020. Next time you're ready to add to your company's logistics IT tools, you'll find our guide an invaluable resource.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
SPOTLIGHT | Technology Innovations
Take a look at the latest innovations enabling supply chain stakeholders to achieve instant booking, seamless collaboration, and increased visibility.
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.
Big Data, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T.
You Have a Data Problem. Here’s What to Do About It.
In order to make 2020 better than years past, shippers must make this New Year’s resolution: Get the data right before the product leaves the dock.
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.
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, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain
The Logistics of Liquidation
This story looks at the logistics of managing good through the reverse logistics and liquidation process. The goal is to recover as much value as possible from returned or unsold goods, and to keep product out of landfills.
E-commerce, 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.
VERTICAL FOCUS | Apparel
Take a look at some of the latest developments in the apparel industry.
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.
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.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Supply Chain
What to Look For When Taking Stock of an Inventory Management System
Retail Logistics, Retail, Warehousing
Meeting Your Retailer's Expectations
A leading CPG company uses Hub Group’s consolidation expertise to eliminate cost and improve service.
Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
Your Next Walmart Run: Don't Forget the AI
A Walmart Neighborhood Market in Levittown, New York, featuring artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, interactive displays, and a massive data center is the retailer's new Intelligent Retail Lab (IRL).
Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS
Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
Identifying the Role of Technology in Managed Transportation Services - Transplace
To navigate an increasingly challenging supply chain landscape, shippers must have an optimal mix of managed services, strategic consulting and technology, such as real-time visibility solutions, machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Supply Chain Management
HyperX Game Plan: Win at Demand Planning and Replenishment
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
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.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
IT Gap? 3PLs Close the Loop
Today, many 3PLs provide the technology solutions and expertise shippers need to manage increasingly complicated customer relationships.
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.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Retail
The latest news and trends impacting the retail supply chain
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain
Retail Combats a $351-Billion Problem
Despite growing concerns, many retailers see free and flexible return policies as an essential part of staying competitive.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
News & Trends Impacting the Luxury Goods Supply Chain
Top trends impacting the travel and hospitality supply chain
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.
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.
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, 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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Systems Have Changed Dramatically. Your Buying Process Should Too.
At its core, a TMS is charged with moving an order through your system and settling it in the most efficient and cost-effective way. Regardless of your specific needs, today’s challenges require a new approach for evaluating which TMS is best for your organization.
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.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Reaching a Point of No Returns
Retailers around the world are slacking in the returns department.
Logistics I.T., Technology , Visibility
Visibility Fills the - Amber Road
Shipment-level visibility is just step one. Decisions, at any stage of the product life cycle, can have a direct impact on the cost and on the time it takes for goods to be sold and delivered.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
IBM: Working on the Blockchain Gang
IBM builds proof-of-concept blockchain supply chain network in Singapore; U.S. fashion industry association releases fourth fashion industry benchmarking study; E-commerce retailers target Germany
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Next-Generation TMS Can Move Your Organization Into the Future - Transplace
In order to drive sustainable, impactful change within your organization, it’s important to have the tools and expertise to turn data into actionable business intelligence.
Careers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
BluJay Solutions CEO Doug Braun:
Leading with Compassion and Conviction
Profile of Doug Braun, CEO of BluJay Solutions
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.
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security, Technology
Is Ransomware Holding Global Trade Hostage? Here’s How to Safeguard Your Supply Chain
The logistics sector’s reliance on relationships, email, and spreadsheet attachments makes it particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks. And the costs are staggering. Find out what shippers can do to make communications more secure.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
It Happens Automagically
Whether your company is a manufacturer, retailer, distributor, or in e-commerce, the future is happening now, automagically. IL publisher Keith Biondo explores IoT and the Internet of Everything.
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Solved: A Consolidated Fulfillment Solution With Global Visibility - SEKO
Sphere 3D turned to SEKO for global visibility and reduced logistics and warehousing costs.
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.
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.
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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Steps to Preventing Brand Damage When Your Product Fails
With the proper planning and systems in place, a recall can be managed effectively to mitigate financial and legal risk, as well as prevent irreparable brand damage.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Customized Solution Helps Retailer Find Savings and Visibility - Unyson
A home goods retailer partnered with Unyson to increase efficiency and enhance visibility.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Sofa So Good: Software Upgrade Bolsters Furniture Company’s Growth
Furniture retailer upgrades its warehouse management system to furnish growth.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, 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, 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, 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.
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, 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.
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, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Management: It’s IoT Time
This story looks at several ways in which companies are applying Internet of Things (IoT) technology to supply chain management.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
Inbound Logistics surveys the market to determine the latest logistics technology trends and chooses 100 IT providers that are leading the way.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
We’ve Been Together for 35 Years
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton marks a 35-year career anniversary with a look back at how technology changed supply management forever.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Turn to Technology to Attract the Next Generation of Workers
The supply chain is creating more jobs than it can fill. Here's why companies should use technology to change people's perceptions of the field.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Trends—March 2017
Freight railroads frustrated by lack of federal funding to bolster private initiatives; trucking industry posts fifth straight month of driver employment growth after a three month year-on-year decline; Warehouse Management System market to garner $3.112 million globally by 2022, supply chain professionals point to cyber security and changing trade regulations as top concerns in 2017.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
7 Ways to Digitally Transform Your Supply Chain
Data integration across systems can help optimize the supply chain and enable organizations to provide their customers with the best possible service from order to delivery.
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.
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, 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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
The Back & Forth of Reverse Logistics
Companies that have reverse logistics processes and systems in place to capture all the value possible can beat competitors coming and going.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply Chain Analytics: Creating Value from Data with Machine Learning
From item-level inventory data and GPS to condition monitoring and signals from social media, new data sources are augmenting available supply chain data. Find out how to extract value from this influx of information.
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.
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.
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.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
GOOD QUESTION | What disruptive innovation will have the greatest impact on the supply chain?
Readers weigh in and pick the disruptive innovation that will rock supply chains.
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
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain
To Boost Shipment Productivity, Look to the Cloud
Deploying a cloud-based shipment execution system can promote a healthier ecosystem within the company, reduce costs, and pay big dividends via customer satisfaction.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Tips for First-time TMS Buyers
As a first-time TMS buyer, educate yourself on what a modern TMS can do – and come to the table with high expectations.
Global Trade Management, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Technology , Transportation, Visibility
Stop the Free-Flowing Expenses of Demurrage and Detention
Effectively mitigate demurrage and detention fees by taking an integrated approach to logistics, contract management, and supply chain visibility using a global trade management system.
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.
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.
E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Using Tunnel Scanning to Meet
E-commerce Challenges
Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Retail Logistics: When Fast Isn't Fast Enough
This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Working at People Speed
Instantaneous, insatiable customer need runs the risk of forcing people out of the equation. But some logistics challenges can only be met by people working at ‘people speed.’
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Readers weigh in on the August question: Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Prepping Your DC for Peak Season
Use this advice to get your distribution center prepared before holiday orders come rolling in.
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.
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.
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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Dialing In to the Secondhand Smartphone Market
Success in the secondhand phone market requires the ability to spot and adapt quickly to market trends. The right supply chain partners can help maximize earnings and navigate the uncertain terrain ahead.
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, 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.
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.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
How Real-Time Information Can Transform Your Supply Chain
Enhancing supply chains with real-time visibility gives shippers the insight and details needed to operate quickly, accurately, and more effectively than ever before.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Enterprise Technology Freight Train Finally Reaches Logistics Sector
Increased funding, bigger ideas, and changing mindsets are setting the stage for the explosive growth of enterprise technology in the logistics sector.
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.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Transportation
Three Key Points to Communicate to Become Your Customers’ Dream Provider
Communication and transparency are key to being a good partner to your clients. Use this advice to effectively communicate with customers.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Customized and Integrated to Create One Strategic Logistics Platform
A customized and strategic platform provides a company with a competitive edge over their competition.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology , Transportation
Avoid Pricing Pitfalls When Selecting a Logistics IT Solution
One of the common gripes voiced by organizations implementing logistics IT solutions is that the solution ends up costing more than expected. Use this advice when looking at prospective providers.
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.
Bar-coding Systems, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Packaging, Supply Chain
Enterprise Labeling for a Connected, Flexible, and Efficient Supply Chain
Companies are beginning to understand that they need to develop a labeling strategy to meet all of the challenges of today’s global supply chain. Here's how to implement an enterprise labeling approach.
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.
Reverse Logistics, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain
Saving Green While Going Green
Supply chain sustainability, while good for the environment, can also be good for the bottom line if incorporated into a company’s supply chain strategy.
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology
What Is Your Fleet Trying to Tell You?
Evolving technologies such as data warehousing, in-memory architecture, and data visualization are helping unlock fleet insights.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Leverage Dashboard Technology to Improve Decision-Making Capabilities
For logistics professionals, data is meaningless without context. Dashboards help provide context and enhance decision-making capabilities.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation
Getting Fleets Mobile Ready
Asking the right questions as you begin the evaluation and purchase process is a step in the right direction to help get your fleet mobile ready.
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.
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.
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.
Distribution, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse Automation: The Next Generation
Investments in pick/put-to-light technology, wearables, robotic AGVs, high-speed conveyors, voice-directed picking, and a warehouse control system equate to an automated, smart, and efficient distribution center.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
IoT in the Supply Chain
As the world becomes increasingly connected via the Internet of Things (IoT), the amount of data being created and shared is skyrocketing. Your supply chain will be profoundly affected.
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.
Buildings and Structures, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Future Is Now: Strategic Technology Thinking for Shipping and Logistics Facility Managers
Forward-thinking shipping and logistics facility management (FM) professionals turn to next-generation FM software to efficiently manage their facilities.
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.
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
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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
IT Asset Disposition Is the Future of Reverse Logistics
As the need for the transportation of items with potentially sensitive data increases, companies must assess the data risks and work with an ITAD provider to deliver a secure chain of custody process flow.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—August 2015
3PLs tout IoT as top disruptive innovation in the supply chain; Hyundai and Accenture team up to design smarter ship; TMS use has tripled over the past decade; new sustainability web platform helps shippers assess key trends and best practices.
E-commerce, 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.
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.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Global Trade Management, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports
How to Make Ship Arrival Analytics and Predictions More Precise
Automatic Identification System (AIS) can provide analytics that enable companies to more accurately predict ship arrival times.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Reducing Supply Chain Risk by Outsourcing Technology
When downtime impacts a company’s line, outsourcing technology infrastructure to a third party might help.
Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
How to Wirelessly Enable Your Supply Chain
Companies are increasingly using M2M to maximize operational efficiency, minimize loss and theft, and better serve their customers.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management
Working With the Right Enterprise Logistics Provider Makes Good Companies Significantly Better
An Enterprise Logistics partnership helps improve companies by delivering customized applications to improve market advantage.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Benchmarking Transportation Processes With TMS Data
Using the data the TMS is already providing can help shippers improve their transport operations.
Big Data, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Shape of ‘Things’ to Come
The Internet of Things is bringing major changes to the way companies plan and execute supply chain activities as sensors, communications systems, and analytics solutions all become cheaper, faster, and more capable.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Visibility: Chasing the Big Picture
As technology brings supply chain data into focus, the ability to access and interpret business information moves from nice-to-have to must-have.
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.
NFL Intercepts Challenges, Tackles Data Collection
To deliver more information to the fans, the NFL turned to a logistics technology provider for help.
What Customers Expect in the E-Commerce Age
Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Ditch the Spreadsheet and Grow Your Business with Quality Data
To grow and evolve, shippers of all sizes need the high-quality data provided by modern technologies.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Top Universities for Supply Chain Technology Education
A new study determines the top 15 undergraduate and graduate supply chain management programs in the United States, based on the teaching of technology, software, and quantitative tools used by supply chain professionals, as well as the variety and depth of this coursework.
Customer Service, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Improving Shipper/Carrier Relationships
To help save money, shippers should build a strong relationship with their LTL carrier.
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.
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.
Intermodal, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Maximizing Intermodal Efficiency
To drive efficiency, intermodal stakeholders need to fit their processes together.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Tracking Isn’t Just Tracking Anymore
Fleet management platforms represent the evolution of location information.
Big Data, Lean, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Next Frontier of Supply Chain Innovation: Analytics, LEAN and the Power of Big Data
The confluence of faster data access, better analytical tools, and data-driven business decisions, make it more likely that future supply chain optimization will be continuous.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
3PLs Put Technology Front and Center
This story looks at the role technology plays in the value that various third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer to their shipper customers.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Offshore vs. Outsource for Transportation & Logistics
Many transportation and logistics professionals hear outsourcing and think offshoring, but there is a big difference.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Using Technology to Maximize Value Chain Partnerships
Providing technology solutions helps third-party logistics providers stand out from competitors and adds value to their services.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Improving Operations With a Yard Management System
A yard management system allows greater visibility with key yard information at a glance, and reporting metrics to improve the operation and save money.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Jim Young: Sourcing for a Startup
Jim Young, senior supply chain manager at Applied Microstructures, Inc., is responsible for everything from sourcing materials and services to shipping finished products
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.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Unlocking the Hidden Green Value in Mobile Devices
A good reverse logistics program offers mobile device retailers and OEMs a world of opportunity.
E-commerce, 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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Protecting Your Brand With Product Lifecycle Management
Product Lifecycle Management software produces metrics that can help business make sure they are using ethical vendors.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Improving Your Fleet With Telematics
Telematics technology can bring improved operational visibility to fleet management.
Inventory Management, Warehousing
How to Make Physical Inventory Counts Less Stressful
Implementing a cycle-counting program makes physical inventory counts a lot less daunting.
Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—January 2015
Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Changing Regulations Regarding Shipping Lithium Batteries Present Unique Hazards for Shippers, Carriers and Receivers
Shippers, carriers, manufacturers – everyone in the business of shipping Dangerous Goods needs to stay up to date on what’s going on in the industry.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Human Factor: What is Technology Without Leadership?
All the technology in the world won’t help an organization improve if they don’t have what it takes in the leadership department.
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, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Building a Bridge to Continuous Improvement
Tired of relying on e-mail blasts to place freight, L.B. Foster ups its game with a third-party solution that has transformed the enterprise.
Education & Careers, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
Filling the Manufacturing Skills Gap With Technology
How manufacturers can use technology to stretch the capabilities of their existing workforce.
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.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Christopher McGovern: Watch Him Soar
Christopher McGovern, vice president, supply chain management at Aero Precision, knows the importance of communication and data collection.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
Trends—December 2014
To mark SmartWay's 10th anniversary, several shipper partners share their best tactics for getting the most out of the program... Sourcing and procurement functions have become areas of core incompetency says new survey.
The Ins and Outs of Crossdocking Solutions
Crossdocking reduces inventory costs and improves delivery times by eliminating intermediate warehousing activity.
Single Dashboard Streamlines Shipments
After struggling with outdated software that could not keep pace with increased sales, EAM-Mosca found a solution to streamline shipments.
Last Mile Delivery, Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
Avoiding Christmas Past: Use Technology to Ensure Timely Holiday Deliveries
Investments in technology might just be the way to save Christmas.
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.
Selecting a Yard Management System
Yard management systems provide visibility into yard operations. Here is advice for choosing the right YMS provider and solution to meet your unique needs.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Logistics Sector Leads the Internet of Things Revolution
The Internet of Things is the wave of the future – but for the logistics segment, the future is closer than you think.
Chemical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Safety
Making Hazmat Regulation Compliance Less Hazardous
New technologies simplify hazmat transport regulations to help shippers avoid costly fines and suspended operations.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
How to Get More From Your TMS
Shippers, carriers, 3PLs and brokers who are not fully utilizing their transportation management systems to secure capacity and manage global trade may be leaving money on the table.
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.
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Challenges for Today’s Global Supply Chain: Cost, Profitability and Personalization
An optimized supply chain allows companies to reduce costs, lower risk, increase transparency, and support new products.
Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
Regulation as an Opportunity
Manufacturers should view legislation as an opportunity to achieve better control and supply chain integration.
Military Logistics, Chemical Logistics, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Ports, Safety, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—September 2014
OSHA issues updates to its Hazard Communication Standard; HP’s Dave Thomas addresses the importance of data quality; Ohio Trucking Association debuts military exhibition class at truck driving competition; Companies fail to use procurement in a strategic way; Shippers planning ahead for labor disruptions.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
A Mobile Cure for the Warehouse Blues
Mobile communication technologies facilitate warehouse efficiency and productivity.
Freight Payment Services, Finance, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management, Transportation
Freight Audit and Payment Services: Stacking Up Savings
Freight audit and payment services analyze shipment data to reveal inefficiencies and identify savings opportunities.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Choosing Enterprise vs. Software-as-a-Service TMS
Software-as-a-Service transportation management systems offer many advantages over enterprise software.
Electronic On-board Recorders: The Gateway to Intelligent Fleet Management
Fleet managers increasingly rely on electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) to manage fleet data.
Streamlining Reverse Logistics
Manage reverse logistics to reduce costs and recover investment on damaged and expired products, and inventory returns.
Selecting the Right Technology to Support Your Lean Operations
Before choosing enterprise solutions, companies should conduct intensive requirements research.
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.
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.
Green Logistics, Retail, Risk Management
Retailers, Watch Your Waste Lines
Partnering with an expert can help retailers ensure they comply with hazardous waste regulations.
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The Mechanics of 3PL Partnerships
Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.
Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
LTL Leaders Make Tracks for the Web
Less than truckload (LTL) carriers use online freight portals to offer low-cost extra capacity to small shippers.
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.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
SaaS TMS Facilitates Carrier Management
SaaS TMS solutions allow shippers, carriers, suppliers, and consignees to conduct business on a single platform.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation
Partners and Process Management: Freight Business From the Inside Out
To better manage freight spend, track key performance indicators and build strong provider partnerships.
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.
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.
Reverse Logistics, Risk Management
Defending Against the Global Recall Threat
Companies must not only mitigate supply chain risk, but also understand the logistics of global recall management.
Implementing an ERP System
Before adding an ERP system, enlist a cross-functional team, assess operational needs, and revise business processes.
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.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics I.T.
Freight Bill Payment: Meeting the Pepsi Challenge
Pepsi Logistics Company Inc. automates the creation and delivery of carrier and shipper invoices.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Technology Convergence of Forces Offers Improvements for Logistics Sector
Technology trends are transforming the logistics sector, improving safety, efficiency, and competitiveness.
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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
What Transportation Providers Gain From an Integrated TMS Platform
With an integrated transportation management software (TMS) platform, service providers can gain complete visibility over their diverse and complex operations.
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
Liquidate Inventory or Leave Money on the Table
Liquidating overstocks and returned goods allows manufacturers and retailers to recover the items’ value.
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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The Best of Both Worlds: The Benefits of TMS with Integrated Fleet Management Tools
A transportation management system with fleet management tools facilitates transportation planning for private fleets.
Networked Track Sensors Keep Rails and Workers Safe
Track sensors monitor rails for signs of buckling or breakage, improving rail freight safety.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Power of Demand-Driven
Demand-driven supply chains strive for synchronicity between functions and among partners to ensure optimal performance.
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
Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Plan Better Truck Routes: Long-range Itinerary Generation Enhances Operations
Innovative route planning tools create meaningful links between long-range planning and real-world agility.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation
Fusing Big Data and the Supply Chain: The Future is NOW
By strategically leveraging supply chain data, companies can win in their industry and increase enterprise value.
Invest in Productivity
Equip employees with the most efficient tools, such as computers, software, and Internet service, to boost productivity.
Cross-border Trade, Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
Automating Key Steps to Strategically Optimize Inbound Supply Chains
Best in class companies use a variety of global trade automation tools to lower inbound costs and improve processes.
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.
2014 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers can equip you with the tools to meet your company's unique supply chain challenges.
Connect, Secure, and Manage the Supply Chain
Mobile technologies are helping secure and more effectively manage the supply chain.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Maximizing the Benefits of Your TMS
An automated transportation management system can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and create competitive advantage.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Big Data Tools Enable Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics
Using a TMS for carrier selection allows shippers to load standard business rules to achieve predicted outcomes.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Get Real: What ROI to Expect from Your TMS Implementation
Companies interested in automating their transportation management processes should examine their current capabilities.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Avoiding Pitfalls to TMS Implementation
Companies avoid common obstacles to successful TMS implementation by partnering with an experienced solutions provider.
Asia, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Untangling the Complications of Free Trade Agreements
Companies that effectively integrate trade agreements will gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Shipment Monitoring Technology: Picking Up the Signals
Shipment monitoring tools allow manufacturers and shippers to locate cargo, manage inventory and prevent theft.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T.
Selecting a Bar-code Scanning System
Before choosing a bar-code scanning system, consider your facility’s needs and current bar-code technology.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Global Trade in the Key of GTM
Global trade management (GTM) solutions help coordinate trade compliance, and allow trading partners to share data.
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.
Boosting Warehouse Productivity
Automated materials handling tools boost warehouse productivity and improve efficiency.
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.
Using Operational Analytics to Achieve a Digitized, Visible Supply Chain
Developing a business system based on operational analytics requires a focus on decision-making and a clear plan.
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.
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.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Drafting a New Route Planning System
Molson Coors Canada’s new delivery planning system integrates routing, pallet building, and truck loading.
Plan, Write, and Implement a Successful Software Project
Successful software projects require thoughtful planning, the right partners, and flexibility.
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.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Transportation Planning – A Manual Headache Or an Optimized Dream
Fluctuating fuel prices, Hours of Service rules, and other factors make optimized routing and scheduling vital.
Supply Chain Analytics: Overcoming Obstacles to Stay Ahead of Your Competitors
Leveraging data analysis and technology integration can generate powerful insights to transform today’s supply chains.
Demand Planning, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking
Trends—January 2014
SKU proliferation tops demand forecasting trends; U.S. government creates National Maritime Domain Awareness Plan; Trucking industry documents HOS impacts; 10 manufacturing and supply chain trends to keep an eye on in 2014; 5 tips for mapping the supply chain; Spot market demand stays high into 2014; Logistics sector adopts big data
Achieving True Mobility in Supply Chain and Logistics Operations
Mobile technology offers flexible, affordable solutions for supply chain 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.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Tackles Track-and-Trace Challenges
Track-and-trace regulations require pharmaceutical shippers to adapt production and distribution processes to ensure compliance.
Seeking Innovation? Stop IT Overspending
Companies must identify and eliminate overspending on supply chain IT solutions to free up capital for new projects.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management
Trends—December 2013
Cloud-based predictive analytics increasingly available to more companies of all sizes; RFID market set for robust growth by 2020; supply chain risk mitigation should be priority for all companies; key trends driving change for enterprises and government in 2014
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.
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.
Saving Time and Money Through Automation
Automating office functions, shipment tracking, and data exchange can help companies cut costs and improve customer service.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Plan Early for Peak Returns Season
Planning for peak returns season can minimize processing costs and maximize recovery values of returned inventory.
Putting a Lean Spin on Reverse Logistics
Managing reverse logistics with a Lean outlook can not only improve profitability, but also add value for customers.
Automating B2B Payments: The Next Frontier
Automating supplier payments through commercial cards helps companies facilitate their payment process.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Creating More Intelligent Supply Chains with BI Technology
Incorporating business intelligence tools into logistics strategy gives companies access to efficiency-boosting data.
Technology Supports 3PL-Carrier Partnerships
Freight management technology strengthens partnerships between third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.
Using In-Truck Technology to Cut Costs
Technology such as onboard recording devices help trucking companies gain insight and cut costs.
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.
Discovering the Value of Reverse Logistics
Reverse logistics presents an opportunity to streamline processes, reduce expenses, and increase asset recovery values.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Route Planning Software: Mapping a Path to Savings
Route planning software from Paragon helped poultry supplier George’s gain efficiencies and cut transportation costs.
Moving Logistics Technology to the Cloud Dispels the Fog of Uncertainty
Cloud computing offers democracy to logistics and transportation providers, putting small and mid-sized providers on the same playing field as large global companies.
Scantastic Bar-Code Tracking Tools
Increasing product traceability requirements are making bar codes an essential part of many supply chains.
Reverse Logistics, Global Logistics
Consumer Electronics and Reverse Logistics: Play It Again
With a global perspective, mobile device shippers can access additional markets to maximize recaptured device value.
Get Airborne with Asset Tracking
GPS tracking devices give shippers shipment visibility, even when cargo is in the air.
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.
Using Big Data to Build Tomorrow’s Supply Chain Today
Companies can use the visibility big data provides to improve supply chain processes and meet organizational goals.
Mobility Solutions That Improve Field Productivity
A business-to-employee communications model improves employee productivity through mobile technology and applications.
Discount Apparel Logistics: Outfitting the Outlets
As consumers embrace bargain hunting, off-price apparel retailers reinvent their supply chains to meet demand.
Air Cargo, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T.
Sensor-based Logistics: Monitoring Shipment Vital Signs in Real Time
Sensor-based logistics solutions monitor factors like temperature and humidity to protect perishable shipments.
Delivery Scheduling Relieves Loading Dock Bottlenecks
Beer distributor Crescent Crown’s new appointment scheduling system gives it control over when trucks arrive at its DC.
Green Logistics The Walmart Way
Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.
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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Why Mid-market Shippers Should Leverage TMS
Mid-market shippers who use Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) transportation management systems (TMS) can improve visibility, access report data, and enable EDI carrier integrations while automating the transportation cycle, says Richard G. Piontek of 3PLogic.
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.
Business Intelligence in the Supply Chain
Business intelligence tools support supply chain management by helping logistics professionals derive meaning from the data collected by logistics technology solutions.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Connect and Collaborate to Better Manage Freight Spend
Managing freight spend and payments challenges many shippers because rules and regulations vary by geography. Supply chain professionals benefit most from a global solution built for freight spend, says Rick Erickson of Syncada.
Truckers and Shippers Prepare to Meet Over-the-Road Challenges
Maximizing truck utilization, managing Hours of Service regulations, and finding enough drivers pose major challenges for trucking companies, says Scott Vanselous of TMW Systems.
The Strategic Approach to Optimizing Inbound Shipments
Best practices for transportation management dictate that shippers contact all their carriers and ask for accurate rates per mile for multiple lanes before performing an optimization, says Nick Carretta of Ultra Logistics
TMS Technology for Mid-Market Shippers
Transportation management systems (TMS) have evolved to serve shipper needs, but few options exist for mid-size shippers. New offerings for this market balance ease of use, rapid implementation, and big return on investment, says Mitch Weseley of 3Gtms.
Quantifying Transportation Performance With Technology Tools
Gathering transport spend data during the freight payment process, then marrying it with transportation management system data, arms shippers with valuable information for monitoring transportation key performance indicators (KPIs), says Shannon Vaillancourt of RateLinx.
Managing Shipment Data to Meet Customs Requirements
Global customs agencies and trade regulations require shippers to obtain and communicate more shipment data. Technology tools help shippers manage and exchange shipment information, says Tracey Leonard of Choice Logistics.
Mobile Communication: Connecting Supply Chains On The Go
Mobile communications tools track supply chain data such as shipment status, warehouse worker performance, truck location, and driver safety.
The Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
Logistics technology provides global supply chain managers with tools that help improve logistics operations. This market research survey and list of leading supply chain technology companies directs logistics professionals to the top software tools for their sector.
Building an Effective Import Compliance Program
Import compliance programs facilitate restricted parties screening, recordkeeping, monitoring, review, and audit processes. A quality import compliance solution by a reputable logistics technology provider can help, says Jim Preuninger of Amber Road.
Navigating New IT Pathways
Today's IT trends -- big data, cloud computing, integration, and visibility -- let business logistics managers harness technology in countless ways to find greater efficiency and economy.
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
GTM: The World at Your Fingertips
Global trade management software offers greater shipment visibility and control, eases the pain of border-crossing compliance, and streamlines financial transactions—all from your browser.
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.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T.
Tracking Tools Protect Food Shipment Freshness
Monitoring the pallet-level temperature of fresh, frozen, and packaged foods allows shippers and transporters to more effectively manage the quality and safety of products as they move through the supply chain, writes Kevin Payne of Intelleflex.
Leveraging Technology to Accelerate Productivity and Profit
With the right investments in technology, 3PLs can make their business more attractive to current and potential clients by offering additional value-added services, superior inventory control, and overall cost reduction, writes Chuck Fuerst of HighJump Software.
You’re Faced With a Recall. Can You Find That Product?
Automated traceability technology allows companies to locate products anywhere in the supply chain, minimizing the impact of product recalls, writes Tom Kozenski of JDA Software.
Loadboards & Exchanges: Finding the Perfect Match
Shippers, carriers, brokers, and third-party logistics (3PL) providers use electronic loadboards to communicate opportunities, whether it's freight to be shipped or trucks to be filled.
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.
Technology: The Leading Edge
Innovative technologies are helping companies improve visibility into their supply chains and gain better control over inventory, service, and cost.
Yard and Dock Management Tools: An Extra Set of Eyes in Your Facility
Yard and dock management systems use real-time and physical data to assist facilities in efficiently managing operations such as loading dock visibility, live and staged trailer coordination, and turn time management, writes Eric Breen of 4SIGHT.
Connecting Through an Online Network Gives Supply Chain Partners Strength in Numbers
The cloud-based Real Time Value Network enables trading partners to plan, execute, monitor, and synchronize in real time all of the business processes and events that take place throughout their extended supply chains, says Greg Brady of One Network Enterprises.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Measuring the Value of Collaboration
In a true collaborative relationship between purchasing and logistics, order and routing pattern planning comprises a single, optimized decision process that yields measurable results, writes Bill Michalski of ArrowStream.
Food Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Food Logistics Taps into Tech Solutions
Monitoring and tracking tools applied to temperature-controlled shipments ensure that perishables in the cold chain maintain the right conditions, protecting food safety and consumer health, and minimizing product shrink.
Why Innovation Matters for Rugged Mobile Technology
Advances in consumer technologies such as smartphones and tablets are driving a new generation of rugged mobility innovation for logistics and supply chain applications, writes Tim Eusterman of Intermec Technologies.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Are You in the Dark About Labor Visibility?
Workforce management gives companies the tools they need to improve overall performance – whether they’re looking to cut labor costs, improve productivity, or create better revenue growth and bottom-line profitability, writes Malysa O’Connor of Kronos.
Why Supply Chains Need Business Intelligence
Business Intelligence within the supply chain improves internal efficiencies and accountability while saving time and eliminating costs with metrics-driven decision-making and change management, writes Steve Dowse, International Asset Systems.
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
International Shipping: Moving at the Speed of Technology
The development of new technologies for planning, managing, tracking, and securing shipments never ends, and with new digital options always just around the corner, organizations of all sizes need to stay informed on the latest advances. Pablo Ciano of DHL Express identifies four key business areas where technology makes all the difference.
Embarking On an IT Modernization Journey
Modernizing information technology infrastructure helps companies save money and provide better value for their customers, writes Steve Biondi of Micro Focus.
Inventory Tracking: Crunching the Numbers
With store replenishment lagging behind sales growth, potato chip maker Golden Flake deployed a mobile inventory-tracking solution from AT&T to provide stock visibility.
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.
How to Select a Returns Management Partner
Many companies turn to third-party logistics (3PL) providers to help manage returns processing. Selecting the right reverse logistics provider can help retain customers and save money.
“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.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Filling the Cloud with High-Quality Data
Cloud-based supply chain networks allow for real-time data sharing among companies, but rely on high-quality data for effectiveness, writes Greg Kefer of GT Nexus.
The Future of Predictive Analytics Looks Certain
Predictive analytics provides large volumes of data to help logistics managers match demand to supply, making predictive analytics a competitive weapon in demand-driven supply chains.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Visibility is the Key to Mitigating Supply Chain Risk
Supply chain visibility helps flag upcoming supply or demand problems, allowing a company either to take action to prevent disasters or to respond by activating backup plans, writes George W. Prest of Material Handling Industry of America.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Return to Sender: Managing Reverse Logistics
While many factors influence customer loyalty, a well-run returns process has proven to drive repeat orders and improve consumer satisfaction. Paul Galpin of P2P Mailing outlines three points companies should consider when designing their reverse logistics.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
SaaS-Based Transload Management Systems Enable Transport Efficiencies
Transload facilities find great benefits from Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions that deploy quickly, and easily integrate with existing systems to provide seamless inventory and operations management, and network transport coordination, says Erv Bluemner of RMI.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Shared Technology Resources Hold the Key to Supply Chain Optimization
Supply chain managers must determine the best technology for their supply chain based on their specific organizational needs, says Krishna Rallabhandi of Four Soft.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Information Access Differentiates Transportation Providers
Carriers can stand out in the market by providing superior shipment tracking that gives shippers and supply chain partners insight into order status, says Gregory Bellows of Trans-i Technologies.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Putting Labor Management Systems to Work
Labor management systems help distribution centers and warehouse facilities monitor and measure worker performance to identify problems and improvement opportunities.
Handling Change: There's an App for That
An open business planning platform allows business planners, partners, and others to build simple apps that enhance their master Sales & Operations Planning system to adapt their S&OP process for unique – and changing – needs, writes Nari Viswanathan, Steelwedge Software.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management
Can Your Global Supply Chain Withstand a Crisis?
Risk management strategies must address the everyday sources of supply chain disruption, and managers must incorporate the identification of potential supply chain risk into their daily practices, writes Mark Humphlett, Infor.
Trucking Communications: Goin' Mobile
Mobile trucking communications technology signals new productivity gains for truckers, and helps improve truck driver safety.
Managing Mobile Devices By Remote Control
Far-flung warehouses in remote western Canada created mobile device upgrade issues for wholesaler Federated Co-operatives Limited, but remote support solutions from Wavelink provided instant access and facilitated an upgrade to Psion Omnii handheld computers.
Collaborative Visibility for Optimum Efficiency and User Experience
To move ahead of competitors, it is critical that organizations collaborate using electronic, real-time information sharing, merged from multiple partners in a single actionable environment, says John Reichert of TECSYS Inc.
With WMS, Small Businesses Can Do It All
Once cost-prohibitive to all but the largest enterprises, warehouse management systems (WMS) are now available to small and mid-sized companies, offering benefits such as improved inventory accuracy and labor savings, says Ralph Hess, N’Ware Technologies.
Choosing the Right WMS For Your Business
Choosing the right warehouse management system (WMS) for your business requires a firm understanding of its needs and processes, says Kevin Reader of Invata Intralogistics.
Wireless Workstations Unplug Savings
Choosing the right mobile powered workstations for your warehouse or distribution center will energize your workforce, and deliver improved accuracy and efficiency, writes Christine Wheeler, Newcastle Systems.
Mobile TMS Applications Improve Supply Chain Visibility
Mobile applications give carriers and shipper instant access to transportation management system (TMS) data, resulting in improved supply chain visibility, write Mike Skinner of VistaLogix Global.
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.
Discovering the Value of Analytics
To better define analytics and develop better analytics strategies, consider the three different types of analytics: descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive. IBM’s Michael Watson explains each type.
Green Logistics, Reverse Logistics
Reusable Shipping Dunnage Protects Sustainability Efforts
Protective reusable dunnage can take the place of single- or limited-use corrugated or wood filler to move pallets and products securely in an environmentally conscious manner, writes Paul Fitzgerald of Paylode Cargo Protection Systems.
Data Warehousing System Puts an End to Paperwork
Faced with workflow inefficiencies, paper distributor and converter Roosevelt Paper implemented an automated data collection system from solutions provider Intermec that transformed its shipping and storage operations.
Co-locating Reverse and Forward Logistics Unlocks Value of Returns
Co-locating reverse and forward logistics functions for consumer electronics instead of using a centralized returns model reduces transportation miles, touches, and facility overhead while increasing turn times.
Harnessing the Power of Information Technology
Information technology tools provide actionable data for supply chain improvements, cost efficiencies, on-time performance, and customer satisfaction, says Gary Neeves, Regal Logistics.
Tech Tools Serve Retailers’ Diverse Needs
For both third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and retailers, investing in a technology partner that supports customization and flexibility at a moderate cost is a strategy for long-term adaptability and growth, says Chandra Allred of PSCTrac.
Improving Reverse Logistics Moves Shippers Forward
Maintaining a nationwide network of reverse logistics facilities and skilled team of supply chain field analysts allows shippers to reduce transportation and handling costs and support sustainability efforts, writes Jeff Pepperworth, Inmar.
Opening the Door To Real-Time Visibility
Door manufacturer The WHITING Group replaced siloed systems with integrated ERP, ushering in transparency and real-time decision-making across its multiple divisions.
Green Leadership for Lean Times
Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Sharing Data Creates Optimal Supply Chain Visibility
Supply chain visibility is a valuable result of trading partner collaboration, writes Bobby Kaemmer, Cadre Technologies. On-demand and cloud-based solutions can help supply chain partners share data.
The Illuminating Power of Yard Management Systems
Yard management systems (YMS) help prioritize shipment arrivals, identify trailer contents, reduce the time needed to allocate vehicles to loads, and avoid unnecessary vehicle movements.
Load Boards Evolve Into Social Networking Tools
Trucking load boards have evolved from bulletin boards in truck stops to sophisticated social networking-style tools on handheld computers. Charles Myers of uShip.com outlines the benefits of the evolved load board.
Benchmarking Keeps Logistics IT Outsourcing On Track
By highlighting the differences between an organization’s performance and a comparative reference standard, benchmarks can identify improvement opportunities and identify activities required to achieve superior performance.
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.
IT: Advantage @Light Speed
Logistics technology is a source of competitive advantage, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
All-in-One
Many ERP vendors have added full-blown supply chain management functionality to their solution suites. Here’s a look at some of their offerings, and at two large companies that are reaping the benefits.
The 2012 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
Inbound Logistics' annual logistics technology market research report delivers exclusive insights on logistics technology trends, and reveals this year's best-in-class vendors.
Second-Generation Logistics Software: Accessible Anywhere
New logistics technology makes supply chain data accessible around the clock, says Tom Heine, Aljex Software.
World-Class Logistics Operations Require Multi-Party Processes and Technology
Supply chain executives must think differently about their logistics processes, and implement multi-party technology that gives them and their logistics partners greater control of the supply chain, says Chris Jones of Descartes.
Maximizing Global Logistics Management Effectiveness
Global logistics technology enables companies to successfully manage all modes of transportation under a common umbrella while providing complete visibility, says Chris Johnson, LeanLogistics.
Bringing Clarity to Visibility Solution Investments
Having better supply chain visibility improves a business’s ability to sense and react to change faster and more efficiently, says Scott Fenwick of Manhattan Associates.
KPI Data Creates Improvement Opportunities
Using actionable data provided by key performance indicators (KPIs), businesses can automate shipping decisions and identify areas for improvement, writes Steven Shoemaker of Ratelinx.
Lean, Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Leveraging Lean and Labor Management
Using lean components as a foundation for labor management is a powerful way to increase productivity and reduce costs in a warehouse or distribution center, according to Ryder Supply Chain Solutions’ Jeff Boudreau.
The Right ERP Solution Puts All the Pieces Together
A well-implemented enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution can help manufactures remain agile in the ever-changing, volatile economy, with its decreased spending, increased competition, and changing regulations, says Erik Kaas of Sage.
Automated Routing: The Path to Optimization
Transportation network modeling isn’t necessary for operations, but it’s an invaluable tool for strategic supply chain decision-making and risk mitigation, writes TMW Systems' Mike Kositzky.
Collaborative Trade Communities Keep Companies Competitive
Collaborative trade communities enable supply chains to react more quickly to strategy changes that are needed to keep the corporation competitive as it reacts market shifts, says Bryn Heimbeck, Trade Tech Inc.
Technology Enables You to Be Positively Different
Strategic and practical use of the right supply chain technologies enables sharp pricing competitiveness, creates better customer experiences, reduces expenses, and raises productivity, says Les Hamashima, Transite Technology.
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.
Use Transportation Planning for Competitive Advantage
Logistics can now be aligned with supply chain and manufacturing through solutions that create daily transportation need forecasts by lane/mode/carrier. Robert F. Byrne of Terra Technology outlines the benefits.
Ensuring a Worry-Free ERP Implementation
Choosing an enterprise resource planning (ERP) vendor that addresses flexibility, scalability, and upgrade and maintenance costs can help provide a smooth solution implementation. David F. Ross of APICS, The Association for Operations Management, offers his advice on selecting the right ERP system.
Food Logistics, Logistics I.T., Risk Management
5 Steps to Improving Food Product Traceability
Retailers can implement technology and processes to increase traceability and gain greater visibility into their supply chain, which helps track and retrieve products in the event of a product recall, writes Brendan Lowe, Aldata Solution.
The Scoop on Route Accounting Automation
Ice cream distributor Berliner scoops up savings with an automated direct store delivery solution that helps drivers manage customer information collected along their routes.
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.
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.
Forklifts, Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
VMS Lifts Warehouse Labor Productivity
Vehicle management systems allow lift truck operators to complete pre-operation checklists electronically, saving valuable production time, writes Joe LaFergola of The Raymond Corporation.
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.
RFID and Supply Chain Visibility: You Can’t Manage What You Can’t See
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology helps transportation and logistics organizations gain visibility into their global supply chains and boost return on investment (ROI), writes Ralph Lieberthal, Motorola Solutions.
Strengthening International Cargo Security
Air cargo security requires aggressive international mandate and top-down focus on identity verification and data analysis, writes Steve Vinsik of Unisys Corporation.
Expedited Shipping, Logistics I.T.
Expedited Carriers: The Fast and the Furious
Logistics technology helps turbo-charged expedited carriers move freight for shippers with an extreme need for speed. Con-way Truckload, FedEx Custom Critical, Old Dominion Freight Line, Schneider National, and UPS share their perspectives.
APIs Enrich Software Users’ Experience
Tom Heine, CEO, Aljex Software Inc., explains how application programming interfaces (APIs) enrich software users’ experience by connecting them to Web tools.
Reverse Logistics: The Untapped Revenue Stream
Reverse logistics has become an area of high priority for companies looking to reduce costs, add efficiencies, and improve the customer experience, writes Steve Sensing, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
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.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
What Makes a Great TMS?
With the improved visibility supplied by transportation management systems, shippers can leverage shipment data internally to generate top-line revenue, says Geoff Comrie, Transite Technology.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Managing the Logistics Lifecycle
Transportation procurement provides the greatest opportunity to create efficiency in the the Logistics Management Lifecycle, says Martin Hubert, Freightgate.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
The Perfect Time to Optimize Labor Management
A comprehensive supply chain labor management solution that automates processes such as hiring, time, and attendance, and scheduling can help control costs, minimize compliance risk, and improve productivity, says Malysa O'Connor, Kronos.
Technology Powers New Supply Chain Security Systems
Since the events of September 11, the public and private sectors have committed themselves to developing new supply chain security technologies.
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.
Ports Plug In: Electronic Tracking Tools Create Smooth Sailing for Ocean Cargo
Most ports today compete globally with one another and reflect tremendous productivity gains in ocean transport achieved in recent decades. Simon Kaye of Jaguar Freight offers tips on choosing a port with electronic and data processing sophistication.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
When Just Enough Goes All the Way
In the midst of organizational change, furniture retailer Design Within Reach upgrades its demand forecasting and replenishment system to better control inventory.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Security
Container Security: Filling in the Blanks
Equipping shipments with container security devices (CSDs) can help expedite inspections, decrease insurance premiums, and minimize supply chain disruptions. Jim Giermanski of Powers Global Holdings outlines the benefits of CSDs.
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.
Global Economy, Logistics I.T.
The Future Ain’t What It Used to Be
Globally interconnected supply chains face challenges such as natural disasters and currency fluctuations, but benefit from the latest logistics technology.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
High Tech: The Rise of SaaS and the Cloud
Cloud-based multi-tenant supply chain technology solutions help companies achieve better execution, visibility, cost savings, and collaboration with trading partners across the supply chain.
Going Mobile: Optimizing Inventory Management
Rick Pontin, CEO of Airclic, explains how to improve inventory management through better visibility.
Achieving Air and Ocean Freight Flexibility
To be operationally flexible, freight forwarders need one “go-to" resource for information about what is in the shipment pipeline as well as quick access to customer and shipment data.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T.
Ensuring Successful System Integration
As volumes increase and deadlines get shorter, it’s imperative that logistics software systems have out-of-the-box communication with other companies using the same system, and easy setup of communications with companies using other systems.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management
Benchmarking Data Supports Pricing Decisions
Measuring against industry benchmark data allows you to identify areas for improving transportation spend.
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
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.
Retail Recovery Depends on an Integrated Supply Chain Strategy
To successfully manage multi-brand and multi-channel selling, retailers need to optimize customer order fulfillment across all brands and channels, writes Jim Bengier of Sterling Commerce.
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.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Top Five Ways Warehouse Management Systems Deliver ROI
Here are five areas where supply chain executives can find additional return on investment opportunities from their Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Gain: Better Data, Better Results
New technology solutions help improve inventory visibility, increase routing agility, manage labor more effectively, and capture valuable information from the field.
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.
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.
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.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
How to Find the Best EDI Solution For Your Operations
Electronic data interchange (EDI) technology and infrastructure is adapting to help businesses more quickly and accurately share information within the corporation and across the supply chain.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Select a Transportation Management Solution
Selecting a new transportation management solution (TMS), whether fully outsourced, hosted, or internally installed, requires much due diligence to pair functional need with strategic vision.
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.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—November 2010
David Bennett of Schneider Logistics addresses how shippers, ocean carriers, and trucking companies are struggling with responsibility for providing chassis for cargo container units at ports; Boeing appoints new VP to handle 787 Dreamliner delays; companies restructure outsourced technology contracts.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Optimizing Global Supply Chain Management
Andrea Robinson of CargoWise provides tips on handling global supply chain management challenges.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
Predicting Demand Levels Down the Road
Polymer and fibers manufacturer INVISTA turned to a new inventory planning tool to meet recessionary challenges.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Global Economy, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Digitizing the Global Supply Chain
Global supply chain visibility and detail can only be achieved by modern electronic data transmissions that are already available and can reduce the costs of international cargo movement.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management
What’s Ahead in Transportation Forecasting?
Transportation forecasts enable planners to shift from reacting to orders to proactively managing capacity. By synchronizing transport forecasts with manufacturing and distribution plans, your entire company can respond to the same demand signals.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Tap the Potential of SaaS and Cloud Computing
Supply chain strategies built around software-as-a-service (SaaS) or Cloud computing eliminate many headaches that often come with supply chain investments. They eliminate the need for presence overseas, cut the time spent integrating systems across internal departments, and greatly reduce the time spent integrating with hundreds of partners and suppliers.
The Evolution of Transportation Buying Practices
It is interesting to witness the changes that have occurred in transportation purchasing. For one, the annual bid mentality is gone. With access and visibility to posting boards, SaaS transportation networks, and optimization technologies, transportation procurement has evolved to the point where it is truly a continuous management function.
Can You See Me Now? Achieving Supply Chain Visibility
Manual data inputs. Multiple data sources. Data latency. Point-to-point interfaces. These are just a few key obstacles to achieving supply chain visibility. But, there are solutions available that deliver visibility and intelligence as a service with process, security, and environmental monitoring.
Getting the Most from Advanced Planning Tools
Third-party logistics providers that use advanced planning tools to model complex routing operations and streamline the bid process have a significant advantage in both demonstrating results and helping clients cut costs. When they cut modeling time to a fraction of what it was, and utilize new tools, 3PLs can uncover opportunities and quickly implement changes that provide benefit for their clients.
The 3 Elements of a Successful Private Label Program
Globally sourced, private label products allow merchants to maximize margins while maintaining price points, ensuring a good return on investment. But sourcing product globally is complex. By focusing on visibility, intelligence and collaboration, retailers, brand owners and wholesalers who globally source private label products can ensure a successful return on investment.
Finding Hidden Profits in Your Warehouse or Transport Operations
Sometimes it's easier than you think to find hidden profits in your warehouse or transportation operations. Many successful companies are doing more with less by simply optimizing their slotting practices, pick paths, truckloads and delivery routes.
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.
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.
Crack the WIP for a Leaner Supply Chain
Zebra Technologies' David Phillips explains how eliminating excess work-in-process waste improves your supply chain.
Transformative Technology
Inbound Logistics' April 2010 issue presents a fully integrated editorial lineup that embraces different perspectives of the logistics technology space.
Technology Drives Supply Chain Excellence
Growing companies harness a variety of IT solutions to help them maintain outstanding performance.
Crossdocking: A New Vision for an Old Idea
Jason Howton, TAKE Supply Chain, outlines strategies for achieving best-in-class crossdocking performance.
Sharing Efficiencies Through Collaboration
LeanLogistics' Chris Timmer explains how collaborating with trading partners, aided by an on-demand transportation management system, helps increase supply chain efficiencies.
Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
GTM Software: Read This Before You Buy
Technology-enabled global trade management offers significant benefits for improving supply chain efficiency and increasing profitability, writes Don Mabry of ClearTrack Information Network.
Keep Partners In the Loop
Jim Caudill of Xterprise recommends strategies for matching retail demand to supply, enhancing enterprise scalability, and increasing supply chain efficiencies through sustainability initiatives.
Drilling Down Into Supply Chain Data
Sharing key information with all parties can lead to decreased waste, increased orders, and new business, writes J. Kenneth Hazen, CTSI-Global.
Strong Relationships Net Long-Term Value
Rich Wilson of CombineNet Inc. explains the value of strong shipper-carrier relationships.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Ditch the Spreadsheets, Implement a TMS
Ongoing cooperation with value chain partners is possible with integrated transportation management software for optimal resource utilization, business efficiencies, and cost control, writes Scott Vanselous, TMW Systems Inc.
Be the Captain of Your Fleet
Fleet optimization software helps you maximize driver, vehicle, and fleet productivity while delivering superior customer service, writes Steve Brown, Intergis LLC.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Free TMS Software: The Price is Right
Tim Higham of Interstate Transport Inc. predicts that within a few years, many service providers will be offering free TMS technology to help their shipper customers move more freight.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Global Trade Compliance: See it All, Know it All
As different countries implement both security and trade-led initiatives around the world, it is critical to improve global regulatory knowledge and visibility, writes Tom Barnes of Integration Point Inc.
Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
FTZ Solutions: Zoning in on the Right Fit
A global trade management system can help support foreign trade zone operations, whether distributing from or manufacturing within the zone, writes Wayne Slossberg of QuestaWeb Inc.
Trends—April 2010
Technology providers identify the transportation and logistics challenges facing shippers; Johnson & Johnson upgrades its quality assurance and supply chain systems
Implementing an RFID Solution
Proper management and execution are key to a successful RFID implementation project for shipment tracking, according to Scott Thomas of Intel.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Web-Based WMS Solutions Drive Automotive Supply Chain Efficiency
For the aftermarket auto parts business, where materials handling is as important to the bottom line as execution, planning begins with implementing a Web-based warehouse and inventory management system, writes Jim Burleigh of SmartTurn.
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.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Reverse Logistics
Green Reverse Logistics Brings Many Happy Returns
Companies that combine the reduce, reuse, recycle mantra with the supply chain wisdom of managing costs and stamping out inefficiencies are developing reverse supply chains that help the Earth, the customer, and the bottom line.
Business Intelligence: The Key to Success in Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific companies can implement sophisticated supply chain management solutions quickly and effectively via cloud computing, creating visibility to generate logistics business intelligence data.
Fulfillment, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Use Repeatable Best Practices and Experience Exponential Growth
Learn how Brilliant Fulfillment stopped juggling spreadsheets and used WMS automation to grow its order volume by 175% in just one year.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Retail
Food Fights
With restaurants providing only delivery or takeout during the pandemic, consumers turn to retailers and grocers to fill the gap. The impact on the food industry varies both by state and by sales channel. New trends touch on food retail, delivery, service, distribution, and more.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Shaking Up Subscription Services
During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Put to the Test
By providing visibility to items in transit, working to optimize transportation networks, and streamlining processes, transportation management systems (TMS) check off all the boxes.
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.
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, 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.
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.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Technology
Uncorking Automation Bottlenecks
Although 57% of organizations say they're piloting automation processes and 93% of employees are optimistic automation will make their jobs easier, digital transformation efforts often fall apart. Many companies rely on IT to drive transformation without engaging other departments, creating bottlenecks.
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.
Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Robot Return Ratios
Using robots to clearly monitor and better match demand to supply pays huge dividends.
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.
Cloud Computing, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Which ERP Trends Will Catch On in 2020?
Next-generation enterprise resource planning (ERP) technologies have come to the forefront of supply chain management—here are three ERP trends to watch in 2020.
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?
Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
New services and 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.
Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
New services and solutions
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.
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.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Technology
Control Tower Approach Drives Visibility, Aids Planning and Supply Chain Reliability
LANXESS, a global specialty chemicals supplier, selected Odyssey Logistics & Technology to track multiple assets for four business units that provide products across 33 countries.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Top 3 Logistics Challenges for the Rest of 2019
These logistics challenges will define the remainder of 2019. Here's how shippers can determine the best approach to overcome them.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Getting Shipments on the Right Track
To gain visibility to the location and condition of their shipments, no matter where in the world they might be, and no matter the transport mode, RFS turned to a solution from Tive Inc. that combines a tracker and software.
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.
Logistics I.T., Security, Technology
Is Your IoT Deployment Secure?
Transportation and logistics companies recognize they must strengthen their approaches to cybersecurity but are not yet taking the practical steps to safeguard their industrial IoT deployments
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.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Japan Tests Self-Driving Delivery System
Robot maker e-Novia is testing a self-driving delivery system in Japan to service the areas hit by the 2011 Fukushima earthquake.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
What to Look for in Real-Time Track & Trace - RateLinx
Track & trace data allows for the shipping process to move smoothly and expectedly and provides opportunities for remedies when things don’t go smoothly.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
How to Leverage a 3PL's Expertise with Packaged Applications
Knowing how to quickly set up and configure supply chain technology so the solutions work for individual customers is the key to getting the most flexible and powerful performance from industry leading package applications.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
2019 Logistics IT Market Research Survey
Inbound Logistics' annual survey highlights key trends in the supply chain technology market and shines a light on the brightest and most innovative providers.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Helping Del Monte Optimize its Transportation Network - Transplace
By improving its business intelligence and more quickly addressing supply chain issues with the help of Transplace, Del Monte has been able to optimize its network and reduce overall transportation spend.
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.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
What Are The Possibilities?
Profile of Mark Baker, chief technology officer of Pilot Freight Services.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
5 Ways a WMS Can Cut Supply Chain Costs
An interview with Donald Broughton about freight flow and the economy; report details how private investment could improve nation’s aging infrastructure; research finds almost two-thirds of transport organizations are pursuing Industrial IoT to improve environmental footprint; new report finds 75 percent of manufacturing workers don’t harbor concern for their job security amid the rise of new technologies; Port of Baltimore welcomes the largest containership ever to visit Maryland; TECSYS offers five ways to start cutting supply chain costs
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, 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
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?
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation
People-Centric Solution to TMS - Trinity Logistics
Trinity Logistics was chosen as crop protection products maker Albaugh’s single-service logistics provider because of its people-centric transportation solutions, combining transportation technology and an expert team dedicated to freight optimization.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
The Key to Logistics Visibility: Connecting Things
Tracking shipments independent of the carrier or mode of transport provides you with analytics that help you cut through the noise and make sense of the data to improve operational efficiencies.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
An Open Ledger: Six Ways Blockchain Will Change Supply Chains
With e-commerce giants fueling a spike in shipping volumes, to stay competitive logistics companies need to increase efficiency, while reducing costs.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Invest in Logistics IT in a Grow Economy
Creating an ongoing logistics/supply chain technology investment strategy can radically advance supply chain efficiency. In a growing economy, it’s essential.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
10 Ways To Play IT Safe
Here are 10 supply chain threats and trends to look out for.
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
5 Things to Consider When Choosing an ELD Provider
Now that the ELD Mandate has taken effect, grabbing an ELD device off the shelf may seem like a quick and effective fix. It’s not. Here’s what to look for and avoid when making this critical selection.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology
Predictive Applications Take Supply Chains into the Future
Many companies handle supply chain anomalies with reactive planning systems, but this approach leaves them vulnerable to disruption. One new approach to dealing with supply chain uncertainty is to use machine learning to predict what might go wrong.
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.
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, 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.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Data by the Truckload - U.S. Bank
With increasing access to data, it can be difficult to hone in on the information relevant to shippers. Here’s how to determine what data to analyze.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Freight Bill Audit & Payment: Getting More Bang for Your Bucks
Freight is a key part of most companies’ transportation expense. Along with ensuring freight bills are accurate and reflect contracted terms—a key capability—freight payment and audit firms can add even greater value.
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.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
The Ins and Outs of Deploying Mobile Devices Across the Supply Chain
Businesses face many challenges when it comes to mobile technology in their supply chain, from application selection to ongoing support. Here’s how to get with the mobile program.
Import, Export, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Global Trade Content: Unlocking the Supply Chain Value
Integrating external content is becoming more valuable for companies seeking more automation and real-time control over their supply chain planning and execution functions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Five Ways to Simplify Your Supply Chain Design with Analytics
Supply chain professionals now have access to more data from more sources than ever before. Here are five ways to utilize data to simplify your supply chain design process:
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management
Choosing a TMS Today: Measure Five Times, Cut Once?
Lengthy, months-long selection processes are a thing of the past. For roughly two-thirds of shippers, the focus is on improved efficiencies, execution, and visibility. For these companies, a modern TMS can be live and saving money within weeks or even days.
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.
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, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold
Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers
The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
Looking Beyond Your Desktop
Recent randomware attacks reveal vulnerabilities in manufacturing, logistics and supply chain security.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Achieving Greater Visibility and Agility
Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.
E-commerce, 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, 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, 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.
Green Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Sustainability
15 Down & Dirty Ways to Get Green Now
Practical suggestions for making supply chains more environmentally sustainable.
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.
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.
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, 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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Blockchain, Meet Supply Chain
This story looks at some recent applications of blockchain technology in supply chain management.
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.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
Take a look at some of the newest services and solutions in the supply chain industry.
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.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Navigating Amazon's Move into Freight
Amazon's launching of a full-service freight brokerage has a number of implications for supply chain professionals—some obvious and some not so clear.
Inventory Management, Sourcing/Negotiations, Materials Handling
Applying Lean Thinking to Procurement
Here’s how to integrate demand and supply initiatives and techniques into your procurement strategies.
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.
Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Come Together: Logistics and the Sharing Economy
Cross-industry supply chain models and innovative ways of monetizing assets help shippers and logistics providers drive efficiencies
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.
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
The latest supply chain services and solutions
3PL, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Automating Labor-Intensive Tasks Cuts 3PL's Costs by 50%
Javelin Logistics removed their reliance on manual labor and now thrive in the e-commerce marketplace by partnering with 3PL Central.
Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Robots and WMS: Living in a Materials World
Material Bank connects interior designers and architects with material manufacturers by streamlining the complex sampling process with the made4net’s warehouse management solution.
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
Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS
Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.
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.
Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Manufacturers Laser-Focused on Technology
Digital transformation is truly underway in manufacturing. While digital technologies such as cloud, mobile, big data and analytics, and Internet of Things have been industry drivers for years, manufacturers now have high expectations for the business value of technologies that are in earlier stages of adoption.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Mark Bakker: Change Agent
A profile of Mark Bakker, head of supply chain operations, Americas, with HP Inc.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
The Search for a Connected Supply Chain
The Search for a Connected Supply Chain
Big Data, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Get IT Together
Integrated WMS and TMS solutions increase visibility and communication and optimize the movement of goods.
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, 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, 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.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
Pushing Blockchain Past the Hype
By developing a more holistic view of company operations, businesses can then turn to the channel community to identify real-world, impactful applications for blockchain.
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 I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
5 Ways a WMS Can Cut Supply Chain Costs
An interview with Donald Broughton about freight flow and the economy; report details how private investment could improve nation’s aging infrastructure; research finds almost two-thirds of transport organizations are pursuing Industrial IoT to improve environmental footprint; new report finds 75 percent of manufacturing workers don’t harbor concern for their job security amid the rise of new technologies; Port of Baltimore welcomes the largest containership ever to visit Maryland; TECSYS offers five ways to start cutting supply chain costs
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.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
IN BRIEF | New Services & Solutions
New supply chain services and solutions
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Companies Go for IoT
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
Air Cargo, Freight Forwarders, Logistics, Logistics I.T.
PROJECT RUNWAY: Airfreight Forwarders Model New Service Collections
Many traditional airfreight forwarders are remaining relevant by enhancing their online capabilities and expanding the range of supply chain services they offer.
Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
How to Prioritize and Select Logistics Technology - SEKO Logistics
Technology is the backbone of today's logistics systems, and shippers want to make the right choices for mission-critical systems.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Use a TMS for Shipment Visibility And Connectivity - Manhattan Associates
Here’s how a transportation management system will completely transform the efficiency of your supply chain.
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, 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.
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.
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Setting New Standards: Six Key Trends Reshaping Enterprise Software User Experience
Businesses are increasingly realizing that user experience (UX) correlates closely to user engagement. The implications of a successful UX make it way more than just a satisfaction ranking.
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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Recall Logistics: The Value of Information
The recent massive recall of romaine lettuce teaches some lessons that will be helpful to anyone facing a future recall.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
What Does World-Class Supply Chain Planning Look Like?
Despite its criticality, most companies are very poor at supply chain planning. Here’s a recipe for dealing with complexity and deploying a set of world-class supply chain planning capabilities.
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.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
Unblocking the Blockchain: Beyond the Hype
Blockchain adoption is not as swift as it seems. The industry giants leading the charge are backing closed, permission-based blockchain initiatives, which are bound to limit their effectiveness in the long run. Here’s how to unleash the full potential of blockchain.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Robotic Process Automation: Raising Expectations in Logistics
Robotic process automation is redrawing the logistics landscape, bringing productivity gains that are compounded across thousands of transactions in supply chains. Find out what it means for buyers of 3PL services.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
IoT and Security in the Supply Chain: Making Smart Choices
IoT is creating amazing opportunities for supply chain stakeholders to process data and automate environmental interactions in new ways. Here’s how to manage security risks.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
AI Ushers Supply Chains Into Data-Driven Future
Artificial intelligence is poised to transform supply chains with breakthrough capabilities to process real-time data and make intelligent recommendations. So where should you start?
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.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Seamless Returns Start With Serial Numbers
Although serial numbers were initially created to track production, they are an invaluable tool for reverse logistics. Here’s how to get the most out of serial numbers.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply Chain Commentary: Taking the First Steps to Digitizing Your Supply Chain
The clarion call to digitize the supply chain is louder than ever before. In order to meet consumer demands and gain competitive advantage, shippers are retooling their supply chains to be more agile, efficient, and transparent. But where do you start? What steps can you take today?
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Is Supply Chain Planning Right for the Cloud?
Cloud-based deployments can remove IT obstacles and accelerate the launch of supply chain initiatives. However, are the advantages of cloud deployments for supply chain solutions real and worthwhile?
Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Manufacturers Take to Technology, Automation
Manufacturers embrace IIoT to improve quality and operational visibility.
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
Cloud Computing, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Purchasing a Cloud-Based WMS? Get Grounded
Cloud-based warehouse management systems have many merits, but don’t presume they offer a cheap, one-size-fits-all option for your organization. In other words, read the fine print.
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.
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
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Investing in the Right Transportation Management System
To get the most out of a TMS, professionals must identify and match operational requirements with the solution’s features. Joe Couto, chief operating officer at HighJump, outlines 10 tips for picking a TMS.
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Ports, Technology
The Next Transformational Technology for Terminal Operations: Simplified and Integrated Systems
Terminal operations today leverage highly integrated systems—from vehicle/fleet management, remote crane management, terminal operating systems, gate operation, position detection, and many others. So, how do we make this integration work better? The short answer—simplify and standardize.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Digitally Transform Your Supply Chain Today
Supply chain executives need not consider digital transformation as a large-scale undertaking with an expensive and complex integration process. Applying simple-to-implement steps like document automation can greatly improve productivity and elevate the customer experience.
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.
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, 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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Is Your Supply Chain Cyber Secure?
5 Tips for Keeping Viruses Away
Keeping your supply chain secure is not complicated but it needs to be done on a regular basis. Here are five tips to help keep your online security strong and virus-proof.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains
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.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Why Supply Chain Visibility Is Vital to Company Success
Visibility is a key issue in the management of supply chains. Introducing transparency throughout all aspects of your business will bring about remarkable results. Here's how.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
Supply Chain Movers and Do-Gooders: Companies Step Up in Response to the Pandemic
Companies in the logistics space are responding to the crisis by providing free goods and services.
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.
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Death of Your Profession?
That's right, if you work in the supply chain management field, and have a decade or so until you retire, it's time to dust off your resume and consider other career paths. That's according to a Harvard Business Review article. Let's do an autopsy.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain, Technology
Using Real-Time Tech to Mitigate Risk
Real-time technology can help shippers keep abreast of high-impact incidents around the world and provide extra time and context to activate their supply chain risk mitigation strategies.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
How Smarter, Stronger Supply Chains Improve the Customer Experience
Companies are turning “big supply chain data” into real insights that improve efficiency, bring products and services to market faster, and deliver differentiating customer value, all of which are key to remaining competitive in the new digital economy.
Audit Services, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
How a Freight Audit and a TMS Can Drive Efficiency for Your Supply Chain
A lack of oversight can cost a company tens of millions of dollars in unnecessary freight spend. A transportation management system (TMS) with an integrated freight approval tool could stop these kinds of problems before they occur.
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.
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.
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.
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Technology
The Fastest Growing 3PLs Spell Success “C-L-O-U-D”
Third-party logistics (3PL) companies have it tough. Not only do they need air-tight control of their data, 3PLs need to prove to customers that their data is safer than Fort Knox. In today’s world where one person in a black hoodie sitting at a coffee shop can do more damage to a business than a ten-ton bomb, that’s a big ask.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Selecting a Cloud-based TMS
10 tips for selecting and implementing a SaaS-based TMS solution.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
3PLs, Tech Providers Empower Ethical Supply Chains
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
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, 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
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
IoT: Where We Are, What Comes Next
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of the Internet of Things (IoT) and advice for a successful IoT implementation.
Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Reverse Logistics Discussion Highlights Upcoming Conference - SMC³
SMC³ will discuss the implications of the rising reliance on reverse logistics during our upcoming educational conference, Connections 2018, held June 25-27 at the Greenbrier in West Virginia.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Windows Mobile Migration: Three Ways to Ensure Business Continuity and Minimize Supply Chain Disruption
For businesses that haven't transitioned to new operating systems, time is running out to avoid the costs and risks of business disruptions. If you haven't already made a switch, here are some potential next steps.
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 Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
2018 Top 100 Logistics IT Market Research Survey
Inbound Logistics surveys the supply chain technology market to evaluate the latest trends and uncover the most innovative providers in their respective fields.
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.
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Rapid Rollout Plan for Manhattan's WMS - ITOrizon Inc.
A rapid implementation strategy is ideal for enterprises whom must implement very fast, as well as continuing focus on process improvements.
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.
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.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
How Supply Chain Managers Can Use
Artificial Intelligence to Their Advantage
With more and more companies hopping on the AI bandwagon, the technology will affect supply chain planning across industries. Find out which verticals have the most to gain and how supply chain managers can make smarter decisions.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Engaging Customers Through AI
Retailers turn to artificial intelligence to boost customer service.
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.
Global Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Technology
Supply Chain Commentary: The Future of Blockchain in Ocean Shipping
As ocean shipping becomes increasingly digitized, blockchain will play a key role, providing authenticated data and bringing costs down. Here’s what SMBs should be doing now to get ready for a blockchain future.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
From Nervous to Chill: Unlocking IoT's Value Across the Cold Chain
Here are five steps to consider when implementing the Internet of Things across the cold chain.
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, 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.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
The Perfect Amount of Packaging
Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
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.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
The Key to Lasting Supply Chain Innovation: Get Real
Managing a business for sustained growth means finding and implementing innovative solutions to the challenges of complex supply chain logistics. To achieve lasting, repeatable innovation, check out these real-world solutions.
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
It’s Supposed to Be, But ACE Isn’t Simple
The aftermath of the overhaul of U.S. customs admissibility program – Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) – has created a heavier administrative burden on importers, not a lighter one. Find out how it misses the mark in this key area.
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Supply Chain Convergence: Stitching Together Best-of-Breed Technologies
Supply chain technology ecosystems are evolving as once distinct processes for executing TMS, WMS and YMS functions converge. Is the best path forward stitching together a trifecta of best-of-breed technologies, or going all-in on a single instance, single platform for all three?
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
New IoT Tools Enable Greater Visibility Into Complex Supply Chains
While the idea of tracking inventory in transit isn’t new, expanding cellular networks, improved battery technology, and advances in cloud computing are enabling low-cost, long-lasting, globally connected trackers that make real-time supply chain visibility possible. Peek into the future.
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.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation
Solved: Optimizing and Speeding Up Shipments to Mexico - Transplace
Manufacturer of drywall and joint compound USG partnered with Transplace and was able to reduce the delivery time of its product from 6 weeks to 48 hours to Mexico—leading to double-digit sales growth.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Insights into Complexities of Managing Secure Global Transportation for the Government - General Dynamics IT
Establishing a committed team and communicating procedures and expectations is the key to managing the complex web of global shipping.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
IN BRIEF | New Services & Solutions
New supply chain services and solutions
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, 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.
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