Articles
3PL Line: Third-Party Logistics Perspectives
The Power of Single-Source Partnerships
To maintain a competitive edge, every aspect of a supplier’s operation must operate seamlessly. Opting for multiple logistics vendors may initially seem like a way to increase flexibility, but this approach often leads to fragmented communication, inconsistent service levels, and added complexities.
Read MoreThe Power of Regionalizing Inventory
Regionalizing inventory and spreading stock across multiple locations near consumers can help mitigate rising shipping costs, expedite delivery, and drive a better consumer experience.
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Increasing Efficiency with Third-Party Transportation
Working with 3PLs can bring challenges, including coordination issues and the need for precise planning and execution. Technology solutions can overcome these obstacles by enhancing coordination between stakeholders.
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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.
Read MoreHow 3PLs Build Resilient Supply Chains
As we come up for air after three years of unrelenting challenges caused by the pandemic, supply chains must prepare now for the next disruption by focusing on resiliency and adaptability.
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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.
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Thinking Inside the Box Truck
While most people are at least somewhat familiar with box trucks, these little workhorses don’t get enough credit. Also known as straight trucks or bobtails, they are usually 26 feet long and can carry up to 10,000 pounds of freight. They can also come in small (12 ft.) and medium size (14-18 ft.) configurations.
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Three Considerations for Choosing a Cross-Border 3PL
Whether to solve existing supply chain issues or to make good supply chains even better, many companies are now cultivating shorter supply chains that boast greater agility during disruptive circumstances. As a result, North American warehouses and distribution centers are increasingly shifting to Mexican and Canadian-based suppliers, rather than overseas counterparts, to simplify supply chains and improve fulfillment processes. While this is a step in the right direction, companies are finding that shorter and simpler doesn’t mean easier.
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Debunking 7 Misconceptions about Logistics Performance Metrics
Key performance indicators (KPIs) are an essential part of sound supply chain management — at least that’s what 83% of your peers think.
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5 Ways to Improve and Optimize Driver Retention
COVID tightened up the supply chain with shortages of medical supplies, computer chips, consumer products, and household goods. Not only has demand increased relative to supply, but employee and customer satisfaction continue to be on the decline.
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A Supply Chain for the Next Normal
The fluctuating economy over the past year impacted how companies across industries responded in a pinch. Now that crisis responses have passed and the pandemic settled into a new normal, many companies are looking for ways to adapt their long-term supply chain strategy for the unexpected.
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FTL vs. LTL: What’s the Difference?
Understanding these seven key differences between shipping full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) allows shippers to achieve the best possible results and support planning.
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3 M’s to Cut Supply Chain Costs
As the global supply chain settles into the COVID-19 technology-driven and customer-centric decade, there’s no time to pause and reflect on what has happened. Now is a time for action. Pick up the pace and ensure your processes are leaner and faster, and you are equipped to meet your customers’ expectations.
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Addressing Shippers’ Top Concerns
Due to the current uncertainty of the global economy, shippers are experiencing new, unique challenges. As they navigate these challenges, understanding the shifts in consumer behavior and how they impact their supply chain is critical.
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What to Look For in a 3PL
The field of third-party logistics (3PL) service providers has grown fiercely competitive, and the services and capabilities a 3PL can offer become difficult to differentiate.
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Choosing a 3PL: How to Make a Mature Decision
Relationships between shippers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers commonly focus more on tactical and operational elements rather than strategic elements. When sourcing to 3PLs, the shipper’s RFP often focuses on lane costs rather than strategic elements such as systems integration, real-time visibility, and total-cost performance. The transactional lane-focused relationship is appropriate for companies looking for […]
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Leveraging Real Time Information to Better Manage Logistics
When it comes to shipping freight around the world, costs and on-time delivery top the list of concerns for everyone from shipping managers to CEOs. Having strong, accessible data is essential.
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Using Technology to Cut Freight Costs
The bad news: Tight capacity and higher freight rates are the new normal. The good news: There are ways to handle the impacts far better than your competition. Aside from securing reduced freight rates from your carriers, here’s how you can cut freight expense while improving service: Coordinate business intelligence Improve load planning Provide carriers […]
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Simplifying Supply Chain Complexities
Manufacturing has never been more global, productive, profitable, or vulnerable. Despite tremendous advances in breaking down global barriers and adding efficiency to the supply chain, there are still challenges to move products quickly, safely, and seamlessly. To appreciate the complexity of today’s global supply chain, consider Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner passenger jet. Each jet is comprised […]
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Trouble Finding Capacity? How a 3PL Can Help
Partnering with a 3PL could be the best solution to improved visibility and lower costs over the long haul.
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