Operational Risk Management: Core Principles and Practices

Operational Risk Management: Core Principles and Practices

Modern business operations face rising complexity from cyber threats, supply chain issues, and failed internal processes. Each mistake or delay increases risk exposure and disrupts performance. Without a structured system, risks multiply fast and often without warning.

Global Supply Chain: What It Is, Importance, and Challenges

Global Supply Chain: What It Is, Importance, and Challenges

Studying the global supply chain reveals how products move from raw materials to finished goods across multiple countries. It connects manufacturing operations, distribution, and customer demand in a vast worldwide system. Many global supply chains involve complex steps and working relationships with foreign suppliers to meet the needs of international customers. Breaking down how global […]

What is Linehaul: Definition, How it Works, and Importance

What is Linehaul: Definition, How it Works, and Importance

What is a line haul? It refers to the transport of goods between two points, such as cities, ports, or even warehouses. Line haul transportation covers the long-distance part of the shipping process. It moves freight between hubs like sorting facilities or distribution centers, with the final destination being the endpoint of the shipping process, […]

UPC Meaning: What It Is, Types, and How to Get

UPC Meaning: What It Is, Types, and How to Get

Running a business today means staying organized, especially when selling products globally or across online marketplaces. Mismanaging items leads to errors, confusion, and lost sales. That’s where understanding UPC meaning becomes essential. A UPC—short for Universal Product Code—is a unique number and a type of bar code used for product identification. The barcode symbol, which […]

Beyond Reshoring to Regionalization

Beyond Reshoring to Regionalization

Recent and ongoing tariff discussions have some supply chain leaders rethinking their global supply strategy. While this has led many manufacturers to consider reshoring, an alternate strategy is growing around regionalization and rightshoring.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

Providing air capacity on key trade lanes, CEVA Logistics launched a trans-Pacific charter program connecting Wuxi, China, to Chicago. Offering three flights per week, the Wuxi-Chicago charter is designed to accommodate a range of cargo types, including industrial equipment, electronics, oversized cargo, ecommerce goods, and apparel.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Drones

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Drones

From conducting inventory counts with accuracy to completing last-mile deliveries with precision, these drones take flight in the supply chain space.

TMS: Time to Ditch the Spreadsheets

TMS: Time to Ditch the Spreadsheets

Outdated tools can’t keep up with today’s global supply chain demands. A modern transportation management system (TMS) turns complexity into clarity, cuts costs, improves service, and transforms shipping from a manual chore into a strategic advantage.

How to Manage Lead Time With Machine Learning

How to Manage Lead Time With Machine Learning

The impact of lead time variability on supply chain management is a critical factor impacting operational efficiency, cost management and service delivery. Lead time involves decisions that determine optimal inventory levels, when to place orders and how much to order, stocking policy, available-to-premise calculations, supplier performance and supplier selection.

Create Efficiencies for B2B and D2C Fulfillment with Unified Warehousing

Create Efficiencies for B2B and D2C Fulfillment with Unified Warehousing

Q. What is unified warehousing? A. A unified warehousing network seamlessly handles both your B2B and D2C orders under one roof. Consolidating your inventory into one location eliminates the need for redundant stock across separate warehouses. This reduction in overall stock levels translates directly into lower inventory carrying costs. With all products housed in one […]

Supply Chain Pocket Change?

Supply Chain Pocket Change?

As a company’s supply chain network evolves over time, information needed for adaptive efficiency becomes isolated in hard-to-find data pockets. In those instances, data required to drive modern efficient operations is isolated and not instantly accessible—usually housed on old world siloed spreadsheets. Do you have supply chain data points in hidden pockets? Modernized business operations […]

What is Supply Chain Forecasting? Best Methods, Benefits, and Challenges

What is Supply Chain Forecasting? Best Methods, Benefits, and Challenges

Uncertainty hurts business. When companies don’t know what’s coming next, they overstock, underdeliver, and miss sales targets. Poor planning can wreck supply chain operations, increase costs, and frustrate customers. Supply chain forecasting refers to the process of predicting demand, supply, or pricing for products within an industry, using data from suppliers to anticipate stock availability […]

What is LIFO? Definition, Benefits, and Real World Use of Last In, First Out

What is LIFO? Definition, Benefits, and Real World Use of Last In, First Out

Inventory valuation shapes how businesses report profits and manage taxes. The LIFO method—Last In, First Out—assigns the cost of the most recent purchases to the cost of goods sold, often reducing taxable income when prices rise. LIFO is one of several cost flow assumptions used in inventory accounting to determine how inventory costs are allocated […]

How to Modernize Your Warehouse Without Starting Over

How to Modernize Your Warehouse Without Starting Over

Q. If I want to improve my warehouse performance, do I really need a brand-new facility or a full retrofit? A. Not at all. That’s one of the biggest misconceptions out there. Companies often think they need to spend heavily on a new facility to upgrade with automation or increase capacity—but that’s usually because they’re […]

How to Make Floor Loading An Efficient Shipping Option

How to Make Floor Loading An Efficient Shipping Option

Few things are more costly than having empty space in your shipments. Floor-loading can help make each load more efficient compared to pallet loads, deflating the amount of air in each trailer. The majority of container imports are floor-loaded to maximize each expensive shipment. While palletized loads are more common in domestic shipments, floor loading […]

Warehouse Success: Speed Up, Spend Less

Warehouse Success: Speed Up, Spend Less

When managing today’s warehouses, velocity and value are non-negotiable. From predictive AI to flexible robotics, warehouses are cutting costs and accelerating fulfillment without breaking the bank—or the back. Here’s how smart strategies and lean tech help companies gain ground by moving faster and spending smarter.

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

GOOD WORKS: The CMA CGM Foundation will produce and deploy 10 PharmaBox units, which enhance access to medicines and healthcare in numerous humanitarian crisis zones across Africa. The units will be installed in Chad, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, Madagascar, and Mozambique, with deployment to be adjusted as humanitarian needs evolve.

Improving Visibility for Automotive Rail Shippers

Improving Visibility for Automotive Rail Shippers

Advanced technologies powered by AI and machine learning are being applied to the location, condition, and status data generated by some 1.6 million railcars moving across the North American network every day. Here’s how automotive shippers can now turn rail logistics into a competitive advantage.

AI-Driven Planning Connects StarTech.com to Supply Chain Clarity

AI-Driven Planning Connects StarTech.com to Supply Chain Clarity

StarTech.com, which offers hardware that helps information technology professionals solve connectivity and business challenges, has grown during all but two of the 40 years it has been in business. “We’re optimistic about the future,” says Ted Wenger, the company’s vice president, operations.

75 Green Supply Chain Partners

75 Green Supply Chain Partners

From 3PLs to air cargo carriers, and from ports to trucks, Inbound Logistics recognizes 75 supply chain visionaries who have come full circle by demonstrating their commitment to sustainability every day in every way.

Will More U.S. Companies Turn to Nearshoring to Diversify Supply Chains in the Next Five Years?

Will More U.S. Companies Turn to Nearshoring to Diversify Supply Chains in the Next Five Years?

Nearshoring will accelerate as companies respond to climate risks, economic uncertainty, and shifting trade policies. Tariffs and global disruptions are pushing businesses to reassess supply chains for greater resilience and efficiency. In today’s fast-moving environment, nearshoring strikes the right balance between speed, risk mitigation, and cost. –Mita Gupta Executive Vice President and Global Business Unit […]

Inventory Planning: What It Is, Importance, and Challenges

Inventory Planning: What It Is, Importance, and Challenges

Running out of stock or holding too much inventory can ruin profit margins, cause customer dissatisfaction, and throw operations off balance. Businesses that ignore planning often face lost sales, cash issues, and wasted storage space. Whether managing a retail store, manufacturing line, or online shop, one thing is clear: inventory planning is not optional. Smart […]

Top 20 Essential Fleet Management Strategies for Maximum Efficiency and Safety

Top 20 Essential Fleet Management Strategies for Maximum Efficiency and Safety

  Managing a fleet without a clear plan often leads to chaos—higher fuel costs, increased vehicle downtime, and frustrated fleet managers. Strong fleet management strategies act as the foundation for smarter, safer, and more cost-effective fleet operations. These strategies cover everything from vehicle maintenance and driver behavior to fuel efficiency and operational efficiency. With the […]

Inventory Forecasting: Formulas, Methods, Benefits and How to Implement

Inventory Forecasting: Formulas, Methods, Benefits and How to Implement

Running out of stock during peak demand or wasting money on unsold goods can hurt both profits and customer trust. Many businesses face this challenge because they don’t forecast their inventory needs correctly. That’s where inventory forecasting steps in. Companies use different methods like EOQ and ROP to enhance their inventory management, incorporating both quantitative […]

Logistics Risk Management: What It Is, Types, and Implementation

Logistics Risk Management: What It Is, Types, and Implementation

Unexpected events can derail even the most efficient logistics network, making risk management in logistics essential. From natural disasters to supplier delays, risks pop up without warning. That’s why logistics risk management is no longer optional—it’s essential. Companies today face supply chain disruptions that can impact everything from raw materials to customer satisfaction. Identifying potential […]

Retail Stores as Fulfillment Hubs; Logistics Trends to Watch; Women Thrive in Manufacturing; other Supply Chain and Logistics News

Retail Stores as Fulfillment Hubs; Logistics Trends to Watch; Women Thrive in Manufacturing; other Supply Chain and Logistics News

Retail’s Big Shift It’s official: Retailers are no longer just merchants; they’re experts at building logistics networks. Leading retailers are transforming stores into fulfillment hubs, cutting costs while speeding delivery. That’s the consensus from Manhattan Associates’ 2025 Unified Commerce Benchmark for Specialty Retail—an analysis of 220 retailers across seven industry segments, evaluating 300+ customer experience […]

Generation AI?

Generation AI?

Generative AI, or Gen AI, refers to a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content. But I am hijacking the term. In the way that Gen Z, Gen X, and Gen Y refer to different generations of Americans, I’m redefining Gen AI as the generation who are conversant in artificial intelligence and applying […]

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

Hyster expanded its lineup of configurable, high-capacity electric forklifts. The Hyster J230-400XD series offers load capacities from 23,000 to 40,000 pounds and 24-, 36-, or 48-inch load centers.

Urban Warehousing: What It Is, Characteristics, and Benefits

Urban Warehousing: What It Is, Characteristics, and Benefits

Last-mile delivery has become a serious challenge for many businesses. Online shopping is growing fast, but getting products from warehouses to customers in urban areas is harder than ever. Roads are packed, customer expectations are high, and delays lead to lost sales. As cities grow and e-commerce booms, the demand for effective urban warehousing solutions […]

What Is a Consignee in Shipping?

What Is a Consignee in Shipping?

In every international shipping process, someone must take ownership of the goods once they arrive. That person or business is known as the consignee, who must be present to accept the shipment. The consignee’s address must be accurately mentioned on shipping documents to ensure smooth transactions and deliveries. So, what is a consignee? A consignee […]

Supply Chain Disruptions: How They Happen, Industries Affected, and How to Manage

Supply Chain Disruptions: How They Happen, Industries Affected, and How to Manage

Empty shelves. Factory delays. Missed delivery windows. Supply chain disruptions have become more than just industry talk—they’re now everyday realities with direct consequences for businesses, customers, and the global economy. When supply chains break down, the ripple effect reaches every part of operations, from raw materials stuck at borders to finished goods delayed at ports. […]

Consignee vs. Consignor: Their Key Shipping Differences

Consignee vs. Consignor: Their Key Shipping Differences

In every freight shipment, two key roles drive the process: consignor and consignee. Without them, no shipment would reach its final destination, and no freight carrier could move cargo efficiently. A consignor is the party sending the goods. Ownership of the goods remains with the consignor until payment is made. The consignee does not own […]

4 Keys to Successful Trade Compliance

4 Keys to Successful Trade Compliance

Geopolitical risks to supply chains are top of mind across C-suites but few say what it means. The term “geopolitical risk” has largely become a codeword for import, export, and economic sanctions compliance. The fast pace of change in 2025 requires adopting meaningful compliance structures that achieve results.

Navigating Tariff Shifts: How U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Help Supply Chains Stay Resilient

Navigating Tariff Shifts: How U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Help Supply Chains Stay Resilient

As global trade faces uncertainty amid shifting tariffs, economic nationalism, and ongoing geopolitical friction, U.S. businesses are increasingly turning to Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs) as a powerful tool to remain competitive. The U.S. is home to more than 230 approved FTZ projects and nearly 400 subzones, collectively supporting 600+ warehouses across the country. These special zones […]

From Digital Adopter to Digital Leader

From Digital Adopter to Digital Leader

Logistics companies quickly turned to digital solutions to keep operations running during the pandemic. The pressure was on, cash was free-flowing, and organizations made rapid technology investments to keep supply chains as functional as possible.

Redwood Keeps Data Flowing for Flow Control Group

Redwood Keeps Data Flowing for Flow Control Group

Flow Control Group (FCG) is a leading solutions provider specializing in flow control, fluid handling, and process automation across North America. With over 70 companies and 150+ locations, FCG ensures the movement of mission-critical components to diverse markets.

How to Choose the Best Quality New and Used Shipping Containers in the USA

How to Choose the Best Quality New and Used Shipping Containers in the USA

Transporting goods across oceans is not the only purpose for shipping containers anymore. The scope of application today includes storage, office, housing, and even more. Each of these purposes have one common aspect: they all require secure and durable containers. New or used, they must do the job. We shall peek uncover the question of […]

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

TRANSPORTATION: Maersk, an entity under A.P. Moller-Maersk, and Hapag-Lloyd launched an operational collaboration Gemini Cooperation. Around 340 vessels will be phased in as part of the shared ocean network with the first sailings in February with more vessels to gradually sail on the new schedules. The goal is a flexible and interconnected ocean network with schedule reliability above 90%, once fully implemented

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

GOOD WORKS: Averitt associates and customers held their annual toy drive to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Now in its fifth year, the effort has provided thousands of toys to children undergoing treatment at St. Jude.

10 Best Trucking Companies to Work For: High Paying Options

10 Best Trucking Companies to Work For: High Paying Options

Are you a truck driver, whether experienced or a new driver, looking to work for one of the country’s great trucking companies? Are you searching for the best trucking companies to drive for? Below is a list of the top paying trucking companies, as ranked by TruckDriversSalary.com. This article will also highlight companies that provide […]

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: AMRs and AGVs

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: AMRs and AGVs

Looking for the latest innovations in automated material handling? We’ve rounded up the latest crop of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs).

If You Were to Put Your Logistics Motto on a Bumper Sticker, What Would It Say?

If You Were to Put Your Logistics Motto on a Bumper Sticker, What Would It Say?

In the complex supply chains of today, visibility is important because you can’t strengthen what you can’t see. Visibility is the foundation for resilience and efficiency, enabling businesses to anticipate disruptions, optimize operations, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.

–Jennifer Chew
VP, Solutions and Consulting
Bristlecone

Supply Chain Resilience and Risk Management: Definition, Strategies, and Best Practices

Supply Chain Resilience and Risk Management: Definition, Strategies, and Best Practices

Supply chain management faces unprecedented challenges in today’s supply chains, from natural disasters to fluctuating markets. A robust approach to these hurdles is not just beneficial but necessary. Resilience in supply chains allows businesses to respond swiftly and effectively to unforeseen disruptions, maintaining operational continuity and safeguarding revenue streams. Companies that improve supply chain resilience […]

Harmonizing Logistics In India

Harmonizing Logistics In India

As more companies look to diversify their supply chains, India’s abundant labor and expanding domestic market strikes the right chord. Yet, navigating its complexities requires a well-orchestrated strategy. Success comes from trusted partnerships and clear, coordinated planning.

Georgia: A Logistics Sweetspot

Georgia: A Logistics Sweetspot

For the Georgia logistics sector, the adage “Put your money where your mouth is” translates to decisive action. The state devotes the energy, vision, and funds to galvanize supply chains.

Conestoga Trailers: Definition, Types, and Advantages

Conestoga Trailers: Definition, Types, and Advantages

Conestoga trailers are a testament to innovation in the trucking industry, transforming the way we transport goods with efficiency and care. With their unique retractable tarping system that shelters goods from the elements while facilitating easy loading and unloading, these trailers have become a linchpin in moving freight efficiently. A survey highlighted that about 65% […]

Scaling Omnichannel Fulfillment to Meet Demand

Scaling Omnichannel Fulfillment to Meet Demand

Consumers have never had more choices. They can go to a physical store to shop, order products on their phones or laptops to ship directly, or buy online and pick up at a retail location near them. Ecommerce volumes reflect this multi-channel environment.

Global Supply Chain Strategies: Certain Uncertainty

Global Supply Chain Strategies: Certain Uncertainty

Global trade faces mounting uncertainties, from shifting geopolitical tensions to the ever-present risk of natural disasters. To stay resilient, organizations must cultivate leaders with geopolitical expertise, enhance supply chain redundancy, and leverage technology for faster, data-driven decision-making in an unpredictable landscape.

3 Steps to Data-Driven Planning

3 Steps to Data-Driven Planning

Outdated supply chain planning methods struggle to adapt to unpredictable customer demand, volatile commodity prices, and escalating political tensions. AI-powered solutions can bridge the gap.

4 Types of Logistics Management

4 Types of Logistics Management

Understanding the different types of material handling equipment is crucial for selecting the most effective solutions to meet specific operational needs. This article explored various categories and types of material handling being used, including storage containers and handling equipment, industrial trucks and machines, bulk material handling equipment, and engineered systems.

Warehouse Vs. Factory: Purposes and Types of Each

Warehouse Vs. Factory: Purposes and Types of Each

  Warehouses and factories, each integral to supply chains and manufacturing, serve distinct yet complementary functions. To optimize logistics, warehouses focus on efficient storage and distribution centers, often situated near key transport routes. Factory features, such as upgraded interiors, modern amenities, and attractive locations, cater to prospective tenants’ lifestyles. Warehouses and factories are vital components […]

Say ‘Yes’ Before You’re Ready: Embracing Opportunity and Innovation

Say ‘Yes’ Before You’re Ready: Embracing Opportunity and Innovation

RESPONSIBILITIES: Nurture strategic partnerships with key customers; lead internal initiatives to drive efficiency via technology, explore and identify new product and service markets, and enhance the company’s ecommerce solutions. EXPERIENCE: Vice president, corporate strategy; vice president, customer solutions; director of customer solutions; inventory solutions manager; MRO product manager; assistant product manager; marketing associate, sales and […]

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

MILESTONES: PSA Singapore handled more than 40 million TEUs in 2024, a new record surpassing the company’s previous annual high of 38.8 million TEUs set in 2023.

Avoiding AI Pitfalls

Avoiding AI Pitfalls

Deploying artificial intelligence in supply chain management was not expected to be easy. Here are some early traps and how to avoid them.

Multimodal Transportation: Definition, Examples, and Advantages

Multimodal Transportation: Definition, Examples, and Advantages

  In an era of globalization, where swift and efficient transportation is crucial, the logistics sector has had to innovate and adapt. Among the various evolving transportation services, multimodal transportation stands out as an integrated solution catering to diverse intermodal shipping needs. Let’s delve into this concept and understand its significance in today’s fast-paced world. […]

Freight In vs Freight Out: Definitions and Examples

Freight In vs Freight Out: Definitions and Examples

Freight costs are a part of expenses for companies involved in shipping goods and transporting products to customers. Freight services encompass the various costs associated with shipping goods between suppliers and customers. You must understand the difference between freight in vs freight out, regardless of whether you work for a shipping company, a freight company, […]

2025 Top 100 Logistics & Supply Chain Technology Providers

2025 Top 100 Logistics & Supply Chain Technology Providers

Selected by Inbound Logistics editors, these 100 companies provide a range of solutions from widely adopted technologies such as Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) to newer offerings such as AI and robotics.

Here are the Top 100 Logistics & Supply Chain Technology Providers in alphabetical order:

How to Thoroughly Audit a Warehouse

How to Thoroughly Audit a Warehouse

Supply chains are getting more complex and margins tighter. If you’re responsible for warehousing, odds are you’re feeling the pressure for more detailed reporting. Senior execs and customers want proof your operations are both efficient and resilient.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

OOCL celebrated the naming of its third new 16,828-TEU container vessel, OOCL Sunflower, at Dalian COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co. in January 2025. The OOCL Sunflower serves its Trans-Pacific Trade ECX1 service. The port rotation is: Hong Kong – Yantian – Xiamen – Shanghai – New York – Savannah – Charleston – Laem Chabang – Cai Mep – Hong Kong in a 91-day round trip.

Transportation Spend: Waste, Fraud, and Abuse?

Transportation Spend: Waste, Fraud, and Abuse?

Even if you are not a news junkie, there is no escaping all the coverage of waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending; there is no DOGEing it. But what about U.S. spend on transportation infrastructure? Transportation for America, an advocacy group of leaders concerned about the importance of our transportation network, recently took a shot […]