Inbound Logistics

Navigating New IT Pathways

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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.

The Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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.

Connect and Collaborate to Better Manage Freight Spend

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

Mobile communications tools track supply chain data such as shipment status, warehouse worker performance, truck location, and driver safety.

Business Intelligence in the Supply Chain

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

Business intelligence tools support supply chain management by helping logistics professionals derive meaning from the data collected by logistics technology solutions.

GTM: The World at Your Fingertips

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST

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.

You’re Faced With a Recall. Can You Find That Product?

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST

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.

Yard and Dock Management Tools: An Extra Set of Eyes in Your Facility

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

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.

Technology: The Leading Edge

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

Innovative technologies are helping companies improve visibility into their supply chains and gain better control over inventory, service, and cost.

Loadboards & Exchanges: Finding the Perfect Match

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

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.

Take Your Pick

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

Companies choosing between voice-directed and pick-to-light technology often find that the right choice is a combination of both.

Cloud-Based WMS Fires Up Supermercados Supply Chain

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST

Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).

Measuring the Value of Collaboration

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Connecting Through an Online Network Gives Supply Chain Partners Strength in Numbers

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Food Logistics Taps into Tech Solutions

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

International Shipping: Moving at the Speed of Technology

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

The Future of Predictive Analytics Looks Certain

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Visibility is the Key to Mitigating Supply Chain Risk

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

SaaS-Based Transload Management Systems Enable Transport Efficiencies

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Shared Technology Resources Hold the Key to Supply Chain Optimization

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

Supply chain managers must determine the best technology for their supply chain based on their specific organizational needs, says Krishna Rallabhandi of Four Soft.

Information Access Differentiates Transportation Providers

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Putting Labor Management Systems to Work

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

Labor management systems help distribution centers and warehouse facilities monitor and measure worker performance to identify problems and improvement opportunities.

Second-Generation Logistics Software: Accessible Anywhere

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

New logistics technology makes supply chain data accessible around the clock, says Tom Heine, Aljex Software.

Collaborative Visibility for Optimum Efficiency and User Experience

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Trucking Communications: Goin' Mobile

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

Mobile trucking communications technology signals new productivity gains for truckers, and helps improve truck driver safety.

Managing Mobile Devices By Remote Control

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Discovering the Value of Analytics

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Data Warehousing System Puts an End to Paperwork

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Harnessing the Power of Information Technology

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Opening the Door To Real-Time Visibility

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Door manufacturer The WHITING Group replaced siloed systems with integrated ERP, ushering in transparency and real-time decision-making across its multiple divisions.

Sharing Data Creates Optimal Supply Chain Visibility

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST

Tablets offer several advantages over notebook computers and handheld devices, says Chris Wright, DRS Technologies.

Warehouse Automation Management Goes Mobile

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Logistics technology is a source of competitive advantage, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.

The Three Pillars of Effective Returns Management

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Software solutions can help shippers maximize value recovery from inbound shipments of returned material, writes Tamara Dwyer of TAKE Solutions.

All-in-One

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Inbound Logistics' annual logistics technology market research report delivers exclusive insights on logistics technology trends, and reveals this year's best-in-class vendors.

World-Class Logistics Operations Require Multi-Party Processes and Technology

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Using actionable data provided by key performance indicators (KPIs), businesses can automate shipping decisions and identify areas for improvement, writes Steven Shoemaker of Ratelinx.

Leveraging Lean and Labor Management

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

Use Transportation Planning for Competitive Advantage

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

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.

5 Steps to Improving Food Product Traceability

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

Ice cream distributor Berliner scoops up savings with an automated direct store delivery solution that helps drivers manage customer information collected along their routes.

VMS Lifts Warehouse Labor Productivity

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST

Vehicle management systems allow lift truck operators to complete pre-operation checklists electronically, saving valuable production time, writes Joe LaFergola of The Raymond Corporation.

Strengthening International Cargo Security

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST

Air cargo security requires aggressive international mandate and top-down focus on identity verification and data analysis, writes Steve Vinsik of Unisys Corporation.

Expedited Carriers: The Fast and the Furious

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

APIs Enrich Software Users’ Experience

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST

Tom Heine, CEO, Aljex Software Inc., explains how application programming interfaces (APIs) enrich software users’ experience by connecting them to Web tools.

What Makes a Great TMS?

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

Managing the Logistics Lifecycle

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Transportation procurement provides the greatest opportunity to create efficiency in the the Logistics Management Lifecycle, says Martin Hubert, Freightgate.

The Perfect Time to Optimize Labor Management

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

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

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Since the events of September 11, the public and private sectors have committed themselves to developing new supply chain security technologies.

Ports Plug In: Electronic Tracking Tools Create Smooth Sailing for Ocean Cargo

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

When Just Enough Goes All the Way

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST

In the midst of organizational change, furniture retailer Design Within Reach upgrades its demand forecasting and replenishment system to better control inventory.

Container Security: Filling in the Blanks

Sun, 15 May 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

RFID Delivers the Power to Transform Markets

Sun, 15 May 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

The Future Ain’t What It Used to Be

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST

Globally interconnected supply chains face challenges such as natural disasters and currency fluctuations, but benefit from the latest logistics technology.

High Tech: The Rise of SaaS and the Cloud

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST

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

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST

Rick Pontin, CEO of Airclic, explains how to improve inventory management through better visibility.

Achieving Air and Ocean Freight Flexibility

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

Ensuring Successful System Integration

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

Benchmarking Data Supports Pricing Decisions

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST

Measuring against industry benchmark data allows you to identify areas for improving transportation spend.

Retail Recovery Depends on an Integrated Supply Chain Strategy

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

Supply Chain Gain: Better Data, Better Results

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

New technology solutions help improve inventory visibility, increase routing agility, manage labor more effectively, and capture valuable information from the field.

Securing the Supply Chain

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

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.

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 Find the Best EDI Solution For Your Operations

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

How to Select a Transportation Management Solution

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Trends—November 2010

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Optimizing Global Supply Chain Management

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

Andrea Robinson of CargoWise provides tips on handling global supply chain management challenges.

Predicting Demand Levels Down the Road

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

Polymer and fibers manufacturer INVISTA turned to a new inventory planning tool to meet recessionary challenges.

Managing Labor Boosts Warehouse Operations

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

Labor management tools can help you determine if your workforce is performing at the level necessary to deliver cost-effective service to customers.

Digitizing the Global Supply Chain

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

What’s Ahead in Transportation Forecasting?

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Tap the Potential of SaaS and Cloud Computing

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

ALDO Boots Up a New System

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST

Global shoe retailer ALDO implements a high-stepping, end-to-end inventory and distribution system.

Crack the WIP for a Leaner Supply Chain

Mon, 17 May 2010 12:00:00 EST

Zebra Technologies' David Phillips explains how eliminating excess work-in-process waste improves your supply chain.

Transformative Technology

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

Growing companies harness a variety of IT solutions to help them maintain outstanding performance.

Crossdocking: A New Vision for an Old Idea

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

Jason Howton, TAKE Supply Chain, outlines strategies for achieving best-in-class crossdocking performance.

Sharing Efficiencies Through Collaboration

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

LeanLogistics' Chris Timmer explains how collaborating with trading partners, aided by an on-demand transportation management system, helps increase supply chain efficiencies.

GTM Software: Read This Before You Buy

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

Rich Wilson of CombineNet Inc. explains the value of strong shipper-carrier relationships.

Ditch the Spreadsheets, Implement a TMS

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

Fleet optimization software helps you maximize driver, vehicle, and fleet productivity while delivering superior customer service, writes Steve Brown, Intergis LLC.

Free TMS Software: The Price is Right

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

Global Trade Compliance: See it All, Know it All

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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.

FTZ Solutions: Zoning in on the Right Fit

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

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

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST

Technology providers identify the transportation and logistics challenges facing shippers; Johnson & Johnson upgrades its quality assurance and supply chain systems

Implementing an RFID Solution

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST

Proper management and execution are key to a successful RFID implementation project for shipment tracking, according to Scott Thomas of Intel.