Partnering with Customers and Leveraging Data to Boost Health

In May 2023, Kenvue, the company behind iconic brands such as Tylenol and Listerine, spun off from Johnson & Johnson, becoming the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue. The spinoff also meant Kenvue’s leadership team had to establish strong supply chain operations as a consumer goods company, rather than as part of a pharmaceutical firm.

American Standard: Flushed With Success

As a leading North American brand, American Standard has been offering innovative products for more than 150 years. One of its products—the humble but essential toilet—is practically synonymous with the company name.

The World Keeps Changing. When Change Happens, Logistics Plus Delivers.

Working behind the scenes, Logistics Plus, Inc. continues to help businesses address a constantly changing world filled with all-too-frequent supply chain bottlenecks and disruptions.

Synching Up for Demand-Driven Supply Chains

A demand-driven supply chain can help organizations glide through the choppy waters of today’s business challenges. It takes close collaboration and teamwork across the entire value chain to get there.

10 Tips for Shipping by Rail

Shipping by rail is a cost-effective and carbon-friendly way to move large volumes over long distances. However, managing rail shipments requires careful planning, coordination, and attention to detail. Here’s how to manage rail shipments effectively.

Is Your Enterprise Flexible Enough To Scale?

Scalability is important. In this annual Third-Party Logistics edition, you will find partners and resources to ensure your enterprise is flexible enough to scale.

How to Develop an Agile Supply Chain

Businesses need to prioritize building supply chain strategies that can effectively navigate today’s increasingly volatile environment marked by supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and ever-changing consumer demands. Agility, resilience, and outside-the-box thinking have become critical to protect the customer experience—and the bottom line.

2024 Inbound Logistics Perspectives 3PL Market Research Report

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are adapting to tougher-than-usual times these days. The industry has seen revenues fall, and demand for 3PL services isn’t growing at the pace we’ve seen in recent years. Also unfolding: Challenges such as inflation, high taxes, and government regulation increase costs for 3PLs. Those are some of the insights that uncoil […]

3PL Partner Is Instrumental in Guitar Amp Maker’s Growth

For an American boutique guitar amplifier manufacturer with less than 20 employees, the usual shipping route from Southern California to Japan typically involves enlisting a distributor for execution.

Watch as Inbound Logistics Reveals the Top 10 3PLs of 2024

Inbound Logistics’ highly anticipated 2024 Top 10 3PLs Readers’ Choice Excellence Awards list is here!  The prestigious Top 10 3PLs are selected by reader voting—and this year, we received more than 12,500 votes on our platform. Readers cast ballots for their favorite 3PLs based on a high degree of satisfaction with service, cost, and technology […]

What is Inventory? Definition, Types, and Challenges

Effective inventory control and management ensure that companies can meet customer demand efficiently while maintaining optimal inventory levels. 

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

When a construction materials company realized that transporting a massive rock crusher for repairs would put them between a rock and a hard place, it knew who to call: Landstar.

2024 State of the Supply Chain Labor Market

Over the past 28 years, MD Logistics has hired individuals who embrace and create its culture. The 3PL remains poised to use new technologies to find the best cultural fit for the organization.

How to Build Decades-Long Partnerships in a Dynamic Supply Chain Industry

Discover how Comprehensive Logistics can revolutionize your supply chain with cutting-edge 3PL solutions that foster long-term global customer relationships.

Overcoming Global Uncertainty and Wide-Ranging Supply Chain Challenges

Q. What does the future hold for domestic and global freight incoming to the United States? A. Since no one has a crystal ball, the surest way to look forward is to track the nuances in the global market. The economic recovery post-pandemic is expected to continue pushing the global freight market. We are starting […]

CtrlChain Launches Advanced Connectivity Feature for Shippers and Carriers 

CtrlChain, a pioneer in logistics and transportation management, continues to revolutionize the industry by enhancing logistics process visibility and transparency even further for shippers and carriers. CtrlChain has been focusing on advancing its offerings to make carriers’ lives even easier. Now, transport planners can easily provide live updates to their customers, from pick-up to arrival […]

Fast Fashion Forward: Apex Logistics Streamlines Global Shipping In Style

Thanks to its partnership with Apex Logistics, a fashion and accessories distributor delivers transportation visibility and cost-effectiveness to its garment and accessories customers.

Convergint Technologies Ensures Safe Shipping with EchoInsure+

Security solutions firm Convergint found peace of mind with Echo Global Logistics’ supplemental cargo insurance offering EchoInsure+. Through an expedited claims process with faster resolution, Echo made shipping Convergint’s high-value freight stress-free.

4 Types of Pallets and Their Uses

Understanding and selecting the correct type of pallet—considering factors like load capacity, compatibility with goods and handling equipment, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with international standards—is vital for optimizing operational efficiency and ensuring safe, compliant transport of goods. 

What Grade Would You Give Brands on Reverse Logistics Operations?

I would give a range of grades from A to F for how brands are handling reverse logistics. There is still a lot of variation in this area—from consumer spending to B2B direct spend. A stellar reverse logistics program can lower the bar to buy. It’s so much easier to make a purchase decision when you know you can send the product back if needed, with no hassle. This is an area for improvement.

–Doug DeLuca
Product Marketing Manager
SAP Business Network, SAP

Tips for Closing the Visibility Gap

With modern supply chains being so intricate and involving numerous stakeholders, maintaining full visibility is becoming increasingly challenging. However, many businesses operate with fragmented and legacy systems where data lives in different silos and across different platforms. This lack of integration makes it difficult to track and monitor the entire supply chain in real time.

Taking a Shine to Lab-Grown Diamonds

Marketed as an eco-friendly alternative to mined diamonds and offering more transparency, lab-grown diamonds are disrupting gemstone supply chains. Here’s some clarity:

Readying the Supply Chain Workforce

Educators reveal how they’re preparing future supply chain management professionals for growing complexity and advancing technology.

Securing an Unmatched, Fully Streamlined Solution

A private equity firm engaged Hub Group to evaluate its supply chain network and improve operational efficiencies for one of its prominent CPG companies. Hub Group delivered an end-to-end solution.

Micro Warehousing: Definition, Trends, and Benefits

Micro warehousing presents both advantages and challenges. Its benefits include faster delivery, reduced shipping costs, and improved customer satisfaction. However, it also involves higher operational costs and increased complexity in inventory management.

Manufacturers Are Optimistic; Truck Drivers Want Better Pay and Equipment; and Other Supply Chain News

Takeaways that are shaping the global supply chain.

EV Battery Investments Surge; Other Clean Energy News

DHL Group is expanding its charging infrastructure for electric trucks, thanks to a partnership with energy provider E.ON. The contract calls for E.ON to establish fast-charging infrastructure at DHL Group distribution centers. DHL service partners will also have access to the new charging infrastructure.

Are We Ready for Fully Digital BoLs?

While the advantages of electronic bills of lading (eBoLs) are clear, several hurdles—complex implementation, legal concerns, and a reluctance to let go of established processes—hamper its adoption.

What Can Rail Shippers Expect?

The rail industry finds itself at a critical juncture, poised for transformative progress that extends well beyond individual companies. Building on the progress freight rail companies made in 2023, this year holds the promise of a secure future marked by reliability, resilience, and commitment to sustainability.

Are Supply Chain Managers Running the Company?

Supply chain managers are playing a greater role in directing company operations and creating shared enterprise value as silos between suppliers and customers start to come down. Technology plays a part in opening those pathways because it cuts across company barriers. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers promise to do the same by cutting across inter-company barriers […]

Revolutionizing Local Delivery: The Future of Multi-Store Order Fulfillment

Implementing new shipper types for business deliveries, optimizing capacity, and adopting an income model based on stops are key strategies in reshaping last-mile delivery services.

A Supply Chain With Beauty and Brains

While selling beauty products may seem like a straightforward endeavor, “When you talk about cosmetics, it’s a world of complexity,” says Germán Ricardo Rodríguez Parra, operations strategic planning senior manager, supply chain, for Latin American direct-sales beauty firm Belcorp.

Hawaii Logistics: Shoring Up Supply Chains

The Aloha State offers a stunning location and presents unique challenges for shippers. Here’s how top logistics companies ensure smooth sailing—and seamless air and ground movement—for cargo.

Supply Chains Stabilize, But Risks Ahead

In 2023, it seemed like the supply chain was finally starting to calm down from the turmoil and instability that the pandemic set in motion. But storm clouds are appearing on the horizon, and manufacturers and distributors should pay close attention to them.

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

GOOD WORKS: DHL Group expanded its GoHelp program to Europe due to the growing number of recent catastrophes. With the launch of GoHelp Europe, the program now covers all global disaster hotspots.

Logistics vs. Transportation: Their Key Differences

Understanding logistics vs transportation is crucial for anyone involved in supply chain management and commercial shipping. These terms, while often used interchangeably, have distinct meanings and roles. Logistics involves the planning and coordination of transportation and distribution services, managing the supply chain, and ensuring efficient transportation of goods. Transportation, on the other hand, focuses on […]

Artificial Intelligence in Supply Chain Management: What’s One Human Capability AI Can’t Match?

Are there limits to what artificial intelligence can achieve in supply chain management? Readers share the uniquely human skills that AI can’t yet (or ever?) replicate.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

Aloha Marine Lines, part of the Lynden family of companies, added a new barge to its fleet to serve customers in the Seattle to Hawaii trade lane. Constructed at Gunderson Marine & Iron in Portland, Oregon, the Makani Loa joins the Kamakani and Namakani—all Makani Class barges that serve Aloha Marine Lines’ bi-weekly barge service between Seattle and Hawaii. The Makani Class barges are fitted with high binwalls which help to keep freight secure while minimizing the amount of lashing needed.

FCL: Meaning, Importance, and Key Characteristics

Understanding FCL meaning and its significance in commercial shipping and logistics is essential for businesses engaged in international trade. By opting for FCL, businesses can enjoy cost savings, reduced handling, and greater control over their shipments. 

Circular Supply Chains Go Round and Round

Circular supply chains can be resilient and sustainable, and can help meet growing demand for environmentally friendly products. But shifting from linear to circular supply chains requires intense research to determine how best to reuse many materials, implement new technology and processes, optimize returned goods, and educate suppliers and customers on circularity’s challenges and benefits.

Port Houston’s People Person

John Moseley dreams big, champions diversity, relies on constant communication, and touts relationship management as his superpower.

Chemical Logistics:  Providers Fuel Innovations

In response to the challenges ahead, chemical logistics providers are moving forward with innovative approaches and substantive solutions.

10 Tips for De-Risking Your Supply Chain

The supply chain can be impacted by everything from weather to infrastructure, so creating diversified, resilient networks has become essential. Here’s how to navigate uncertainties, enhance flexibility, and fortify supply networks against disruptions.

Container Chassis: What It Is, Types, and Role in Shipping Operations

Efficient cargo transportation is very important in commercial shipping and logistics. The container chassis, which is essential in transporting containerized goods, is at the heart of this process.  In this guide, we will discuss container chassis, offering a comprehensive overview of their significance and usage in commercial shipping. Understanding Container Chassis Container chassis are specialized […]

Assembly Line: Definition, History, and Advantages

Assembly lines are the backbone of modern manufacturing, revolutionizing how we produce everything from cars to consumer electronics. Why is and why was the assembly line important?  They enable manufacturers to assemble complex products efficiently, drastically transforming traditional production methods. By systematically adding parts at successive stations, these lines optimize time and labor, making large-scale […]

Retail Logistics: Definition, Challenges, and Best Practices

Efficient retail logistics is crucial for the success of the retail industry, ensuring that the supply chain runs smoothly and meets customer demand.

4 Types of Inventory

Understanding the various types of inventory is crucial for effective inventory management. The four basic types – raw materials, work in progress, finished goods, and MRO inventory – form the foundation of most inventory systems. Managing these efficiently ensures a smooth production process and reduces costs.

Selecting a Consolidation and Fulfillment Partner to Navigate a Tough Landscape

With the many moving parts of the supply chain, it is crucial to form a partnership with the right consolidation and fulfillment partner—especially during times of challenge in the marketplace.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Visibility and Tracking Solutions

Check out some of the latest and greatest visibility and tracking solutions.

3 Ways to Update Your Hiring Strategy

Lingering and new disruptions to the supply chain make it difficult for employers to determine their staffing needs at any given time. Despite these headwinds, employers can use staffing strategies to better prepare for and respond to supply chain disruptions.

Total Cost of Ownership: Definition, How to Calculate, and Benefits

Understanding the total cost of ownership (TCO) is crucial for businesses in commercial shipping and logistics. It’s more than just the initial purchase price; TCO encompasses all costs incurred over a product’s lifecycle, including direct and indirect costs, operating costs, and maintenance expenses. In the logistics sector, accurately calculating TCO helps businesses assess the full […]

What is Urban Logistics? Definition, Challenges, and Strategies

Did you ever wonder how your online order reaches your doorstep so quickly in a bustling city? Urban logistics, the backbone of city logistics and supply chain management, holds the answer. It’s a critical component in modern urban planning, ensuring smooth delivery operations in densely populated city centers. In urban areas, optimizing logistics operations is […]

LTL Shipping: What It Is, Key Features, and Advantages

By leveraging LTL shipping and staying abreast of industry innovations, businesses can maintain a competitive edge in the global logistics market.

Bill of Lading vs. Packing Slip: Their Key Differences

In shipping and logistics, it’s crucial to distinguish between a bill of lading and a packing slip. This article examines the differences.

Paris 2024 Olympics: Ready, Set Up, Go for Logistics Gold

How do you tackle logistics of Olympic proportions? Official logistics partner CMA CGM Group is preparing to go the distance.

The Indispensable Edge: TMS Empowers Shippers in a Competitive Landscape

Stop pushing boxes. For companies looking to get ahead, a Transportation Management System (TMS) is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Leading TMS providers offer solutions and innovations to propel shippers toward efficiency, cost reduction, and superior service delivery.

Solving Problems, Improving Processes

Amy Augustine is senior director of network supply chain with UScellular, the fourth-largest U.S. full-service wireless carrier.

4 Types of Material Handling Equipment

Storage and handling equipment plays a crucial role in warehousing for categorizing and storing products, which supports efficient operations. Read on to understand the four major types of storage and handling equipment.

Today’s Pallets: Leaders of the Stack

Market changes highlight the need for a strategic approach to pallet management. With innovative product and service option developments, pallet providers deliver on a wide range of customer demands.

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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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.

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 […]

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. Notably, Ford is a prominent manufacturer of box trucks, with the Ford E-Series being particularly relevant in the logistics industry due to its performance […]

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.