Sandeep Dalvie: In His Element
Sandeep Dalvie is global supply chain director of the titanium technologies business with The Chemours Company.
![Vertical Focus: Healthcare Vertical Focus: Healthcare](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/VerticalFocus_main_0321.jpg)
Vertical Focus: Healthcare
Vaccines Prepare for Liftoff Ghana is the first country in the world to use drones to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine to healthcare facilities. COVAX, an initiative led by UNICEF, shipped 600,000 doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine from its facility in India to Ghana, using Zipline’s national drone delivery service. The goal is to deliver at […]
![David Jarmon David Jarmon](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/SCSecurity_DavidJarmon_0321-1.jpg)
Can Your Supply Chain Withstand the Unexpected?
Today’s supply chain is vast, expanding to every corner of the globe. With this expansion, the threat has increased significantly due to the larger attack surface. Add to that a global pandemic and the need to protect the supply chain has never been more important.
![Georgia: Where Logistics Fuels Growth Georgia: Where Logistics Fuels Growth](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Georgia_main_0321.jpg)
Georgia: Where Logistics Fuels Growth
Georgia’s solid logistics infrastructure keeps supply chains moving efficiently and safely regardless of business disruption and national economic stress. These logistics providers and trade partners lead the way.
Stord Closes $65 Million Funding Round, Expanding Its Cloud Supply Chain
Stord, a cloud supply chain services provider for retail and e-commerce brands, raised a $65 million Series C round led by venture capital firm Bond, bringing its total capital raised in the past six months to $100 million.
![Nonautomotive Robot Orders Rove Ahead Nonautomotive Robot Orders Rove Ahead](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysRobotics_main_0221.jpg)
Nonautomotive Robot Orders Rove Ahead
Supply chain disruptions and workforce challenges are causing industries to accelerate their automation strategies (see chart). For example, yearly robot orders from nonautomotive sectors surpassed automotive robot orders for the first time, with sales of robotic units in North America increasing 3.5% in 2020 from 2019, according to the Robotic Industries Association. Growth was driven […]
![Walmart Goes Local Walmart Goes Local](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysWalmart_main_0221.jpg)
Walmart Goes Local
Walmart plans to increase the number of local fulfillment centers across the United States, which it will build inside or near existing retail locations. This localized approach mirrors Amazon’s strategy, as both companies face off amid surging demand for online orders. Walmart opened its first fulfillment center in 2019 in New Hampshire when the retail […]
![E-Commerce Enabled E-Commerce Enabled](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Ecommerce_main_0321.jpg)
E-Commerce Enabled
To survive—and thrive—in today’s accelerated e-commerce environment, companies are reworking fulfillment strategies and supply chain networks. These providers offer scalable solutions.
![Port of Long Beach Loads Up on Business Port of Long Beach Loads Up on Business](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysLongBeach_main_0221.jpg)
Port of Long Beach Loads Up on Business
As cargo volumes surged in the second half of 2020, essential workers at the Port of Long Beach in California moved 8.1 million cargo containers—its busiest year on record. The port ended the year with a 6.3% increase from 2019. Imports rose 6.4% to more than 3.9 million TEUs, exports increased 0.2% to 475,888 TEUs, […]
![Getting Into the Spirits Getting Into the Spirits](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ITToolkit_main_0321.jpg)
Getting Into the Spirits
Craft distillers like Montanya Distillers—which produces rum from its base in Crested Butte, Colorado, where the high altitude and cool temperatures allow for flavorful aging—typically have been limited to distributing products within their own state, or perhaps a few surrounding ones. If they venture farther afield, they risk falling out of compliance with the myriad regulations governing liquor distribution across the United States.
3 Vital Steps Toward Contactless Supply Chains
Members of the supply chain are the unsung heroes of 2020. The chain kept goods moving throughout the country, even as the pandemic reached a fever-pitch. Each member adapted to new pressures and demands. Working to accommodate new requirements the best they could. However, just like other industries discovered this year, the supply chain unearthed […]
![Paul A. Myerson Paul A. Myerson](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/leansupplychain_myerson_0214-97.jpg)
Omnichannel Delivers, But at What Cost?
Amazon, the most successful e-commerce company of all, gained a competitive advantage through its two-day free delivery for Prime customers. Many other pure e-tailers and brick-and-mortar retailers moving to omnichannel retail—where customers engage with companies in a variety of ways, including in a physical store, or via websites and mobile apps—have followed suit to some degree.
![Logistics Challenges: Small Businesses Clear the Bar Logistics Challenges: Small Businesses Clear the Bar](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/SmallBusiness_main_0121.jpg)
Logistics Challenges: Small Businesses Clear the Bar
These agile small and mid-sized businesses have picked up the pace to vault over supply chain challenges, including the pandemic.
![Imports & Exports: An Insider’s Guide to Getting it Right Imports & Exports: An Insider’s Guide to Getting it Right](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ExportImport_main_0321.jpg)
Imports & Exports: An Insider’s Guide to Getting it Right
Experts share best practices to ensure your cross-border commerce success.
Neiman Marcus Splurges on Digitization
Luxury department store Neiman Marcus is banking on a digital future, investing $85 million to make immediate changes to its supply chain and technology operations after erasing more than $4 billion in debt with a successful bankruptcy. To help improve its digital customer service, the retailer hired Apple veteran Bob Kupbens as its new chief […]
Overcoming the Returns Challenge
The world of e-commerce shows no sign of slowing down. As parcel volumes soar and businesses strive to meet customer delivery expectations, returns services can, and have been, easily overlooked. Considering that in some sectors, such as fashion, returns can be as high as 45% and in the United States, customers are 3x more likely […]
You’ve Got Drone Mail
Many drone delivery services involve dropping packages on the ground outside of homes and businesses, making them vulnerable to theft and bad weather. That’s where the smart drone mailbox comes in. These new mailbox concepts, developed by startups Valqari and DRONEDEK, involve a technology-enabled container that receives and stores packages in a secure, climate-controlled box […]
![Keith Biondo Keith Biondo](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Keith_Biondo_Checking_In_2016-323.jpg)
The President’s 2021 Trade Policy
The Biden Administration’s new trade policy report is filled with laudable goals such as beating COVID-19, American family relief, and the Build Back Better initiative. But should these goals be the basis of U.S. trade policy or negotiating position with other countries? Do our economic competitors enter into trade negotiations with the United States with […]
![Sail Like the Wind Sail Like the Wind](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysSail_main_0221.jpg)
Sail Like the Wind
The Frisian Sea, a Dutch cargo ship, made its maiden voyage using two compact wind-assisted propulsion units that can be easily moved into position or stowed. The technology has the potential to improve operating efficiency and environmental performance in the shipping industry. The 388-foot vessel, owned by Boomsma Shipping, was retrofitted with eConowind’s VentiFoils wind […]
![Doug Mefford Doug Mefford](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KnowledgeBase_DougMefford_0121-3.jpg)
The Role of WMS and MES in Empowering Warehouse Resiliency
Doug Mefford has more than 25 years of experience in the supply chain industry, from inventory control to operational leadership within an omnichannel distribution operation.
![Lee Rector Lee Rector](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_LeeRector_0321-1.jpg)
WMS Must-Haves: Adaptability, Scalability for Efficiency and Profit
Q: What do you consider to be the primary commercial advantages of a contemporary WMS? A: The DNA of a WMS should be adaptable, fast, affordable, and scalable to offer a low entry point into the warehouse versus Tier 1 solutions, while at the same time providing a platform that expands exponentially according to the […]
![Coping With Blank Sailings, Surcharges & Spikes Coping With Blank Sailings, Surcharges & Spikes](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysSpikes_main_0221.jpg)
Coping With Blank Sailings, Surcharges & Spikes
From its position as a global third-party logistics provider, SEKO has unique insight into air and ocean trends. For one, global restocking is lowering the odds of a slack season in 2021, says Brian Bourke, the company’s chief growth officer. In a media call, SEKO execs shared their perspective on the following challenges facing manufacturers […]
![4 New Rules for Retail 4 New Rules for Retail](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysRetail_main_0221.jpg)
4 New Rules for Retail
While the grocery and home improvement sectors benefited from changes in consumer behavior during the pandemic, apparel and department stores struggled. Consequently, the following new rules will come into play for retailers in 2021, says a Deloitte report: 1. Digital investment should go beyond differentiation. Many retailers have jumped on the digital bandwagon (see chart), […]
![Cross Dock Delivers New Level of Efficiency for Leading Retailer Cross Dock Delivers New Level of Efficiency for Leading Retailer](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/SolvedHubGroup_main_0321.jpg)
Cross Dock Delivers New Level of Efficiency for Leading Retailer
Leveraging its network of cross dock locations, Hub Group optimized a top retailer’s supply chain, reducing its transportation spend, streamlining inbound operations, and shortening transit times.
![Vertical Focus: Automotive Vertical Focus: Automotive](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/VerticalFocus_main_0221.jpg)
Vertical Focus: Automotive
From iPads to e-Cars Apple is moving forward with self-driving car technology and plans to produce a passenger vehicle equipped with its own battery technology by 2024, Reuters reports. Central to the company’s strategy is a new “monocell” battery design that could radically reduce costs and increase the vehicle’s range, the report says. However, making […]
Cold Chain Takes a Shot
The freight industry is tasked with transporting an average of 271 million ultracold and cold COVID-19 vaccine doses per month. At least 857 temperature-controlled trucks will leave Pfizer and Moderna manufacturing facilities or distribution centers each month, says an ABI Research report, and delivery will get more complicated after large urban and suburban areas are […]
![Freight Spending Soars to Record Highs Freight Spending Soars to Record Highs](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysFreight_main_0921.jpg)
Freight Spending Soars to Record Highs
Truck freight spending in the United States reached record highs in Q2 of 2021, jumping 10.1% over Q1 levels, says a recent U.S. Bank report. While all regions experienced double-digit growth in spend, different geographic areas and industries emerge from the pandemic at different paces, the report shows: Northeast: Freight shipments rose 1.5% in Q2 […]
NOTED: The Supply Chain In Brief March 2021
Sealed Deals Lifestyle products and services company Urban Outfitters selected TGW to design and implement an automation solution for its new fulfillment center in Kansas City, Kansas. TGW’s FlashPick system uses the smart robot Rovolution, which picks orders automatically and ensures the next phase of picking is being addressed. FlashPick allows Urban Outfitters to use […]
Boosting Supply Chain Visibility
With the explosion of e-commerce delivery demands and shifts in supply chain practices, visibility is more important than ever. Here are tips to help you understand your end-to-end supply chain and optimize your business.
Silencing Self-Doubt and Building the Next Generation of Women Leaders
This year’s International Women’s Day got me thinking about the challenges I have faced throughout my finance and logistics career. While routinely being the only female in meetings has never intimidated me, I have experienced moments when an idea or question I’ve posed was overlooked, only to be raised by a male colleague and then […]
![Glenn P. Clinger III Glenn P. Clinger III](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/LogisticsMgmt_GlennClinger_0121-1.jpg)
5 Steps to Process Improvement
I was involved in logistics and transportation for more than 25 years and spent the last 16 of those years with a large apparel corporation’s private fleet. During that time, I cannot remember a single year when the private fleet did not have to defend its existence. Each year the argument seemed to escalate until the cost reductions started.
![Pizza Pizza! Pizza Pizza!](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/LastMile_0221.jpg)
![Dave Bush Dave Bush](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/3PLLine_DaveBush_0121-1.jpg)
FTL vs. LTL: What’s the Difference?
Understanding these seven key differences between shipping full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) allows shippers to achieve the best possible results and support planning.
![Richard G. Piontek Richard G. Piontek](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/LogisticsMGMT_RichardPiontek_0221-5.jpg)
4 Strategies for Effective Cross-Border Logistics
With a wave of overseas supplier disruptions due to COVID-19 and resulting supply shortages that bottlenecked operations across the supply chain, many companies are considering nearshoring to Canada and Mexico to minimize risk and potential disruptions.
![If you were writing a book on the supply chain in 2020, what would you call it? If you were writing a book on the supply chain in 2020, what would you call it?](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/GoodQuestion_main_0121.jpg)
If you were writing a book on the supply chain in 2020, what would you call it?
The Shift from Efficient to Effective. 2020 was a gut punch to any supply chain organization that pursued operational efficiency without keeping a pulse on the risk factors that threaten disruption. Effective supply chains designed out risk by addressing safety, security, and reliability vulnerabilities. —John Reichert, Senior Director, Supply Chain Execution Solutions, Tecsys The Wake-Up […]
![Jamin Dick Jamin Dick](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Ecommerce_JaminDick_0221-1.jpg)
It’s Time to Upgrade Your Tech Capability
Many manufacturers and business-to-business (B2B) companies are built around large volumes, making them traditionally slower to adopt e-commerce; yet, it’s becoming imperative to do so. Customer expectations are evolving, and the pandemic highlights the need for more supply chain flexibility and visibility.
![Vertical Focus: Personal Care Products & Cosmetics Vertical Focus: Personal Care Products & Cosmetics](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/VerticalFocus_main_0121.jpg)
Vertical Focus: Personal Care Products & Cosmetics
What’s In Store? In-store shopping accounted for up to 85% of beauty product sales in most major markets before the pandemic, finds a McKinsey report—even millennials and Gen Zers made almost 60% of their cosmetics purchases in stores (see chart). What will happen to physical beauty product stores in the future? About 30% of premium […]
![Ken Bays Ken Bays](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ReverseLogistics_KenBays_0121-1.jpg)
Achieving a Sustainable Returns Program
A good returns management program is a sustainability effort in itself. The right approach can improve value recovery, increase efficiency, and lower transport and labor costs, all while reducing your carbon footprint, food and landfill waste, and fossil fuel consumption.
![Keith Biondo Keith Biondo](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Keith_Biondo_Checking_In_2016-321.jpg)
Buddy, Can You Spare a Can?
According to a CNBC investigation, shipping lines rejected U.S. export containers worth hundreds of millions of dollars during the last quarter of 2020. Empties were loaded and shipped back east to be filled with Chinese exports. But press reports blaming “congestion” are off the mark. Those empties are getting moved and loaded on ships somehow. […]
![Charles Sauer Charles Sauer](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Viewpoint_CharlesSauer_0121-1.jpg)
Rail Price Controls? Ridicule the Thought
In 1980, CNN, fax machines, and camcorders made their debut, and for the first time since 1887, the rail industry was deregulated. Today CNN has many competitors, fax machines have been surpassed and their technology incorporated into other products, and camcorders are not only cheaper, almost all of us carry a better quality one in our pockets. Also, rail rates are 44% lower, and the market is flourishing.
![Do you expect a resurgence in reshoring to the United States? Why or why not? Do you expect a resurgence in reshoring to the United States? Why or why not?](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/GoodQuestion_main_0221.jpg)
Do you expect a resurgence in reshoring to the United States? Why or why not?
No. I don’t expect a significant increase in reshoring. I do expect a significant increase in multi-sourcing of key products in the supply chain. Reshoring to a significant degree requires huge infrastructure changes that I do not believe today’s consumer is ready to fund in price increases and reductions in convenience. —Bill Denbigh Senior Director, […]
![John Thielens John Thielens](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/3PLLine_JohnThielens_0121-1.jpg)
How Ransomware Kidnaps Supply Chains
The volume and sophistication of cyberattacks has increased in recent years, but even more so with COVID-19 and the shift to remote work. Most notably, there has been a particularly concerning rise in ransomware attacks.
![Supply Chain Education: Keep the Change Supply Chain Education: Keep the Change](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Education_main_0221.jpg)
Supply Chain Education: Keep the Change
Events of the past year impacted supply chain education in ways that appear likely to endure even after the pandemic subsides.
An All-American Leader
Growing up around a family-owned business, establishing a tireless work ethic, and pursuing an early career as a teacher helped shape Jessica Tyler’s "open book" leadership style. Long before Jessica Tyler became an airline executive, she was an educator. "My earliest understanding of relationships and engagement came from being a teacher and coach," says Tyler, […]
![Trucking Relationships: In It for the Long Haul Trucking Relationships: In It for the Long Haul](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/LongHaul_main_0121.jpg)
Trucking Relationships: In It for the Long Haul
Supply chain disruption is testing relationships between shippers and their core trucking carriers. Here’s what transportation partners are doing to preserve their ties—today and for the future—in challenging times.
![Maritime Logistics: Water Ya Gonna Do? Maritime Logistics: Water Ya Gonna Do?](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Maritime_main_0221.jpg)
Maritime Logistics: Water Ya Gonna Do?
2020 created some choppy conditions for the maritime industry. But increasing volumes and new strategies and technologies point to a ship-shape future.
Sylvia Wilks: Kicking the Tires
Responsibilities: Build a quality supply chain from scratch that disrupts the market, drive a culture of continuous process improvement, and lead TireHub into the future as part of the executive business team. Experience: Chief procurement officer, Kimberly Clark Corporation; executive roles in global sourcing, supplier relations, international supply chain, soluble coffee operations, and other functions with […]
![Listen Up! 12 Essential Podcasts from Inbound Logistics Listen Up! 12 Essential Podcasts from Inbound Logistics](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Podcast_main_0121.jpg)
Listen Up! 12 Essential Podcasts from Inbound Logistics
Future-proof operations, jump e-commerce hurdles, perfect your digital transformation strategy, and more with these must-listen episodes featuring leaders who provide first-hand insight on the latest logistics news.
![Puerto Rico: Go with the Flow Puerto Rico: Go with the Flow](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/PuertoRico_main_0221.jpg)
Puerto Rico: Go with the Flow
The “Made in America” initiative, a highly skilled workforce, and transshipment capabilities are beckoning shippers to take advantage of the flow of commerce to the island—a sometimes-overlooked domestic market for U.S. manufacturers.
![Jon Chorley Jon Chorley](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ITMatters_JonChorley_0121-1.jpg)
Building Coherent Enterprise Architecture
During the past few years, in order to stay competitive, many companies turned to so-called “control towers” and shiny new objects like artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and blockchain as the answer to modernization and competitive edge.
![2021 Winter Reading Guide 2021 Winter Reading Guide](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ReadingGuide_main_0121.jpg)
2021 Winter Reading Guide
Spending more time at home these days? Hunker down and delve into everything from the future of retail to global transportation.
Steering ArcBest with Values and Trust
To achieve her goal of aligning the resources of a 100-year-old company to better meet customers’ evolving needs, Judy R. McReynolds draws on her strategic and value-driven leadership skills.
![Steve Cernak Steve Cernak](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ECommerce_SteveCernak_0121-1.jpg)
Revisiting Brand Management Policies
The recent health crisis has increased online sales and expanded the kinds of products shipped to consumers. As consumers, shippers, and retailers get more comfortable with online commerce, the trend away from brick-and-mortar sales will likely continue, even after the health crisis eases.
![Warehouse Automation: The Rise of the Robots Warehouse Automation: The Rise of the Robots](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Robotics_main_0221.jpg)
Warehouse Automation: The Rise of the Robots
Once the stuff of science fiction, today’s mobile robots empower companies to act more flexibly and nimbly. Here are some examples from right here on earth.
![IoT, AI, ML: Keeping Innovation in Sight IoT, AI, ML: Keeping Innovation in Sight](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/MachineLearning_main_0121.jpg)
IoT, AI, ML: Keeping Innovation in Sight
Supply chain leaders eye up the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to better predict demand, increase efficiency, cut costs, and power growth.
![Mary Lamie Mary Lamie](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/EcoDev_MaryLamie_0121-3.jpg)
How the National Freight Strategic Plan Can Benefit Shippers
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) recently announced the first-ever National Freight Strategic Plan (NFSP), a historic initiative that will benefit shippers and others buying transportation and logistics solutions by delivering more affordable, efficient, and reliable options to move cargo.
![Krenar Komoni Krenar Komoni](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_KrenarKomoni_0221-1.jpg)
2021: Next-Generation In-Transit Visibility
To optimize visibility for all customers using in-transit visibility solutions, Tive has launched the Open Visibility Network (OVN) starting with project44 and FourKites. Q: What is the Open Visibility Network? Is it open to anyone (tech providers, carriers, shippers, etc.)? A: The Open Visibility Network is the collection and sharing of critical shipment data across […]
![Uncorking Last-Mile Bottlenecks Uncorking Last-Mile Bottlenecks](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/LastMile_main_0121.jpg)
Uncorking Last-Mile Bottlenecks
Companies sometimes get jammed up trying to move goods to customers’ doorsteps efficiently, safely, and quickly. Here’s a look at last-mile innovations that help break the deadlock.
![Ryan Purcell Ryan Purcell](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/GreenLandscape_RyanPurcell_0121-1.jpg)
Healthier Planet = Healthier Bottom Line
Supply chains have a massive impact on the earth’s air, land, and water ecosystems, accounting for 5.5 times the emissions of a company’s direct operations, according to CDP.
Developing Supply Chain Resiliency
A single fault line in the supply chain can disrupt events farther down, including the last mile. Here are ten tips for developing and maintaining a supply chain that is resilient as well as easy to scale and optimize.
![Karen Leavitt Karen Leavitt](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_KarenLeavitt_0221-1.jpg)
Robotic Automation: Now Is the Time to Deploy
Q: Are you seeing growing interest in the use of robots in distribution and warehouse operations? A: Absolutely. Since the early onset of the pandemic last year, there has been a notable increase in the number of companies looking into adding robotics and automation to their fulfillment operations. The pandemic caused a dramatic shift to […]
![Sean Harapko Sean Harapko](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Covid_SeanHarapko_0121-1.jpg)
Disruption Reinvents the Supply Chain
As COVID-19 has changed our world, there has been a dramatic shift in how supply chains are viewed within an organization. Today, the supply chain is increasingly recognized as an area where companies have the most to gain or lose.
![3 Underreported Trends That Will Accelerate Reshoring 3 Underreported Trends That Will Accelerate Reshoring](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Reshoring_main_0121.jpg)
3 Underreported Trends That Will Accelerate Reshoring
Thomas research shows an increase in the number of manufacturers that want to bring production back to the United States. These trends will help you capitalize on that opportunity.
![Brian Kennedy Brian Kennedy](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/SmartMoves_BrianSmaller_0121-1.jpg)
Crafting a Notable Job Title
A job title is more than just the name of the job you do. It is a badge, a ranking, a symbol of your worth within the particular company you work for. As the growth of the supply chain and logistics sector increases year after year, so does the competition for a notable supply chain job title.
![3PL Warehousing Gets In the Zone 3PL Warehousing Gets In the Zone](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/3PLWarehousing_main_0121.jpg)
3PL Warehousing Gets In the Zone
By working as partners, third-party logistics providers and shippers take on today’s warehousing challenges.
![Reverse Logistics: It’s All Coming Back to Me Now Reverse Logistics: It’s All Coming Back to Me Now](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ReverseLogistics_main_0121.jpg)
Reverse Logistics: It’s All Coming Back to Me Now
How to recoup maximum value on a product when the first sale doesn’t work out.
NOTED: The Supply Chain in Brief-2021
Sealed Deals Third-party logistics provider FM Logistic was awarded a contract from Pepperfry, a furniture and home products marketplace in India, to provide omnichannel logistics services in the country’s western region. FM Logistic will handle warehousing operations at Pepperfry’s Bhiwandi warehouse. To help The Ocean Cleanup map harmful plastic, Maersk will deploy scientific sensor technology […]
![11 Supply Chain Predictions for 2021 11 Supply Chain Predictions for 2021](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/SCPredictions_main_0121.jpg)
11 Supply Chain Predictions for 2021
We got through 2020 with creative pivots and operational adjustments. In 2021, Many supply chain challenges will persist—from capacity constraints to increasing complexity. the prognosis? A year ahead with ample opportunities for addressing inefficiencies with renewed creativity and digital directives. Experts weigh in on 11 prognostications.
![Everything’s Coming Up Roses Everything’s Coming Up Roses](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/FLowerSC_main_0121.jpg)
Everything’s Coming Up Roses
The complex art of floral logistics involves a delicate arrangement of proper packaging, refrigeration, and speed.
![Working Like a Dog to Fill Pet Food Surge Orders Working Like a Dog to Fill Pet Food Surge Orders](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ETales_main_0121.jpg)
Working Like a Dog to Fill Pet Food Surge Orders
When significant growth at all-natural pet food company The Honest Kitchen compelled leadership to rethink its omnichannel logistics strategy three years ago, the company turned to long-time partner Saddle Creek Logistics Services for solutions.
![Legend Valve Opens Fulfillment Spigot Legend Valve Opens Fulfillment Spigot](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/DCSolutions_main_0121.jpg)
Legend Valve Opens Fulfillment Spigot
When you promise 100% order fulfillment accuracy and best-in-class customer service, your company’s integrity depends on how well you meet those expectations.
![SerVaas Laboratories Cleans Up with Business Intelligence SerVaas Laboratories Cleans Up with Business Intelligence](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ITToolkit_main_0121.jpg)
SerVaas Laboratories Cleans Up with Business Intelligence
When a company’s employee roster lists just about 100 workers, yet its products are sold in about one dozen countries, timely, accurate sales and inventory data is critical. Business intelligence (BI) solutions, however, have traditionally exceeded the budgets of small and mid-sized companies.
![New Google Maps Feature Gets a Green Light New Google Maps Feature Gets a Green Light](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TakeawaysMaps_main_0421.jpg)
New Google Maps Feature Gets a Green Light
Google Maps can not only help truckers and passenger vehicles find the quickest route from point A to point B, but now it also gets them there greener. Google has introduced a series of new features including eco-friendly routes that provide Google Maps users with more fuel-efficient navigation. The app determines fuel consumption for every […]
![Felecia Stratton Felecia Stratton](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Felecia_Stratton_Checking_In_2016-519.jpg)
A Valid Question
Recently I was interviewed for a popular supply chain and logistics blog. The interviewer asked this question: Has the name of the magazine been a deterrent because it doesn’t encompass the full breadth of content you provide? A valid question. My answer: It has not been a deterrent, but sometimes it does need explanation. So […]
![Keith Biondo Keith Biondo](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Keith_Biondo_Checking_In_2016-319.jpg)
From a Modest Beginning
Having covered logistics for more than four decades, Inbound Logistics has promoted and encouraged companies to adopt demand-driven logistics practices, and reported their progress driving the evolution of traffic management to supply chain management. The key development in that process was accepting a sea change in business management: Don’t plan and push your product at […]
Optimizing LTL Shipping
Less-than-truckload (LTL) freight shipping is critical to everyday commerce and is an economical way to ship palletized or loose freight. Here’s how to do it well.
![Robert Walters Robert Walters](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KnowledgeBase_RobertWalters_0122.jpg)
Data Management—Vital Today – Freight Management Inc.
Years ago, I named my business “Freight Management” but today it should be called “Data Management” since that seems to be the business in which we find ourselves. Driven by competitors, by our clients, and by our own imagination, the effective collection of information can be invaluable if properly used and directed. But there are […]
![Solutions for the Unprecedented Solutions for the Unprecedented](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/CFISolved_main_0121.jpg)
Solutions for the Unprecedented
Meeting the unprecedented challenges of 2020, CFI leveraged its resources and delivered effective solutions for its partners.
![Is the Logistics Sector Ready for the COVID-19 Vaccine? Is the Logistics Sector Ready for the COVID-19 Vaccine?](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KBPhoenix_main_0121.jpg)
Is the Logistics Sector Ready for the COVID-19 Vaccine?
The last mile will have to accommodate the reliable distribution of the billions of vaccines that providers will manufacture and ship in 2021. Here are the obstacles facing the supply chain.
![Larry Hargreaves Larry Hargreaves](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_LarryHargreaves_0121-1.jpg)
Managing Transitions Effectively to Enhance Project Success
Q: Why is transition management so critical? A: The effectiveness of the transition depends on how well the change is managed. It is essential to have a documented project plan and a dedicated project manager with experience across multiple disciplines. Their job is to manage the process, hold the team accountable, and develop a formalized […]
![Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions – Verst Logistics Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions – Verst Logistics](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/SolvedVerst_main_0119.jpg)
Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions – Verst Logistics
Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.
![Vijay Natarajan Vijay Natarajan](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_VijayNatarajan_0121-1.jpg)
Converging Order and Logistics Management on One Platform
Q: Order management systems relate closely to supply chain management by better matching demand to supply. What are the new developments in OMS? A: Today’s technology empowers brands to offer a range of diverse, quality products, as well as customizable delivery or omni-channel fulfillment options to their customers. Doing so cost-effectively has always been a […]
![Clark Cassell Clark Cassell](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_ClarkCassell_0121-1.jpg)
E-Commerce Trends Drive Automation Initiatives
Q: Do you think the adoption of automated systems will increase with the accelerated e-commerce penetration rate? A: Based on what we have seen in the past several months, the answer is a resounding yes. Someone a long time ago said, "necessity is the mother of invention." I recently had a 3PL prospect, who is […]
![Bringing Transportation in Sync with the World Bringing Transportation in Sync with the World](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KBTransporeon_main_0121.jpg)
Bringing Transportation in Sync with the World
True digital transformation requires the ability to think beyond the next load or the next order to find new and enduring ways to match demand with capacity and connect relevant industry partners.
![Inventory Management: Two Key Indicators to Improve Warehouse Operations Inventory Management: Two Key Indicators to Improve Warehouse Operations](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KBGenerix_main_0121.jpg)
Inventory Management: Two Key Indicators to Improve Warehouse Operations
Your warehouse is your company’s barometer: It measures the health of your sales, as well as its fluctuations. That is why good inventory management, including optimizing the flow of goods and sales forecasting, becomes essential if you want to avoid product shortages and overstock. Monitoring the turnover and coverage rates will help you limit the […]
![Raul Alfonso Raul Alfonso](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_RaulAlfonso_0121-1.jpg)
New Directions in U.S.-Mexico Trade and Logistics
Q: Why is trade with Mexico so important and where do you see the opportunities? A: Mexico is already the United States’ second largest trading partner, with two-way trade in goods totaling over $615 billion per year. The recent implementation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), combined with global sourcing strategies resulting in more nearshoring […]
![Hannah Testani Hannah Testani](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_HannahTestani_0121-1.jpg)
The Three Trends Driving Supply Chain Efficacy in 2021
Change is the one constant in supply chain management. And today, shippers need a flexible, agile, and data-driven process to control freight spend. Given the state of last year’s record-breaking e-commerce growth and the uncertainty in the market today, it’s essential to know how a few trends will shape the rest of 2021 and build […]
![137 Tips for a Fully Charged Supply Chain 137 Tips for a Fully Charged Supply Chain](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/TipsRecharged_main_0121.jpg)
137 Tips for a Fully Charged Supply Chain
Inbound Transportation 1. Dive in with your suppliers. Ask what cost and efficiency benefits your vendors are providing by using their carriers or shipping schedules. The customer pays one way or another, so push for carriers that demonstrate service and reliability, not those who move operational or cost inefficiencies from a vendor’s dock to the […]
![Partnering with a Nonprofit to Provide COVID-19 Relief to the Navajo Nation Partnering with a Nonprofit to Provide COVID-19 Relief to the Navajo Nation](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/EchoSolved_main_0121.jpg)
Partnering with a Nonprofit to Provide COVID-19 Relief to the Navajo Nation
Echo Global Logistics partners with a nonprofit organization to deliver thousands of water containers to the Navajo Nation in support of COVID-19 relief.
![Warehouse Safety Best Practices: Building a Program Warehouse Safety Best Practices: Building a Program](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/MDLogisticsSolved_main_0121.jpg)
Warehouse Safety Best Practices: Building a Program
To build a safety program that has the strength and support to last, follow these practices and leverage your staff’s experience and expertise.
![Mode Shift to Eliminate Supply Chain Disruption Mode Shift to Eliminate Supply Chain Disruption](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/PITTOHIOSolved_main_0121.jpg)
Mode Shift to Eliminate Supply Chain Disruption
When supply chains require unique equipment and depend on damage-free, on-time service, partnering with a carrier such as PITT OHIO, that can execute mode optimization strategies, can impact the success of your business.
![Dave Maddox Dave Maddox](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KnowledgeBase_DaveMaddox_0122.jpg)
Build Supply Chain Resiliency with Digital Transformation
Q: How has the pandemic revealed shortcomings in supply chains? A: The pandemic highlighted the need for a resilient supply chain. The companies that best weathered this crisis were able to make informed decisions and collaborate across their supply chain to minimize the impact of the disruption. It’s clear that adopting an integrated transportation management […]
![Aptitive Helps 3PL Derive Insights from Data with Real-Time Analytics Platform Aptitive Helps 3PL Derive Insights from Data with Real-Time Analytics Platform](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Aptitive_main_0121.jpg)
Aptitive Helps 3PL Derive Insights from Data with Real-Time Analytics Platform
A Chicago-based 3PL turned to Aptitive to design a scalable data and analytics modernization platform. Aptitive delivered a solution that not only helped the provider, but their customers as well.
![SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/Seko_main_1120.jpg)
SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers
Retailer Shein streamlined supply chain operations by leveraging the partnership between Air-City and SEKO, allowing shippers to move express ecommerce orders efficiently across international borders.
![Pandemic Spurs Accelerated Investment in Supply Chain Automation, Digital Technologies Pandemic Spurs Accelerated Investment in Supply Chain Automation, Digital Technologies](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/KBMHI_main_0121.jpg)
Pandemic Spurs Accelerated Investment in Supply Chain Automation, Digital Technologies
Digital technologies and automated solutions will help your supply chain succeed in this new, post-pandemic reality. For starters, they increase resilience in the face of disruption and support your workforce.
![Paul A. Myerson Paul A. Myerson](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/leansupplychain_myerson_0214-95.jpg)
Professional Education: Time to Pay It Forward
The pandemic, for better and for worse, has shined a bright light on the supply chain and logistics functions.
![Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/IDLogistics_main_0121.jpg)
Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges
Innovation is a cornerstone and driving principle at ID Logistics. These three winning projects exemplify our mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.
Supply Chain Recovery Starts with Hygiene Compliance
Since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, supply chain leaders have been challenged with ever-evolving conditions and circumstances, especially for manufacturers responsible for producing and delivering essential goods during a time of crisis. In addition to supply shocks that have the industry rethinking supply chain models, hygiene has also moved to the forefront in […]
![Chad Crotty Chad Crotty](https://www.inboundlogistics.com/wp-content/uploads/ThoughtLeaders_ChadCrotty_0121-9.jpg)
Outsourcing Helps Close IT Gaps and Meet Milestones
Q: To meet new and changing shipper demands, what areas of focus should be the highest priorities for tech investment by carriers in 2021? A: One challenge we’re witnessing right now is the increasing need for carriers to provide more realtime visibility of a shipment’s journey. Carriers have begun taking steps to do just that […]
4 Ways to Include Deskless Logistics Workers in Your Digital Strategy
Supply chains are undergoing unprecedented restructuring driven by competition, demand shifts, and trade wars—circumstances further accelerated by COVID-19. The resulting pressure on profits forces logistic functions and companies to evaluate ways to innovate, lower costs, and increase long-term resiliency. Logistics industry leaders are meeting this challenge by embracing digital transformation through innovative digitalization plans. But […]