Inland Waterways: The Key to Resilient and Sustainable Supply Chains
As businesses facing growing pressure to bolster resilience and sustainability, technological advancements and last-mile logistics take center stage. But one critical yet underappreciated element deserves a spotlight: inland waterways. These natural networks offer a reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transportation that plays a vital role in future-proofing supply chains.
Drayage vs Intermodal: Explaining Two Connected Transportation Modes
Efficient logistics rely on different modes of transportation to move freight smoothly from one point to another. Two crucial methods are drayage and intermodal transportation, each serving distinct roles in the supply chain. Both methods handle goods efficiently but differ in scope and purpose. Drayage focuses on short-distance transport, often between transportation hubs like rail […]
8 Trends Influencing Freight Rail in 2025
As we look ahead into 2025, we see factors such as consumer confidence, energy pricing, and deregulation—among others—providing a more favorable environment for short-term growth and long-term planning for the rail freight industry.
Partial Trucking: Pros, Cons, and Why You Should Use It
Finding the perfect balance between shipping costs and efficiency can be challenging for businesses. Traditional options often fall short for shipments that are too large for LTL shipping but too small for a full truckload, leading to wasted space or higher expenses. This is where partial truckload (PTL) steps in, offering a smart solution that […]
What’s Your Supply Chain Vision for 2025?
From sure-fire predictions to major trends to watch, industry experts outline the year ahead.
Hype vs. Reality: The Promise of AI in Supply Chains
AI-driven solutions are often hailed as the silver bullet for today’s supply chain challenges. The hype promises faster operations, cost savings, reduced risk, and streamlined customer service—but how much of this is reality? Here’s a look at the tangible impacts AI is having on supply chains, dissecting where it truly delivers and where expectations may need a reality check.
Global Logistics Leader Rallies Support in Rebuilding Ukraine
Logistics Plus blends business investment with humanitarian support.
How to Combat Cargo Theft With ID Verification
Logistics and supply chain operations are grappling with an alarming surge in cargo theft; recent data highlights the severity of the issue.
Warehouse vs. Inventory: Their Roles And Differences
Understanding the crucial differences between warehouses and inventory is essential for operational excellence in supply chain logistics. This article explores the roles and connections between warehouse capacities, inventory management, and their impact on inventory and warehouse operations in enhancing overall supply chain efficiency. Understanding Inventory Management Definition and Key Concepts Warehouse management is the […]
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) — also referred to as a transport order management system, transportation management solution, on demand transportation management system, 3pl transportation management system, or integrated transport management system—benefits businesses by providing cost savings, improved efficiency, and […]
From Fax to the Future: Do It Best Reinvents Its Supply Chain
Aiming to keep pace with the rapidly expanding home improvement market, Do It Best—a member-owned hardware, lumber, and building materials buying cooperative—sought to replace its outdated manual processes with a streamlined, automated system. Since providing exceptional service to its members is crucial to the cooperative’s success, Do It Best partnered with Redwood Logistics to enhance its transportation management system (TMS).
Simple Math, Big Impact: Common Sense Inventory Strategies
As a mathematician/engineer, I love advanced analytics as much as the next person. But as a practical person, I can assure you that you don’t need advanced analytics to make substantial improvements for your company. All you need is basic algebra and some time to think.
Razr Logistics: Transforming On-Demand Warehousing With Innovative Technology & Our Expansive Network
In an era where agility and efficiency define success in the logistics and 3PL industry, Razr Logistics has emerged as a trailblazer, revolutionizing the concept of on-demand warehousing.
Warehouse Robotics Unlock Efficiencies
From AI-powered AMRs to cobots working safely alongside humans, cutting-edge robotics are transforming supply chain operations. See how the latest innovations are changing the game and driving efficiency.
Interview with New York & Atlantic Railway President: Riding the Rails to Economic Growth
Marlon Taylor found a career with a short line railroad too cool to resist. Today, he navigates challenges, sustainability, and innovation at New York & Atlantic Railway by emphasizing adaptability, resilience, teamwork and communication, and leading with empathy.
Are More Women In Critical Logistics Roles?
Are more women playing important roles in transportation and logistics? The simple answer is: yes.
Supply Chain Trump Cards?
Our publisher, Keith Biondo, shares his thoughts on how to turn supply chain disruption challenges into opportunities.
Trade Show Roundup: Build Your Connections in 2025
19 must-attend events to expand your logistics networks and knowledge this year.
Ready to Grow in 2025? How the Right 3PL Drives Customer Wins
After a collective exhale, growth is what’s next for U.S. businesses. For retailers wanting to expand, finding the right third-party logistics (3PL) partner is job one.
The Strategic Benefits of Implementing a Routing Guide: Hard and Soft Savings Unveiled
In the complex realm of logistics and supply chain management, a routing guide serves as a cornerstone of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Here’s how:
3PL vs. 4PL: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Logistics Solutions
Q. What is the key difference between a 3PL and a 4PL? A. Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) provide logistics services, including transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, inventory management, freight forwarding, and reverse logistics, handling part or all of these functions. Fourth-party logistics providers (4PLs) handle the entire supply chain. They help manage everything from demand to ordering […]
Holman Logistics Uses Artificial Intelligence to Increase Forklift Safety
Holman partners with OneTrack to bring AI solutions to the issue of forklift accidents.
Makeup Magic: How We Helped e.l.f. Cosmetics Conquer Demanding CVS Store Deliveries
Top cosmetics brand e.l.f. Cosmetics faced a daunting challenge: deliver beauty product displays to 561 CVS stores within 10 days during the holiday season. LynnCo delivered and then some.
ProTrans Provides an Integrated Solution With Synergistic Collaboration
The ProTrans group of companies collaborates to expand services for customer needs—both domestic and international.
4 Ways a 3PL Can Improve Your Post-Peak Returns Rush
Many retailers report they would get extra help from third-party logistics (3PL) providers to manage returns. Here are four ways your 3PL can help you with the post-peak returns rush.
Providing cGMP Services and Retail Compliance to the Consumer Healthcare Products Industry
MD Logistics has gained the knowledge and processes necessary to be a niche 3PL provider for both retail and pharmaceutical products.
Fraud in the Trucking Industry: Leveraging Technology, Knowledge, and Relationships
Jen Mead, founder and CEO of S-2 International, shares her thoughts on preventing cargo fraud.
Saia’s Customer-First Philosophy at 100 Years and Counting
Full speed ahead: As Saia celebrates 100 years, its commitment to putting customers first remains at the core of its growth, innovation, and company culture.
Navigating the 2025 GRIs: What Shippers Need to Know
Each year, FedEx and UPS announce a series of General Rate Increases (GRIs) which serve to inform shippers how much they can expect costs to rise in the coming year.
10-Step Agenda for Your Supply Chain: Securing a Successful 2025
Here are the top 10 major trends affecting inbound logistics in 2025:
Future-Proof Your Warehouse With the Right WMS
Amit Levy, a seasoned industry expert with over 25 years of experience in developing and implementing supply chain execution software across global markets, shares his insights on the rapidly evolving WMS (warehouse management system) landscape.
IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
The launch of double-stacked rail operations to and from the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore marked a milestone, enhancing transport cost efficiency and environmental benefits. Part of the Howard Street Tunnel Project, double-stacked operations open new opportunities for intermodal rail service in the Northeast and from the Port of Baltimore to Midwest markets, generating thousands of new jobs and delivering benefits to the region months earlier than expected.
NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
SHOVEL READY: Savage Tooele Railroad began construction on Utah’s first new railroad in decades. The new short-line railroad will serve tenants of the Lakeview Business Park.
Powering Up a Better Supply Chain
Aggreko ensures business is always on by delivering energy anywhere it’s needed so that businesses can grow and communities can thrive. The power company found an ideal partner in RedStone Logistics.
Streamlining Returns for Smarter Operations
Returns are an increasingly costly reality for retailers and e-commerce businesses. Those that can streamline the process — while minimizing costs — will be better positioned to meet consumer demands and mitigate operational risks.
How 2025 Tariffs Could Spark Supply Chain Innovation
Projected tariffs for 2025 are set to reshape global supply chains, creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses.
Experts Soundoff on Tariffs; Net Zero Progress Stalls; Truck Drivers Feel Optimistic; and More Logistics & Supply Chain News
Read the latest updates on supply chain and logistics news.
Liz Minne: A Business Case for Sustainability
RESPONSIBILITIES: Shaping Interface’s global commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, as well as its mission of working to reverse global warming. This includes collaborating with stakeholders, fostering partnerships that drive positive change and impact sustainability, and remaining at the forefront of emerging sustainability trends to ensure Interface remains a pioneer in environmental responsibility. EXPERIENCE: […]
No Party for Supply Chain Companies: The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act
Supply chain companies should review their collection of biometric identifiers or information in their warehouse operations. Here’s what to learn from the case against Party City:
Inbound Logistics: Processes, Comparisons, and Optimization vs Outbound Logistics
Both inbound and outbound logistics play important roles in the processes, comparisons, and optimization of supply chain management that businesses must understand to achieve maximum efficiency. These two types of logistics are essential for the smooth functioning of an organization’s operations. This blog post will provide a thorough overview of inbound and outbound logistics, […]
Types of Train Cars: Definition and Use of Modern Rail Cars
Types of Freight Trains: Definition and Use of Modern Rail Cars Freight trains have been the backbone of modern industries for centuries, ensuring the seamless movement of commodities from one place to another. As the transportation landscape evolved, so did the types of freight trains, with rail freight transport growing increasingly sophisticated to handle diverse […]
Received for Shipment Bill of Lading: Definition, How It Works, and Importance
Received for Shipment: Definition, How It Works, and Importance Understanding the concept of ‘Received for Shipment’ is important in the shipping industry. This notation indicates that the carrier has received the cargo at the port facility for loading onto a specific vessel or voyage and serves to acknowledge receipt of the items for shipment. […]
Supply Chain Career Advice: Hits and Misses
From impactful do’s to absolute don’ts, supply chain experts offer career advice that’s right on target.
What’s Your Supply Chain Resolution for 2025?
Advance claims compliance to further supply chain visibility. Using standardized data sharing and RFID enables swift product identification and streamlines claims-related exchanges, helping stakeholders reduce manual effort. –Jonathan Gregory Director of Global Standards GS1 US Boost supply chain agility with enhanced demand forecasting and automated replenishment as 2025 will come with global trade uncertainty and […]
Fixing Automobile Supply Chain Inefficiencies with Real-Time Location Intelligence
The automotive supply chain stands as one of the most complex networks of interdependencies in the world. Each segment of this supply chain is vital, from the original equipment manufacturers to the transporters.
Logistics Management: Definition, Functions, and Benefits
Logistics management functions encompass various activities and processes critical to the success of businesses across multiple industries. Understanding how these functions work and their importance is vital for any company aiming to optimize its supply chain, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. From ensuring inventory management is spot on to navigating the complexities of […]
Supply Chain Risk Management: Definition, Examples, and Strategies
In an interconnected global economy, smooth supply chain operations are crucial to business success. Yet, with myriad variables and dependencies, supply chains are exposed to many potential disruptions and all types of supply chain risks. Enter supply chain risk management. Supply chain risk management is a strategic approach to identify, assess, and mitigate risks […]
Universal Scorecards Critical to Supply Chain Sustainability
As stakeholders mount pressure on companies globally to demonstrate accountability in environmental, social, governance, and economic (ESGE) aspects, the need for universal scorecards in supply chain sustainability has never been more important.
How to Nurture Company Culture
Company culture is the heartbeat of an organization. It’s the collective mindset, values, and behaviors that define who we are and how we operate. A strong, positive culture is not just a nice-to-have, but a must-have for any company aiming for sustained success.
Insourcing vs Outsourcing: Definitions, Advantages, Differences
As businesses seek to gain a competitive edge while controlling costs, understanding the nuances between insourcing and outsourcing is essential for their success. Throughout this blog post, we will dive into the definitions of both insourcing and outsourcing practices. Then, we’ll explore their advantages and potential drawbacks in various scenarios. Furthermore, we will provide insight […]
What is Gross Weight? Differences and Calculations vs Net Weight
International shipments need the net, gross, and tare weights to ensure vessels are not overloaded. In addition, the quotes, paperwork, and bill of lading indicate which weights, including the vehicle’s own weight, determine the shipment costs for the given freight company. Understanding the differences between the types of weights is critical to interpreting the paperwork. […]
4 Logistics Challenges for Solar Panels and How to Overcome Them
To keep pace with demand, solar panel manufacturers, solar installers, and other businesses must find ways to overcome the unique logistical challenges presented by these products.
Bringing Additional Capacity to the Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals Market
Leading 3PL MD Logistics is dedicating more space to clients within these industries—converting half of their largest in-network facility into cGMP compliant, temperature-controlled warehouse space.
Addressing Customer Needs Through Strategic Diversification
VISION: As a leader navigating a rapidly changing logistics landscape, Don Caddy focuses on solving real challenges through thoughtful diversification and scalable solutions.
Innovative Temperature-Sensitive Solutions: A Cold Treat
From ice cream to fresh produce to life-saving vaccines, the cold chain market is booming. Enter a wave of innovative solutions—smart packaging, cutting-edge telematics, and advanced freezing technologies—that are transforming the way temperature-sensitive goods journey from producers to doorsteps.
Smart Supply Chains Start With the Warehouse
The idea of a “smarter supply chain” is not a new concept. What’s new is the idea of a holistic approach that bridges high-quality processes, empowered employees, and cutting-edge technology.
10 Tips for Developing Long-Term 3PL Partnerships
A long-term collaborative partnership with your 3PL is table stakes in modern retail. It lays the foundation for operational efficiency, business growth, and success.
NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
SHOVEL READY: The first development at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport’s Global Logistics Park has broken ground. The 4.5 acres of aeronautical property is being leased by F&F LLC for the development of an 80,000-square-foot cargo facility with airside access to handle current and future general air freight needs. The facility will include cargo processing space, associated mezzanine offices, and a minimum of 18 truck docks. The site is expected to be complete in early 2025.
Can Uber Help Truck Drivers and Shippers?
The convergence of three groundbreaking technologies—AI, Starlink, and robotics—will revolutionize the practice of transportation, logistics, and supply chain management, as I wrote last month. Another convergent trend that benefits logistics management is on the rise: The mashup of consumer technology woven into business operations. Just about anyone who drives uses Google Maps and Waze. There’s […]
Put Your Warehouse Management System to the Test: 10 Critical Steps
While WMS implementations can offer significant ROI, they also come with inherent risks. Here’s how to comprehensively test your warehouse management system:
IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
CIRRO E-Commerce launched a hybrid delivery service which blends direct-to-consumer deliveries in densely populated areas with postal deliveries to rural regions, providing faster transit times, reduced shipping costs, nationwide coverage, and tracking from origin to doorstep.
Pallet, Meet Drone
The Palletrone (pallet plus drone) provides a hovering platform for cargo. The flying shopping cart delivers some unique features.
What Logistics Function Will AI Have the Most Profound Impact On?
Expert insights on the functions and solutions most ripe for AI impact.
Utility Box Trucks: What Are They, Essential Features, and Benefits
Utility box trucks are vital for small business owners in industries like construction, landscaping, and maintenance. These service and utility trucks provide essential storage, organization, and transportation for tools and equipment. Their versatility makes them indispensable for businesses that rely on efficiency and mobility. From keeping tools secure to offering a professional appearance, they meet […]
Setting the LTL World on Fire
When she isn’t working tirelessly to drive digital transformation, help carriers transition to a digital era, and modernize the LTL freight classification system, Debbie Sparks writes children’s books to spread the word about the rewards of becoming a truck driver.
Expedited Carriers Guide 2024
Reliable expedited freight services are crucial for businesses that need to move critical, time-sensitive goods quickly and cost-effectively. Use this guide to find providers that offer a wide range of expedited services and solutions, as well as tracking technologies for complete visibility.
Preparing for Emerging Global Supply Chain Challenges
How can the the global trade sector remain competitive and relevant in an increasingly fragile digital economy? Here are four proactive approaches.
Shipper Owned Container (SOC): What It Is, Types, and Benefits
Shipper owned containers (SOCs) offer businesses more control over their shipping needs and flexibility compared to carrier owned containers (COCs). These shipping containers are purchased or leased by businesses, allowing them to manage container ownership without relying solely on shipping lines. In recent years, the use of SOCs has grown significantly, with businesses increasingly looking […]
VAI and Kinnunen: Constructing Efficient Inventory Management
Kinnunen, a family-owned business that offers a range of construction supplies—from air compressors to wood glue—has enjoyed so much growth that its enterprise resource planning (ERP) system was struggling to keep up. This hindered the company’s ability to effectively manage inventory and serve customers.
Securing the Core Through Third-Party Risk Management
In today’s intricate global business landscape, robust third-party risk management (TPRM) and supply chain oversight frameworks are indispensable for maintaining operational integrity, adequate security, and regulatory compliance.
AI and the Essential Supply Chain Worker
When it comes to AI in the supply chain, we can choose fear or embrace change. Only one approach is likely to be successful.
Building a Future-Ready Supply Chain; Intermodal Rebounds; Strategic Shoring Gains Favor; and Other Logistics News
A look at the latest news stories in global supply chain and logistics.
10 Tips for Upgrading Your Supply Chain Skill Set
By implementing these action items, professionals and students can better prepare themselves for the complexities of modern supply chain management.
Work in Progress (WIP) Inventory: Definition, Importance, and Calculations
Understanding and managing work in progress inventory is essential for keeping your production process efficient and reducing manufacturing costs.
Why We Need Advanced Manufacturing
What I learned over 40 years in manufacturing is that innovation and manufacturing are intertwined. Brilliant scientists and engineers invented some of the world’s most innovative and impactful products, and many of them need to be manufactured on innovative processes.
Shipping Container Sizes: Dimension, Costs, and Types
Efficient cargo management starts with understanding the right shipping container sizes for your specific needs. Every shipment relies on selecting the appropriate container to ensure safe, cost-effective transportation. Whether you’re moving standard dry goods or delicate, temperature-sensitive items, the dimensions and features of shipping containers are crucial. Picking the wrong container can lead to wasted […]
Auto Supply Chains: Pinpointing the Commercial Case for Sustainability
Pinpointing and quantifying the commercial case for green initiatives in the automotive industry is tricky. To sharpen sustainability planning, try this modeling technique: Treat environmental performance as a product feature, one of many that customers consider when making purchasing decisions.
Supply Chain Technologies that Empower the Human Workforce See Growing Investments
The 2024 MHI Annual Report, “The Collaborative Supply Chain,” shows companies are leveraging artificial intelligence and other technologies in a human-centric way.
Broker Transparency – Why It’s Both Unnecessary and Burdensome to Industry
By prioritizing an outdated and unnecessary regulatory debate, FMCSA has chosen to misdirect its resources and attention, leaving a glaring and urgent problem unaddressed: freight fraud.
DC Automation Gets Real
While pie-in-the-sky technologies capture imaginations, these systems do the heavy lifting and boost worker safety and productivity in warehouses right now.
Raw Materials Inventory: Explanation, Benefits, and Tips
Understanding how to manage raw materials inventory is crucial for smooth business operations. By implementing best practices like regular audits, using software, and improving inventory turnover, businesses can control costs and optimize their production process.
EDI Isn’t Dying—It’s Evolving and Can Be Integrated with API
“The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated,” Mark Twain famously said upon reading his own premature obituary. The same can be said about EDI software.
Customer Service—A Magnet for More Business
Customer service beyond expectations can act as a magnet for more business. It’s a force that an independent Landstar agency in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has put into practice.
Shippers Get On Board With Air Cargo
As ecommerce soars and global trade accelerates, the demand for air freight solutions is a boarding pass to the future. But can capacity keep up with the industry’s rapid ascent?
Fast Track to Expedited Shipping Success
Expedited shipping helps organizations elevate their competitive edge, enhance customer satisfaction, and swiftly respond to supply chain disruptions—all while keeping inventory costs in check. Here’s how to speed expedited shipping success.
Supply Chain Bottlenecks: Causes, Challenges, and Resolutions
A supply chain bottleneck occurs when one part of the supply chain slows down or halts the entire process, disrupting the flow of goods and services. These bottlenecks can create serious problems for businesses, delaying production and deliveries, which can directly impact profitability and customer satisfaction. In modern supply chains, identifying and addressing these bottlenecks […]
Absorption Costing: Definition, Formula, and Tips
Absorption costing is a crucial managerial accounting method that captures all manufacturing costs involved in producing a product. It includes direct materials, direct labor, fixed manufacturing overhead, and variable manufacturing overhead, providing a full picture of production costs. This method ensures accurate product pricing and compliance with accounting standards like GAAP, making it vital for […]
Turning Cold Chain Data Into Smart Decisions
Supply chain companies have the data they need to optimize performance, but they lack the ability to turn that data into actionable insights. Here’s how they can put that data to use.
NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
In its biggest transaction to date, DSV will acquire Schenker from Deutsche Bahn. The acquisition will strengthen DSV’s global network, expertise and competitiveness.
When Robotics, Starlink, and AI Converge: What’s Next?
The maturation and convergence of three technologies—robotics, Starlink, and artificial intelligence—will revolutionize the practice of supply chain management across the globe. I know you have heard that before, but this time it is not hyperbole. When these three technologies converge, much of how we manage logistics today will be legacy, a fading memory in a […]
5 Types of Quality Management Systems Explained
Different types of quality management systems, such as Total Quality Management, Six Sigma, and ISO standards, play a vital role in helping businesses achieve operational excellence and meet industry standards. Implementing quality systems enhances quality control, and promotes continuous improvement.
10 Leading Air Cargo Partners You Should Consider
Choosing the right air cargo provider can significantly impact a company’s logistics performance and customer satisfaction. By evaluating each provider’s capabilities, services, and alignment with current trends, shippers can find the best fit for their needs in today’s fast-paced global market.
What Supply Chain Term Will Be Top of Mind in 2025?
Convergence because we can’t afford to have planning and operations working in their separate silos where plans can’t be executed or if they can they are very expensive to execute. Good companies plan. Great companies execute. –Tom Moore Founder & CEO ProvisionAi Optimization. 2025 will be a year of optimization as companies look to offset […]
Landscaping Box Trucks: Essential Features and Benefits
The right landscaping box truck brings value to your business, helping you manage materials efficiently and leave a professional impression on every job.
Canada’s Supply Chain Act Is in Effect. Complying May Be Easier Said Than Done.
It’s a truth businesses can’t ignore: Various forms of modern slavery are embedded throughout the global supply chain, across geographies and industries. What meaningful steps can organizations take?
Perfect Order Fulfillment: Explanation, Tips, and How to Improve
Achieving perfect order fulfillment is crucial for businesses aiming to improve both customer experience and customer retention. By ensuring orders delivered are accurate, with correct invoices and accurate documentation, companies can minimize imperfect orders and reduce the likelihood of customer fails.
3 Key Questions to Answer Before the DSCSA Stabilization Period Ends
Life sciences and healthcare supply chain organizations must comply with the serialized traceability requirements of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act by Nov. 27, 2024, unless they have applied for an exemption. Here are three questions you should answer before the stabilization period ends.
Improving Global Rail Container Visibility
To borrow the Thomas Friedman phrase, the world has truly become “flat”—open to all through technology. With this transformation, the humble shipping container has become the backbone of international commerce.
Micro-Fulfillment Explained: Key Benefits and Strategies for Ecommerce Success
Discover the key benefits of micro fulfillment and essential insights for businesses looking to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Cargo Theft on the Rise; The Impact of Truck Driver Detention; and Other Logistics News
Updates and insights on the latest supply chain and logistics news stories.