
Blockchain in Logistics: Definition, Role in Logistics, and Benefits
Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the logistics industry, promising enhanced transparency, efficiency, and security in supply chain operations. Blockchain in logistics ensures that all parties involved have access to validated, immutable records, thus reducing errors and increasing transparency. The blockchain technology market in the transportation and logistics industry is estimated to increase by USD 2.23 billion, […]

IoT in Logistics: What It Is, Applications, and Benefits
As the world becomes more interconnected, the logistics landscape is significantly transforming. Technology has become the backbone of supply chain management, propelling logistics companies into a new era of efficiency and connectivity. Internet of Things (IoT) is a transformative force reshaping the fabric of logistics and transportation. IoT in logistics isn’t just a trend; it’s […]

Nearshoring: Partners Lead the Way in Mexico
Establishing operations in Mexico can streamline and shorten your supply chain. These companies can help you reap the benefits and overcome the challenges of nearshoring.

Supply Chain vs. Procurement: Key Differences Explained
There are critical roles and differences between supply chain and procurement within the commercial shipping industry. Understanding these functions is vital for managing operations efficiently and ensuring organizational success.

3 Keys to Strengthen Safety
Safety is a top priority for any supply chain organization, and communication is paramount to safe operations. Here are three ways that effective communication can mitigate operational risks and strengthen safety across the supply chain.

Outbound Logistics: Definition, Key Components, Benefits
Logistics is like the invisible glue that holds businesses together. It’s how companies move and manage goods from one place to another. Imagine a puzzle where each piece is a part of the supply chain, and logistics fits them together. Outbound logistics is a significant part of this puzzle. It’s all about getting products from […]

What is a Counterbalance Forklift? Definition, Types, and Uses
Counterbalance forklifts are vital machines in commercial shipping, offering versatility and efficiency in handling heavy loads. Whether using an electric forklift for indoor applications or a diesel-powered model for outdoor tasks, these forklifts are designed to meet various operational needs.

LCL: Meaning, Benefits, and Booking Process
Less than Container Load (LCL) is essential for global logistics, providing cost-effective and flexible shipping options for businesses with smaller cargo volumes.

Operating Regenerative Supply Chains; Tech That Attracts Workers; Cargo Theft on the Rise; and Other News
From weighing decisions that offer quick wins against those aimed at long-term gains to coping with workforce shortages, here are the latest issues and developments affecting supply chain managers.

Reclassifying Marijuana Impacts Road Safety
Rescheduling marijuana without explicit provisions for continued drug testing could compromise road safety. The ATA weighs in on the proposed deregulation.

Optimizing Warehouse Efficiency
Tremendous growth in warehousing and related industries in the past decade brings real challenges—inexperienced labor, safety concerns, and squeezing productivity out of limited space. The right strategies and technology can meet these challenges.

WES for Success: Preparing Your Operations for Success in an Ecommerce World
Ensuring your fulfillment center overcomes ecommerce challenges starts with an effective pick, pack, and ship strategy, supported by a robust warehouse execution system that enables continuous processing.

Logistics vs. Distribution: Their Key Similarities and Differences
Distribution and logistics are integral aspects of supply chain management, yet it’s important to recognize that these terms aren’t interchangeable. While both oversee the movement of goods within the supply chain, they possess distinct meanings. Contrasting distribution with logistics offers a valuable opportunity to grasp their unique definitions and disparities. Businesses need to discern between […]

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.

From Earnings to Ergonomics: Optimizing Warehouse Labor
As warehouse labor plays hard to get, organizations turn to a growing range of tools and technologies to support worker safety, boost their productivity, and make their jobs easier, more efficient, and even more enjoyable.

Unreadable GTL Barcodes Create a Bottleneck
Global Transport Label (GTL) codes are ideal for package sorting but are susceptible to becoming unreadable. Engineering Innovation implemented a two-barcode system that enhances efficiencies.

How Biden’s Tariff Increases on Chinese Products Will Affect the U.S. Economy
The White House announced on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, that he will raise tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs), from the current 25% to 100% to take effect in 2024.

The Inflation Reduction Act’s Clean Energy Boom Benefits Logistics
When the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was signed into law in 2022, it was widely hailed as the most important piece of U.S. climate legislation ever passed.

FTL in Logistics: Definition, Benefits, and How to Use
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of FTL shipping, including its definition, benefits, and practical usage. We will equip readers with the knowledge to navigate the logistics terrain confidently.

Friendshoring: Definition, Benefits, and Challenges
Friendshoring is shaping international trade by reinforcing supply chains and fostering economic ties. It boosts supply chain resilience and strengthens diplomatic relations, helping businesses manage global market complexities. However, challenges like higher costs and limited country choices require careful consideration.

How Portable Ergonomic Conveyors Help Improve Loading Dock Operations
Warehouse, DC, and 3PL operators are turning to portable ergonomic conveyors to improve worker safety and productivity, among other benefits.

The Future of Cargo Measurement Automation
The measurement and weighing of packages and palletized cargo is an ideal target for automation. This is a particularly labor-intensive and time-consuming manual process that is prone to error.

Strip It Down to the Studs?
Our publisher sounds off on Ancora Holdings’ attempted takeover at Norfolk Southern.

Forwarder’s Bill of Lading: What It Is, Key Components, and the Role of Freight Forwarders
In shipping and logistics, documentation reigns supreme, with the bill of lading playing a pivotal role. This legally binding document isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s the backbone of international shipment, encompassing a variety of forms such as the master bill, straight bill, switch bill, charter party bill, and ocean bill. Among these, the […]

6 Types of Wholesaling: A Comprehensive Guide
Wholesaling is vital to the supply chain, connecting manufacturers with retailers and consumers. It involves buying goods in bulk from manufacturers and wholesale selling them in smaller quantities to retailers or other wholesale businesses. There are different types of wholesaling, each serving different purposes and markets. This comprehensive guide will explore six kinds of wholesaling […]

The Matzo Project Simplifies Operations by Partnering with Echo Global Logistics
Echo fosters transparency and loyalty with The Matzo Project, a fast-growing business, through caring customer service relationships.

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
Averitt associates donated $1.5 million to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to support the mission of curing childhood cancers.

As Russia Greases Up Oil Exports, Sanctions Need to Get a Grip
As the U.S. Treasury Department refocuses its efforts to stifle Russia’s war in Ukraine, the latest (and certainly not the last) round of ‘blocking’ sanctions has refreshed the focus on Russian energy and startups in the petroleum market who have, despite all the red tape, managed to maintain a steady stream of income for the Kremlin.

YMS: Your Yard, Optimized
Yard management systems optimize a sometimes-overlooked supply chain link, helping shippers maximize the potential of their yard and strengthen KPIs.

Supply Chain Trends to Watch; Top Retail Logistics Challenges; Other News
Supply chain technology trends to watch for 2024; what are retail logistics professionals most concerned about?; the fallout from the Baltimore bridge collapse; and other logistics and supply chain news.

Avoiding Social Media FOMO
Generating speed-of-light word of mouth, social media can trigger demand surges and trip up supply chain strategies for ecommerce retailers. Here are some approaches that work, even if you aren’t ready to livestream shoppable content just yet:

Through Bill of Lading: What It Is, Functions, and When to Use It
A Through Bill of Lading is a comprehensive contract for shipping goods across multiple modes of transportation, from origin to final destination. Mastering shipping documentation, including Through Bills of Lading, is important for success in the commercial shipping and logistics industry.

Sustainable Supply Chain: Definition, Components, and Benefits
Businesses across various industries increasingly prioritize sustainability in commercial shipping and logistics. Sustainable supply chain management now stands at the forefront of strategic planning, driven by consumer demand for environmental responsibility and fair labor practices. Companies recognize that adopting sustainable practices addresses climate change and social responsibility, leading to cost savings and improved financial performance. […]

5 Shipper Tips for Surviving DOT Week
Today, May 14, marks the start of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CSVA) International Roadcheck, better known as DOT Week.

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% […]

Bill of Lading vs. Waybill: Their Key Differences
Documentation serves as the backbone of the intricate web of global trade and logistics, ensuring the smooth flow of goods from one point to another. The bill of lading and the waybill are essential documents in this realm. Understanding the disparities between these documents is essential for anyone involved in shipping and logistics operations. Understanding […]

The Waiting Game: Forecasting a Potential Freight Recovery
In contrast to the dramatic spikes of the COVID era, a potential freight recovery is likely to happen in a more measured, gradual fashion and will likely extend into 2025. Eventually, the market will reach an inflection point in which the recovery kicks off in earnest.

Advance Shipping Notice: Definition, Role in Supply Chain Management, and Benefits
Efficient communication and documentation are the backbone of successful shipping and logistics operations. Staying ahead in today’s fast-paced commercial environment requires adopting advanced tools and strategies. One such tool is the Advance Shipping Notice (ASN), which is important in modern supply chain management. This comprehensive guide will explore ASNs, their significance, benefits, and impact on […]

Supply Chain Resilience: Definition, Strategies, and Best Practices
Supply chain management faces unprecedented challenges in today’s global market, 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 […]
Four Profitable Strategies in the New Supply Chain Landscape
The realm of supply chain management stands at a crossroads, challenged by recent global disruptions that exposed vulnerabilities.

OTTO Motors Founder Talks AMRs, APIs, and Entrepreneurial DNA
After starting his materials handling robotics company with just $200, Matt Rendall has learned to focus relentlessly on product and customer development, lead with humility, trust his gut, and allow his team to learn from mistakes.

From Experimentation to Transformation: Generative AI in the Supply Chain
For most organizations, GenAI is still in the experimental phase, and business leaders may be unsure of how to identify the best use cases within their organizations to leverage as a jumping-off point.

Box Trucks: Definition, Types, and Cargo
Box trucks, also known as cube or straight trucks, are the core component of the logistics industry. Their box-like cargo area makes them a favorable choice for wholesalers and manufacturers. They are helpful for local deliveries and long-haul transportation. Box trucks facilitate the movement of goods and materials with ease. Their versatility, accessibility, and capacity […]

Straight Bill of Lading: Definition, Significance, and Characteristics
The straight bill of lading provides a clear record of a shipment’s journey and defines ownership during transit. Understanding the straight bill of lading can help you find a way to resolve the complexities of the shipping process.

ProvisionAi and Riviana Foods: Get a Load of This
Walk through any grocery store, and you’ll likely come across products from Riviana Foods. It’s one of the largest processors, marketers, and distributors of branded and private-label rice products in the United States. Its brands include Minute, Success, Mahatma, Adolphus, RiceSelect, and others.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
The Movu 3D shuttle system escala is a flexible robotic automated bin storage and retrieval sub-system, suitable for even the smallest applications of bin-compatible products. Robots move along a rail track that connects every location point within the dense storage and retrieval rack, transferring between levels via ramps. Intelligent management software allows sequencing of bins at multiple points within the system and at the goods-to-person workstations.

How Would You Complete This Sentence? Supply Chain Professionals Would Make Great __________.
From filmmaking to crisis negotiation to climbing Mt. Everest, here’s where supply chain professionals could apply their unique skillsets.

Is Your Supply Chain “Blocked”?
People like me constantly champion the benefits of collaboration and visibility in the supply chain and warn that a lack of traceability and transparency can lead to delays, errors, and increased costs. To achieve this, supply chain participants need a unified view of data, while still being able to independently and privately verify transactions such as production and transport updates.

Top Healthcare Logistics Trends and Other Supply Chain News
New cold chain technology for blood-sample shipping; six health care supply chain trends to watch; and other updates in healthcare logistics.
CtrlChain Launches Managed Transportation Service, Adds Multi-stop Shipments
CtrlChain, an innovator in logistics and transportation management, continues to transform the industry with its expanded services in the US market. While CtrlChain has been operating successfully in the United States since last year, the company is now focusing on advancing its offerings, particularly in transportation management. With the launch of its managed transportation service […]

Supply Chain Resilience: Overcoming the Obstacles
Organizations draw on resilience planning and impactful technology for the strength to resist the challenges of lengthy supply chains and ongoing disruptions.

Distribution Channels in Logistics: Definition, Types, and Components
Distribution channels in logistics are the lifelines that connect the dots between production and consumption, ensuring that goods find their way to the final customer efficiently and effectively. These channels are not just routes on a map but the strategic networks underpinning efficient supply chain management. They make sure that inventory management aligns with customer […]

Why ‘Made in America’ Meds Won’t Cure Chronic Drug Shortages
Supply chain resiliency can rescue the United States from the never-ending drug shortage crisis.

Solving the Emissions Challenge
Companies need to gain a 360-degree view of their operations – including their Scope 3 impacts. When tackling emissions oversight, decision-makers must have tools in place that can help them capture, aggregate, and synthesize data in real-time to make any necessary tweaks to remain compliant.

Master Bill of Lading: What It Is, Key Features, and Issuing Process
In navigating the complexities of global shipping and logistics, the Master Bill of Lading emerges as a cornerstone document, orchestrating the seamless movement of goods across oceans.

10 Tips for Becoming a Shipper of Choice
In today’s “carrier’s market,” it’s more important than ever for shippers to become a shipper of choice—to go the extra mile and make it easier for carriers to do their jobs. Here’s how to strengthen your carrier relationships and achieve this coveted status.

North America: Navigating Cross-Border Trade
U.S.-based companies are looking to master cross-border trade in North America—amidst supply chain upheavals, rising production costs in many other parts of the world, and a strengthening initiative to produce closer to primary markets.

What is Cartage in Shipping and Logistics? Definition, Types, and Process
Cartage services play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of cargo transportation, especially over short distances. Through various types, such as local, terminal, and pier cartage, these services ensure that freight reaches its final destination promptly and securely.

What is Flexible Warehousing? Definition, Benefits, and What to Look For
Flexible warehousing stands at the forefront of modern logistics, offering scalability, cost savings, and operational efficiency. It empowers businesses to swiftly adapt to changing market demands and seasonal fluctuations without the long-term commitments of traditional warehousing.

Surrender Bill of Lading Explained: Benefits, Applications, and Role in Shipping
Understanding the complexities of global shipping demands a thorough understanding of documents like the surrender bill of lading. This guide explains its role in transferring legal ownership, streamlining the shipping process, and minimizing legal problems.

Top Supply Chain Management Schools
Here’s a roundup of some of the top programs to consider, whether you’re looking to major in supply chain at the undergraduate level, obtain an MBA with a supply chain concentration, or find the right executive education or certificate programs to further your career.

How Hopewell Logistics Drives Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement for Top Canadian Brands
The Canada-based 3PL offers warehousing, fulfillment, and transportation services as well as various value-added solutions.

Supply Chain Technology: What’s Coming Online?
The next wave of supply chain technology includes exciting innovations such as closed AI systems, non-human customers, edge processing, and LEO satellites. Are you ready?

2024 IL Market Research: Logistics IT Steps Up
IL’s annual report illuminates how companies are increasing supply chain technology investments to become more efficient and light up return-on-investment.

Stale Bill of Lading: Definition, Importance, and Benefits
A bill of lading plays a pivotal role in logistics and shipping. This legal document, which serves as a receipt for the shipment of goods, outlines the terms under which cargo is transported. It covers various types, from straight bills to negotiable ones, each with specific functions and purposes. Central to ensuring a smooth transaction, […]

What is Wholesaling? Definition, Components, and Challenges and Solutions
Wholesaling is a critical aspect of commercial shipping. But what is wholesaling? It acts as the intermediary link between manufacturers and retailers in the supply chain. Efficient wholesale shipping ensures smooth logistics operations and timely delivery to the end consumer. In this guide, we will clarify the definition, components, challenges, and solutions of wholesale shipping […]

Alaska: Terrain for the Tenacious
The logistics challenges of Alaska are met—and overcome—by enterprising and innovative logistics professionals who make it their mission to serve the people of the Frontier State.

Providing Cost Savings and Customer Service
Hub Group provides reliable, nationwide white glove service for a large furniture manufacturer, solidifying a long-term business relationship. Hub Group ensures continuous improvement and service consistency.

Unlocking Success in Heavy/Specialized Transportation & Logistics
Navigating heavy/specialized transportation can be complex—just like the loads themselves. Here’s how companies can manage these shipments.

How to Use Automation for Increased Transportation and Logistics Visibility
By embracing automation and mobile devices, transportation and logistics managers have the real-time information they need to reduce the cost of delivery operations, get the most value out of assets and personnel, and improve the quality and consistency of their customer service.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
ArcBest’s new Vaux Smart Autonomy offering combines autonomous mobile robot (AMR) forklifts and reach trucks, software, and remote teleoperation capabilities to autonomously handle materials movement within warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. The materials handling technology is flexible out of the box to handle variability in facilities, processes, and product characteristics.

Behind the AI Hype
Industry insiders agree: The impact of artificial intelligence on supply chain management will be transformative. But how soon are we talking and who will be most affected? Wrap your mind around these projections:

10 Challenges in Retail Warehousing
Embracing solutions like automated systems and strategic space utilization are essential steps in overcoming warehouse management challenges and enhancing the performance of retail warehouses.

FTL vs LTL: Understanding the Differences
How do you choose the best shipping method for your load? This FTL vs. LTL guide delves into the nuances of each shipping method, helping you make informed decisions regarding your transportation needs.

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
↑ Estes partnered with Watershed, an enterprise sustainability platform, to assess and set benchmarks against its sustainability program. The initial phase will be to complete Estes’ first carbon footprint, which it will use as a baseline to analyze its emissions data and identify emissions hot spots.

Big Box Shipping: Definition, Key Components, and Challenges
Big box shipping is a cornerstone for efficiently transporting large quantities of goods across vast distances. However, you must understand every detail about shipping large boxes or oversized packages and its key components. With globalization fueling business expansion, there is a growing demand for big box shipping. An oversized package and large box help you […]

House Bill of Lading vs Master Bill of Lading: Their Key Differences
Bills of lading play a critical role in the shipping and logistics industry. They serve as a legal contract that acknowledges the receipt of goods and outlines the terms of shipment. They are evidence of the contract of carriage between the actual shipper, carrier, and recipient. So, they facilitate smooth transactions and ensure accountability throughout […]

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: AMRs & AGVs
Automated Compact Truck (ACT): The ACT line is ideal for heavy-duty lifting in narrow spaces. The latest offering from Rocla AGV Solutions, part of Mitsubishi Logisnext, is suitable for higher warehouses, where it works as a companion for other high-lifting vehicles and manually operated forklifts. ACT can operate between warehouse and production or inbound and outbound areas, and it fits in existing warehouse environments with minimal rack

Global Trade Compliance: How to Play by the Rules
Complex government requirements will create new impacts for many shippers in 2024. Which rules and regulations affect your business, and what steps should you take right now to comply?

New Global Sourcing Hotspots & Other Logistics News
Are companies moving their supply chains away from China? Plus, reactions to the White House’s update on cybersecurity and new data on same-day delivery.

Preventing Another Supply Chain Groundhog Day
Rising prices, long delays, and mounting backlogs are factors reminiscent of the 2020 shipping crisis. But businesses still experience some of the same challenges, which are, unfortunately, tracking well ahead of where we were during the pandemic. It’s imperative that we prevent another supply chain Groundhog Day.

8 Types of Warehousing Processes
Warehousing is a critical link in the supply chain. It facilitates the storage, handling, and distribution of goods. Effective warehouse management can optimize inventory control and meet customer demands efficiently. Within this context, warehousing processes ensure smooth operations and maximize warehouse efficiency. This article discusses various warehousing processes that contribute to efficient warehouse management. From […]

Claused Bill of Lading: Definition, Key Characteristics, and Process
This articles explores everything related to the Claused Bill of Lading and its unique role in the shipping industry, uncovering its implications for shippers and carriers.

Cross Docking vs Drop Shipping: Their Key Differences
In the fast-paced world of business logistics, shipping methods play a key role. Cross docking vs drop shipping–it may be difficult to choose but this logistics guide will help you understand the differences and make the right decision. These two approaches can facilitate your supply chain management as a business owner. This guide delves into […]

Blockchain in Supply Chain: Definition, Role in Supply Chain, and Advantages
Modern advancements in logistics and supply chain operations have dramatically shifted how businesses manage the flow of goods from production to consumption. Technology innovations have paved the way for more efficient, transparent, and secure processes, fundamentally altering the landscape of global supply chains. Blockchain technology emerges as a pivotal force at the forefront of these […]

Taking a Peek at Peak Season
It’s never too early to prepare for the holiday peak season, especially with disruptions mounting amid solid consumer spending. Shippers and carriers are employing automation, data-based decision making, and smart inventory management strategies—and tapping into lessons learned from last year—to get into position for 2024.

Oil’s Well That Ends Well
Knowing that his company is doing good for people and the planet guides Salim Benjelloun, vice president of operations at Pompeian Inc., through even the most difficult days and challenges.

Clean Bill Of Lading: Definition And Importance
A clean bill of lading is essential in international trade, guaranteeing that goods are shipped in perfect condition. It serves as a contract between the shipper, carrier, and receiver and a vital assurance of the shipment’s integrity. This article examines the critical role and definition of a clean bill of lading, highlighting its significance in […]

Outsourced Fulfillment: Definition, Advantages, and Disadvantages
When considering outsourced fulfillment, carefully assess your business’s growth stage, seasonal demands, expansion plans, cost-saving goals, focus areas, and technological needs.

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.

Georgia: Magnet for Growth
Leadership in logistics propels the Peach State’s success in attracting business and driving growth.

2024 Top 100 Logistics & Supply Chain Technology Providers
The Inbound Logistics editors selected the Top 100 Logistics & Supply Chain Technology Providers—companies offering the innovations their customers need to optimize and streamline supply chain operations.

What’s One Supply Chain Misconception That Needs to Be Cleared Up Now?
A lights-out supply chain? A systemic truck driver shortage? Cost-prohibitive sustainability? Readers tackle these misconceptions and more.

Kuehne+Nagel’s Sea-Air Logistics: Quality, Cost-Effective, and Reliable Service
Shippers of all sizes and verticals use Kuehne+Nagel’s Sea-Air product to save time and money, and minimize carbon emissions, when compared to air freight alone.

Supply Chain Sector Bracing For Impact From Baltimore Bridge Collapse
As the supply chain sector grapples with the aftermath of the bridge collapse in Baltimore, experts say it is crucial to mitigate the impact on operations and minimize disruptions to the flow of goods along the U.S. East Coast.

Global Logistics: Key Trends and Takeaways
The only certainty when it comes to global logistics is ongoing uncertainty. Agility, technology, and an appreciation for geopolitics are among the abilities essential to navigating the current environment.

Women’s History Month – Supply Chain Style
In honor of Women’s History Month, we take a look at some remarkable women leading the charge in the supply chain sector.

How to Attract Younger Generations to Truck Driving
With a shortage of more than 60,000 truck drivers due in large part to an aging workforce, the idea of recruiting millennial and Generation Z workers into the profession is gaining traction.

February U.S. Container Imports Show Strong Growth
U.S. container import volumes showed continued strong performance in February, surpassing 2019 numbers for the same period.

Bill of Lading (BOL): Definition, Example, and Importance
The Bill of Lading (BOL), derived from the old English word hladan (but sometimes mistakenly called a bill of laden or bill of landing), is a vital document in the logistics and transportation sector, serving as a legally binding contract of carriage and a detailed record of goods in transit. It is governed by strict […]