Articles
Logistics
Facilitating a Software Switch
Q: We bought our TMS over 10 years ago and have upgrades coming up. We’re considering something cloud-based. What is it like to switch software? The last time it took one year. A: There are a lot of factors that play into this, but generally it’s a lot easier than it used to be. Even […]
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Trends—April 2016
What Will Smart Cities Mean For the Supply Chain? One decade ago, we were still getting used to the idea that our mobile phones were smarter than us. Today, thanks to an Internet of Things that links all our computerized devices, we have smart watches, smart toothbrushes, smart cars, smart factories, and countless other interconnected […]
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Avoid Pricing Pitfalls When Selecting a Logistics IT Solution
Q: One of the common gripes voiced by organizations implementing logistics IT solutions is that the solution ends up costing more than expected. Why does this seem to happen so frequently? A: The roots of this complaint can be traced back to improperly managed expectations during the sales process. Pricing between providers competing for the […]
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Global Logistics—April 2016
Air Cargo Struggles to Find its Wings Times are tough for the air cargo industry. Despite the fact that the rest of the world seems to be recovering from the global financial crisis, air freight just can’t seem to sustain any type of upward momentum. The industry has gone from a $67-billion annual profit in […]
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Supply Chain Modeling: What Does the Future Hold?
Sophisticated supply chain modeling and simulation tools help companies predict the outcome of business scenarios and foretell the future.
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Using RFPs to Optimize Partnerships
Transparency and communication are key in the RFP process to develop a true and lasting partnership with a 3PL provider.
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The ABCs of Supply Chain Compliance
Understanding the myriad global trade rules and regulations on the horizon is not child’s play, and non-compliance could spell T-R-O-U-B-L-E.
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The “Direct-to-Consumer” Trend: Retail Shift Affects Logistics Operations
Lured by the promise of bigger sales, better access to consumers, and even their ultimate survival, wholesale brands are increasingly looking to circumvent traditional retailers and reach their customers directly—with “direct-to-consumer selling” or DTC. Recently, several prominent apparel and footwear brands have announced plans to expand their own retail stores in the U.S. and globally, […]
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Hospitality Supplier Reserves Room to Grow With WMS
A custom WMS earns an extended stay by replacing time-consuming manual sortation.
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Analyzing Freight & Logistics Operations
Disruption is the new normal in freight and logistics. Customers now demand greater speed and value, and want detailed information on the status of their shipments. Shoppers are increasingly mobile and connected, and shop across multiple channels. Manufacturers and retailers are rushing to re-introduce direct-to-door deliveries. The emerging Internet of Things allows companies to capture […]
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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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Alaska: The Vast Frontier
By offering air, barge, ocean carrier, rail, and trucking services, logistics providers excel at transporting goods to, from, and within Alaska.
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Logistics Technology: 3PLs Span the Gamut
The road to business growth is paved with data. Providing both software and expertise, third-party logistics partners keep small shippers in the fast lane.
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Freight Audit and Payment: An Untapped Source of Working Capital
Q: You said recently, "The art of working capital management has declined." Why isn’t it a focus? A: The no- to low-interest-rate environment following the 2008 market crash made it easy. Debt wasn’t as big of a concern, so many companies let their attention to working capital management slip. Now that the Federal Reserve has […]
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Protect Your Cargo With Vehicle Tracking
Transit cargo is one of the most vulnerable parts of the supply chain and the level of theft sophistication is on the rise. According to TT Club, a leading international transport, freight, and logistics insurance provider, theft is a top reason for claims. The total value of TT Club claims over a five-year period starting […]
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Key Factors Shaping World Trade and Global Logistics
By all accounts, 2016 will be a year in which major agreements and more open markets will shape world trade and increase the global logistics that move commodities to manufacturers, and finished goods into the hands of consumers virtually everywhere on the globe. From the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Trans Pacific […]
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What Fictional Character Would Make a Great Logistician?
MORE TO THE STORY: Comments from LinkedIn Professor X, the leader of the X-Men, would be a great supply chain leader. He is the brains behind a successful organization. He is a strategic thinker and influencer. The professor and his team make use of technology that enables them to achieve their goals. Marcia Connors Operational […]
Read MoreSimplifying the CFR Shipping Rules
Even Einstein would have trouble understanding hazardous materials or dangerous goods (DG) regulations, agree 56 percent of respondents to a recent Labelmaster survey. And simply keeping pace with the changes in regulations is an inherent challenge, say 59 percent of respondents. With their daunting appearance, and massive word count, regulations can seem intimidating. They aren’t. […]
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