Maximizing Global Logistics Management Effectiveness
Q: What are the biggest challenges shippers face with globalization in today’s market? A: Many shippers face the challenge of orchestrating an end-to-end process and managing interplay with third parties, such as customers, suppliers, ocean carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and government agencies. Doing so effectively is difficult, regardless of whether the shipper is importing […]
Read MoreTrends—April 2012
Southern Accent: Supply, Demand Shifts Underline Southeastern Market A slow and steady stream of manufacturers and retailers has been feeling out the U.S. Southeast over the past decade. The trickle began in 2002 following the West Coast port strike, when many shippers swallowed losses and began exploring all-water alternatives from Asia to the U.S. hinterland. […]
Read MoreGlobal Logistics—April 2012
UPS Buys TNT Express, Shifting Global Balance UPS’ estimated $6.77-billion acquisition of Netherlands-based TNT Express puts to rest lingering speculation about the future of Europe’s number-two express mail provider following competition from FedEx and U.S. economic uncertainties. The move clearly places UPS in a new position of strength among its U.S. competitors and German expediter […]
Read MoreCross-Border Shipping: The Road Now Taken
Electronics manufacturer Siemens switches from air freight to over-the-road transport for shipments from Mexico to the United States and Canada and lights up savings.
Read MoreLogistics in Alaska: Taming the Last Frontier
Shipping to and from the wilds of Alaska requires the expertise and specialized equipment offered by intrepid transportation providers.
Read MorePackaging Grows Green
Many shippers are looking to replace fossil fuel-based packaging materials with more sustainable options. But they must do their homework to find the best—and greenest—fit.
Read MoreTechnology Enables You to Be Positively Different
Q: How can logistics technologies be utilized as a competitive differentiator? A: Most companies prefer to attract customers by providing unique brand-driven customer experiences and services rather than competing on price. Strategic and practical use of the right technologies enables sharp pricing competitiveness, creates better customer experiences, reduces expenses, and raises productivity. The evolution of […]
Read MoreCollaborative Trade Communities Keep Companies Competitive
Q: What is the primary advantage of Collaborative Trade Communities? A: The way they function is much simpler than how most companies do business today. We spend a significant amount of effort and time tracking what our supply chain partners are doing. This includes sending instructions and entering them into corresponding systems, communicating and updating […]
Read MoreAutomated Routing: The Path to Optimization
Q: What guidance can you offer firms exploring routing and scheduling technologies for the first time? A: Automation is a great benefit of logistics technology—though not the only one. Technologies that automate time-consuming, repetitive jobs free us up to do what humans excel at: spotting and dealing with change and exceptions. It can take numerous […]
Read MoreThe Right ERP Solution Puts All the Pieces Together
Q: How can today’s manufacturers deal with increasing regulations, demand volatility, and shifting global trade currents? A: Success for manufacturers today depends on agility. The one certainty with global trade currents, regulations, and demand is that they will change, and your ability to adapt defines your growth potential. A well-implemented enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution […]
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