Recent Articles
Bonded Warehouse: Definition, Classes, and Benefits
Learn MoreInternational trade has increased by about 3.5% from the previous year, reflecting a trend that has been growing over several years. The increase in international shipping can be attributed in part to a growing global economy, which has introduced several new business opportunities. However, inventory storage remains a limiting factor as some products are fragile […]
Warehouse Slotting: Definition, Benefits, and Best Practices
Planning and organization are the cornerstones of a successful warehouse. When a company’s inventory products are in their proper locations, pickers can quickly assemble and dispatch orders, increasing productivity and overall efficiency. This article explains warehouse slotting, its benefits, and best practices. What Is Slotting? Slotting refers to organizing warehouse inventory to maximize the efficiency […]
What is Outsourcing? Definition, Advantages, and Examples
Many businesses have successfully adopted outsourcing processes into various aspects of their logistics and supply chain operations. Outsourcing all or part of these functions can improve efficiency and in some cases, reduce costs. This article describes the concept of outsourcing, as well as the pros, cons, and examples of outsourced functions. This information is intended […]
To Efficiently Unload Trucks, You First Need to Dance: A Winning Collaboration Between DHL Supply Chain and Boston Dynamics
Boston Dynamics has established a reputation as one of the most innovative and advanced robotics companies in the world. Much of this reputation has grown through the many videos of its dancing robots. And, while the videos are fun, they also serve a very real purpose in spurring innovation and advancing robotic technology. The videos, […]
Uniting a Fragmented Supply Chain Ecosystem to Harmonize Operations
Recent history has exposed the glaring weaknesses in our supply chains networks. One issue and it all comes crashing down like a house of cards. Resulting in expensive quick fixes to save the day. It’s time to build supply chains that are resilient, customer centric AND cost-effective. That’s what senior management is demanding. How do […]
The Great Outdoors: Peak Opportunities
As more Americans venture outdoors, apparel and gear makers net more direct-to-consumer sales and embark on the path to a more sustainable supply chain.
Incoterms: The Good, The Bad, and The Ambiguous
Incoterms are a set of international rules that interpret the most commonly used trade terms. Applying Incoterms to sales and purchase contracts makes global trade easier and helps partners in different countries understand one another.
Gettin’ Giggy With It
The gig economy’s impact on last-mile delivery and fulfillment expectations has not gone unnoticed by the retail and e-commerce behemoths. Acknowledging that impact, investment activity is spinning up this year. It seems odd but, despite finely tuned distribution systems, e-commerce leaders now feel they have to add to their “legacy” fulfillment infrastructure, technology, and expertise […]
10 Tips: Optimizing Mobile Devices in Your Supply Chain
Mobile devices are indispensable tools for businesses to stay connected and manage their supply chains—placing them on the front lines of technology transformation. Here are 10 action items to better optimize the use of mobile devices in your supply chain.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Tracking and Labeling Solutions
NB Series Mobile Powered Cart: The redesigned workstation from Newcastle Systems streamlines labeling processes and can be configured for different workflows in the warehouse, production or retail floor. Able to run up to 4 devices for 8 to 12 hours of normal use, the NB Series accommodates laser printers, monitors, testing equipment, and scales. Oyster3 […]
Shaun Bunch: Best of the Bunch
Shaun Bunch is senior vice president of supply chain with Northern Tool + Equipment, which offers more than 100,000 tools—from air compressors to welding tables—through 130-plus stores, catalog, and website.
GOOD QUESTION: How will supply chain management transform in the next five years?
Here are the three major transformations supply chain managers can anticipate. 1. Adoption of advanced supply chain technology will be a major source of competitive advantage for companies. Platforms that improve human decision making and asset management will be areas of focus. Companies will unify their technology portfolios and update or replace legacy systems. 2. […]
Featured Articles
Higher Transport Rates on the Horizon
Learn MoreFuel surcharges, market forces, and easing truckload growth rates are driving up parcel and LTL rates, says Cowen/AFS’s 2022 Freight Index.
Consumers Want More Action on Sustainability
The 2022 Retail and Sustainability Survey from global business applications firm CGS illustrates the demand for sustainability, even at the cost of losing expedited shipping times.
Managing Your Automated Warehouse
While more than 80% of warehouses are not automated, everyone is thinking about it. As supply chain technology continues to evolve, here’s what to consider if it’s time for you to implement automation and robotics to improve warehouse operations.
Logistics Disasters: Hang On
As extreme weather events increase in number and severity, logistics professionals must overcome some wet and wild challenges to deliver much-needed disaster relief supplies as quickly and efficiently as possible.
What’s the biggest supply chain silo?
Readers shine a light on the most significant information lapses and data gaps in the supply chain, from transportation siloes to the lack of visibility into suppliers.
What pandemic-era adjustment will have the greatest supply chain impact?
The acceleration of digital twins. The ability to digitally model a company’s manufacturing and distribution network will allow it to quickly assess the impact of large and small disruptions and take appropriate actions. —Allen Jacques Industry Thought Leader Kinaxis The use of data analytics to help suppliers really understand consumer behavior. Suppliers decided to eliminate […]
NOTED: The Supply Chain In Brief
The latest mergers & acquisitions, logistics contracts, sustainability initiatives, humanitarian logistics efforts and more. Good Works The Coca-Cola Company, based in Atlanta, donated $1 million to the Technical College System of Georgia Foundation’s Commercial Truck Driving Program. The donation funds driver training programs and helps ensure more drivers are in the pipeline to fill trucking […]
Vertical Focus: Footwear
China SC Woes Have Footwear Industry Tied In Knots The impact on the supply chain from lockdowns in China was a major themefor footwear retailers in the first half of 2022. Largely reporting lower-than-expected earnings, many major footwear brands pointed a finger at the lockdowns to explain their disappointing performance levels. Strict and extended COVID-19 […]
Supply Chain Helps Meet ESG Goals
As corporations become increasingly focused on ESG initiatives, their supply chain and logistics partners respond with tools and services designed to help them grow sustainability and other goals.
Chemical Logistics: Critical Challenges Drive Creativity
Chemical shippers and their partners keep critical shipments moving safely and efficiently—refining their strategies and getting creative despite considerable challenges. Here’s how leading providers formulate solutions for the chemical industry.
2022 75 Green Supply Chain Partners
Inbound Logistics editors select 75 companies going above and beyond to prioritize green initiatives and help global supply chains become more sustainable. These companies are dedicated to developing and implementing best practices that leave a positive footprint on the world.
To Efficiently Unload Trucks, You First Need to Dance: A Winning Collaboration Between DHL Supply Chain and Boston Dynamics
Boston Dynamics has established a reputation as one of the most innovative and advanced robotics companies in the world. Much of this reputation has grown through the many videos of its dancing robots. And, while the videos are fun, they also serve a very real purpose in spurring innovation and advancing robotic technology. The videos, […]
Knowledge Center
Bonded Warehouse: Definition, Classes, and Benefits
Learn MoreInternational trade has increased by about 3.5% from the previous year, reflecting a trend that has been growing over several years. The increase in international shipping can be attributed in part to a growing global economy, which has introduced several new business opportunities. However, inventory storage remains a limiting factor as some products are fragile […]
Warehouse Slotting: Definition, Benefits, and Best Practices
Planning and organization are the cornerstones of a successful warehouse. When a company’s inventory products are in their proper locations, pickers can quickly assemble and dispatch orders, increasing productivity and overall efficiency. This article explains warehouse slotting, its benefits, and best practices. What Is Slotting? Slotting refers to organizing warehouse inventory to maximize the efficiency […]
What is Outsourcing? Definition, Advantages, and Examples
Many businesses have successfully adopted outsourcing processes into various aspects of their logistics and supply chain operations. Outsourcing all or part of these functions can improve efficiency and in some cases, reduce costs. This article describes the concept of outsourcing, as well as the pros, cons, and examples of outsourced functions. This information is intended […]
Transportation Management System: Meaning, Importance, and Benefits
Transportation management systems help manage various transportation activities such as shipping, tracking, and delivery. A transportation management system (TMS) benefits businesses by providing cost savings, improved efficiency, and enhanced visibility into transportation operations. Let’s explore the meaning of a transportation management system, the importance of transportation management, and the benefits that a transportation management system […]
Bulk Cargo: Definition, Containers, and Handling
Bulk cargo poses unique handling and transportation challenges, due to its volume and weight. Effective bulk cargo handling requires a comprehensive understanding of the specific materials in transit and the appropriate storage, handling, and transportation methods to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the transaction. Container handling systems quickly and efficiently unload, load, and handle bulk […]
Supply Planning: Definition, Process, and Best Practices
Supply planning is a business management tool that impacts supply, demand, and inventory levels. Retailers use supply chain planning systems to provide projected demand for products and materials needed to support those demands. The process is designed to balance plans for future demand with the availability of goods in inventory. Supply planning helps companies determine […]
