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 […]
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 […]
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. 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.
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.
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: