VERTICAL FOCUS: Candy Supply Chain

From a global shortage of sugar to cold chain compliance considerations, candy companies overcome supply chain challenges to hit the sweet spot for consumers.

Choosing a Warehouse Management System: 3 Tips for the Right Pick

If you are in the market for a warehouse management system (WMS) provider, focus on your current business needs with an eye to the future. Here are the factors to consider and questions to ask to ensure you make the right choice.

Supply Chain Leader Interview: On a Quest to Rid the World of Junked Plastic

An entrepreneur at heart, Vanessa Coleman knows it takes 10 shots to score one goal. That’s why she takes risks, stays persistent, talks to people, and is a good listener–all characteristics that helped build Oceanworks’ success.

9 Types of Trucks in Logistics: Definitions and Importance

The trucking sector is a critical logistics component, with businesses relying on it to maintain quick delivery times and carry multiple loads securely worldwide. Trucks deliver far more cargo than ships, trains, or aircraft, with 71.6% of the $14.5 trillion value of all goods shipped in the United States.  Commodities can only go from intermodal […]

Gross Weight vs Curb Weight: Definitions, Differences, and Affects on Vehicle Performance

Navigating the world of vehicle weights can be daunting, with terms like gross weight vs. curb weight often causing confusion. These measurements are more than just numbers; they play a crucial role in determining a vehicle’s performance capability, safety features, and fuel efficacy. This article simplifies these notions by providing clear definitions, outlining their differences, […]

Panamax Ship: History, Advantages, and Capacity

The Panamax ship revolutionized the shipping industry, setting new size standards for vessels traversing the Panama Canal. These unique ship designs were born out of necessity, catering to the canal’s dimension restrictions while maximizing cargo capacity. The term “Panamax,” derived from maximum acceptable dimensions in Panama Canal locks, has spurred significant developments in container ship […]

2023 Trucking Perspectives

In a year of looser capacity but higher operating costs, Inbound Logistics provides an exclusive look at the issues that are top-of-mind for motor carriers and shippers.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

From recently delivered Super Post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes for the Port of Savannah to a new bi-directional automated guided vehicle with a 5,000-pound payload, these recent innovations and developments boost supply chain services and operations.

Tennis Ball Supply Chains: Bouncing Around the Globe

Sporting equipment makers are under pressure to reduce the carbon footprint of these pressurized rubber balls. Here’s how they’re hitting circular supply chain goals.

14 Ways to Ensure Carrier Service

Gaining the right service levels from your truckers starts before you choose a carrier and then requires effort to maintain. These strategies can help you get the service that rings your bell.

2023 Guide to Warehouse Management Systems

Looking to increase inventory accuracy, streamline fulfillment, and optimize equipment and labor utilization? A warehouse management system (WMS) may be the answer. This short list of WMS solutions can help you start your search.

TAKEAWAYS: Shaping the Future of the Global Supply Chain

From shipper expectations for the last quarter of 2023 to a regulations roundup, here’s how companies can navigate the peak season and keep freight moving while limiting costs.

How Freight Management Technology Can Enhance Processes and Relationships

Technology should enhance your transportation experiences, not replace trusted relationships with experienced agents who can strategically deploy technology to ensure that shipments progress smoothly and provide help when necessary.

Syfan Logistics Provides Safe Harbor for Manufacturer with Drayage Delays

Through front-end service and being available when others aren’t, Syfan Logistics helped a heavy machinery manufacturer avoid millions in losses.

Accelerate! Conference & Expo: A Unique Event with a Critical Mission

The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) is a non-profit organization with the mission to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments, and minimize obstacles they face. In support of this mission, WIT will host its ninth annual Accelerate! event.

Beyond the Freight Bill Audit

As freight bill audit and payment expands to transportation spend management, these leading companies deploy advanced technology tools and offer services that transcend traditional freight audit and payment.

Amazon, IKEA, Patagonia, and Major Brands Launch Initiative to Accelerate Transition to Zero-Emission Fuels

Amazon and more than 20 other major global companies launched a tender to accelerate zero-emission shipping. Shipping lines are invited to submit bids for zero-emission shipping services that enable members of the Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA) to reduce supply chain emissions.

MagicLogic Cube-IQ Plans Loads Faster, Reduces Damages for Arauco

Renowned forest products company Arauco is able to plan loads more quickly with MagicLogic’s Cube-IQ software. Additionally, the company sees claims for damaged loads decrease significantly.

The Fast Fashion Fallout: The Circular Economy and the Future of Sustainability in the Fashion Industry

It’s no secret the fashion industry is a top contributor to global textile waste. Every year, millions of tons of textiles are incinerated or placed in landfills where they take hundreds of years to decompose. Fortunately, there is hope as sustainability becomes a priority among young consumers.

Unlocking Warehouse Efficiency: 5 Key Performance Indicators

If you’re not measuring your performance, how do you judge success, growth, and progress? Most of the time, the answer here is simply “I can’t.” If you’re coming up empty, fret not and read on.

Temperature-Controlled Shipping: Definition, Methods, and Limitations

Temperature-controlled shipping is essential for transporting goods requiring specific temperature ranges to maintain quality, safety, and efficacy.  As global commerce grows, there’s an increasing need for reliable temperature-controlled freight transportation methods. Temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, or live animals must reach their final destination safely.  Recent studies indicate that improper shipping conditions, mainly certain temperature changes, […]

Green Logistics: Meaning, Tips, and Challenges

The transportation industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. With increasing concerns about environmental issues, green logistics emerged as a potential solution to tackle rising carbon emissions, waste management, and other challenges associated with conventional logistics operations. This article offers insights into green logistics and its importance in fostering sustainable solutions in the industry and how […]

Yellow Bankruptcy Puts Management and Labor Under Pressure

When 99-year old trucking company Yellow Corporation shut down, with the Teamsters Union planning to file for bankruptcy, we gained some insight into labor and management navigating an economic crucible not of their making. It’s true the players in this sad episode shoulder direct responsibility, but the backdrop of inflation impacted both labor and management […]

Demand Planning: Process, Significance, and Components

Demand planning and demand forecasting in logistics is pivotal in today’s shipping and customer service industry. This strategic process of demand planning function predicts future demand, optimizes inventory levels, and boosts customer satisfaction. In an era where supply chain efficiency is paramount, understanding demand planning, demand planning methodology, logistics demand forecasting, and the demand planning process […]

Containerization of Shipping Containers: Definition, Types, and Process

In this comprehensive guide on containerized cargo, including definitions, types, and process,  we will explore its vital role in global trade. As a professional interested in containerized cargo, you’ll find valuable insights into different types of containers and their specific uses within the supply chain. We will also discuss the intricate process involved in handling […]

Government Warehouse: Definition, Benefits, and Uses

Warehousing has become a critical part of everyday business. For instance, in the past 2 years, Amazon has acquired more than 50 warehouses across the United States. This is attributable to the fact that when goods are not in transit, they need to be stored safely and securely. However, finding the ideal warehouse can be […]

Deadhead Trucking: What It Is, Drawbacks, and How To Reduce It

In logistics, deadhead trucking is a topic that shippers cannot overlook. Understanding deadhead trucking becomes crucial as businesses strive to optimize their supply chain operations and reduce costs. This article delves into the intricacies of the deadhead mile in the trucking industry – from its definition to its drawbacks. It also offers practical tips for […]

These Three Trends Will Define the Future of 3PLs

From accelerating ecommerce demands and sustainability requirements to a growing emphasis on brand value, these are the trends shaping the way third-party logistics providers plan their business strategies and assist retail partners.

How to Thrive in a Global Trade Environment

Collaboration and networking are crucial to navigating the complexities of international relations and supply chain dynamics and pave the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.

The Benefits of Real-Time Visibility in Drayage Operations

Integrating real-time visibility into drayage operations can bring process improvements as well as increase customer satisfaction. Here’s how.

5 Ways to Design a Sustainable Supply Chain

Best-in-class organizations understand that sustainability drives long-term value for whatever form it takes within a business. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics are often used to determine how ethical and sustainable an organization is. Companies that deliver high ESG ratings consistently outperform the market in both the medium and long term, according to McKinsey research.

Transportation When Life is on the Line

Have you ever been in a hospital waiting room and wondered where all the equipment and supplies come from and how they got there? Making sure that everything is in its place requires precise supply chain planning, especially when lives are on the line.

10 Tips: Avoiding Compliance Pitfalls

Shipping dangerous goods (DG) safely and compliantly is complex and challenging, and can have a significant effect on your supply chain. Here are 10 ways to avoid compliance issues.

How to Counter a Hazy Warehouse Employment Outlook

You don’t have to give warehouse managers the latest jobs report—they can tell you the state of the economy by looking out over the aisles. Customer demand continues to climb, the supply of potential workers remains stagnant, and the war to attract talent is fierce.

GOOD QUESTION: What’s Your Controversial Take on a Supply Chain Issue?

Industry insiders share their controversial opinions on supply chain topics.

NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights

From philanthropic initiatives to major acquisitions, here’s what’s new and notable in the supply chain.

Made in America? Earning the Label

With U.S. consumers paying attention to “Made in USA” labels, here’s how companies can earn that stamp with supply chain savvy.

4 Ways to Leverage the Cloud

The past few years have highlighted the value of agile and resilient supply chains to meet customer expectations, build trust and loyalty, and grow revenues in the face of market turmoil.

Packaging Innovations 2023: Making Ecommerce & Sustainability a Package Deal

With a focus on ecommerce and sustainability demand, visibility, and improved efficiency, packaging systems are rapidly changing with the times.

10 Tips for Preparing for Supply Chain Ransomware Attacks

Cyberattacks in the manufacturing industry and supply chain have increased — here’s how leaders can reduce risk and prepare for responding to an attack today.

VERTICAL FOCUS: Sports & Recreation

The sports and leisure equipment market is projected to register a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% over the next five years.

TAKEAWAYS: Shaping the Future of the Global Supply Chain

What does the current landscape of corporate sustainability efforts look like? Here’s a glimpse at top challenges for emissions reduction initiatives and other supply chain trending topics.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

From recently introduced materials handling systems to a new intermodal service between Canada and Mexico, here are the latest supply chain offerings.

Virtual Warehousing: Definition, Uses, and Benefits

In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations continually seek innovative ways to optimize their supply chain and inventory management. This need serves customers’ expectations, enabling technologies to take over most business operations. Virtual warehouse has not been left behind in this transformation. For instance, in e-commerce businesses, a virtual warehouse is a concept that can make […]

Post Panamax Ships: Design, Evolution, and Future

Container shipping plays a pivotal role in the ever-evolving global trade landscape, with ships of various sizes and capacities serving distinct purposes in the supply chain. One class of vessels that has significantly transformed maritime transportation is the Post-Panamax ships.  These ships, surpassing the size constraints of the Panama Canal, are instrumental in cargo transportation […]

Feeder Ship: History, Design, and Sizes

In the ever-evolving world of global trade, the efficient transportation of goods is paramount. Key players in this logistics dance are feeder ships – versatile vessels designed to bridge the gap between large containerships and smaller regional ports.  As we delve into these maritime workhorses, we will uncover their history, design, purpose, and critical role […]

Operations Management vs. Production Management: Differences, Tools, and Uses

As the gears of industry turn, two types of management keep the machine well-oiled: operations management and production management.  Operations management refers to the administration of business activities that lead to the production of goods and services. In contrast, production management is a subset of operations management that focuses on the production process of goods.  […]

Gross Weight vs. Dry Weight: Definitions, Acronyms, and Factors that Affect Towing Capacity

Understanding the difference between gross and dry weight can be confusing, especially when it involves vehicle towing capacity. Did you know that these weights differ greatly and affect how much load your vehicle can legally carry?  This article clarifies the differences by defining key terms, explaining common industry acronyms, and discussing factors influencing towing capabilities.   […]

Public Warehouse: Definition, Benefits, and Features

A public warehouse, often recognized as a third-party company location, serves diverse businesses with flexible storage and distribution needs. Its vast enclosed space is rented out to small and medium-sized enterprises for storing and managing their inventory efficiently. With no need to lock capital investment into property or bear associated taxes, a public warehouse emerges […]

Delivering Last-Inch Logistics

Nailing down the final inches of a delivery can be complex. Fortunately, a variety of solutions show promise to help shippers navigate that crucial leg.

Reader Interview: Integrated Supply Network’s Theron Neese

Theron Neese is chief operating officer with Integrated Supply Network (ISN), a Lakeland, Florida-based distributor of automotive tools and equipment.

DC Diversification: Direct-to-Consumer Reigns

Despite research to the contrary, direct-to-consumer sales will continue to grow.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Wearable and Hands-Free Solutions

From a pick-by-vision system that uses smart glasses to exoskeletons that provide support during each lifting movement, these wearables and hands-free innovations boost worker safety and productivity in the warehouse.

The Benefits of Procurement Technology Platforms: A Closer Look at Return on Investment

Businesses can achieve transformational efficiencies and returns on investment with procurement technology platforms. Here’s how one company pulled off its digital transformation.

Port Development Accelerates

Across the United States and much of the world, ports are preparing for a changing future. These leading U.S. ports are upgrading their infrastructure and expanding their cargo handling capabilities.

Balancing Exception Management and Customer Satisfaction

For ecommerce fulfillment, exceptional customer service is not just about getting orders right but how you handle exceptions when things go awry. It’s critical to have systems to navigate shipment exception challenges and create customer experiences that foster loyalty.

Florida: Channeling Global Success

Long a premier logistics location, Florida has set its sights on growing its already enviable place in the global economy. The state’s logistics assets, including deep-water seaports like Port Everglades, lead the way.

Perishable Cargo: Meaning, Examples, and Regulations

Navigating the complexities of transporting perishable cargo can be daunting. Did you know that these goods encompass a vast range of products, from dairy, frozen food and other meat products to live plants and seafood? This article unravels the meaning, examples, and regulations surrounding perishable cargo transportation. What is Perishable Cargo? Perishable items refer to […]

Cold Storage Warehouse: Definition, How It Works, and Key Features

As supply chains evolve to accommodate growing consumer demand and more diverse temperature sensitive products, the importance of specialized storage solutions has become increasingly apparent.  One such solution, critical for numerous industries, is the cold storage warehouse. This article delves into the world of cold storage warehousing, cold storage building design, and cold storage warehouse […]

Enterprise Resource Planning: Definition, Benefits, and Challenges

Struggling with managing your business operations efficiently? You’re not alone – about 25% of organizations implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) to increase their efficiency. This article will guide you through the myriad facets of ERP, its benefits, vulnerabilities, applications, ERP meaning, and much more. It will also show you how to define ERP and highlight […]

Backorder: Meaning, Causes, and How to Limit Them

Understanding what backorders mean, their causes, and how to limit them is essential for businesses and logistics professionals. As supply chain disruptions become more common in today’s global economy, managing backorders effectively can make or break a company’s success.  In this article, we explore the ins and outs of back-ordered items to equip businesses with […]

10 Best Paying Trucking Companies

Are you a truck driver looking to work for one of the country’s great trucking companies? Are you searching for the best trucking companies to drive for? Below is a list of the top paying trucking companies, as ranked by TruckDriversSalary.com. GP Transco and Riverside Transport stand out not just for their competitive pay and […]

Back-to-School Report Card

With increased demand for electronics boosting consumer spending, retailers are gearing up for a packed back-to-school shopping season. So far the 2023 cycle is earning high marks:

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

MSC now calls at Port Everglades, instead of Miami, on its Santana service, which connects Southeast Asia to the United States. The service now includes the following on its rotation: Haiphong, Shanghai, Ningbo, Busan, Rodman, Caucedo, Port Everglades, Charleston, Baltimore, New York, Boston, and Singapore.

2023 Inbound Logistics Perspectives: 3PL Market Research Report

What’s trending in logistics partnerships in 2023? Our 18th annual 3PL market research report asked both providers and shippers.

How Artificial Intelligence Is Improving Supply Chain Operations

AI may better describe augmented intelligence rather than artificial intelligence. While AI systems can help alleviate labor shortages, they often perform best while working alongside people and augmenting human intelligence. 

Top 10 3PLs: Readers’ Choice Excellence Awards

We got your messages and votes. All 12,500 of them. Readers say these third-party logistics providers are tops when it comes to customer service and responsiveness.

Full Steam Ahead, Don’t Let Ocean Costs Detain You

With rising ocean and detention costs, controls and analysis are more important than ever to protect profitability.

Putting 3PLs to the Text

There’s no such thing as TMI when third-party logistics providers work diligently with shippers to help them navigate macro changes and to provide accountability, transparency, efficiency, and streamlined supply chain operations. It’s 3PLs FTW.

What’s the Word? The Language of Logistics

The Language of Logistics

9 Quick Tips to Maximize Expedited Shipping

‘Expedite’ does not have to be a bad word in your supply chain. Here’s how to make expedited shipping a strategic strength.

Canada & the United States: Mapping Out Cross-Border Connections

The strength of the trade relationship between the neighboring countries is illustrated daily in border crossings, where freight handled by experienced logistics providers moves seamlessly both ways.

VERTICAL FOCUS: Baby Supplies

Changing the Diaper Market Despite supply chain disruptions, raw material shortages, and inflation, innovation is thriving in the baby diaper market and new brands continue to be born. Although the United States is a mature market for diapers, a Euromonitor report still predicts modest growth for baby diapers over the next five years, driven by […]

Global Logistics Essentials: What to Know Before You Source, Import, or Export

Global logistics brings both challenges and opportunities for today’s shippers. Here, we break down the nitty-gritty details every importer and exporter needs to know.

IL Summer Reading Guide

Throw these books into your beach bag and catch up on the latest supply chain trends and strategies.

Project Logistics: Achieving the Impossible

Shippers and specialized transportation providers accomplish the seemingly impossible when they plan and partner to transport oversized, heavyweight, or odd-sized shipments.

A New Mission: Military Vets Enlist in Logistics

Military veterans are reporting for duty in today’s supply chain workforce. Companies are tapping into this well-trained and disciplined group of employees to help ease driver shortages and translate their hard-earned skills into fulfilling positions in transportation and logistics.

How to Attract and Retain the Best Supply Chain Workforce

As they steer through increasingly complex supply chain challenges, companies stay laser-focused on navigating the talent war and attracting the right people for the job.

U.S. Ports: Pivot and Improve

U.S. ports have weathered storms that forced slow steaming of supply chains across the globe. Through it all, the ports stand as studies of American resilience and innovation, serving as powerful lighthouses to the world.

Supply Chains Are Social Networks

Technology dominates today’s economy. But, while many of today’s new business skills require technical knowhow, it is social skills, ironically, that may be key for future human employment.

Automating Warehouse Operations: Where to Start and How to Maximize Gains

Deploying automation and robotics in the logistics industry has gained in urgency in recent years. No longer just the prerogative of global corporations, automation is also key for small to mid-size companies grappling with ecommerce acceleration and seeking efficiencies in their supply chain operations.

How Shippers Are Taking Control of Supply Chain Management

Analytics solutions offer visibility into past, present, and future spot and contract market rates, enabling strategic sourcing, planning, and cost management.

Labor Pains Persist

As rising interest rates, poor economic conditions, and a talent shortage continue, optimism among manufacturing industry leaders remains low, according to a Sikich Industry Pulse: Manufacturing and Distribution report.

Is the Supply Chain Crisis Easing?

What new and existing supply chain challenges are organizations facing today and how are supply chain leaders thinking about the future?

Aircraft Shortage: The Plane Truth

Expected aircraft engine shortages will have a substantial impact on the global supply chain’s cargo capacity and more. Fewer available aircrafts, combined with growing demand for air cargo services, could lead to a surge in freight rates, significantly affecting businesses reliant on air for time-sensitive or high-value goods.

5 Trends to Watch As We Sail Into Peak Season

As shippers approach what is historically retail peak season, understanding the evolving ocean market will be critical to maintaining a resilient supply chain for the long term. Here are five key trends to watch as the ocean market evolves.

“The Great Reset”

The State of Logistics Report, produced annually for the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals by global consulting firm Kearney and presented by Penske Logistics, delivers a snapshot of the American economy through the lens of the logistics sector and its role in overall supply chains.

The Risks of SMB Nearshoring

Small and mid-size businesses (SMBs) are embracing nearshoring to help address supplier challenges such as unreliable delivery time frames and inconsistent product quality. But switching to nearby suppliers is easier said than done.

3PLs and AI – A Historical Combination

I am not much for predictions, but here’s one you can bank on: When artificial intelligence (AI) is truly applied to logistics operations, that combination will be a defining moment like few that have come before.

GOOD QUESTION: Who Would Be Your Lifeline During a Logistics Crisis? Why?

Dwight D. Eisenhower. I make use of the Eisenhower Matrix (pictured). I would want to have heard from the man himself. Planning, preparing, and executing a moment in history like the Normandy invasion puts any logistics crisis in perspective. Do everything in your power to prepare. And at a certain point you need to have confidence in that preparation—and your people—to get on with the task at hand.

–Richard Kohn
Director, Global Logistics & Optimization
SeaCube Containers