Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.
The harsh economy is driving an increased need for top-notch supply chain management in the foodservice industry. Here, a look at how some restaurants are feeding their hunger for smart logistics strategies.
Well-defined business practices, thorough contracts, physical security, and active planning, help mitigate supply chain risk.
Top-performing supply chains focus on attracting and retaining talent — both technical ability and leadership. Here’s how to find and nurture true supply chain competency.
Casebook
By helping tire importer TBC Corporation convert its inbound transportation to free-on-board (FOB) terms and control freight costs, American Global Logistics rolled out a supply chain transformation.
Reader Profile
Jill Hesselroth, vice president, global supply chain at Nortech Systems, analyzes the company’s supply chain to identify opportunities for improvement and leads the implementation of those improvements.
Ten Tips
Optimizing packaging, streamlining transportation, and maximizing space usage are among the ways businesses can boost their supply chain sustainability, writes Alan Amling of UPS.
Above & Beyond
Distributor United Natural Foods Inc. worked with third-party logistics (3PL) provider Cardinal Logistics to consolidate from a multiple carrier network for its inbound logistics transportation to a dedicated contract carriage arrangement.
Above & Beyond
When Wells-Gardner Electronics Corporation outsourced its import and export shipping to Geodis Wilson, it reaped numerous supply chain benefits, such as reduced shipping times and improved shipment visibility, as well as avoiding duty and taxes.
Above & Beyond
Manufacturer Milo’s Tea Company outsourced its fleet to Ryder Supply Chain Solutions under a dedicated contract carriage arrangement. Benefits included reduced transportation costs, increased efficiency in managing seasonal surges, and improved fleet and driver reliability, which helped Milo’s better serve its customers.
Above & Beyond
Automotive component supplier IAC needed better control, visibility, and reporting to help weld its supply chain into a cohesive unit. ProTrans delivered innovation and customized solutions designed to control costs along IAC’s network.
Knowledge Base
In the wake of a destructive tornado, the Joplin, Missouri, community banded together to provide healthcare services and begin rebuilding, writes Rob O'Brian, president of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce.
3PL Line: Third-Party Logistics PerspectivesTom Sanderson
The Safety Measurement System: A Flawed Assessment of Motor Carrier Conduct
The Safety Measurement System (SMS) methodology is a flawed approach to assessing motor carrier safety performance, writes Tom Sanderson, CEO of Transplace, and chairman of the Alliance for Safe, Efficient, and Competitive Truck Transportation.
Checking InKeith Biondo
Delivering the Final Smile
The use of new technology and tools—such as email, cellphones, and social media—allows shippers to stay involved, from order to final-mile delivery, no matter what the shipment, to create a superior customer service experience.
IT Matters: Logistics & Supply Chain TechnologyLorcan Sheehan
Safeguarding Your Supply Chain Against Rising Fuel Prices
Shippers can protect their supply chains against rising fuel costs by optimizing distribution networks, creating a flexible infrastructure, and managing shipping practices.
Smart Moves: Supply Chain Careers & Education AdviceAnne Barry
Warning! Dangerous Lack of Support for Hazmat Professionals Ahead
Companies responsible for shipping or carrying dangerous goods need qualified hazardous materials professionals, writes Anne Barry, Council on Safe Transportation of Hazardous Articles. The Blueprint for Success initiative strives to elevate recognition of the critical function performed by these experts.
Viewpoint: Logistics & Supply Chain AnalysisJoe LaFergola
VMS Lifts Warehouse Labor Productivity
Vehicle management systems allow lift truck operators to complete pre-operation checklists electronically, saving valuable production time, writes Joe LaFergola of The Raymond Corporation.