Related Articles
Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, 3PL, Warehousing
Cold Storage: Optimization by Degrees
Shippers rely on 3PLs and refrigerated public warehouses to invest in technology, implement standards, and facilitate strategic business process change to drive greater efficiencies.
3PL, Security, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Transportation, Specialized Logistics
Protecting High-Value Cargo: A Sense of Security
Shippers and logistics providers take extra precautions to protect high-value products from cargo theft.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Specialized Logistics
Efficient and Compliant Hazmat Shipping: Today You Can Have Both
Technology tools help hazardous materials shippers manage hazmat compliance and maintain efficient shipping operations.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ports, Partnership, Automotive Logistics, Ocean, Specialized Logistics
Trends—March 2014
New Jersey’s salty tale misplaces blame on the Jones Act; UPS unveils new hazmat shipping protocol; Automakers collaborate to map the auto supply chain
Supply Chain Management, Specialized Logistics, Warehousing
Inbound Logistics Winter Reading Guide 2014
New books on supply chain, logistics, and transportation help logistics professionals stay sharp.
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Specialized Logistics, Retail
The Direct Sales Supply Chain: Where There’s a Will There’s Amway
George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.
3PL, Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Global Logistics, Packaging, Food Logistics, Air Cargo
Perishable Logistics: Cold Chain on a Plane
Air cargo shipments of perishable goods such as produce, flowers, and seafood require careful handling.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Transportation, Logistics I.T., Trucking
Drafting a New Route Planning System
Molson Coors Canada’s new delivery planning system integrates routing, pallet building, and truck loading.
Improving Efficiencies and Costs in the Energy Supply Chain
Energy companies have responded to the escalating cost of doing business by looking for savings in the indirect material supply chain. As a result, many are struggling to optimize maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) functions.
Event Logistics: On With the Show
Event logistics planners coordinate details to ensure precise requirements and deadlines are met.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Global Logistics, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Health Care Logistics
Healthcare Logistics Gets a Shot in the Arm
Delivering temperature-sensitive flu vaccines to Laos required climate-controlled transport and impeccable timing.
Specialized Logistics, Trucking
Polishing the Furniture Supply Chain
U.S. furniture manufacturers rely on specialized furniture carriers and white-glove delivery companies.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management, Specialized Logistics
Guiding an Energy Renaissance: Questions and Answers With Michael O'Neill
The emergence of domestically sourced natural gas heralds significant changes in the North America energy market.
3PL, Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods
Temperature-controlled Logistics: Cool Under Pressure
Perishable shipments such as produce and pharmaceuticals require temperature monitoring and careful handling.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Air Cargo, 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.
Transportation Management, Specialized Logistics, Education & Careers
Larry Montreuil: True Blue
Larry Montreuil, director of supply chain management at JetBlue Airways, negotiates sourcing and purchasing deals that let the airline soar.
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.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Health Care Logistics, Manufacturing, Temperature-Sensitive Goods
Navigating Pharma Logistics
Pharmaceuticals manufacturers face special supply chain challenges such as temperature control, security, chain of custody, and regulatory compliance, but successful strategies help deal with these issues.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Trucking
Refrigerated Trucks Haul More Than Just Perishables
No longer hauling just fresh produce and other groceries, today’s truck and trailer refrigeration systems also keep other high-value loads at ideal temperatures and humidity levels so they arrive safely at their final destinations, writes Thermo King’s Tom Kampf.
Managing Fresh Produce Shipments
Shipping fresh produce requires quick movement through the supply chain to prevent product spoilage. C.H. Robinson’s general managers, Gary York, Bob Biesterfeld, and Mark Petersen, provide advice for managing produce shipments.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
Food Logistics: From Farm to Fork
A growing consumer interest in locally grown food is changing the way many food companies source products. Food quality and safety concerns, transportation costs, and local economic development efforts are compelling restaurants, groceries, and wholesalers to engage smaller producers and localize their supply chains.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
Cutting Costs When Shipping Perishables
Avoid costly delays when shipping perishables with these tips from Crowley Maritime Corporation's Nelly Yunta and Kip Douglas
Rail, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Intermodal
How to Leverage Rail/Intermodal For Refrigerated Freight
The emergence of refrigerated container units provides more cost-effective rail and intermodal shipping for perishable and temperature-sensitive goods.
3PL, Distribution, Temperature-Sensitive Goods
How to Ship to Alaska
The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Warehousing, Retail
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 Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), 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.
Supply Chain Management, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, E-commerce, Transportation Management, Retail
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.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Health Care Logistics
Just Chill: Moving Live Tissue
A precise temperature-controlled packing and shipping procedure helps Advanced BioHealing ensure its biomedical product's safety and integrity.
Intermodal, Rail, Specialized Logistics
On the Road | Morris, Illinois: Plastics, Pellets, and Pallets
A&R Logistics' Morris, Ill., dry bulk intermodal facility specializes in hauling plastics. Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly tours the operation.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Global Logistics, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Health Care Logistics
Healthcare Logistics Gets a Shot in the Arm
Delivering temperature-sensitive flu vaccines to Laos required climate-controlled transport and impeccable timing.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Health Care Logistics, Manufacturing, Temperature-Sensitive Goods
Navigating Pharma Logistics
Pharmaceuticals manufacturers face special supply chain challenges such as temperature control, security, chain of custody, and regulatory compliance, but successful strategies help deal with these issues.
Transportation Infrastructure, Global Economy, Global Logistics, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, China, Health Care Logistics, Agriculture Logistics, Air Cargo, Ocean, Green Logistics
Global Logistics—September 2010
Mexico Taxes U.S. Imports, Audi's carbon friendly cars and carbon friendly transportation, Australia labors over transportation expansion, UPS opens health care logistics hubs in Singapore and China, U.S. football imports from China
Reverse Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics
Humanitarian Aid: The Logistics of Doing Good
Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.
Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, 3PL, Warehousing
Cold Storage: Optimization by Degrees
Shippers rely on 3PLs and refrigerated public warehouses to invest in technology, implement standards, and facilitate strategic business process change to drive greater efficiencies.
3PL, Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Global Logistics, Packaging, Food Logistics, Air Cargo
Perishable Logistics: Cold Chain on a Plane
Air cargo shipments of perishable goods such as produce, flowers, and seafood require careful handling.
Supply Chain Management, Food Logistics, Green Logistics
Food Shippers Go Green
Leading food manufacturers and producers make sustainability best practices part of their supply chains.
Supply Chain Management, Transportation Infrastructure, Intermodal, Health Care Logistics, Automotive Logistics
Trends—November 2013
Regulatory compliance is top supply chain challenge for healthcare executives; Ohio’s transportation funding plan pays dividends with bridge repair program; GM saves $40 million a year by co-locating stamping and assembly facilities; Collaboration is the key to sustained procurement savings; U.S. domestic intermodal surpasses international as growth driver.
Reverse Logistics, Green 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.
Inland Barge, Project Logistics, Wind Logistics
Transporting Wind Turbines: An Oversized Challenge
Moving wind energy components requires considerable planning efforts and expense. Wind equipment manufacturer enXco Inc. tackles the challenge of transporting turbines and towers via truck and barge.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
Food Logistics: From Farm to Fork
A growing consumer interest in locally grown food is changing the way many food companies source products. Food quality and safety concerns, transportation costs, and local economic development efforts are compelling restaurants, groceries, and wholesalers to engage smaller producers and localize their supply chains.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
Cutting Costs When Shipping Perishables
Avoid costly delays when shipping perishables with these tips from Crowley Maritime Corporation's Nelly Yunta and Kip Douglas
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Health Care Logistics
Just Chill: Moving Live Tissue
A precise temperature-controlled packing and shipping procedure helps Advanced BioHealing ensure its biomedical product's safety and integrity.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Green 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.
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.
G75: Inbound Logistics' 75 Green Supply Chain Partners
These supply chain, logistics, and transportation companies lead the way in supporting sustainability.
Chemical Logistics: Delivering Solutions for a Complex Industry
Shipping and storing chemicals means managing regulatory issues, hazmat safety, and specialized equipment needs.
Automotive Logistics, Risk Management
The Importance of Contingency Planning in Automotive Supply Chains
Supply chain contingency planning can help automotive manufacturers protect their operations.
Expedited Shipping, Health Care Logistics
Shipment Visibility: SilverStaff Passes the Test
SilverStaff, a medical testing lab, used a Web-based portal to improve shipment visibility of inbound specimens.
Liquidate Inventory or Leave Money on the Table
Liquidating overstocks and returned goods allows manufacturers and retailers to recover the items’ value.
Supply Chain Management, Trucking, Green Logistics, Retail
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
Understanding the Auto Aftermarket Supply Chain
Auto aftermarket shippers use supplier ship direct programs and high-velocity DCs to meet demand.
3PL, Security, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Transportation, Specialized Logistics
Protecting High-Value Cargo: A Sense of Security
Shippers and logistics providers take extra precautions to protect high-value products from cargo theft.
Supply Chain Management, Last Mile Delivery, Ocean, Retail
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
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Retail
How to Profit from Outsourcing
Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ports, Partnership, Automotive Logistics, Ocean, Specialized Logistics
Trends—March 2014
New Jersey’s salty tale misplaces blame on the Jones Act; UPS unveils new hazmat shipping protocol; Automakers collaborate to map the auto supply chain
3PL, Partnership, Trucking, Green Logistics
A Strategic Approach to Strengthening Supply Chains
Partnering with third-party logistics providers offers shippers numerous advantages for stronger supply chains.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management, 3PL, Retail
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, Last Mile Delivery, Expedited Shipping
Same Day Delivery: The Amazing Race
Garrick Pohl of Zipments discusses how the company facilitates same-day delivery.
Security, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Rail, Safety, Finance, Green Logistics
Trends—February 2014
Hunter Harrison documents the culture change that has contributed to Canadian Pacific’s rail renaissance; Global companies more concerned about climate risk than emissions reductions; Deadline for new ISO17712:2013 high-security seal standards is fast approaching; Lack of collaboration between supply chain and finance hurts the bottom line
Reverse Logistics, Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Asia, Global Logistics, Cross-border Trade, China, Labor Management, Canada, Manufacturing, Latin America, Retail, Economic Development
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
Supply Chain Management, Lean, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing
Automotive Logistics: The Upside of Resiliency
Collaborative risk management helps automakers and their supply chain partners protect against disruptions.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management
Controlling Costs in the Healthcare Supply Chain
Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.
3PL, Military Logistics, Manufacturing
Aerospace Logistics: Building for Growth
The aerospace industry explores new strategies for producing planes quickly, efficiently, and profitably.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Transportation, Logistics I.T., Trucking
Drafting a New Route Planning System
Molson Coors Canada’s new delivery planning system integrates routing, pallet building, and truck loading.
Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Green Logistics
Weathering Climate Change and Supply Chain Risk
Supply chains must develop strategies for reducing risk related to climate change, such as drought and extreme weather.
Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Minimizing the Financial Impact of Peak Season Returns
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
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.
Transportation, Chemical Logistics, Trucking
Transforming Liquid Assets into Capital Gains
Flexible tanks turn dry vans into bulk liquid transportation, creating capacity and increasing backhaul opportunities.
Optimized Operations Are Green Operations
Ocean shipping lines have made significant progress to optimize operations, leading to reduced costs and environmental impact.
3PL, Transportation, Green Logistics
Using SmartWay Data to Inform Transportation Purchasing Decisions
SmartWay data allows shippers and 3PLs to make business decisions that support their sustainability goals.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Rail, Global Logistics, Air Cargo, Ocean, Green Logistics, Latin America
Global Logistics—November 2013
Aviation climate emissions agreement signals major progress; Latin American economic growth expected to accelerate despite hinterland connectivity issues; IMO’s container weight verification amendment irks some shipper advocates; Rolls-Royce developing hybrid wind-powered ship; Spain and Portugal seek rail freight harmonies
Supply Chain Management, Reverse Logistics
Plan Early for Peak Returns Season
Planning for peak returns season can minimize processing costs and maximize recovery values of returned inventory.
Creating a Greener Warehouse
Reducing warehouse energy and water consumption helps companies improve their bottom line and bring value to customers.
Food Logistics, Loading Dock, Safety
Enhancing Safety Up-N-Down
Fast food chain In-N-Out upgrades a new distribution center for improved loading dock safety and efficiency.
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.
Supply Chain Management, Automotive Logistics, Retail
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.
Global Logistics, Reverse 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.
10 Trends Driving Greener Supply Chains
Trends could transform logistics operations, particularly in emerging markets, creating more sustainable supply chains.
3PL, Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods
Temperature-controlled Logistics: Cool Under Pressure
Perishable shipments such as produce and pharmaceuticals require temperature monitoring and careful handling.
Military Logistics, Education & Careers
Hiring Heroes: A Good Deal for U.S. Companies
Companies in the logistics sector are stepping up to hire U.S. military veterans with aggressive recruiting and training programs.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Air Cargo, 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.
Natural Gas For Long-Haul Trucking: Working Together to Get It Right
Natural gas fuel can help the trucking industry reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but only if gas leaks are minimized.
Getting Green, Going Lean
Demand-driven logistics practices are a perfect focal point to integrate green strategies with Lean methodologies.
The Natural Gas Factor: New Market for Providers, New Competition for Capacity
Expected growth in new natural gas production presents opportunities for 3PLs to offer supply chain and transportation expertise.
Green Logistics The Walmart Way
Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.
G75: 75 Green Supply Chain Partners 2013
Inbound Logistics' 75 Green Supply Chain Partners (G75) highlights sustainability leaders in the logistics and transportation sector.
Complex Products, Complex Logistics Needs
Chemical producers—and the third-party logistics partners that serve them—face enormous complexities and challenges in conducting everyday business operations.
No Shortage of Challenges
Chemical shippers face ongoing rail and truck capacity challenges.
Outsourcing for Optimum Supply Chain Effectiveness
For chemical logistics providers, safety on the truck and in the warehouse is of paramount importance.
Supply Chain Technology Taps into Efficiencies
Experienced third-party supply chain partners help chemical shippers build a modern, effective, and efficient chemical supply chain.
Health Care Logistics, Picking Solutions, Finance, Economic Development
Trends—May 2013
Prologis Pulaski DC breaks ground, breaks new barriers in sustainable development; Voice technology finds traction in the supply chain; Healthcare industry stands to gain by adopting retail supply chain best practices; Freight spot market swings with seasonal demand; Midwest floods present new challenges for inland waterway shippers
Manufacturing, Green Logistics
Going Green to Save Green
By switching to lighter-weight containers and consolidating inbound shipments, construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar cut both carbon emissions and costs.
Education & Careers, Green Logistics
Jason Mathers: Carbon Slasher
Directing motor carriers to more fuel-efficient decisions drives Jason Mathers, senior manager, corporate partnerships at the Environmental Defense Fund.
CNG as a Transportation Fuel: A Fuel Manager's Perspective
While it promises supply chain sustainability gains, using compressed natural gas as a transportation fuel requires multi-step capital and operating considerations, writes Casey Whelan of U.S. Energy Services.
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.
Manufacturing, Green Logistics
Trends—February 2013
Benetton follows apparel trend and detoxes supply chain; Apple CEO Tim Cook proves demand forecasting is best left to experts; Wisconsin public-private partnerships invest in rail; Amazon and Texas settle sales tax dispute, move forward; The Alaskan Brewing Company uses spent grain as new energy source.
Agriculture Logistics, Transportation
Ag Logistics: Growing Pains
The success of U.S. agriculture depends on a functional transportation and logistics network that combines efficiencies and economies across all modes.
Project Logistics: Handling the Big Challenges
Project logistics requires specialized knowledge, experience, and equipment. Shippers of oversized loads, heavy equipment, and other unusual items rely on service providers to move their project cargo.
Wasting Away to Meet Sustainability Goals
An average distribution center generates or handles anywhere from 100 to 1,000 tons of solid waste each year that could be reduced, reused, or recycled. Emily P. Davis of Exel/DHL Supply Chain Americas outlines five keys for helping waste management and other sustainability programs succeed.
Trends—December 2012
A recent study evaluates Army logistics performance; Midwest drought threatens Mississippi River trade; Mondelēz International invests $400 million in global supply chain sustainability program; big box retailers battle over Kindle sales
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.
4 Steps to Reducing Emissions in the Supply Chain
By collaboratively engaging with their supplier networks, companies can mitigate their greenhouse gas emissions and improve supplier relationships while achieving greater efficiency and cost reductions, writes Gary Hanifan of Accenture.
How to Measure Sustainability Program Performance
Many companies are considering ways to improve fleet fuel efficiency and establish sustainability standards they can measure, then improve upon.
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.
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.
Restaurant Logistics: Serving up the Perfect Meal
Facing increasing food safety and quality standards and soaring commodity prices, the restaurant industry turns to supply chain management to manage super-sized challenges.
Don’t Be Afraid Of Product Lifecycle Assessment
Product lifecycle assessment (LCA) can reveal opportunities to cut costs, gain efficiencies, and improve sustainability and carbon footprint, writes Sara Pax, Bluehorse Associates.
Distribution, Partnership, Food Logistics
Failure is Not an Option: Questions and Answers with Brian Hancock
Brian Hancock, president, North America for Martin-Brower, discusses the unique supply chain and distribution operations supporting the McDonald’s restaurant chain.
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.
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.
Green Leadership for Lean Times
Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
CNG Fuels Trucking Sustainability Efforts
Compressed natural gas (CNG) powered vehicles have gained visibility as leading-edge companies are transitioning to fleets that use this alternative fuel source, writes Cliff Otto, Saddle Creek.
Chemical Logistics: Shippers/Providers Achieve Perfect Chemistry
Companies that ship chemicals benefit from the special expertise of their service providers to handle issues such as tight delivery windows, hazmat safety, security, and specialized equipment needs.
Military Logistics, Education & Careers
Battlefields and Boardrooms: The Military-Private Sector Connection
The traits of an exceptional soldier are also the traits of exceptional logistics professionals.
Green is Still White Hot
Fueled by cost reductions and efficiency gains, supply chain sustainability initiatives retain their heat.
Achieving LEED Certification
Achieving LEED certification begins with choosing energy-efficient lighting, using space to promote energy savings, and building with sustainable and recycled materials. Thomas Taylor of Vertegy offers more tips for getting your building LEED certified.
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.
Packaging Grows Green
Many shippers are looking to replace fossil-fuel based packaging materials with something more sustainable. But they must do their homework to find the best – and greenest – fit.
Military Logistics, Education & Careers
Capt. Kazimir Kostrubala: Winging It
Kazimir Kostrubala manages military resources as squadron operations officer and installation deployment officer with the 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron, 19th Airlift, at the Little Rock Air Force Base, Little Rock, Ark.
Trends—March 2012
Risk management top priority for consumer companies; North Carolina Global Logistics Center brings together four community colleges in Piedmont Triad; Nissan develops green ship to transport electric cars; Defense Logistics Agency explores use of DNA technology to combat counterfeit parts; Deutsche Post DHL looks into the future of the global supply chain
Wind Logistics, Economic Development
Wind Power: Generating Logistics Opportunities
The wind power industry continues to grow, expand, and excel domestically—and equipment manufacturers and specialty transportation providers are growing with it.
Project Logistics: Moving the Big, the Heavy, and the Wide
Project cargo logistics requires shippers and service providers become more sophisticated in how they plan and partner for success when transporting oversized and heavy-weight shipments.
Risk Management, Food Logistics, Logistics I.T.
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.
Launching a Sustainability Initiative Can Be as Easy as 1-2-3
While some organizations and industries may have operations that naturally lend themselves to sustainability efforts, all companies should be empowered to review their shipping and supply chain operations through the lens of sustainability.
Integration: United They Stand for Corporate Responsibility
Grocery store chain United Supermarkets achieved its sustainability goals by certifying chain of custody within a tight-knit supplier network and integrating responsible practices into daily business operations.
Logistics Lets the Games Begin
Major sports events require intensive logistics planning. Here, a behind-the-scenes looks at the preparations for the 2012 Super Bowl XVLI in Indianapolis and 2011 PGA Championship near Atlanta, Georgia.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery
Delivering the Final Smile
The use of new technology and tools—such as email, cellphones, and social media—allows shippers to stay involved, from order to final-mile delivery, no matter what the shipment, to create a superior customer service experience.
Boosting Supply Chain Sustainability
Optimizing packaging, streamlining transportation, and maximizing space usage are among the ways businesses can boost their supply chain sustainability, writes Alan Amling of UPS.
Foodservice Logistics Brings Value to the Table
The harsh economy is driving an increased need for top-notch supply chain management in the foodservice industry. Here, a look at how some restaurants are feeding their hunger for smart logistics strategies.
Health Care Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Healthcare Supply Chain Costs: A Tough Pill to Swallow
Organizations all along the healthcare supply chain are taking a dose of smarter procurement and logistics practices to cure high costs and treat ailments in other areas of the business.
How to Ensure Successful Transportation of Your Project Cargo
Project logistics presents unique transportation challenges. Moving project cargo requires collaborative partnership, attention to detail, and constant communication across the supply chain.
Rails Give Agricultural Industry Seeds to Grow
Paul Hammes of Union Pacific outlines how rail industry infrastructure investments provide capacity and reliable service to the agriculture industry.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Trucking
Refrigerated Trucks Haul More Than Just Perishables
No longer hauling just fresh produce and other groceries, today’s truck and trailer refrigeration systems also keep other high-value loads at ideal temperatures and humidity levels so they arrive safely at their final destinations, writes Thermo King’s Tom Kampf.
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.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Food Logistics
Temp-Controlled Food Transport: Safe Travels
Prompted by new FDA regulations, shippers examine food transportation and distribution safety procedures.
Switching to Emissions-reducing Fuel Technologies
Shipping and logistics professionals facing stricter emissions regulations and rising diesel prices will have an opportunity to take control of their fleets and realize the fuel and cost savings selective catalytic reduction brings, writes Chad Dombroski of Yara North America.
Supply Chain Management, Automotive Logistics
Distribution Network Optimization: Repairing Cracked Supply Chain Design
Vehicle glass manufacturer Safelite increased distribution efficiency, enhanced customer service, and lowered costs by transforming its supply chain.
For the Love of the Green
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton questions whether the green consumer phenomenon is a fad – and what it means for supply chain and logistics sustainability initiatives.
Managing Fresh Produce Shipments
Shipping fresh produce requires quick movement through the supply chain to prevent product spoilage. C.H. Robinson’s general managers, Gary York, Bob Biesterfeld, and Mark Petersen, provide advice for managing produce shipments.
Full Circle: Reverse Logistics Keeps Products Green to the End
Green reverse logistics strategies to reuse, refurbish, and recycle products and raw materials not only benefit the environment, but also save money and increase profits.
Rail, Trucking, Green Logistics
Green on the Ground
When looking for environmental sustainability solutions, which ground transport mode -- truck or rail -- is greener?
Chemical Logistics: Smart Strategies For Uncertain Times
After years of uncertainty, chemical shippers and service providers are getting back on the right road.
The Rail/Ag Connection: An American Revival
As U.S. railroads and agricultural businesses embark on a new era of relevance, they are encountering new opportuniteis working together, and old grievances working apart.
Harnessing the Winds of Change
The wind power industry blows gusts of opportunity for project sites, equipment manufacturers, and specialty transportation providers.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery
The Last Mile’s Lasting Impact
From traditional heavy goods shipments to the new influx of e-commerce-fueled home deliveries, the last mile plays a crucial role in the supply chain.
White Glove Services: Ask for What You Need
Jerry Levy of Specialized Transportation Inc. explains how to get the best service from white-glove logistics providers.
Making Sustainability a Reality
Businesses worldwide need to take collective and collaborative responsibility for making supply chain sustainability a reality.
Supply Chain Management, Green Logistics
Supply Chain Gain: Shades of Green
Sustainability efforts can help companies grow more efficient supply chains.
Supply Chain Management, Automotive Logistics
The Wheels of Change: Questions & Answers with Ed Melching
To roll out a supply chain overhaul, truck and engine manufacturer Navistar chose third-party logistics provider Menlo as its strategic partner. Ed Melching, director, Global Logistics, describes the project.
Following the LEED
Industrial property developers are cultivating greener distribution facilities and nurturing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards compliance. The bounty? A harvest of benefits for their tenants.
Auto Logistics: Revving Up Service Parts Logistics Operations
Ford revamped its service parts network, processes, and technologies to boost efficiency and set the stage for global service parts logistics management.
The Shipper’s Guide to Project Logistics
Handling oversized cargo requires a special touch. Here's how to find a project logistics provider with the know-how to get the job done right.
Materials Handling, Green Logistics
Pallet-Sharing Programs: Better for the Planet
For shipping and receiving, there are three types of pallet programs: single-use or one-way, extended-use or buy/sell, and leasing or rental. Hillary Femal of IFCO Systems describes the uses and benefits of each type.
Rail, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Intermodal
How to Leverage Rail/Intermodal For Refrigerated Freight
The emergence of refrigerated container units provides more cost-effective rail and intermodal shipping for perishable and temperature-sensitive goods.
3PL, Distribution, Temperature-Sensitive Goods
How to Ship to Alaska
The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.
Ports, Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, Ocean, Green Logistics
Global Logistics—November 2010
Heineken implements inland barge distribution in Europe; CMA CGM, MSC, and Maersk Line partner to fight piracy; PepsiCo UK and Ireland help farm suppliers cut carbon emissions and water usage; New Dubai Logistics Corridor facilitates UAE trade; Japanese economy shows signs of rebound; Taiwan launches project to improve logistics performance.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Green Logistics
First They Came For Our Trucks
Is there a war on trucking? CSA 2010, cap and trade, and Hours of Service changes are challenging the ability of truckers to operate profitably in America, says Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail
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.
Ports, Global Economy, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Rail, Global Logistics, Panama Canal, Ocean, Trucking, Green Logistics, Latin America
Trends—September 2010
News briefs: U.S. Ports Dig Panama Gold, Reducing the Carton Footprint, SaaS to the Rescue, BNSF Brings Shortlines On Line, Truckers Tackle Credit Crunch
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Warehousing, Retail
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.
Oversized Shipments: Good to Grow
Ike Ortiz-Luis of DGX-Dependable Global Express explains how to navigate oversized cargo's specialized needs, from transportation requirements to project financing.
Temperature Controlled, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), 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.
Supply Chain Management, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, E-commerce, Transportation Management, Retail
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.
Middle East, Military Logistics
Amazing Race: Questions & Answers with Brigadier General John O’Connor
Inbound Logistics goes behind the scenes of a five-month pursuit to move the U.S. military from Iraq to Afghanistan with Brigadier General John O’Connor, director of logistics, Third Army, and commanding general of the Army Materiel Command.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Green Logistics
Shading Green
Serious challenges balance the benefits of embracing sustainability efforts, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
The Green Rule: Measuring Progress
Government, industry, and consumers are creating new standards for supply chain sustainability excellence.
Chemical Logistics—June 2010
As the economy drives change, chemical shippers adapt, making the move to intermodal service, developing leaner operations, and cutting transit times. Discover the latest chemical logistics developments in this informative resource from Inbound Logistics and Chemical Week.
Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Green Logistics
Greening the Supply Chain Through Warehouse Automation
Investing in automated storage and retrieval systems and WMS helps warehouses grow greener and reap financial benefits.
Trends—June 2010
Patagonia and Walmart grow green together; 3PLs make sustainability a priority
Military Logistics, Education & Careers
From the Service to the Supply Chain
Can you really model best practices from the military? After all, they invented the acronym SNAFU. But companies are finding veterans' experience and skills help promote ship-shape supply chains.
Military Logistics, Education & Careers
Jason Ballard: Distributing Ammo and Hot Chow
Ten years as an Army sustainment officer provided Major Jason Bullard a view of the military supply chain from just about every angle.
Growing a Greener Warehouse
Fuel-optimized forklifts? Check. Energy-efficient light bulbs? Check. Here's your cheat-sheet for warehouse sustainability efforts, courtesy of Rajiv Saxena of APL Logistics.
Wind Logistics: A Mighty Wind
Rapid change follows rapid growth in the wind power industry. Here's how logistics providers are working to go any way the wind blows.
Hold Everything: Adopting Protective Packaging Practices
Green packaging strategies can reduce cargo emissions, conserve resources, cut transport costs, and enhance your brand's reputation; Bill Armstrong of Sealed Air Corporation and Arnold Barlow of UPS explain how to apply them.
Military Logistics, Education & Careers
William Cossey Jr.: Happy in the Middle of the Action
William Cossey Jr. moved military vehicles during the first Gulf War; civilian life finds him back in the supply chain hot seat.
Health Care Logistics, Bar-coding Systems
Healthcare Logistics: A New Prescription for Medical Distribution
Linking bar-coded pharmaceuticals and electronic patient records using Zebra Technologies solutions helps the Sisters of Mercy Health System streamline supply chain operations.
Healthcare Logistics: Under Pressure
Healthcare leaders diagnose their biggest supply chain pains and write a prescription for the Obama administration.
Automotive Logistics, Bar-coding Systems
Bar Codes Rev Up Auto Supplier Operations
An end-to-end scanning solution with components from Integrated Barcoding Systems and Zebra Technologies helps Trelleborg Automotive Americas improve efficiency and accuracy, while providing real-time production data and lot traceability.
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