Articles
Commentary
Goodbye, Linear Supply Chain. Hello, Digital Supply Network
Ready or not, the death of the linear supply chain is upon us. Supply chains built to deliver reliable, cost-effective results are no longer fit for purpose in today’s digitally driven world. Enter the digital supply network (DSN). DSNs intertwine, even harmonize, four supply chains—physical, information, talent, and financial—that businesses have operated separately for decades. […]
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Enterprise Technology Freight Train Finally Reaches Logistics Sector
About $19 trillion worth of goods are exported globally annually. But despite the scope of global trade, logistics was, until recently, not on the tech radar. An analysis of top technology media sites since 2007 found over 2,000 mentions of a popular social media tool, while “freight” and “cargo” were referenced less than 600 times. […]
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Optimizing the Industrial Purchasing Experience
In today’s industrial marketplace, it’s becoming increasingly important for companies to differentiate themselves from the competition. A major component of creating that distinction is offering customers a seamless, easy, and quick buying experience. This is a significant challenge when the products involved are complex, costly, and often must be customized. Companies who embrace this challenge […]
Read MoreFinding a Cure for Sweating Slab Syndrome
Despite the significant strides in medical technology in the 21st century, identifying a cure for the common cold is still one of medicine’s most elusive pursuits. Similarly, the phenomenon in warehouse operations known as sweating slab syndrome (SSS) has perplexed even the most experienced industry experts when it comes to the causes and potential cures. […]
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How to Handle DOT and GHS Regulations
The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) deadlines that went into effect on June 1 and December 1, 2015, respectively, have significantly impacted U.S. chemical manufacturers and distributors. By now, all chemicals being shipped by manufacturers and distributors should meet the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) […]
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The EU’s Union Customs Code: New Opportunities for Greater Efficiency, Transparency, and Simplicity
On May 1, 2016, traders in the European Union (EU), North American companies that trade with the EU, and North American companies with operations in the EU, witnessed the beginning of the largest change to European customs procedures in the past 20 years with the introduction of the Union Customs Code (UCC). The UCC brings […]
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A Head in the Cloud?
The migration to web, cloud, and SaaS solutions continues, and it’s a good thing for shippers. Here’s why you’ll love getting ahead in the cloud.
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Drones in last-mile logistics: hype or help?
“Drones will complement the strategies of complex supply chains and cultivate a culture that focuses on innovation. Drones will eventually provide more control/consistency of last-mile logistics, which will improve industry efficiencies; however, we are years from realizing this full potential.”
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Of Course We’re Claiming NAFTA
If you do business between Canada, Mexico, and the United States, we bet you are claiming NAFTA on your imports. The question of whether you are doing it knowingly or legally may be up for grabs. Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), merchandise wholly obtained or produced in the United States, Canada, or […]
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Changing the Shape of Supply and Demand
Demand sensing and demand shaping have become important strategies when considering customer collaboration and downstream visibility to improve supply chain efficiency. Demand sensing refers to forecasting methods that use mathematical techniques and real-time information to create more accurate demand forecasts (a variety of supply chain analytics), while demand shaping is the act of influencing demand […]
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Social Media Puts Supply Chain Change at Your Fingertips
More and more companies are using social media to better understand the needs of consumers. When it comes to supply chain management, shippers can gain insight into which products are selling, how they’re being distributed, and how to improve the entire supply chain. Like any tool, social media is a way to collect more information, […]
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Three Keys to Solving the Dimensional Weight Shipping Problem
Shippers are familiar with FedEx’s and UPS’ new dimensional weight pricing policies. But many have put off doing anything to address them. Some companies have enjoyed a grace period from the parcel carriers. Others simply don’t know where to start. However, those that don’t comply with the parcel carriers’ new pricing rules are already seeing—or […]
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How to Use Pallet Collars to Improve Supply Chain Efficiency
Improving efficiency in the warehouse can help boost customer satisfaction and increase overall revenue. In many cases, the simplest change can make the biggest difference in how efficiently your operation can run. A simple review of your warehouse operation can help you identify the changes that can be made to improve the efficiency of your […]
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Retailers Get Help With New DOT “Reverse Logistics” Rules
The U.S. Department of Transportation has finalized new shipping requirements aimed at retail stores that return hazmat products to a supplier or manufacturer for a refund. Because the hazmat products found in retail stores typically pose little risk to the public in small amounts, U.S. DOT has created a streamlined, simplified version of the hazmat […]
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Perfect Security by 2025?
Our annual technology issue highlights evolving approaches that drive supply chain performance. New technology will also bring advances to security. Here’s a look at what I envision for security in 2025: Wi-Fi umbrellas cover entire areas, making any movement or off-baseline measurement (such as heat or sound) cause for alarm once the facility is locked […]
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What hobbies/activities make you better at supply chain and logistics management?
MORE TO THE STORY: Comments from LinkedIn Supply chain management is like cooking a complicated meal. You must plan well, execute with excellence, and serve perfectly and promptly. Have great tools and multitask. Be creative to create outstanding results. Hannah Kain President & CEO, ALOM Staying active and participating in team sports definitely translates to […]
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The Trials and Errors of Preventability Determinations
After a motor vehicle accident, it is common for motor carriers to determine whether their driver could have prevented the accident. This positive, safety-oriented process is known as a preventability determination. Carriers make this assessment for several reasons: to evaluate and possibly change company policies and procedures to prevent similar accidents, to determine whether it […]
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How STEM is Revolutionizing the Future of Logistics
All across higher education, we have seen an increase in the number of students who decide to pursue a degree in logistics. With the logistics sector adopting new technology, more businesses and organizations are looking to hire graduates with a logistics background and the ability to plan, execute, and strategically maximize efficiencies within their role. […]
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Europe Raises the Compliance Bar. Is Your Supply Chain Prepared?
Sweeping regulatory changes in the European Union (EU)are raising complex questions for businesses and introducing new tensions along the world’s supply chains. Manufacturers and importers will soon be tasked with reporting the origin of some metals and materials used in their products. They also will be responsible for disclosing aspects of their suppliers’ human rights […]
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Shippers Should See Positives from the Trade Promotion Act
When the U.S. Congress passed the Trade Promotion Act (TPA) in June 2015, debate over its benefits and how its passage would affect the U.S. economy lingered. U.S. Congress felt that the goal of TPA and its historical record were solid proof of the benefits this legislation would provide. Although TPA is not a trade […]
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