Articles
Ten Tips
Choosing a Mobile Communications Solution
Communicating with field workers should not be a chore, but without the right equipment, it can be. Jonathan Turner, chief information officer for logistics provider 3PD Inc., Marietta, Ga., offers these tips for selecting a new mobile communications system. 1. Look for hidden costs.Prices for mobile communications solutions can range from several hundred to several […]
Read MoreOptimizing Your Logistics Conference Attendance
If you are spending time and money to attend a logistics conference, you should get the most out of it. Plenty of people and exhibitors will be vying for your attention and you need a plan of attack. The idea is not just to view, but to engage. Kathleen Hedland, director of education and research […]
Read MoreReducing Damaged Deliveries
It doesn’t matter if you get your customers’ shipments delivered on time if they arrive at the dock unusable. Selecting a carrier that trains its employees to prevent damages is the first step, but shippers should also take a proactive approach to preparing freight for safe, secure delivery to the end user. Paul Lorensen, central […]
Read MoreInitiating an Effective Inbound Program
Controlling inbound shipments maximizes efficiency and saves money, but creating an inbound program can be a daunting task. Gene Nusekabel, transportation and logistics industry marketing manager for Sterling Commerce, Dublin, Ohio, offers tips for getting your program on the right track. 1. Create a project team.Call on the expertise of your procurement and logistics representatives, […]
Read MoreUnderstanding 10+2 Requirements
The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency’s Importer Security Filing (ISF) regulation has become commonly known as the 10+2 initiative because it requires importers and vessel-operating carriers to provide trade data (10 elements and two elements each, respectively) for non-bulk cargo shipments arriving into the United States via ocean. Melissa Irmen, vice president, products and […]
Read MoreSelecting the Lift Truck That Meets Your Need
When it comes to selecting the right lift truck, doing your homework and following a few simple rules can deliver higher productivity and lower operating costs. Martin Boyd, national product planning and marketing manager of Toyota Material Handling U.S.A., offers these tips for deciding which lift truck you need. 1. Factor in total lifecycle costs. […]
Read MoreImproving Sustainability in Your Supply Chain
Sustainability and efficiency are clearly linked in the global supply chain. Companies that want to improve sustainability must become hyper-efficient to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Mike Kelly, chief sustainability officer at YRC Worldwide, offers advice on improving sustainability within your supply chain. 1. Become a sustainability champion. Look at the current economic conditions not […]
Read MoreChoosing Voice-Directed Technology
Voice-based warehousing can result in high productivity and accuracy rates, safe working conditions, and a boost in worker morale. It can also have a positive impact on your organization’s bottom line. Paul Lightfoot, CEO and president of Rockaway, N.J.-based solutions provider AL Systems Inc., offers advice for selecting a voice-directed technology vendor. 1. Analyze your […]
Read MoreSelecting Pallets: Wood vs. Plastic
Wood remains the most common pallet material used in the United States. But for about five percent of shippers, plastic is a better choice for moving goods. How does a shipper choose? Should you change to a new pallet material? Steven Mazza, president of S&B Pallet Co., Plainfield, N.J., and member of the board of […]
Read MoreKeeping Expedited Costs Down
While expedited shipping can be expensive, it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little thought and planning, shippers can control the factors driving expedited shipping costs by following these tips from Dave Quinn, president of Belleville, Mich.-based Active On-Demand. 1. Choose the right mode. Utilizing the wrong mode costs shippers the most when […]
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