Inbound Logistics

6 Secrets to Finding the Right 3PL

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

Finding a third-party logistics (3PL) provider you can count on requires due diligence into performance history and resources, writes Kyle tGholston of Conexus.

Outsourcing for Newbies, and a Refresher for All

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

To preserve working capital and promote flexibility, many companies choose to leverage the capabilities of a third-party-logistics (3PL) provider for carrier spend, facility occupancy, and more, writes John Wagner Jr. of Wagner Logistics.

Using Strategic Acquisitions to Satisfy Your Customer Base

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

Shippers want 3PL partners that not only responsively evolve service networks and capabilities to flex with the market, but also can anticipate and be ready to meet future service requirements, writes Ray Greer of BNSF Logistics.

Is Your 3PL Financially Healthy?

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Conduct a financial checkup of your potential 3PL partners before you sign the contract.

How to Foster a Long-Term 3PL Partnership

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

The value of third-party logistics (3PL) provider partnerships grows infinitely greater when shippers take a long-term approach that focuses on sustainable gains rather than short-term savings.

Emily Ross: Good Blood

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

As senior supply chain manager at blood management devices manufacturer Haemonetics Corporation, Emily Ross monitors the pulse of the company’s transportation and warehousing services sourcing.

You Are Everywhere: Mapping the New Retail Supply Chain

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.

3PL Partnerships: From Tactical to Strategic

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

If shippers use their third-party logistics partners for more than brokerage—not just as tactical providers, but as strategic partners—a whole new world of logistics excellence and accomplishments could open up, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.

3PL Partnerships: From Transactions to Trust

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Increasingly, 3PLs and shippers are working much more collaboratively, often sharing pains and gains, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.

Great Partnerships: 3PLs and Shippers

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Many companies, including Kimberly-Clark, Ebro, and USG Corporation, are moving beyond the traditional, transactional shipper-3PL relationship to form collaborative partnerships focused on mutual gain.

3PL Perspectives 2012: Shippers and 3PLs—Perfect Together

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.

Readers’ Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2012

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Inbound Logistics' readers voted on the third-party logistics providers (3PLs) that give them the best service and deliver outstanding results. Here is the list of top-rated 3PLs.

3PLs Control Loads to Provide Shippers Superior Service

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can inspire shipper confidence by using technology tools to control loads and properly insuring their loads.

Gaining More From 3PL Relationships

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

Getting your money’s worth from third-party logistics (3PL) service providers requires willingness to commit to key relationships, according to these tips from supply chain consultant Valerie Bonebrake, Tompkins International.

3PLs: Going Beyond Savings to True Value

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer shippers a variety of beneficial supply chain services, writes Dan Lockwood of Unishippers Global.

Trends—December 2011

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

C.H. Robinson and Menlo Logistics Worldwide streamline managed TMS services; Ohio, Wisconsin, and California transportation legislation; GE opens renewable energy DC; Order fulfillment process grows in complexity

How to Evaluate a 3PL Partner

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST

Shippers, carriers, and small intermediaries that rely on third-party logistics (3PL) service providers to manage non-core logistics and supply functions, access capacity, and tap technology capabilities must review 3PL performance periodically to ensure quality service.

The Bright Side of Logistics in India

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST

There is more to India’s supply chain scene than its shortcomings. APL Logistics’ David Frentzel shares insights from a recent tour of his company’s Indian facilities and meetings with shippers.

Enjoying the Perks of 3PL Order Management

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

Using a 3PL: Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Shippers that use only the transactional solutions offered by their 3PL partners are missing the opportunity to benefit from advanced logistics solutions and expertise they helped pay to initiate, implement, and build-out, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.

Close Encounters of the Third-Party Kind

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Editor Felecia Stratton describes the highlights of the July 2011 issue, which documents the many ways 3PLs of all shapes and sizes are moving the outsourcing needle in different directions.

3PL Capability is Key to Logistics Cost Reduction

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Capable third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help you manage rising logistics costs because they have highly developed processes and critical infrastructures in place, writes Brad Constantini, Comprehensive Logistics.

3PLs Save the Day

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Just when a shipper needs help most, in steps a partner with super powers. These three case studies show how third-party logistics providers can swoop in to solve problems for shippers.

3PL Perspectives 2011: The Power of Three

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Inbound Logistics' annual 3PL market research report reveals how the dynamic duo of shippers and 3PLs are responding to changing forces in the outsourcing industry.

Readers' Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2011

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Responding to our annual Readers' Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence survey, Inbound Logistics readers voted on the best third-party logistics providers and related the ways in which they count on their 3PLs.

Does Size Matter? Tier II 3PLs Find Their Niche

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

3PLs, like shippers, come in many shapes and sizes. The "not-too-big and not-too-small" size of Tier II 3PLs makes them just right for many shippers.

Does Your 3PL Provide ‘Golden Rule’ Customer Service?

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST

John Rodeheffer of Zipline Logistics outlines how to find a 3PL that delivers "Golden Rule" customer service: who treat others as they want to be treated, with honest and transparent communication.

New Kids in Town: 3PLs Move Into the TMS Market

Sun, 15 May 2011 12:00:00 EST

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are bringing transportation management systems (TMS) to market.

A New Day Dawns for 3PL Partnerships

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST

Most logistics outsourcers today use an RFQ to select their 3PLs. But that model is outdated and ineffective. A handful of forward-thinking shippers and logistics providers are instead embracing a collaborative outsourcing method, with powerful results.

Balancing Shipper and Carrier Interests

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

The new world of supply chain management requires that carriers and shippers both understand and respect the economics of the industry.

White Glove Services: Ask for What You Need

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

Jerry Levy of Specialized Transportation Inc. explains how to get the best service from white-glove logistics providers.

Achieving Competitive Advantage: How the Right 3PL Partner Can Help You Dominate Your Market

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

Chris Baltz of Transportation Insight explains how the right 3PL partner can help you achieve competitive advantage and dominate your market.

Protect Your Supply Chain From Merger Mania

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

Third-party logistics provider mergers can disrupt shippers' supply chain performance. Brad Constantini of Comprehensive Logistics Inc. suggests strategies for preventing these problems.

4PLs Take Control

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

4PLs guide transportation operations, manage product flow, and sometimes help avert disaster.

Supply Chain Gain: Call In the Experts

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

Outsource your way to a more efficient supply chain by selecting a knowledgeable and resourceful third-party logistics provider.

Certifiable Results

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

Logistics service providers are eligible for a range of certifications, such as C-TPAT, SmartWay, FAST, and IATA. But what they must do to qualify, and why should these certifications matter to shippers?

Auto Logistics: Revving Up Service Parts Logistics Operations

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

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

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Managing a Customer-Driven Supply Chain

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST

Logistics providers who work to understand shippers' needs help create customer service success, as illustrated by case studies involving Pep Boys, McCain Foods, and USG Corporation.

CSCMP Annual Conference: Can We Talk?

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.

How to Ship to Alaska

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.

Logistics Outsourcing: An Active Culture at Dannon

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Gaining Alignment With Your 3PL is Key to Supply Chain Success

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

Duane Sizemore of Total Logistic Control discusses how companies can build better relationships with third-party logistics providers through measurement, monitoring, and rewards.

3PL Partnerships: Finding Your Better Half

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

Robert Russo of Port Jersey Logistics explains how to choose the best third-party logistics provider for your company.

Great Logistics Sites: Supply Chain Central

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

Here is a look at the attributes that rank high on the list for any company seeking a location for supply chain activities.

Integrate Contract Packaging Into Distribution Operations to Cut Costs by 30%

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.

Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.

Capitalizing on Mexico’s Economic Growth

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Jose Fernando Nava, president, DHL Supply Chain, Latin America shows shippers how to capitalize on Mexico's attraction as a growing consumer market.

Gemma Fillmore: Supply Chain Advocate

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Locating a Global Distribution Hub

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

10 tips for what companies should consider when locating and choosing a global distribution hub.

Collaborative Distribution Eases the Capacity Crunch

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Small and mid-sized manufacturers lack the scale to ship in full truckloads, creating thousands of separate, inefficient lines of supply—all moving to the same mass retailers. Collaborative distribution reduces the number of trucks on the road and cuts distribution costs.

Consumer Packaged Goods: Lightening the Load

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST

Ike Ortiz-Luis of DGX-Dependable Global Express explains how to navigate oversized cargo's specialized needs, from transportation requirements to project financing.

Your Guide to Routing Guides

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST

Retailers publish routing guides to establish rules for manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors to follow when fulfilling and shipping orders. Here are the benefits of establishing a routing guide.

Lean Six Sigma: Leaning by Degrees

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST

Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.

What We’ve Got Here is Failure to Communicate

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.

Value Added Services Bring Flexibility to the Supply Chain

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

A new wave of demand for value-added services requires more capabilities of retail vendors and their logistics providers.

The Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

Inbound Logistics readers select the top third-party logistics (3PL) providers.

3PL Perspectives 2010: A Paradox Bound by Demand

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

Inbound Logistics' exclusive market research compiles shipper and 3PL input to illustrate the outsourcing sector's rapidly changing dynamics.

Trends—July 2010

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

21st annual State of Logistics Report: Beating the Recession; Making dollars and Sense out of Jabulanis and Vuvuzelas; Mergers and Acquisitions Show signs of Recovery

Tying the 3PL Knot

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

Shippers and service providers discuss their experience building a strong working relationship.

Are You Talkin’ to Me?

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.

10 Paths to Supply Chain Innovation

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

To move your business along the road to supply chain improvement, take a journey down these 10 paths to innovation.

Freight Forwarders: The Vital Link in Logistics Communication

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

A professional freight forwarder that represents the interests of all supply chain participants can serve as the missing link in supply chain communication.

Keeping Surprises Out Of The Warehouse

Mon, 17 May 2010 12:00:00 EST

Warehousing risks can spring out at any moment. Some are meant to be shared, others avoided. Successful warehousing operations strike a balance.

Why You Should Vest With Your Outsourcing Partners, Now!

Mon, 17 May 2010 12:00:00 EST

Vested outsourcing yields innovative logistics relationships that deliver results, writes Kate Vitasek of the University of Tennessee's Center for Executive Education.

Giving Intermodal the Green Light

Mon, 17 May 2010 12:00:00 EST

A combined truck-and-rail transport approach cuts costs and offers environmental benefits, writes John Patton of Trinity Transport Inc.

Building Better 3PL Relationships

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST

Third-party logistics providers can provide capacity, expertise, technology, and buying power. Chip Smith, president of CS Advisory Group, discusses how to ensure you're getting the most from your 3PL.

Today’s Warehouse Plays a New Role

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST

Shared space environments, secondary packaging services, and reimagined cross-docking functions are helping manufacturers get more value from warehousing providers. Cliff Otto, president of Saddle Creek, outlines the benefits.

Green Reverse Logistics Brings Many Happy Returns

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

It's Time to Start Looking at the Future and Preparing for the Long Haul

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST

As truckload prices starting to rise, more shippers are choosing stability over short-term cost advantages, writes Jerry DeMeuse of Schneider Logistics.

Is Your 3PL a Brand Builder?

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST

Choosing and Using a Freight Forwarder

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST

Defining the Ideal Pacific Rim Warehouse

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST

Learning to Play by New Rules: Managing Logistics Through the Recession

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST

Mission-Critical Service Parts Logistics: Making the Impossible Possible

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST

Offshoring vs. Right-shoring: How to Decide

Fri, 01 May 2009 12:00:00 EST

Brokering Change

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST

Why You Don't Want an Obedient 3PL

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST

Cultivating Healthy Carrier Relationships

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST

Incoterms Let Importers Control Their Destiny

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST

Choosing a 3PL: Safety First

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST

Logistics Managers Earn Job Security

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST

Managing the Mess on the High Seas

Sat, 01 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST

Co-Sourcing: Two Companies Acting As One

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST

Six Essential Strategies for Selecting a Global 3PL

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 12:00:00 EST

Take a Deep Breath Before Diving Into Global Outsourcing

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 12:00:00 EST

Shortcuts Sound Appealing, But at What Cost?

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 12:00:00 EST

The Seven Abilities of Highly Effective 3PLs

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 12:00:00 EST

First-Time Outsourcers Can Keep Customers Happy

Sat, 01 Jul 2006 12:00:00 EST

Last Mile Logistics: Key to Competing in the Retail Race

Thu, 01 Jun 2006 12:00:00 EST

Freight Payment: Getting Back to Basics

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 12:00:00 EST

Premium Freight Makes JIT Fit

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 12:00:00 EST

Minimize Total Landed Cost: Strategize, Model, Act

Sun, 01 Jan 2006 12:00:00 EST

Selecting a Logistics Supplier? Think Supple

Thu, 01 Dec 2005 12:00:00 EST

3PLs Deliver on the Global Promise

Sat, 01 Oct 2005 12:00:00 EST

The Five Inventories: Invisible to Customers, Crucial to the Bottom Line

Fri, 01 Jul 2005 12:00:00 EST

Premium Freight: Costly Expense or Strategic Initiative?

Sun, 01 May 2005 12:00:00 EST

8 Steps to Protecting Against Parcel Fraud

Fri, 01 Apr 2005 12:00:00 EST

5 Best Practices to Boost Import Efficiency

Tue, 01 Mar 2005 12:00:00 EST

It's Capacity Crunch Time. Can Multi-Shipper Collaboration Help?

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 12:00:00 EST

Mission Possible: Expand Business Without Adding DCs

Mon, 01 Nov 2004 12:00:00 EST

Service Parts & Logistics: Should You In-source or Outsource?

Fri, 01 Oct 2004 12:00:00 EST

Optimize Your Transportation Program for Greater Efficiency

Wed, 01 Sep 2004 12:00:00 EST

Outsourced Manufacturing Changes the Face of 3PLs

Sun, 01 Aug 2004 12:00:00 EST

The Logistics of Doing Business in China

Thu, 01 Jul 2004 12:00:00 EST

Knowing What and When to Outsource

Sat, 01 May 2004 12:00:00 EST

Penetrating the U.S. Market With No Warehousing Investment

Thu, 01 Apr 2004 12:00:00 EST

Please Don't Squeeze the 3PL

Mon, 01 Mar 2004 12:00:00 EST

Pulling the Profit Lever of Spare Parts Logistics

Sun, 01 Feb 2004 12:00:00 EST

Becoming Truly Global: 3PLs Face New Challenges

Thu, 01 Jan 2004 12:00:00 EST

Retailers Take Outsourcing to the Next Level

Sat, 01 Nov 2003 12:00:00 EST

Six Ways to Grow in a Down Economy

Wed, 01 Oct 2003 12:00:00 EST

What's Next in Outsourcing's Evolution?

Mon, 01 Sep 2003 12:00:00 EST

Orchestrating Successful Product Launches

Fri, 01 Aug 2003 12:00:00 EST

Riding Outsourcing Waves: Hang Five to Thrive

Tue, 01 Jul 2003 12:00:00 EST

One Throat to Choke: The Case for One-Stop Logistics

Sun, 01 Jun 2003 12:00:00 EST

Consolidating Reverse Logistics and Warehousing Yields Greater Returns

Tue, 01 Apr 2003 12:00:00 EST

Shifting Gears from Inventory to Motor Freight Costs

Sat, 01 Mar 2003 12:00:00 EST

Contingency Planning: Get Ahead of the Game NOW

Sat, 01 Feb 2003 12:00:00 EST

Building Bridges With Your 3PLs

Wed, 01 Jan 2003 12:00:00 EST

Transforming Density into Savings

Sun, 01 Dec 2002 12:00:00 EST

Proactive Involvement Ensures Clean 3PL Startup

Tue, 01 Oct 2002 12:00:00 EST

The 4 T's of SC Excellence: Timing, Trust, Transparency, Technology

Mon, 01 Jul 2002 12:00:00 EST

Outsourcing from the Buyer's Side of the Table

Tue, 01 Jan 2002 12:00:00 EST

When Should You Outsource Transportation?

Thu, 01 Nov 2001 12:00:00 EST

Do-It-Yourselfers Need Help Too

Wed, 01 Aug 2001 12:00:00 EST