Customer Service, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices.
3PL, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Work with a team of service providers to get a new retail distribution center up and running in only six months? We should all be so lucky.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
When Sleepy's customers got tired of short notice and missed deliveries, the specialty mattress retailer brought in a technology partner and dreamed up a solution that put those problems to bed.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Supply chain ‘modeling’ replicates real-world events; Retailers and manufacturers make the jump to RFID; U.S. trucking industry sees better utilization and financial results; Data analytics is a big growth market.
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management
To expand its footprint in the luxury accessories market, Royce Leather indulged in a solution that connects it to new customers and streamlines fulfillment. That’s how Royce rolls.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Christopher McGovern, vice president, supply chain management at Aero Precision, knows the importance of communication and data collection.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Shippers, carriers, 3PLs and brokers who are not fully utilizing their transportation management systems to secure capacity and manage global trade may be leaving money on the table.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
Distribution, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
ProFlowers' time- and temperature-sensitive shipments create plenty of challenges for John Kuehn, senior vice president of supply chain operations. Here's how he nips problems in the bud.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The supply chain is creating more jobs than it can fill. Here's why companies should use technology to change people's perceptions of the field.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The e-commerce race is only heating up. Here's what small to mid-size retailers should do to stay in the game.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With no standard terminology in an already-complex industry, it’s not surprising that so many TMS buyers have trouble figuring out the differences between solutions and which one best fits their needs. Here's how to cut through the confusion.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.
With heavy competition from Amazon in both retail and supply chain logistics, retailers that don’t begin making changes and investments in omni-channel in 2017 will see serious repercussions by 2020. For starters, they must invest in distributed order management and enterprise wide inventory visibility.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Supply chain applications stumble when the product data they’re using is inaccurate. Here's how to make sure data is consistent and comes from well-crafted and executed processes.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in and pick the disruptive innovation that will rock supply chains.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Visibility
Ensuring labeling accuracy and consistency is critical to supporting efficiency up and down the supply chain. Here's one approach that can ensure your labels boost supply chain activities.
E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Enhancing supply chains with real-time visibility gives shippers the insight and details needed to operate quickly, accurately, and more effectively than ever before.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology , Transportation
One of the common gripes voiced by organizations implementing logistics IT solutions is that the solution ends up costing more than expected. Use this advice when looking at prospective providers.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
For logistics professionals, data is meaningless without context. Dashboards help provide context and enhance decision-making capabilities.
Buildings and Structures, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Forward-thinking shipping and logistics facility management (FM) professionals turn to next-generation FM software to efficiently manage their facilities.
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When Azteca Foods outgrew its manual pallet tracking system in its production facility, Barcoding Inc. delivered a solution.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
3PLs tout IoT as top disruptive innovation in the supply chain; Hyundai and Accenture team up to design smarter ship; TMS use has tripled over the past decade; new sustainability web platform helps shippers assess key trends and best practices.
E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
E-commerce and omni-channel retailing have a major impact on supply chain and logistics needs, and customers have to make sure their supply chain is equipped to offer maximum flexibility.
E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
As e-commerce continues to transform consumer behavior, retailers explore hybrid omni-channel supply chain models that deliver the best that online and in-store have to offer.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
When downtime impacts a company’s line, outsourcing technology infrastructure to a third party might help.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Terri Anderson, production warehouse management systems analyst at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, configures, enhances, and tests the company's WMS by the book.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management
An Enterprise Logistics partnership helps improve companies by delivering customized applications to improve market advantage.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Using the data the TMS is already providing can help shippers improve their transport operations.
Big Data, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Internet of Things is bringing major changes to the way companies plan and execute supply chain activities as sensors, communications systems, and analytics solutions all become cheaper, faster, and more capable.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
As technology brings supply chain data into focus, the ability to access and interpret business information moves from nice-to-have to must-have.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
When BaubleBar saw the untapped potential of the international market, they tapped an parcel shipping partner to help them succeed.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
A new study determines the top 15 undergraduate and graduate supply chain management programs in the United States, based on the teaching of technology, software, and quantitative tools used by supply chain professionals, as well as the variety and depth of this coursework.
Customer Service, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
To help save money, shippers should build a strong relationship with their LTL carrier.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Recent improvements in wireless cellular technology and mesh networks provide solutions that can be adapted for warehousing space, easing startup challenges and costs.
E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Offering apps with products helps manufacturers improve customer satisfaction and lower complaints and returns.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
The key to any successful relationship is communication. Your logistics network is no different.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
New lower-cost commercial systems and equipment are just over the horizon; they will provide an exciting array of inventory control to the logistics and supply chain community.
Intermodal, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
To drive efficiency, intermodal stakeholders need to fit their processes together.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Fleet management platforms represent the evolution of location information.
Big Data, Lean, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The confluence of faster data access, better analytical tools, and data-driven business decisions, make it more likely that future supply chain optimization will be continuous.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
This story looks at the role technology plays in the value that various third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer to their shipper customers.
Cloud Computing, Demand Planning, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Inbound Logistics’ annual Logistics Technology Perspectives offers market research to help IT buyers and users make better sense of what’s going on in the industry. And, the Top 100 Logistics Technology Providers list celebrates best-in-class innovators that are helping shippers revolutionize their supply chains.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Many transportation and logistics professionals hear outsourcing and think offshoring, but there is a big difference.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Providing technology solutions helps third-party logistics providers stand out from competitors and adds value to their services.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
A yard management system allows greater visibility with key yard information at a glance, and reporting metrics to improve the operation and save money.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
To increase fulfillment efficiency and order picking accuracy, eBay Enterprise gives its warehouse a voice.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Jim Young, senior supply chain manager at Applied Microstructures, Inc., is responsible for everything from sourcing materials and services to shipping finished products
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
U.S. beef supply chain participants form partnership to improve sustainability; Manufacturers and retailers fail to adopt best-in-class processes and technology to address global complexities; Online retailers need to rethink how they align their distribution networks; Spot market rates dip seasonally as West Coast volumes catch up; Staples and Syracuse University partner to drive new research and innovation.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
New software helps warehouse operators keep up with the real-time demands of omni-channel fulfillment.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Product Lifecycle Management software produces metrics that can help business make sure they are using ethical vendors.
Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
All the technology in the world won’t help an organization improve if they don’t have what it takes in the leadership department.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Vendor Managed Inventory is shaking off its old-school image and regaining popularity thanks to improved technology, robust communication, tighter demand signal linkage, and a new openness to collaboration that has turbo-charged enterprise benefits.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Tired of relying on e-mail blasts to place freight, L.B. Foster ups its game with a third-party solution that has transformed the enterprise.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
With the holiday season in full swing, logistics managers must be able to rely on their vendors to perform.
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Last Mile Delivery, Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
Investments in technology might just be the way to save Christmas.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Internet of Things is the wave of the future – but for the logistics segment, the future is closer than you think.
Customer Service, Distribution, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Executives at two leading companies weigh in on supply chain’s value to their organizations.
3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
When a merger required Nature’s Way to consolidate distribution facilities, it called on the services of system supplier The Numina Group for a new design and technologies. Today, the facility successfully distributes products to customers in 50 states, and overseas through five supply chain channels.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
An optimized supply chain allows companies to reduce costs, lower risk, increase transparency, and support new products.
Military Logistics, Chemical Logistics, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Ports, Safety, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
OSHA issues updates to its Hazard Communication Standard; HP’s Dave Thomas addresses the importance of data quality; Ohio Trucking Association debuts military exhibition class at truck driving competition; Companies fail to use procurement in a strategic way; Shippers planning ahead for labor disruptions.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Managing transportation strategies requires a team effort — and sometimes a ‘dedicated’ transportation partner.
Freight Payment Services, Finance, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management, Transportation
Freight audit and payment services analyze shipment data to reveal inefficiencies and identify savings opportunities.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Intertape Polymer Group outsourced transportation to gain control of its diverse product line and protect profit margins.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.
Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Hospitals can cut costs by improving supply chain operations, inventory control, and transportation management.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
State of Logistics Report predicts moderate growth for freight industry in 2014; freight brokerage M&A shakes up industry; FMCSA extends comment period for ELD rulemaking; Online consumers willing to pay more for sustainable delivery options; Shippers register growing discontent with parcel carriers and trucking companies; University of Kansas MSB program prepares active-duty military for private sector roles
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart, focuses on building transportation synergies.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.
Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
When a natural disaster hits, consumers rely on home improvement stores for the products they need to repair or rebuild.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
With an integrated transportation management software (TMS) platform, service providers can gain complete visibility over their diverse and complex operations.
Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Demand-driven supply chains strive for synchronicity between functions and among partners to ensure optimal performance.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Ocean, Supply Chain Management
NRF’s Big Show unveils trends in the retail industry; Local couriers provide a solution to capacity constraints and empower same-day delivery; Ocean carrier industry beset by imbalances; Global RFID market primed for robust growth; Shippers plan for supply chain exceptions
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation
By strategically leveraging supply chain data, companies can win in their industry and increase enterprise value.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Using a TMS for carrier selection allows shippers to load standard business rules to achieve predicted outcomes.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Companies interested in automating their transportation management processes should examine their current capabilities.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Shipment monitoring tools allow manufacturers and shippers to locate cargo, manage inventory and prevent theft.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Global trade management (GTM) solutions help coordinate trade compliance, and allow trading partners to share data.
Cloud Computing, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Faced with long lead times and potential production delays, Badcock Furniture and More invested in a cloud-based tool.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.
Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
An enterprise logistics provider delivers holistic solutions that transform your business.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Fluctuating fuel prices, Hours of Service rules, and other factors make optimized routing and scheduling vital.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
Demand Planning, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking
SKU proliferation tops demand forecasting trends; U.S. government creates National Maritime Domain Awareness Plan; Trucking industry documents HOS impacts; 10 manufacturing and supply chain trends to keep an eye on in 2014; 5 tips for mapping the supply chain; Spot market demand stays high into 2014; Logistics sector adopts big data
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
China, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Kimberly-Clark China uses retail analytics tools to manage inventory and avoid stockouts at stores like Walmart.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Incorporating business intelligence tools into logistics strategy gives companies access to efficiency-boosting data.
Automotive Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.
As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.
A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Latin America
Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
In a true collaborative relationship between purchasing and logistics, order and routing pattern planning comprises a single, optimized decision process that yields measurable results, writes Bill Michalski of ArrowStream.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain visibility helps flag upcoming supply or demand problems, allowing a company either to take action to prevent disasters or to respond by activating backup plans, writes George W. Prest of Material Handling Industry of America.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Supply chain managers must determine the best technology for their supply chain based on their specific organizational needs, says Krishna Rallabhandi of Four Soft.
Retail, Supply Chain Management
As retailers look to grow their business, the challenge of keeping up with the market becomes exponentially greater—especially as new channels emerge, writes Editor Felecia Stratton. Supply chain management can help create balance between supply and demand.
Retailers who succeed at integrating their inventory intelligence can cut costs, accelerate turns, and build revenue by driving high-fidelity information back into the supply chain, aligning it with shopper demand, write Tyco Retail Solutions’ Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill.
Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
A new inbound/outbound logistics operations solution helps pizza chain Papa John's handle rapid expansion.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
In the midst of organizational change, furniture retailer Design Within Reach upgrades its demand forecasting and replenishment system to better control inventory.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management
Measuring against industry benchmark data allows you to identify areas for improving transportation spend.
Retail, Transportation Management
For pet supply retailer PETCO, honoring its commitment to superior customer service meant finding a loyal logistics partner.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
New technology solutions help improve inventory visibility, increase routing agility, manage labor more effectively, and capture valuable information from the field.
Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Natural pet food manufacturer WellPet partnered with Aspen Logistics and Kane is Able to improve its supply chain and warehousing operations.
Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
David Bennett of Schneider Logistics addresses how shippers, ocean carriers, and trucking companies are struggling with responsibility for providing chassis for cargo container units at ports; Boeing appoints new VP to handle 787 Dreamliner delays; companies restructure outsourced technology contracts.
3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Andrea Robinson of CargoWise provides tips on handling global supply chain management challenges.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
Polymer and fibers manufacturer INVISTA turned to a new inventory planning tool to meet recessionary challenges.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Faced with challenges such as a capacity shortage and lack of qualified drivers, companies that ship product by truck are learning that working collaboratively with carriers can benefit both parties.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
To improve supply chain performance at Medco Health Solutions, Gemma Fillmore focuses on getting C-level executives to give logistics issues the attention they deserve.
3PL, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Retailers publish routing guides to establish rules for manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors to follow when fulfilling and shipping orders. Here are the benefits of establishing a routing guide.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Labor management tools can help you determine if your workforce is performing at the level necessary to deliver cost-effective service to customers.
Global Economy, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Global supply chain visibility and detail can only be achieved by modern electronic data transmissions that are already available and can reduce the costs of international cargo movement.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management
Transportation forecasts enable planners to shift from reacting to orders to proactively managing capacity. By synchronizing transport forecasts with manufacturing and distribution plans, your entire company can respond to the same demand signals.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Global Logistics, Freight Forwarders, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
A professional freight forwarder that represents the interests of all supply chain participants can serve as the missing link in supply chain communication.
Food Logistics, Demand Planning, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in on the Popeyes chicken sandwich shortage: Was it a supply chain miss or a marketing ploy?
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Five top tips to achieving supply chain career success
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Supply Chain
What is the outlook for the U.S. furniture market moving forward? Here's what to expect.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
In the downtime between storms, companies can take crucial steps to help prevent supply chain disruption.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) can be integrated into almost any industrial business. The key to implementing this concept is to identify areas where sustainable practices can be applied to an existing supply chain.
Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
For those involved in the management of freight movement, selecting the best Transportation Management System or TMS is a crucial decision. Here are 10 tips on evaluating a TMS for your firm.
Take a look at some of the latest developments in the apparel industry.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As any successful business owner will tell you, SCM is an extremely crucial part of operations. It establishes strong communication and relationships with suppliers, helping to avoid shipment delays and minimize logistical errors.
Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Deploying a transportation management system (TMS) can be time-consuming. Here's how to save time and money.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
In the sneaker supply chain, manufacturers and retailers need to know where the product is in every stage of design, production, and shipping.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Warehousing
A leading CPG company uses Hub Group’s consolidation expertise to eliminate cost and improve service.
Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
A Walmart Neighborhood Market in Levittown, New York, featuring artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, interactive displays, and a massive data center is the retailer's new Intelligent Retail Lab (IRL).
Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
To navigate an increasingly challenging supply chain landscape, shippers must have an optimal mix of managed services, strategic consulting and technology, such as real-time visibility solutions, machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Shippers and intermediaries of all sizes can benefit greatly from the increased functionality and simplified processes offered by a TMS.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Some leading vendors in the TMS market.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
A harmonious marriage of brick-and-mortar services and online offerings is the path to fulfillment in the bridal wear supply chain.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Today, many 3PLs provide the technology solutions and expertise shippers need to manage increasingly complicated customer relationships.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to overcome the challenge of data management—integrating multiple data sources in a transportation management system (TMS)
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
A leading retailer engaged Hub Group to develop an optimized solution that maximized the limited capacity in markets throughout its supply chain.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
The latest news and trends impacting the retail supply chain
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Top trends impacting the travel and hospitality supply chain
Big Data, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Integrated WMS and TMS solutions increase visibility and communication and optimize the movement of goods.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
In the first airport project of its kind in the Amazon Air network, the etailer has announced plans to open a regional air hub at the Fort Worth Alliance Airport in Texas.
Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Grocers are working to satisfy consumers’ growing demand for rapid delivery of everything from apples to watermelon. To accomplish this, they’re educating personal shoppers, developing new technologies to handle the last mile of delivery, rethinking their distribution networks and inventory planning, and partnering with technology companies.
Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail
This story explores some of the ways retailers use customer service to build customer loyalty, both in stores and in the e-commerce channel.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Two trends have been nudging US inflation higher: a growing economy and a tight labor market. Add in tariffs, high transportation costs, and rising prices for many commodities, and the United States is poised for a long-term period of double-digit inflation.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Consumer data is rolling in from Black Friday. Convey published data insights that show how deliveries are performing across various categories compared to year-over-year data from 2017.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Here’s how a transportation management system will completely transform the efficiency of your supply chain.
Demand Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain
It is exactly the wrong time to abandon a demand-driven approach to the supply chain.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
To ensure brands are managing the most efficient, optimized supply chain, they need to assess their supply chain partner’s commitment across the following key areas.
Global Economy, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Supply chains face a conundrum when it comes to speed: no matter how automated your processes are internally, you’re only as fast as the next guy in the chain. Here’s what it takes to be e-commerce fast.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail
By following these steps, e-tailers can lower return rates, increasing profits and creating happier customers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
At its core, a TMS is charged with moving an order through your system and settling it in the most efficient and cost-effective way. Regardless of your specific needs, today’s challenges require a new approach for evaluating which TMS is best for your organization.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To maximize productivity, efficiency, and profit, Chief Supply Chain Officers should strive for visibility into the supply chain and confidence that it could handle any type of disruption.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon and other large retailers set customer expectations by offering expedited delivery at low or no cost. Retailers of all sizes must compete on the same turf, yet lack the negotiating power that could net meaningful discounts with commercial carriers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Retailers around the world are slacking in the returns department.
Logistics I.T., Technology , Visibility
Shipment-level visibility is just step one. Decisions, at any stage of the product life cycle, can have a direct impact on the cost and on the time it takes for goods to be sold and delivered.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.
Global Logistics, Sourcing/Negotiations, Retail
Executives from leading fashion and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers reveal the supply chain challenges topping their list.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Retailers turn to artificial intelligence to boost customer service.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
For some retailers, holiday sales can represent up to 27.4 percent of annual sales. Having a clear understanding of your historical trends for seasonal goods is critical for forecasting seasonal categories this upcoming season.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
IBM builds proof-of-concept blockchain supply chain network in Singapore; U.S. fashion industry association releases fourth fashion industry benchmarking study; E-commerce retailers target Germany
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What if your shipment of apparel from overseas gets soaked with saltwater on its way to the distribution center? This supply chain solution can return merchandise to first-quality condition.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
In order to drive sustainable, impactful change within your organization, it’s important to have the tools and expertise to turn data into actionable business intelligence.
Careers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
Profile of Doug Braun, CEO of BluJay Solutions
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Here’s how trends in U.S./Mexico cross-border operations are shaping today’s supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Store closings have grabbed headlines, but they're not telling the whole story. Find out what a new report says about the state of retail.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security, Technology
The logistics sector’s reliance on relationships, email, and spreadsheet attachments makes it particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks. And the costs are staggering. Find out what shippers can do to make communications more secure.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Whether your company is a manufacturer, retailer, distributor, or in e-commerce, the future is happening now, automagically. IL publisher Keith Biondo explores IoT and the Internet of Everything.
Careers, Education & Careers, Industry Associations, Education, Supply Chain Management
New technologies, consumer demands, and the rise of the mobile workforce are shifting the business landscape quickly, and specialized workers in supply chain and logistics are more valuable than ever. Use these tips to plan and attract the industry’s future leaders.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain
Whole Foods’ 460+ centrally located stores will augment Amazon’s physical infrastructure and allow it to use the stores as distribution centers. In return, Amazon’s targeted transaction data, technological expertise, and logistical prowess catapult Whole Foods into the online realm and suggest a new level of convenience.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
A home goods retailer partnered with Unyson to increase efficiency and enhance visibility.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
ProTrans created a tracking map or heat map where all in transit loads belonging to the customer can be viewed on the tracking map.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Furniture retailer upgrades its warehouse management system to furnish growth.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management
Lengthy, months-long selection processes are a thing of the past. For roughly two-thirds of shippers, the focus is on improved efficiencies, execution, and visibility. For these companies, a modern TMS can be live and saving money within weeks or even days.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Surveying 237 suppliers around the globe, the report uncovers insight on the most urgent trends, opportunities, and challenges facing suppliers today.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management is often viewed as solely a statistical endeavor, but soft skills are often required in maintaining buyer and supplier relationships, according to new research from Penn State.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Once you understand where the complexities lie in your supply chain, you can get to the source of your problem and streamline issues to help your organization.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Network optimization studies help simplify supply chain operations and provide continual year-over-year savings.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Yard management systems (YMS) can boost driver efficiency, cut detention costs, and bring visibility to this link in the supply chain.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
This story looks at several ways in which companies are applying Internet of Things (IoT) technology to supply chain management.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Inbound Logistics surveys the market to determine the latest logistics technology trends and chooses 100 IT providers that are leading the way.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton marks a 35-year career anniversary with a look back at how technology changed supply management forever.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers pick the song/movie/TV show title that best describes their job.
Demand Planning, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Customers expect immediate access to goods and services, and convenient delivery options. In short, it’s an on-demand economy. Companies must adapt and start optimizing their supply chains to stay competitive. Here’s how.
Labor Management, Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Truck drivers are the lifeblood of the supply chain. Here's how to protect this invaluable asset and address the driver shortage.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Utilizing technology is key to the future of business and IoT has increased the connectivity of all areas of business.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Finding the right candidate for your business is a challenge that requires broad advertising, rigorous interviews, and ultimately some give and take. Here are five hacks for outstanding recruiting in supply chain management.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Cath Kidston partnered with SEKO to expand the company’s inbound business from Asia to the UK and its distribution centers in Hong Kong and Shanghai supplying its international franchises.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
3PL warehouses are not only in demand, but in a position of strength. This provides 3PL operators a unique opportunity to build lasting relationships with key customers, suppliers, and retailers of their choice.
Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Predictive analytics utilizes various statistical techniques and models that analyze current and historical facts to make predictions about future.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce impacts not only consumer supply chains, but business to business supply chains as well.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
In the life science and pharmaceutical area, an inefficient supply chain can cause serious problems. Here are the benefits in adopting innovative approaches to the pharmaceuticals supply chain.
E-commerce, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
Find the right solutions, carriers and partners to drive efficiency in your supply chain operations and enable your enterprise to navigate the twists and turns, ups and downs of the coming year.
Cloud Computing, Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
From basic improvements like streamlining operations and increasing process efficiency to fully automating delivery trucks, technology is enabling much smarter, simpler supply chain management. Read about the three technologies making the most impact.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Trump Administration makes infrastructure a priority; top locations and methods for cargo theft, 2017 State of the North American Supply Chain survey.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The subscription box industry launched by beauty products curator Birchbox in 2010 has expanded to include services for a remarkably wide range of consumer interests. A behind-the-scenes peek at this new e-commerce model reveals a highly complicated business that relies heavily on logistics pros managing everything from inventory to kitting to delivery and returns.
Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Lean, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
A North Carolina hospital improves patient care by prescribing a lean and healthy supply chain.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
By paying attention to these six metrics, over‐the‐road shippers can make informed decisions to get their desired mix of cost, coverage, and performance from their carriers.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Consolidated procurement offers cost benefits as well as improved efficiency throughout the supply chain. Find out how you can implement this approach and realize its advantages.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Omni-channel retail supply chains are forging new paths to profitability. Here's what they look like.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As the economic rollercoaster trends up quickly, best logistics practices will give your enterprise vitality to scale up quickly without disrupting.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Risk Management, Supply Chain
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Business to consumer demand is set to outpace supply in the marketplace. Those who can solve that problem will be the big winners in the next phase of supply chain management.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
To overcome the challenges that e-commerce presents to the supply chain, shippers need to succeed at omni-channel fulfillment. From leveraging brick-and-mortar stores to deploying an order management system, here’s how they can compete in an e-commerce world.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
As physical shopping bags are being replaced by virtual ones, it’s important for retailers to update their policies and logistics strategies to align with consumer behavior and expectations.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The flexible supply chain of the future is full of opportunities and challenges. With the right team and talent on your side, you’ll be well positioned for success. Here’s how to get the right people.
3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As product demand continues to rise, companies in all industries are partnering with third-party logistics (3PL) providers to ensure their products are delivered to customers on time and cost effectively.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
This story looks at some of the major challenges and practices found in construction logistics, illustrated with stories from experts who work in this field.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Cruise ship provisions must support a small town at sea for a week or more. Supplies are loaded on a docked vessel in four hours or less; there’s no second chance for deliveries that arrive after the ship has sailed.
Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Franchisees sometimes don’t appreciate how important an efficiently functioning supply chain is until it isn’t there.
Big Data, Education & Careers, Inventory Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Winter provides a great advantage–time. The hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and colder weather prevails. There’s no better time to hit the books and amp up your knowledge of important logistics and supply chain management issues.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Kowalski Sausage implements a new in-house routing and dispatching system to improve how the piggies get to market.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Even when the economy isn’t booming, the supply chain offers numerous opportunities for shippers to increase efficiency, save money and enhance revenues. This story looks at some of the bright spots in transportation, technology, global trade and outsourcing.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
The overall complexity of running the supply chain will drop as the product portfolio becomes more streamlined. Here's how to do just that.
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
More accurate forecasts enable better planning, lower inventory and manufacturing costs, and improved service levels.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
A look at the metrics that shippers and their service providers use to evaluate the quality of customer service.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing, Visibility
In time for the holiday season and other peak periods, retailers are stepping up their game in delivery, fulfillment, and warehousing technology to improve the effectiveness of existing resources.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
From item-level inventory data and GPS to condition monitoring and signals from social media, new data sources are augmenting available supply chain data. Find out how to extract value from this influx of information.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Damaged holiday packages negatively impact brands; Robot cargo pilots successfully tested; Not having procurement department negatively affects bottom line
Air Cargo, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Latin America
These developments are helping the transportation industry to continually evolve.
E-commerce, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The emergence of e-commerce as part of a company’s omni-channel marketing program requires not only an agile, lean supply chain but also a strategy to get there.
Economic Development, Asia, Global Logistics, Retail
Retailers need to come together in support of the trade agreement that will ultimately improve the industry for all. Here are three reasons why they should stand behind the passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Trucking, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Profile of Marc Althen, president, Penske Logistics
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation
Rise of e-commerce changing logistics real estate landscape; Companies who don’t sell globally may be sacrificing profits; Many smaller fleets non-compliant with upcoming ELD mandate
Asia, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
South Korean ocean liner Hanjin Shipping files for bankruptcy protection in a dozen countries; Few respondents to a GT Nexus survey say they have a chief supply chain officer on hand who would be equipped to deal with supply chain disruptions; Maersk splits its transportation and oil businesses
Careers, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As professionals who understand the entire process of manufacturing, shipping, and marketing products, and who recognize that suppliers can be closely aligned with the company’s goals and objectives, chief procurement officers help define a company’s competitive advantage.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain
Deploying a cloud-based shipment execution system can promote a healthier ecosystem within the company, reduce costs, and pay big dividends via customer satisfaction.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail
To cost-effectively leverage an omni-channel strategy, it is vital to proactively plan for returns and align your operations accordingly.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
As a first-time TMS buyer, educate yourself on what a modern TMS can do – and come to the table with high expectations.
Global Trade Management, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Technology , Transportation, Visibility
Effectively mitigate demurrage and detention fees by taking an integrated approach to logistics, contract management, and supply chain visibility using a global trade management system.
Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Product proliferation can bring supply chain inefficiencies. Here's a comprehensive approach to refreshing your product offerings that can reduce complexity and increase the bottom line.
Global Economy, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
India-based textile manufacturer accused of providing fraudulent products; Iran seeks to strengthen trade relationships in Latin America; British manufacturers get small boost in wake of Brexit referendum
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
When considering, procuring, and implementing new logistics/supply chain technology, here are three steps to take to ensure a smooth rollout.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Instantaneous, insatiable customer need runs the risk of forcing people out of the equation. But some logistics challenges can only be met by people working at ‘people speed.’
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Readers weigh in on the August question: Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Use this advice to get your distribution center prepared before holiday orders come rolling in.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
It’s all about flexibility and speed in today’s changing retail and e-commerce markets.
Customer Service, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Brands who never anticipated going global are finding that they all of a sudden are, thanks to the progression of e-commerce and increasing customer expectations.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
A standards-based supply chain can provide an organization with the speed and accuracy required when it’s needed most—helping to manage risk during normal operations and at times of crisis.
Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The popularity of meal and meal kit delivery services makes for some very complicated supply chain management.
Third-Party Logistics, Transportation Management, Transportation
For many shippers, choosing the right transportation consultant can become a difficult, time-consuming, and frustrating process. Here are five keys to finding the optimal partner.
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
With the growth of e-commerce, retailers have identified a potential opportunity to reduce working capital by thinning inventory at brick-and-mortar stores—opting instead to maintain major portions of inventory at distribution centers upstream.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability
Going green is in style for retailers. Here’s how adopting a multi-faceted sustainability strategy can lower costs as well as boost brand loyalty.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
If they haven’t already, supply chain executives need to immediately deploy more flexible and agile supply chain management solutions that encompass an enterprise resource planning system.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The supply chain strategy shift, from business cost efficiency to customer purchase location flexibility, is similar to the Copernican Revolution. Here’s how supply chain managers can increase product velocity using a customer-centric business model.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
As entities responsible for brokering appropriate carrier rates, ensuring accurate quantities of orders and guaranteeing high quality of products, third-party logistics providers are extensions of companies’ brands.
Air Cargo, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A handy reading guide summarizing supply chain books and their key takeaways.
Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Bedoukian Research improves forecasting, demand planning, inventory management, and logistics processes with the help of Smart Software.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) created and implemented a new way of taking and filling orders for its annual cookie drive. Here’s how it made sure cookie sales didn’t crumble.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Increased funding, bigger ideas, and changing mindsets are setting the stage for the explosive growth of enterprise technology in the logistics sector.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Texts, tweets, and posts are changing the ways in which the supply chain operates. Large suppliers and warehousing companies should use social media to better communicate with consumers and maximize productivity.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
The reverse logistics hazmat rule became effective immediately upon publication on March 31, 2016, making it critical that retail store owners and distribution managers get up to speed quickly. Here's how.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in on what hobbies make them better at supply chain and logistics management.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Disruption is coming to the freight and logistics industry. By seeing and understanding the full spectrum of operations, transport-oriented firms can survive and succeed in a dramatically changed environment.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology
This story looks at ways in which 3PLs help small and midsize companies implement and take full advantage of information technology.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
The warehouse management system (WMS) has emerged as a valuable tool for tracking and streamlining tasks, the workforce, and material/equipment flows. Here are two factors driving its adoption today.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Safety, Security, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Vulnerable to cargo theft? This monitoring solution provides layers of assurance for shippers and transporters.
Bar-coding Systems, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Packaging, Supply Chain
Companies are beginning to understand that they need to develop a labeling strategy to meet all of the challenges of today’s global supply chain. Here's how to implement an enterprise labeling approach.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The 2016 Allianz Risk Barometer identifies top 10 risks for global companies.
3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain professionals face increasing complexity. In order to succeed, they must prepare for data security concerns, identify preferred team member attributes, and develop a strong collective financial acumen.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology
Evolving technologies such as data warehousing, in-memory architecture, and data visualization are helping unlock fleet insights.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation
Asking the right questions as you begin the evaluation and purchase process is a step in the right direction to help get your fleet mobile ready.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Security, Supply Chain Management
So how prepared is your business to withstand a crisis? Effective risk analysis and crisis preparation is an essential strategy.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies that work with third-party logistics providers such as Penske Logistics get to share the pain when unexpected situations arise.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain
Logistics has evolved into a strategic business concern, driving enterprises to seek third-party logistics (3PL) providers with multi-modal capabilities for complete end-to-end integration.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Customer returns are inevitable, and without a clear understanding and plan for managing returns, DIM weight expenses can easily challenge budgets and profitability.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The burgeoning need for talent to operate today’s complex supply chains has begun to garner significant attention. Develop new ways to find, recruit, develop, and retain talent with these tips.
Companies are shipping ever-increasing volumes of small parcels as e-commerce grows. Read about the strategies that shippers and providers are using to offset the higher cost of small parcel delivery.
Big Data, Education & Careers, Education, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Intermodal, Ports, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
It's important to stay up to date on supply chain and logistics developments. Here's a list of books on wide ranging topics.
Supply Chain, Safety, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The potential legislation of COR-related laws is expected to have a profound effect on all areas of the supply chain, requiring changes that will ultimately come at an increased cost.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
The holiday season is well underway, increasing the pressure on companies to address transportation problems and change the outcome before they turn into costly errors.
Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The true measure of customer service is what team members, carriers, and supply chain partners do when something goes wrong.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Companies can support sustainability throughout their supply chains with these approaches.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Lin Ding, procurement manager at Ultimate Medical Academy, manages a team with a shared focus on procurement, supplier management, and contract management.
Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Radio Frequency Identification Technology has a multitude of benefits that can have a significant impact on reducing and eliminating waste in the extended supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Timeliness is top of mind during the holiday season. Here's how analytics can help shippers meet delivery spikes and prepare their supply chains.
Careers, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics editor Felecia Stratton discovers that change management is not only a supply chain challenge.
E-commerce, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Retail
For any United States-based company interested in expanding its retail logistics operations outside of the country, Asia Pacific may be the most ideal location.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
As e-commerce continues to surge, the case for automation is now too compelling to ignore. One good way to start can be to automate parcel sorting at local and regional distribution centers.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Reassessing your reverse logistics plan for customer returns and excess inventory is a must in today’s retail environment. Look beyond traditional methods and approach this obsolete merchandise as an opportunity (versus a headache) to positively impact your business margin.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
A system developed by The Smart Cube pulls and aggregates information from all Elizabeth Arden’s contract manufacturers, providing a consolidated, accurate view of data across the company’s supply chain. The cosmetics giant now can see, in real time, the purchases its network of manufacturers makes on its behalf.
Careers, Panama Canal, Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Freight Forwarders, Ocean, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Tim Thoma, international logistics and compliance manager at Northern Tool and Equipment, is responsible for moving product purchased from overseas.
E-commerce, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.
Logistics, Partnership, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
After 30 site visits and two logistics industry conferences, Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo wonders what the future of supply chain and logistics holds.
Economic Development, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Ocean, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Slovenian Post acquires logistics network to diversify business; Ontario cap-and-trade threatens Great Lakes-St. Lawrence shipping; China looks to build modern logistics cities; UAE manufacturing potential exposes labor market flaws; Nicaraguan Canal financing faces fresh skepticism in light of stock market crash.
Intermodal, Ocean, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Railroads, ocean carriers, and ports are investing in new equipment and technology innovation to move freight from trucks to rails and attract intermodal shippers.
Lean, Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
It is critical to set meaningful, relevant, and attainable targets to ensure that everyone is focused on a Lean supply chain.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service gives industrial buyers a preview of how IoT may impact procurement; Private label sourcing faces new headwinds; Cloud Logistics debuts the latest twist in TMS deployments; CMA CGM launches first smart connected container ship; Automotive parts buyers are leveraging omni-channel options
Education, Supply Chain Management
Today, millennial and Generation Y candidates who have a supply chain degree or education can immediately fill a gap that previously took a senior person. But that's only part of the solution.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Applying Berra-isms to logistics management yields valuable insights. Remembering the beloved Yankees legend Yogi Berra with fondness and celebrating his memorable words of wisdom.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Security, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Supply chain continuity planning is critical for global businesses. Armed with an end-to-end digital model of their supply chains, shippers can react rapidly and intelligently when unplanned events occur.
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Jeff Larson, director of distribution engineering analysis at Tiffany & Co., works with the jewelry company’s international locations to help improve their operations.
E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
New York State minimum wage directive may be a tipping point for automation in the fast food industry; Organic food recalls are on the rise; Alix Partners reports that nearshoring trend continues to grow; Pro truck interests take weight restriction fight in new direction; 2015 holiday shoppers are looking for options; The cash handling supply chain is poised to move from manual processing to scanning technology, thanks to the new GS1 US Cash Visibility Discussion Group.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology , Warehousing
E-commerce is leaving a trail of brick-and-mortar debris in its wake.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Global Economy, China, Canada, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
In spite of U.S. dollar strength, domestic manufacturing remains competitive globally; UPS tests new electric cargo bikes to handle urban deliveries; Bi-national Great Lakes Seaway Partnership promotes commercial shipping along the Saint Lawrence Seaway system; Mercedes-Benz reconfigures its global supply chain; Global Logistic Properties shifts investment from China to United States; Freight rail gains traction in passenger transport-focused China; China debuts the world’s longest freight train route linking the northeast city of Harbin with Hamburg, Germany.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Packaging, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Increasing costs and challenges within the logistics industry affect your bottom line. Use these steps to reduce logistics costs.
Bar-coding Systems, 3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Value-added services that fall outside the realm of traditional supply chain solutions can save millions of dollars and create mutually beneficial, collaborative relationships.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Ports, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Latin America
Latin American perishable exports have grown dramatically in recent years, but there are still some logistical shortcomings preventing maximum cold chain efficiency.
Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
When applying Lean principles to procurement and purchasing processes, non-traditional sources of waste can be identified, which benefits the entire supply chain.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Sustainability and cost savings are driving shippers to reduce packaging waste.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management
Freight damage, loss, and theft will always occur. Planning for those inevitabilities is key to prevention and faster claims settlement.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Global Trade Management, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports
Automatic Identification System (AIS) can provide analytics that enable companies to more accurately predict ship arrival times.
Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Companies are increasingly using M2M to maximize operational efficiency, minimize loss and theft, and better serve their customers.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When you consider the rapid evolution of supply chain management over the past two decades the 3PL industry has been a featured piece in an increasingly pixelated mosaic.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Understanding less-than-truckload shipping challenges is the key to overcoming them.
E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Chemical Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Amazon and Walmart vie for last-mile supremacy; Nevada community college establishes logistics program to meet Tesla labor demand; Industrial buyers think outside the box; Consortium establishes new chemical footprint assessment; VMI opportunities abound as shippers look to optimize inventory; study looks at the ghost economy
Economic Development, Global Economy, Asia, China, Logistics, Ports, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Port of Hamburg unveils new traffic light system; CEVA Logistics TireCity in Italy demonstrates interest in sector-specific supply chain collaboration; China debuts longest freight rail route in the world; TPP agreement raises concerns about traceability in the seafood supply chain; Africa capital investment heats up; New G6 Alliance rotation features Polish port; Indian 3PL uses containers as mobile logistics classrooms; Intel eyes Asia for IoT ecosystem.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Digital Business integrates the value chain to realize a constant stream of operational data and transform it into balanced, end-to-end metrics that improve decision making.
Global Economy, China, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Before sourcing globally, it’s important to know the risks.
Logistics, Security, Supply Chain Management
Minimizing employee downtime with ergonomic initiatives and equipment can have a big impact on the bottom line.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Collaboration is key to having a productive relationship between the supply chain and marketing departments.
Logistics, Security, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
These four tips can help you make sure your specialized shipment arrives safely and on time.
Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The Panama Canal expansion will provide many businesses with opportunities for growth on a global scale.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Join us as we turn back the clock and consider how outsourcing demand has changed over the past 20 years – and perhaps shed some light on where the 3PL industry is tracking.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Yokohama senior director Jeremy Kahrs reveals the strategy behind the tire maker’s new distribution center and headquarters.
Logistics, Security, Supply Chain Management
Successful companies are concerned about supply chain security. Here’s how to prevent supply chain threats from negatively impacting your company’s bottom line and reputation.
3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
All global supply chains carry some element of risk, but working with third-party logistics providers, with transparency in full effect, can help you achieve the best risk management outcome.
Intermodal, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
In the logistics of trade, the relationship between Canada and the United States is both friendly and advantageous on both sides of the border.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
This list of new supply chain and logistics books helps logistics professionals keep their skills up to date.
To deliver more information to the fans, the NFL turned to a logistics technology provider for help.
Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Cost reductions are uncovered from raw materials to end delivery, but companies must focus on its customers to keep them satisfied.
Military Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Kelvin Miller, an equipment and mobility readiness spare parts allocation supervisor with the military contractor DynCorp International, manages inventory and gets it ready to deploy when the time comes.
3PL, Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Middle East countries show signs of regional collaboration around transportation and logistics; China’s “red supply chain” threatens Taiwanese semiconductor industry; India looks to Korea as both a model and partner for its economic modernization program; U.S. fashion industry supports extension of African Growth & Opportunity Act; Cuba’s Port of Mariel attracts investment from CMA CGM; China looks to replicate U.S. rail freight model
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ports, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Short-term Highway Trust Fund extension renews call for national transportation strategy; Medical cost inflation and cyber risk are the most prying business concerns; Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach create shared working groups to explore operational efficiencies; GS1 Simple Product Listing creates new standard for e-commerce marketplace
Green Logistics, Lean, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
These seven non-traditional forms of waste can have a direct impact on your bottom line.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Aftermarket parts providers must take advantage of innovations in the supply chain to remain competitive in today’s global market.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T.
To grow and evolve, shippers of all sizes need the high-quality data provided by modern technologies.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Lean, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Finding a common ground between cost and corporate social responsibility remains a challenging proposition – unless organizations nurture a culture of sustainability.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Lean, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
These supply chain, logistics, and transportation companies lead the way in supporting sustainability.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Safety, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A look at logistics trends and challenges that affect companies in the chemical industries, and their strategies for dealing with those issues.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
When Ocean Spray wanted to reduce its carbon footprint, they found the answers they were looking for from an MBA student.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Supply management professionals are increasingly accepting cross-functional cooperation in purchasing, supply management, production and inventory control to optimize overall company performance and increase competitiveness.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Lori Harper, vice president, supply chain management at Ingalls Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), is a natural leader who figures out solutions to unexpected challenges.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Martin Associates report points to the importance of continuing U.S. port investment; Henry Ford College introduces associates degree in supply chain management; Freight Can't Wait program encourages Congress to earmark funding exclusively for freight infrastructure projects; Manufacturers are finding better ways to engineer and prototype products using 3D printing technology; McDonald's pledges to lessen impact on global deforestation throughout its entire supply chain.
Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trans Pacific Partnership nears resolution; Indonesia logistics industry fights new capital requirement regulation; China and Pakistan pave way for new trade corridor; Global ocean container trade shows signs of growth despite enduring supply-demand imbalance; European railroads partner around procurement; China looks to replicate U.S. rail freight model
Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
When setting future supply chain budgets, companies must take into account not only the increased cost of industrial real estate, but also longer lead times for new space in many markets.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers making simple, but meaningful changes can go a long way with helping carriers attract and retain drivers.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Inventory management is often difficult and time-consuming for smaller businesses, but the right solution can remove some of the pressure.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
These five steps will ensure carriers can provide capacity when you need it most.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
A look at the challenges warehouse managers face as they build a well-integrated warehouse workforce, and how they address those issues.
Economic Development, Intermodal, Utilities, Logistics, Site Selection, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
In today's high-speed logistics infrastructure, rail represents a key component of the intermodal framework.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Pallets, Supply Chain Management
Choosing the right pallet unlocks myriad benefits from improved process efficiency to cost savings and sustainability.
Labor Management, Supply Chain Management
Employee incentives are a simple and valuable way to increase productivity in your facility.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Judi Griffin, director of logistics at Burkhart Dental, is responsible for three distribution centers, purchasing and customer service teams, and inbound and outbound freight costs.
Global Logistics, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Larger container ships pose new risks and liabilities... Peel Group invests in oil and gas business while European interests dry up... Scientists raise concerns about Nicaragua canal environmental impact.
Lean, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
When trying to avoid waste in your supply chain, it’s all about location, location, location.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Taking steps to adapt to ACE regulations ahead of final deadlines will save businesses much time, money, and hassle.
Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Enabling a holistic, integrated approach to managing global supplier risks allows companies to minimize risks, protect brand integrity, and reduce supply chain costs.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
In the face of increasing capacity issues, carriers prefer to work with shippers that will support their business needs
Big Data, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Predictive modeling and big data help develop efficient shipping solutions to lower shippers’ freight spend and overall supply chain costs.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Today’s supply chain environment is more complex than ever, and it is important for business partners to work together across the value chain with the intent to maximize the benefit to their customers .
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
New regulations ensuring the integrity of the pharma supply chain are nearing the finish line. While some companies have taken an early lead to compliance, others are late getting out of the gate. Which team are you on?
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
To break the cycle of needless, duplicative logistics costs, many competitors are choosing to work in tandem.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Logistics, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Challenging weather and a remote location make delivering freight to and from Alaska a complex operation. To simplify operations, many shippers turn to transportation companies and logistics service providers that have the expertise to make sure freight flows smoothly despite the complexities.
Global Economy, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies doing business globally are learning to be more flexible to adapt quickly to uncertainty without sacrificing economy, speed and service.
Asia, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Rail, Supply Chain Management
Port of Beirut plan for transshipment expansion irks truckers; New treaty greenlights Ghent–Terneuzen Canal lock upgrade; China-Europe rail development continues with UTi and Changjiu partnership; Global suppliers still laggard when it comes to environmental mitigation; Hong Kong looks to ease industrial real estate regs to create more warehouse capacity.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Globalization has a dramatic impact on strategic sourcing, logistics excellence, and supply chain management. Here’s how your company can become a preferred employer in today’s global age.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Here are three ways companies are optimizing their oil and gas supply chains and creating more predictable financial returns.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With a skills gap narrowing the options, companies must hire employees that are valuable in the long-term.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
A good reverse logistics program offers mobile device retailers and OEMs a world of opportunity.
E-commerce, Global Economy, Mexico, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Shifting global dynamics and internal business process changes are compelling manufacturers and retailers to challenge the status quo and reinvent their supply chains.
3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Freight forwarders provide value-added services beyond just transportation and logistics. Here's advice for choosing the right one for your business.
Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The United States Postal Services has revised domestic mail regulations for shipping lithium batteries. Here’s what shippers need to know.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Here are 10 common packaging errors and how to overcome them.
E-commerce, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
E-commerce excellence and proximity to large population areas are the new drivers behind site selection for fulfillment centers.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
The role of supply chain practitioner is evolving by integrating technology, functional expertise, and experience to identify problems and engineer solutions.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Digital technologies are shaking up supply chain solutions; Maritime industry opposes Keystone XL Pipeline amendment; Procurement is the gateway to innovation, collaboration, and revenue growth; Introducing the 10 best warehouse networks
Global Economy, Panama Canal, Canada, Global Logistics, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain Management
United States and Canada are investing $7 billion in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system; Changing political relations between the United States and Cuba could signal new trade opportunities; UK faces a truck driver shortage among younger people; Panama approves new port development
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
By paying close attention to detail, shippers can avoid the following simple mistakes.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The list of competencies employers seek when they recruit supply chain professionals keeps growing longer and more complex. Here’s how degree-granting programs keep pace, and enable well-rounded graduates to fill prime positions.
Global Economy, Canada, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Volatility in the oil, gas and energy business is forcing producers and industry to confront a legacy of poor logistics execution.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Telematics technology can bring improved operational visibility to fleet management.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Retailers need new technologies and capabilities to operate in a new omni-channel world.
Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
A review of the important mile markers in supply chain management that brought us to present day shows we have made progress, but there is more work to be done.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
ThomasNet, ISM and Inbound Logistics partner to create the 30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars program to recognize the brightest young stars in supply chain management today.
Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A route planning systems can drastically reduce the time it takes to plan your transportation schedule. Other benefits include lower mileage and fuel usage, decreased carbon emissions, and increased customer service.
Green Logistics, Global Economy, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Eelco de Graaf, vice president, supply chain operations at Lewis-Goetz and Company, is responsible for purchasing, shipping, manufacturing, and operational excellence.
Global Economy, Mexico, China, Logistics, Rail, Safety, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Latin America
United States gives Mexican truck drivers the green light for cross-border moves; Uber pilots cargo service in Hong Kong; Latin American rail freight market ripe for investment; Panama Canal Authority restructures its toll system; Turkey and Iran toil over truck fees; Global airfreight market set for steady growth; Lithuania railroad faces antitrust inquiry over competitive switching practices
3PL, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies are seeking data to help them understand their supply chain networks, and strategic enterprise partners are providing the needed information to them through logistics.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
How a logistics data refinery can improve supply chain visibility and analytics.
Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Companies must formulate a strategic plan that includes core competencies and future business objectives to prepare to meet the challenges of the next decade.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Driverless trucks may be a solution to the truck driver shortage in the future, but here are some ideas for how to cope now.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Shippers, carriers, manufacturers – everyone in the business of shipping Dangerous Goods needs to stay up to date on what’s going on in the industry.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Saving a few bucks doesn’t always mean throwing the customer under the bus.
Export, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Before entering the international trade arena, shippers must understand the stakes involved in regulatory compliance.
Global Economy, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
All logistics and transportation stakeholders must work together to eliminate the supply chain talent gap.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Managing supply chain risk means recognizing that things won’t always go according to plan, and having the right infrastructure in place to succeed even through the unexpected.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Many manufacturers have turned to molded pulp as an environmentally friendly packaging alternative.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
Areas like Northeast Florida actively work to make their local climate a business-friendly one.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Intermodal, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
From first mile to last mile and every mile in between, truck drivers are the lifeblood of your supply chain. Meet some of these dedicated professionals.
3PL, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.
E-commerce, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
With its subscription-based clothing rental model, Gwynnie Bee is tailoring the rules of e-commerce to make fashion fulfillment a perfect fit.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
IBC Advanced Alloys puts a pedal to the metals to manage the logistics of complex manufacturing.
Green Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Six Sigma helps electronic products company Jabil run like a lean, green manufacturing machine.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Health Care Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
As hospitals begin transforming to adapt to new healthcare initiatives, they are easing the pain by restructuring and streamlining supply chain operations.
Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Whirlpool is taking a page out of its Lean production manual and following Penske’s lead to create a more flexible and responsive North American supply chain.
Intermodal, Mexico, Canada, Logistics, Rail, Supply Chain Management
We hit the road this past fall to get an up close view, around the bend, of where the railroad industry is tracking in 2015 and beyond.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Mexico, Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
It was the worst of times for U.S./Mexico healthcare. Can demand-driven logistics make it the best of times?
Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Big data is a big deal, but what is it? Inbound Logistics asks four industry experts to file their report on big data and its benefits.
Global Economy, Intermodal, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Rail, Supply Chain Management
Facing a number of challenges and constraints, the global port industry is addressing concerns and capitalizing on new opportunities.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics asked these experts to weigh in on the dimensional weight pricing changes that UPS and FedEx implemented on January 1, 2015.
Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
North America’s manufacturing sector is on an upward trajectory. However, a shortage of young talent, compounded by Baby Boomers’ negative perceptions about Millennials, could impact its continued expansion, according to ThomasNet’s latest Industry Market Barometer® (IMB) research.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
This article looks at issues that companies should consider when developing a more resilient supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Inclement weather and capacity problems giving your supply chain the winter woes? Chill out! Here are some good reads to keep you up to date on supply chain, logistics, and transportation best practices.
Education & Careers, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
How manufacturers can use technology to stretch the capabilities of their existing workforce.
Military Logistics, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain Management
Increases in public and private aircraft demand have aerospace supply chain stakeholders changing the way they get things done.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Carriers need to be ready to keep freight moving no matter what gets in the way.
Bar-coding Systems, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
Managers must carefully consider all factors of their operation before selecting a new bar-coding system.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
As e-commerce and ominchannel raise expectations, and consumers become more impatient, supply chain practitioners turn to technology to help them perform.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
To mark SmartWay's 10th anniversary, several shipper partners share their best tactics for getting the most out of the program... Sourcing and procurement functions have become areas of core incompetency says new survey.
Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
A good reverse logistics program saves retailers money, makes customers happy, and serves as a competitive advantage.
Crossdocking reduces inventory costs and improves delivery times by eliminating intermediate warehousing activity.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Technology is enabling an unprecedented level of transparency and communication to help shippers and their logistics providers understand each other's operations, and collaborate in ways that were much more difficult in the past.
A successful supply chain team needs just the right mix of talent, skills, and personalities, not to mention a clear mission, the freedom to pursue it, and the structure to succeed.
After struggling with outdated software that could not keep pace with increased sales, EAM-Mosca found a solution to streamline shipments.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Five key questions to ask a software vendor to make sure they are the right fit for your operation.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
All companies should incorporate a business continuity plan into their operation so they are never unprepared for a disruption.
Expedited Shipping, Supply Chain Management
The best way shippers and consignees can accommodate speed and reliability is to practice demand-driven logistics.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation
Reciprocal switching debate casts a cloud over railroad industry collaboration; Procurement execution gap costs U.S. businesses $1.5 billion per year; Holiday consumers plan to shop sooner to avoid last-minute parcel problems; Trucking costs continue to soar as driver shortage worsens; Amazon Supreme Court case will set a precedent for how companies secure facilities and compensate workers.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
A modular warehouse control system can help smaller operations keep up with larger competitors.
Yard management systems provide visibility into yard operations. Here is advice for choosing the right YMS provider and solution to meet your unique needs.
Customer Service, Food Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Leslie Dean, senior director, supply chain, at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt.
E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
Pilot program uses drones to deliver time-sensitive goods; Canadian government lines up two new bilateral trade agreements; Labor rights causing supply chain disruption; Using social media to understand carrier usage.
Companies can benefit from have a hybrid supply chain that is not only Lean, but also agile.
Chemical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Safety
New technologies simplify hazmat transport regulations to help shippers avoid costly fines and suspended operations.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain Management
Global Trade Management Systems (GTM) can help automate and optimize international supply chains. Here’s some advice for successful implementation.
Customer Service, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Kevin Hickey, Vice President, North American Customer Service for Maersk Line outlines the benefits of performance metrics, and the impact they have on carrier relationships and ongoing improvements.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Education & Careers, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.
Freight Forwarders, Supply Chain Management
Don’t risk entrusting your shipments to a fraudulent freight broker. Check broker credentials to protect your goods.
Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
Manufacturers should view legislation as an opportunity to achieve better control and supply chain integration.
Considering six key factors allows purchasing managers to make timed purchasing decisions.
Education & Careers, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
For Tamsen Fricke, operations manager at Divine Chocolate USA, fair trade and logistics make a delicious combination.
E-commerce, Asia, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Plan now to avoid supply chain disruptions from the latest Icelandic volcano eruption; Australia struggles with home delivery challenges; EU and China sign landmark customs agreement.
Mexico, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Mexico presents an attractive option for U.S.-based companies moving all or a portion of their supply chains closer to home.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers desperately seek capacity in the midst of a record shortage.
Transportation Management, Transportation
Shippers must maintain flexibility in their data-driven transportation policies.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Tracking carrier performance metrics gives shippers insight into how well trucking companies serve their needs.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Mobile communication technologies facilitate warehouse efficiency and productivity.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Transportation Management, Safety, Trucking, Transportation
Motor carrier safety standards dictated by state courts create confusion. National safety standards are more effective.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Software-as-a-Service transportation management systems offer many advantages over enterprise software.
Fleet managers increasingly rely on electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) to manage fleet data.
Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
When customers need products fast, Chet Mullen of lift truck manufacturer Raymond Corporation rises to the occassion.
3PL, Food Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
Expanding beverage product lines are generating new stockkeeping units (SKUs) - and supply chain management challenges.
Freight Payment Services, Finance, Transportation Management
Freight bill payment and auditing services save shippers money by finding billing errors and optimization opportunities.
Before choosing enterprise solutions, companies should conduct intensive requirements research.
Import, Export, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Incoterms simplify international purchase-sales contracts. Here are tips for applying them correctly.
Economic Development, Utilities, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
Site selection teams get help from energy providers looking to boost local economic development.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
The Internet of Things can affect supply chain operations by increasing in-transit visibility.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Third-party logistics services evolved to meet shippers' changing transportation, distribution, and warehousing needs.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Retail
When it comes to keeping up with demand, Game Stop's Bruce Kulp doesn’t play around.
3PL, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Enterprise logistics providers are developing solutions that fuse data elements for insights that enable decisionmaking.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Integrated Logistics Services providers address supply chain challenges facing shippers to improve logistics operations.
Green Logistics, Retail, Risk Management
Partnering with an expert can help retailers ensure they comply with hazardous waste regulations.
Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
Reverse logistics solutions can improve the bottom line, and reduce potential regulatory liabilities.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Logistics market report reveals trends in 3PL offerings and shippers' logistics outsourcing strategies.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Less than truckload (LTL) carriers use online freight portals to offer low-cost extra capacity to small shippers.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A panel of supply chain experts address questions related to ensuring supplier compliance.
New supply chain and logistics books help logistics professionals thaw out their skills after a brutal winter.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
SaaS TMS solutions allow shippers, carriers, suppliers, and consignees to conduct business on a single platform.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
An integrated warehouse management system improves data flow, efficiency, and accuracy, reducing operational costs.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation
To better manage freight spend, track key performance indicators and build strong provider partnerships.
Bar-coding Systems, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Bar-code reading errors slowed Champion Tire and Wheel’s operation; a new laser scanner got the company back on track.
Retail, Trucking, Transportation
Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Fashion businesses must react instantly to fashion shifts and focus on getting goods to consumers quickly.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Create your WMS RFP with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of potential suppliers.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Warehouse technology that supports communication and data analysis improves efficiency and reduces waste.
Before adding an ERP system, enlist a cross-functional team, assess operational needs, and revise business processes.
Manufacturing, Ports, Supply Chain Management
Port of Los Angeles targets $3 billion for infrastructure investment; Montreal-based Fednav uses drones to scout shipping conditions; U.S. manufacturing renaissance faces a skilled labor shortage; Apple tops Gartner’s Top 25 Supply Chain list for the seventh consecutive year.
Retailers can identify and eliminate waste from their retail strategy, merchandise management, and store operations.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics I.T.
Pepsi Logistics Company Inc. automates the creation and delivery of carrier and shipper invoices.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Technology trends are transforming the logistics sector, improving safety, efficiency, and competitiveness.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Avoid common inventory issues: inaccurate inventory counts, costly end-of-year write-offs, and lost inventory.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Voice-directed technology can help improve worker safety and reduce employee-training time, yet some companies avoid them because of these five common misconceptions.
Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Managing supply chain partnerships strategically improves their viability and reliability.
Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
This article provides a step-by-step guide to logistics network optimization.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
A transportation management system with fleet management tools facilitates transportation planning for private fleets.
Logistics managers support inbound supply chains by informing company leaders about the effect of vendor non-compliance.
Supply chain innovation requires motivation, shared leadership, and change management.
Track sensors monitor rails for signs of buckling or breakage, improving rail freight safety.
Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Many companies use social media to improve supply chain operations by connecting shippers and service providers.
Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Innovative route planning tools create meaningful links between long-range planning and real-world agility.
Equip employees with the most efficient tools, such as computers, software, and Internet service, to boost productivity.
Partnership, Risk Management, Transportation Management
Clear transportation management strategy and technologies allow companies to deliver superior service at lower cost.
Cross-border Trade, Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
Best in class companies use a variety of global trade automation tools to lower inbound costs and improve processes.
Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management
The number of stockkeeping units has increased considerably. Doing an ABC analysis helps eliminate unneeded inventory.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Analyzing supply chain data allows shippers to improve their logistics operations.
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers can equip you with the tools to meet your company's unique supply chain challenges.
Mobile technologies are helping secure and more effectively manage the supply chain.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
An automated transportation management system can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and create competitive advantage.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain partners must work together to maximize the benefit to their customers – and boost their own bottom line.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Companies avoid common obstacles to successful TMS implementation by partnering with an experienced solutions provider.
Asia, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Companies that effectively integrate trade agreements will gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Inland Barge, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Alaska’s extreme weather and geography create logistics challenges for shippers moving cargo to, from, and in the state.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T.
Before choosing a bar-code scanning system, consider your facility’s needs and current bar-code technology.
Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Global Logistics, Ports, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Companies make contingency plans to prepare for possible supply chain disruptions caused by port labor negotiations.
3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Georgia offers manufacturers and distributors superior access to logistics providers and transportation infrastructure.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing
E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses the merits of supply chain continuing education.
Automated materials handling tools boost warehouse productivity and improve efficiency.
Education & Careers, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Jason Shefrin, executive vice president, global sourcing, at InterDesign Inc. streamlines global operations.
Economic Development, Asia, Cross-border Trade, China, Canada, Reverse Logistics, Global Logistics, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Retail, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America
China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard
Inventory Management, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.
Developing a business system based on operational analytics requires a focus on decision-making and a clear plan.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Packaging
Cosmetics companies face challenges such as time- and temperature-sensitive shipments and retailer packaging requirements.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.
3PL, Economic Development, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
U.S. companies stand to gain from establishing manufacturing operations in Mexico – if they manage the challenges.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Ensuring supply chain security requires that shippers and logistics providers stay one step ahead of thieves.
3PL, Distribution, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Safety, Warehousing
Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Follow these steps to choose a warehouse management system to improve fulfillment operations and inventory visibility.
Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
New books on supply chain, logistics, and transportation help logistics professionals stay sharp.
Automotive Logistics, Global Logistics, Lean, Manufacturing, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Collaborative risk management helps automakers and their supply chain partners protect against disruptions.
3PL, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.
3PL, Finance, Global Logistics, Partnership, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
3PL, Intermodal, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
Green Logistics, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Supply chains must develop strategies for reducing risk related to climate change, such as drought and extreme weather.
Demand Planning, Global Logistics, Manufacturing
Special print production needs prompted DC Comics to seek an overseas partner and rework its logistics.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Molson Coors Canada’s new delivery planning system integrates routing, pallet building, and truck loading.
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Retailer DSW's new replenishment materials handling solution improves inventory control and reduces in-store markdowns.
Successful software projects require thoughtful planning, the right partners, and flexibility.
Inventory Management, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Production vendor managed inventory enables manufacturers to gain supply chain control.
Global Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
These five components are key for companies who want to streamline their international supply chain.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Shifting production closer to the U.S. can benefit supply chains, but nearshoring also presents obstacles.
Freight Forwarders, Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers and trucking brokers must understand the differences among the service levels carriers offer.
Leveraging data analysis and technology integration can generate powerful insights to transform today’s supply chains.
3PL, Expedited Shipping, Global Logistics, Ocean, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Risk Management, Trucking, Security, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
2014 may be a year of uncertainty, but inbound logistics best practices can help improve supply chain operations, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton shares highlights from the January 2014 issue.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
When choosing core carriers, evaluate customer service, on-time delivery, company stability, and workforce quality.
Education & Careers, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Transportation Management
Sean Vasquez manages EDI and transportation for Sun-Maid Growers of California.
Mobile technology offers flexible, affordable solutions for supply chain operations.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Implementing tools and processes that enable better shipment visibility and control of in-transit inventory helps improve vendor partner management.
3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management
Geodis Wilson helps integrated design technology company Dana Innovations expand its international supply chain.
Global Economy, Panama Canal, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The Panama Canal expansion, opening in 2015, may alter shippers' sourcing and routing decisions.
Green Logistics, Food Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Leading food manufacturers and producers make sustainability best practices part of their supply chains.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Track-and-trace regulations require pharmaceutical shippers to adapt production and distribution processes to ensure compliance.
Companies must identify and eliminate overspending on supply chain IT solutions to free up capital for new projects.
Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Positioning product packaging downstream in the supply chain offers food manufacturers varied selling opportunities.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management
Cloud-based predictive analytics increasingly available to more companies of all sizes; RFID market set for robust growth by 2020; supply chain risk mitigation should be priority for all companies; key trends driving change for enterprises and government in 2014
Lean, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Tools such as electronic data interchange (EDI) and advanced picking solutions support lean supply chain operations.
Air Cargo, Expedited Shipping, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Expedited shipping modes are a crucial part of shippers’ planned transportation strategies.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Drive out inefficiencies and boost customer service by aligning with vendors to meet your supply chain goals.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A fourth-party logistics provider (4PL) can help companies set and achieve supply chain improvement goals.
Intermodal, Health Care Logistics, Automotive Logistics, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Regulatory compliance is top supply chain challenge for healthcare executives; Ohio’s transportation funding plan pays dividends with bridge repair program; GM saves $40 million a year by co-locating stamping and assembly facilities; Collaboration is the key to sustained procurement savings; U.S. domestic intermodal surpasses international as growth driver.
Automating office functions, shipment tracking, and data exchange can help companies cut costs and improve customer service.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Planning for peak returns season can minimize processing costs and maximize recovery values of returned inventory.
Intermodal, Ocean, Rail, Transportation Management, Trucking
Exploring intermodal transportation's potential.
Automating supplier payments through commercial cards helps companies facilitate their payment process.
Freight management technology strengthens partnerships between third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.
Technology such as onboard recording devices help trucking companies gain insight and cut costs.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Route planning software from Paragon helped poultry supplier George’s gain efficiencies and cut transportation costs.
Cloud computing offers democracy to logistics and transportation providers, putting small and mid-sized providers on the same playing field as large global companies.
Increasing product traceability requirements are making bar codes an essential part of many supply chains.
From retailers to OEMs, companies track parts and finished goods to drive supply chain visibility and flexibility.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
A look at the supply chain for manufacturers that supply materials or components to other manufacturers.
GPS tracking devices give shippers shipment visibility, even when cargo is in the air.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
An order management system from DF Young and Superior Technology helps Cintron Beverage Company boost inventory accuracy, fulfill orders easily and quickly, and track products throughout the supply chain.
Sharpen your skills with these books covering supply chain and logistics topics.
Companies can use the visibility big data provides to improve supply chain processes and meet organizational goals.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Collaborating with a global logistics provider helps small and medium-sized businesses ensure regulatory compliance.
Trading partners share sales and inventory data to support mutual benefits such as optimized inventory and productivity.
Flexible 3PLs drive business process improvements for shippers.
Outsourcing transportation and logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) blends function and flexibility into a supply chain feng shui.
A business-to-employee communications model improves employee productivity through mobile technology and applications.
Logistics providers can help shippers save money through decreased labor, lower overhead, and technology tools.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Collaborate with suppliers to manage supply chain risks with the highest potential to occur and risk of business impact.
Four companies worked with 3PLs to make over their logistics operations, so they could meet evolving business demands.
As consumers embrace bargain hunting, off-price apparel retailers reinvent their supply chains to meet demand.
Manufacturing, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The emergence of domestically sourced natural gas heralds significant changes in the North America energy market.
Air Cargo, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T.
Sensor-based logistics solutions monitor factors like temperature and humidity to protect perishable shipments.
Shippers and 3PLs have applied lean principles to remove waste from their operations and improve performance.
Beer distributor Crescent Crown’s new appointment scheduling system gives it control over when trucks arrive at its DC.
Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
A new inventory management system by Manhattan Associates nurses Nature's Best's fulfillment operations back to health.
Finance, Freight Forwarders, Transportation Management, Transportation
Shipping freight plays a vital role in supply chain management, yet many shippers neglect to take control of their inbound shipments. Industry experts offer strategies for overcoming five common obstacles to successful inbound freight management.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Mid-market shippers who use Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) transportation management systems (TMS) can improve visibility, access report data, and enable EDI carrier integrations while automating the transportation cycle, says Richard G. Piontek of 3PLogic.
Asia, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Manufacturing, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Shifting manufacturing operations in Asia back to North America provides companies more control of their supply chains, says Steve Sensing of Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Technology management can affect warehouse operations’ connectivity during and after a power outage. Whether the facility’s warehouse management system (WMS) is installed on-site, delivered via a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) program, or hosted in the cloud can have a huge impact on maintaining productivity, writes John Sterling of Foxfire Software.
Economic Development, Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Jacksonville, Florida’s transportation infrastructure, skilled workforce, and available land makes it an attractive site for businesses siting new locations for logistics services and manufacturing, writes Michael Breen of JAXUSA Partnership.
Education & Careers, Transportation Management, Specialized Logistics
Larry Montreuil, director of supply chain management at JetBlue Airways, negotiates sourcing and purchasing deals that let the airline soar.
Business intelligence tools support supply chain management by helping logistics professionals derive meaning from the data collected by logistics technology solutions.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Managing freight spend and payments challenges many shippers because rules and regulations vary by geography. Supply chain professionals benefit most from a global solution built for freight spend, says Rick Erickson of Syncada.
Maximizing truck utilization, managing Hours of Service regulations, and finding enough drivers pose major challenges for trucking companies, says Scott Vanselous of TMW Systems.
Transportation management systems (TMS) provide the ability to accurately predict shipping costs and manage shipment execution. A comprehensive TMS solution can also manage inbound shipments, serve as an RFP analysis tool, or facilitate real-time spot market quoting for appropriate modes, says Kerry Loudenback of TransportGistics Inc.
Best practices for transportation management dictate that shippers contact all their carriers and ask for accurate rates per mile for multiple lanes before performing an optimization, says Nick Carretta of Ultra Logistics
Transportation management systems (TMS) have evolved to serve shipper needs, but few options exist for mid-size shippers. New offerings for this market balance ease of use, rapid implementation, and big return on investment, says Mitch Weseley of 3Gtms.
Gathering transport spend data during the freight payment process, then marrying it with transportation management system data, arms shippers with valuable information for monitoring transportation key performance indicators (KPIs), says Shannon Vaillancourt of RateLinx.
Global customs agencies and trade regulations require shippers to obtain and communicate more shipment data. Technology tools help shippers manage and exchange shipment information, says Tracey Leonard of Choice Logistics.
Mobile communications tools track supply chain data such as shipment status, warehouse worker performance, truck location, and driver safety.
Ocean, Supply Chain Management
Lars Kloch of SBS Worldwide, looks at the impact of slow steaming containerships on supply chain reliability, speed, and transport costs.
Logistics technology provides global supply chain managers with tools that help improve logistics operations. This market research survey and list of leading supply chain technology companies directs logistics professionals to the top software tools for their sector.
Import compliance programs facilitate restricted parties screening, recordkeeping, monitoring, review, and audit processes. A quality import compliance solution by a reputable logistics technology provider can help, says Jim Preuninger of Amber Road.
Today's IT trends -- big data, cloud computing, integration, and visibility -- let business logistics managers harness technology in countless ways to find greater efficiency and economy.
E-commerce presents retailers with challenges and opportunities; Food regulation top of mind for 3PLs and shippers; Daktronics’ lean machine keeps production at home; Nike partners with Bluesign Technologies to facilitate sustainable sourcing program among supply chain partners.
Intermodal, Ports, Transportation Management
Transloading shipments allows shippers to reduce touches and costs, and create greater flexibility to respond to changing demand in global shipments.
To avoid overpaying for transportation, shippers should audit freight bills to ensure the correct National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is applied to their less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, says Chuck Fattore of RR Donnelley Logistics.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Global trade management software offers greater shipment visibility and control, eases the pain of border-crossing compliance, and streamlines financial transactions—all from your browser.
Sporting goods manufacturers and retailers must manage seasonal peaks to avoid stockouts and meet online customers’ demand for prompt delivery. Supply chain technology helps provide visibility and track items during product recalls.
Plan for seasonal peaks by securing efficient labor, sufficient warehouse space, and reliable carriers.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T.
Monitoring the pallet-level temperature of fresh, frozen, and packaged foods allows shippers and transporters to more effectively manage the quality and safety of products as they move through the supply chain, writes Kevin Payne of Intelleflex.
With the right investments in technology, 3PLs can make their business more attractive to current and potential clients by offering additional value-added services, superior inventory control, and overall cost reduction, writes Chuck Fuerst of HighJump Software.
Automated traceability technology allows companies to locate products anywhere in the supply chain, minimizing the impact of product recalls, writes Tom Kozenski of JDA Software.
The transportation and logistics sector is in the midst of some of its biggest changes since deregulation, and 2013 will play a pivotal role in discerning which companies will rise to the top, writes Chad Eichelberger of Access America Transport.
Shippers, carriers, brokers, and third-party logistics (3PL) providers use electronic loadboards to communicate opportunities, whether it's freight to be shipped or trucks to be filled.
Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions
Companies choosing between voice-directed and pick-to-light technology often find that the right choice is a combination of both.
Whether you want to casually brush up on your supply chain management techniques or drastically reorganize your purchasing processes, you’ll find the knowledge you need in the pages of these supply chain resources.
Distribution, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Close-out retailer Tuesday Morning implemented Interlink’s WHSe-LINK warehouse management system to receive, store, and allocate its daily inbound shipments of unique SKUs.
In a business world defined and dictated by change, supply chain management balances challenges and competitive advantage. Companies large and small are leveraging transportation and logistics best practices to act as great equalizers.
Adopting demand-driven logistics can increase visibility, drive supply chain efficiency, and offset any market advantage your competitors might have.
Distribution, Transportation Management
Schwan’s Home Services optimized its distribution network by using a hybrid insourced/outsourced model; and Sun-Maid Growers of California used collaborative distribution to create better economies of scale in its transportation operations.
Innovative technologies are helping companies improve visibility into their supply chains and gain better control over inventory, service, and cost.
Finance, Transportation Management
Leveraging IT, reconsidering warehouse processes, and conducting periodic network optimization projects are just three of many strategies that enable shippers to not only trim costs, but ensure that transportation spending supports overall business goals.
Developing an effective supplier compliance program requires planning and communication, writes Peter Wharton of IBM.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A well-oiled trading partner network allows one-to-many and many-to-many partners to collaborate and communicate using a single source of truth garnered from real-time information, writes Christopher P. Mazza of IAS.
Shifting production and consumption patterns push inter-regional trade; Ford tinkers with polymers, finds hidden green; Motorola Mobility flexes its supply chain with outsourcing approach; American consumer electronics companies more transparent than Asian competitors; Smaller Florida ports bullish on Panama Canal-triggered growth potential; Retail supply chain sophistication makes overstock sales obsolete; Sustainability and CSR rank low in procurement priorities; Retailers fail to appreciate the true power of mobility
Yard and dock management systems use real-time and physical data to assist facilities in efficiently managing operations such as loading dock visibility, live and staged trailer coordination, and turn time management, writes Eric Breen of 4SIGHT.
By providing end-to-end visibility, demand driven logistics practices deliver competitive advantage and solve supply chain challenges for businesses of all sizes, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Supply chain management makes a difference by empowering companies to do more with less, and project a stronger competitive force, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
The cloud-based Real Time Value Network enables trading partners to plan, execute, monitor, and synchronize in real time all of the business processes and events that take place throughout their extended supply chains, says Greg Brady of One Network Enterprises.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton sees the supply chain industry's true colors firsthand.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Shippers must develop clear and effective request for pricing (RFP) processes to secure the best less-than-truckload service. Danny Slaton of SMC3 offers tips for developing better RFPs.
Food Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Monitoring and tracking tools applied to temperature-controlled shipments ensure that perishables in the cold chain maintain the right conditions, protecting food safety and consumer health, and minimizing product shrink.
Advances in consumer technologies such as smartphones and tablets are driving a new generation of rugged mobility innovation for logistics and supply chain applications, writes Tim Eusterman of Intermec Technologies.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Workforce management gives companies the tools they need to improve overall performance – whether they’re looking to cut labor costs, improve productivity, or create better revenue growth and bottom-line profitability, writes Malysa O’Connor of Kronos.
Business Intelligence within the supply chain improves internal efficiencies and accountability while saving time and eliminating costs with metrics-driven decision-making and change management, writes Steve Dowse, International Asset Systems.
Velocity is more important than price for some consumers, perhaps giving some retailers another component to consider as they compete, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Transloading services transfer ocean cargo at port – without sorting it – for shipment to a single destination, such as an inland distribution center.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
The development of new technologies for planning, managing, tracking, and securing shipments never ends, and with new digital options always just around the corner, organizations of all sizes need to stay informed on the latest advances. Pablo Ciano of DHL Express identifies four key business areas where technology makes all the difference.
Modernizing information technology infrastructure helps companies save money and provide better value for their customers, writes Steve Biondi of Micro Focus.
With store replenishment lagging behind sales growth, potato chip maker Golden Flake deployed a mobile inventory-tracking solution from AT&T to provide stock visibility.
Strong forecasting, careful vendor management, solid partnerships with carriers and optimized use of labor and equipment all help retailers manage the year-end holiday rush.
A global trade management (GTM) solution can automate the process of comparing total landed costs, providing shippers with full visibility into all associated costs and regulations.
Shippers can create a "control tower" view within their own supply chains—a common platform for aggregating, cleansing, and communicating real-time data.
Shippers and business logistics professionals can easily use bar codes rather than ink stamps to ensure fresh food items are delivered to customers, writes Mark Croxton of Aldata.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Cloud-based supply chain networks allow for real-time data sharing among companies, but rely on high-quality data for effectiveness, writes Greg Kefer of GT Nexus.
Predictive analytics provides large volumes of data to help logistics managers match demand to supply, making predictive analytics a competitive weapon in demand-driven supply chains.
Export, Supply Chain Management
To successfully manage export compliance, companies must fully understand export regulations and filing requirements, advises Scott Byrnes, Amber Road.
As senior supply chain manager at blood management devices manufacturer Haemonetics Corporation, Emily Ross monitors the pulse of the company’s transportation and warehousing services sourcing.
Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Greyhound partners with One Network to enhance parcel delivery business. Truck driver turnover increases,Urban Outfitters equips Nevada e-fulfillment center with state-of-the-art materials handling system. Shippers turn to spot market to find capacity and compare carrier rates. MSC Beatrice debut in Asia-U.S. trade signals new wave of larger containerships.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba invests in logistics to support online shopping growth; Jamaica looks to transform economy with the development of a global logistics hub; Vietnam faces a dearth of logistics talent and expertise; China grants licenses to UPS and FedEx to provide parcel delivery services in select cities; China Airlines Cargo joins SkyTeam Cargo alliance; Germany debuts JadeWeserPort amid slack container volume growth
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain managers should work closely with compliance professionals and corporate tax specialists when making decisions about related-party transactions, writes J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
While many factors influence customer loyalty, a well-run returns process has proven to drive repeat orders and improve consumer satisfaction. Paul Galpin of P2P Mailing outlines three points companies should consider when designing their reverse logistics.
Lean concepts such as 5S, Visual Workplace, and Kanban help reduce motion waste to create safer, more efficient workplaces.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Transload facilities find great benefits from Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions that deploy quickly, and easily integrate with existing systems to provide seamless inventory and operations management, and network transport coordination, says Erv Bluemner of RMI.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Carriers can stand out in the market by providing superior shipment tracking that gives shippers and supply chain partners insight into order status, says Gregory Bellows of Trans-i Technologies.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Labor management systems help distribution centers and warehouse facilities monitor and measure worker performance to identify problems and improvement opportunities.
An open business planning platform allows business planners, partners, and others to build simple apps that enhance their master Sales & Operations Planning system to adapt their S&OP process for unique – and changing – needs, writes Nari Viswanathan, Steelwedge Software.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management
Risk management strategies must address the everyday sources of supply chain disruption, and managers must incorporate the identification of potential supply chain risk into their daily practices, writes Mark Humphlett, Infor.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
By managing supply chain interdependencies and adopting a full view of service and cost, supply chain executives can amplify their organizational scope and heighten their financial contribution to attain the C-designation they deserve, writes Terry Harris, Chicago Consulting.
Mobile trucking communications technology signals new productivity gains for truckers, and helps improve truck driver safety.
Far-flung warehouses in remote western Canada created mobile device upgrade issues for wholesaler Federated Co-operatives Limited, but remote support solutions from Wavelink provided instant access and facilitated an upgrade to Psion Omnii handheld computers.
To move ahead of competitors, it is critical that organizations collaborate using electronic, real-time information sharing, merged from multiple partners in a single actionable environment, says John Reichert of TECSYS Inc.
Once cost-prohibitive to all but the largest enterprises, warehouse management systems (WMS) are now available to small and mid-sized companies, offering benefits such as improved inventory accuracy and labor savings, says Ralph Hess, N’Ware Technologies.
Choosing the right warehouse management system (WMS) for your business requires a firm understanding of its needs and processes, says Kevin Reader of Invata Intralogistics.
Choosing the right mobile powered workstations for your warehouse or distribution center will energize your workforce, and deliver improved accuracy and efficiency, writes Christine Wheeler, Newcastle Systems.
Mobile applications give carriers and shipper instant access to transportation management system (TMS) data, resulting in improved supply chain visibility, write Mike Skinner of VistaLogix Global.
Help vendors comply with your routing guide by including carrier contact information and other relevant freight shipping details, says Harold B. Friedman of Data2Logistics.
To better define analytics and develop better analytics strategies, consider the three different types of analytics: descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive. IBM’s Michael Watson explains each type.
E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail
Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.
Faced with workflow inefficiencies, paper distributor and converter Roosevelt Paper implemented an automated data collection system from solutions provider Intermec that transformed its shipping and storage operations.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
New international supply chain optimization tools are capable of considering all appropriate shipment flows, modes, routes, and cargo to come up with an ideal workable plan – as often as needed and anytime things change.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Many companies, including Kimberly-Clark, Ebro, and USG Corporation, are moving beyond the traditional, transactional shipper-3PL relationship to form collaborative partnerships focused on mutual gain.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
Routing guides are a vital part of successfully managing inbound shipments. A clear, concise routing guide helps vendors meet your specifications for inbound transportation.
New publications on supply chain and logistics topics such as warehousing, sustainability, and procurement help logistics professionals stay sharp. Here are some recent books on supply chain topics of interest.
Information technology tools provide actionable data for supply chain improvements, cost efficiencies, on-time performance, and customer satisfaction, says Gary Neeves, Regal Logistics.
For both third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and retailers, investing in a technology partner that supports customization and flexibility at a moderate cost is a strategy for long-term adaptability and growth, says Chandra Allred of PSCTrac.
Companies are increasingly realizing that supply chain must become a core competency. Adding a supply chain control tower and taking on the fourth-party logistics (4PL) role offers them the ability to accelerate collaboration and achieve higher performance levels.
Door manufacturer The WHITING Group replaced siloed systems with integrated ERP, ushering in transparency and real-time decision-making across its multiple divisions.
Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
John Haber, founder and CEO of consulting firm Spend Management Experts, offers tips for managing freight costs wisely.
Land O’Lakes focuses on workplace culture to improve supply chain yield; Fuel consumption major concern for management,less so for drivers; Gartner poses four supply chain predictions for 2016
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Supply chain visibility is a valuable result of trading partner collaboration, writes Bobby Kaemmer, Cadre Technologies. On-demand and cloud-based solutions can help supply chain partners share data.
Yard management systems (YMS) help prioritize shipment arrivals, identify trailer contents, reduce the time needed to allocate vehicles to loads, and avoid unnecessary vehicle movements.
Cloud-based business networks are the future of supply chain intelligence; Chemical supply scarcity threatens global auto production; Fuel costs eat into transportation revenues; Organizations should consider insurance options to mitigate supply chain risk and improve resiliency
With proper care and nurturing, you can create a supply chain that performs beautifully – even in the midst of today’s ever-changing business environment, writes Wendy Buxton, LynnCo Supply Chain Solutions.
Capturing and analyzing transportation spend data is the key to outstanding supply chain management, writes Steven Shoemaker, RateLinx.
Trucking load boards have evolved from bulletin boards in truck stops to sophisticated social networking-style tools on handheld computers. Charles Myers of uShip.com outlines the benefits of the evolved load board.
By highlighting the differences between an organization’s performance and a comparative reference standard, benchmarks can identify improvement opportunities and identify activities required to achieve superior performance.
Tablets offer several advantages over notebook computers and handheld devices, says Chris Wright, DRS Technologies.
Warehouse managers are using a mix of consumer-grade smartphone technology and rugged mobile devices to optimize their workflow, says Laura Kelleher of Honeywell.
Developing a customized warehouse management system (WMS) was a collaborative process for packaged food products direct-sales company Tastefully Simple and technology provider Softeon.
Logistics technology is a source of competitive advantage, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Software solutions can help shippers maximize value recovery from inbound shipments of returned material, writes Tamara Dwyer of TAKE Solutions.
Many ERP vendors have added full-blown supply chain management functionality to their solution suites. Here’s a look at some of their offerings, and at two large companies that are reaping the benefits.
Inbound Logistics' annual logistics technology market research report delivers exclusive insights on logistics technology trends, and reveals this year's best-in-class vendors.
New logistics technology makes supply chain data accessible around the clock, says Tom Heine, Aljex Software.
Supply chain executives must think differently about their logistics processes, and implement multi-party technology that gives them and their logistics partners greater control of the supply chain, says Chris Jones of Descartes.
Global logistics technology enables companies to successfully manage all modes of transportation under a common umbrella while providing complete visibility, says Chris Johnson, LeanLogistics.
Having better supply chain visibility improves a business’s ability to sense and react to change faster and more efficiently, says Scott Fenwick of Manhattan Associates.
Using actionable data provided by key performance indicators (KPIs), businesses can automate shipping decisions and identify areas for improvement, writes Steven Shoemaker of Ratelinx.
Lean, Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Using lean components as a foundation for labor management is a powerful way to increase productivity and reduce costs in a warehouse or distribution center, according to Ryder Supply Chain Solutions’ Jeff Boudreau.
A well-implemented enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution can help manufactures remain agile in the ever-changing, volatile economy, with its decreased spending, increased competition, and changing regulations, says Erik Kaas of Sage.
Transportation network modeling isn’t necessary for operations, but it’s an invaluable tool for strategic supply chain decision-making and risk mitigation, writes TMW Systems' Mike Kositzky.
Collaborative trade communities enable supply chains to react more quickly to strategy changes that are needed to keep the corporation competitive as it reacts market shifts, says Bryn Heimbeck, Trade Tech Inc.
Strategic and practical use of the right supply chain technologies enables sharp pricing competitiveness, creates better customer experiences, reduces expenses, and raises productivity, says Les Hamashima, Transite Technology.
Cross-border Trade, Transportation Management, Trucking
Electronics manufacturer Siemens switches from air freight to over-the-road transport for cross-border shipments from Mexico to the United States and Canada, cutting 35 percent from its transportation costs thanks to CFI Logistica.
China, Supply Chain Management
U.S. businesses operating in China face a number of challenges. Angela Yang of Penske Logistics Asia offers advice on supporting your business’ China operations.
Customer Service, Partnership, Transportation Management
Small companies face challenges in meeting the rules set out in vendor requirements manuals. Best practices help them comply with retailers’ supplier requirements successfully.
Insurance, Ocean, Supply Chain Management
Incoterms are an internationally accepted set of standard commercial terms used between buyers and sellers. J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road helps shippers understand these rules.
People are a vital component of marketing - the fifth P - supporting products and companies with advanced logistics and supply chain management skills, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
New e-commerce sites like Groupon and LivingSocial can bring huge sales volume in a very short period of time by reaching a targeted audience with appealing offers. Tod Yazdi of TAGGlogistics explains how shippers can work with fulfillment partners to make the most of this new opportunity.
Logistics can now be aligned with supply chain and manufacturing through solutions that create daily transportation need forecasts by lane/mode/carrier. Robert F. Byrne of Terra Technology outlines the benefits.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Today's supply chain professionals are tough, practical, and undeterred by the specter of failure, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses supply chain integration, citing articles from the January 2012 Logistics Planner issue.
Choosing an enterprise resource planning (ERP) vendor that addresses flexibility, scalability, and upgrade and maintenance costs can help provide a smooth solution implementation. David F. Ross of APICS, The Association for Operations Management, offers his advice on selecting the right ERP system.
In strategic supply chain analysis, multiple groups of decision makers may have conflicting interests, since there can be an impact across departments and business units. Aaron Baker of Damco USA offers two global supply chain strategy examples that illustrate the decision makers and decision variables needed to ensure the chosen solution is optimal for the business.
Companies require a logistics technology platform and an integrated set of services that can adapt to the pressures of a changing market, writes Glenn Riggs of Odyssey Logistics & Technology.
Supply chain trends for 2012; update on transportation issues in California, Washington, Kentucky, and South Dakota; reverse logistics helps retailers generate customer goodwill and create demand; airport warehousing demand soars; FAA regulations limit pilot flight time; Coca-Cola extends its environmental stewardship; Trucking industry responds to Hours-of-Service legislation
Food Logistics, Logistics I.T., Risk Management
Retailers can implement technology and processes to increase traceability and gain greater visibility into their supply chain, which helps track and retrieve products in the event of a product recall, writes Brendan Lowe, Aldata Solution.
Ice cream distributor Berliner scoops up savings with an automated direct store delivery solution that helps drivers manage customer information collected along their routes.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation Management
When baseball cap maker New Era’s business growth hit critical mass, it realigned its distribution operations, fusing Menlo Worldwide Logistics’ outsourced solutions with its global supply chain.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
With companies intent on optimizing the supply chain, purchasing managers have emerged as key players in the business plan. To be successful, they need to communicate, collaborate, and venture into new territory.
Forklifts, Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Vehicle management systems allow lift truck operators to complete pre-operation checklists electronically, saving valuable production time, writes Joe LaFergola of The Raymond Corporation.
Shippers can protect their supply chains against rising fuel costs by optimizing distribution networks, creating a flexible infrastructure, and managing shipping practices.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Warehousing
Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.
Health Care Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Organizations all along the healthcare supply chain are taking a dose of smarter procurement and logistics practices to cure high costs and treat ailments in other areas of the business.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology helps transportation and logistics organizations gain visibility into their global supply chains and boost return on investment (ROI), writes Ralph Lieberthal, Motorola Solutions.
Air cargo security requires aggressive international mandate and top-down focus on identity verification and data analysis, writes Steve Vinsik of Unisys Corporation.
Expedited Shipping, Logistics I.T.
Logistics technology helps turbo-charged expedited carriers move freight for shippers with an extreme need for speed. Con-way Truckload, FedEx Custom Critical, Old Dominion Freight Line, Schneider National, and UPS share their perspectives.
The variety of cargoes that fly in and out of Alaska—ranging from time-sensitive medical supplies and oil field equipment to perishable seafood—means companies must identify specific shipment needs and align them with asset and service requirements.
Unpredictable consumer habits, the economic downturn, and limited ocean carrier capacity have transformed the traditional peak shipping season. Now shippers are preparing for a new reality: peak season variability.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Plumbing fixture manufacturer TOTO Global Group’s U.S. division tapped third-party logistics provider Transplace to benchmark its truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal freight spend.
Ellen Fontaine, VASCOR Ltd, offers advice for boosting supply chain efficiency.
Tom Heine, CEO, Aljex Software Inc., explains how application programming interfaces (APIs) enrich software users’ experience by connecting them to Web tools.
Leading wholesalers understand the limitation of planning transportation in a silo, writes Manhattan Associates’ Mike Mulqueen.
A combination of factors such as increased competition and global security threats have increased the pressure on companies to improve logistics efficiencies. Page Siplon, executive director, Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics, addresses these factors and offers strategies for handling them.
Viewing order management as an opportunity to add value ensures that 3PLs act as a partner that adds real revenue-side value, and not just another vendor, writes Clyde Mount, 3PL Worldwide.
Cross-border Trade, Security, Supply Chain Management
If your business plans include shipping to areas where civil unrest or natural disasters have occurred, be flexible and make strong connections, advises Larry Wenrich, Pilot Freight Services.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
With the improved visibility supplied by transportation management systems, shippers can leverage shipment data internally to generate top-line revenue, says Geoff Comrie, Transite Technology.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Transportation procurement provides the greatest opportunity to create efficiency in the the Logistics Management Lifecycle, says Martin Hubert, Freightgate.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
A comprehensive supply chain labor management solution that automates processes such as hiring, time, and attendance, and scheduling can help control costs, minimize compliance risk, and improve productivity, says Malysa O'Connor, Kronos.
Capable third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help you manage rising logistics costs because they have highly developed processes and critical infrastructures in place, writes Brad Constantini, Comprehensive Logistics.
Since the events of September 11, the public and private sectors have committed themselves to developing new supply chain security technologies.
Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Vehicle glass manufacturer Safelite increased distribution efficiency, enhanced customer service, and lowered costs by transforming its supply chain.
Faced with processing more than 63,000 orders each year, the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission turned to Aldata’s merchandizing optimization and demand-based replenishment.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Carrier-supplied data can provide valuable insight for writing contracts, but shippers who want to pave the way to strong business relationships must dig deeper.
Steve Ford, CFO of TradeCard, outlines strategies for enlisting your chief financial officer’s support for supply chain initiatives.
Most ports today compete globally with one another and reflect tremendous productivity gains in ocean transport achieved in recent decades. Simon Kaye of Jaguar Freight offers tips on choosing a port with electronic and data processing sophistication.
Restaurant chains squeeze costs out of the supply chain; TMW Systems acquires Appian Logistics; CPG companies pushed to adopt extended producer responsibility programs
These elements of good supply chain management must come together to achieve exceptional execution, according to John Williford of Ryder Global Supply Chain Solutions.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Security
Equipping shipments with container security devices (CSDs) can help expedite inspections, decrease insurance premiums, and minimize supply chain disruptions. Jim Giermanski of Powers Global Holdings outlines the benefits of CSDs.
Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.
RFID technologies allow computers, objects, and individuals to interact in new ways, supplying logistics providers and materials handlers with predictable and actionable data to enhance their service offerings and operations, explains Ravi Pappu of ThingMagic.
Distribution, Transportation Management
Colgate took more than four million miles out of its network while handling five percent more cases of product – and even managed to cut logistics costs, sharing the savings with customers and suppliers.
Global Economy, Logistics I.T.
Globally interconnected supply chains face challenges such as natural disasters and currency fluctuations, but benefit from the latest logistics technology.
Finance, Supply Chain Management
Innovative supply chain management delivers financial benefits to your bottom line.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Cloud-based multi-tenant supply chain technology solutions help companies achieve better execution, visibility, cost savings, and collaboration with trading partners across the supply chain.
The amount of effort top-tier shippers put into carrier management directly affects the results they achieve in controlling parcel transportation costs, writes Harold Friedman of Data2Logistics.
Rick Pontin, CEO of Airclic, explains how to improve inventory management through better visibility.
To be operationally flexible, freight forwarders need one “go-to" resource for information about what is in the shipment pipeline as well as quick access to customer and shipment data.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T.
As volumes increase and deadlines get shorter, it’s imperative that logistics software systems have out-of-the-box communication with other companies using the same system, and easy setup of communications with companies using other systems.
Global Economy, Supply Chain Management
Man-made disruptions and natural disasters have a radiating effect on global supply chains. Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses ways of coping.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Charlie Hitt, 3PD Inc., offers tips for implementing a successful core carrier program.
Amazon closes Texas distribution facility over sales tax dispute; Robert Guenther of United Fresh Produce Association comments on FDA Food Safety Modernization Act; U.S. General Services Administration rolls out green guidelines for government suppliers; Crossdocking use is on the rise
To successfully manage multi-brand and multi-channel selling, retailers need to optimize customer order fulfillment across all brands and channels, writes Jim Bengier of Sterling Commerce.
Global Economy, Transportation Management
John Haber, NPI, outlines five market concerns that will have the biggest impact on shipper spending in the near future.
Cross-Docking, Supply Chain Management
Companies can benchmark their way to crossdocking success by following these five steps recommended by Andre Thornton, President and CEO, ASW Global LLC.
Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo cites real-world cases of supply chain gains, including Del Monte Foods, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and National Starch.
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton reflects on the magazine's January 2011 coverage of supply chain gains.
Chris Baltz of Transportation Insight explains how the right 3PL partner can help you achieve competitive advantage and dominate your market.
Outsource your way to a more efficient supply chain by selecting a knowledgeable and resourceful third-party logistics provider.
Green Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Sustainability efforts can help companies grow more efficient supply chains.
Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Strategic transportation management puts shippers on the road to increased fuel economy and improved asset utilization.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Security, Warehousing
Industry experts explain how to avoid threats to warehoused goods, conduct a global security assessment, and benefit from renewed government and private sector attention to supply chain security initiatives.
Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain Management
To roll out a supply chain overhaul, truck and engine manufacturer Navistar chose third-party logistics provider Menlo as its strategic partner. Ed Melching, director, Global Logistics, describes the project.
A look at supply chain stimuli that have left their mark on logistics over the past decade; cautious pessimism pervades NITL Conference; companies improve supply chain operations, signaling economic optimism among manufacturers; longtime cotton merchandiser Dunavant switches focus to providing logistics services; Ernst & Young reports growing demand for supplier sustainability efforts; Automotive Industry Action Group issues new communication guidelines to help ocean shippers prevent waste and errors
3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management
Logistics providers who work to understand shippers' needs help create customer service success, as illustrated by case studies involving Pep Boys, McCain Foods, and USG Corporation.
Air Cargo, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management
U.S. Department of Transportation pursues ban on cell phone use while driving; Proposed air cargo screening legislation enhances security measures; U.S. retailers place increased emphasis on supply chain management
Nathan Pieri of Management Dynamics provides tips for reducing logistics costs through improved supply chain management.
Expedited Shipping, Transportation Management
Shippers must consider multiple factors when they work with service providers to move expedited freight.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail
A Direct-to-Store Delivery (DSD) delivery model helps consumer goods manufacturers gain speed and increase inventory turns.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Electronic data interchange (EDI) technology and infrastructure is adapting to help businesses more quickly and accurately share information within the corporation and across the supply chain.
Transaction and shipment exceptions are common, so businesses must be able to account for these variables by enabling a proactive supply chain.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Selecting a new transportation management solution (TMS), whether fully outsourced, hosted, or internally installed, requires much due diligence to pair functional need with strategic vision.
Air Cargo, Transportation Management, Transportation Infrastructure
Moving cargo by air in Alaska requires expertise in transportation and logistics management.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
Leo Espinoza of Korn/Ferry International discusses qualities companies look for in supply chain executives.
3PL, Economic Development, Utilities, Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Here is a look at the attributes that rank high on the list for any company seeking a location for supply chain activities.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
Air Cargo, Ocean, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
U.S. transportation spending lags, according to Transportation Performance Indexes; International air cargo traffic increases; Ocean volumes rise; Large corporations band together to help smaller suppliers sell goods and services to global companies.
Partnership, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Chandler Hall of BravoSolution explains how to reduce the frequency and severity of disruptions by fostering collaborative relationships with your suppliers.
Education & Careers, Forklifts, Ocean, Materials Handling, Ports, Supply Chain Management
Gulf ports maintain container volumes despite Deepwater Horizon oil spill; Supply chain leaders climb the corporate ladder; Toyota Material Handling engineers work with MIT scientists and the U.S. Army to develop a remote-operated fork lift
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing
Here's the story of one consumer product, starting with its origin as a variety of inbound ingredients and following its progress from plant to warehouse to retail store.
3PL, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.
Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics, Distribution, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Intermodal, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
21st annual State of Logistics Report: Beating the Recession; Making dollars and Sense out of Jabulanis and Vuvuzelas; Mergers and Acquisitions Show signs of Recovery
Recent books shed light on various aspects of supply chain, logistics, and transportation management.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.
To move your business along the road to supply chain improvement, take a journey down these 10 paths to innovation.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Supply chain strategies built around software-as-a-service (SaaS) or Cloud computing eliminate many headaches that often come with supply chain investments. They eliminate the need for presence overseas, cut the time spent integrating systems across internal departments, and greatly reduce the time spent integrating with hundreds of partners and suppliers.
It is interesting to witness the changes that have occurred in transportation purchasing. For one, the annual bid mentality is gone. With access and visibility to posting boards, SaaS transportation networks, and optimization technologies, transportation procurement has evolved to the point where it is truly a continuous management function.
Manual data inputs. Multiple data sources. Data latency. Point-to-point interfaces. These are just a few key obstacles to achieving supply chain visibility. But, there are solutions available that deliver visibility and intelligence as a service with process, security, and environmental monitoring.
Third-party logistics providers that use advanced planning tools to model complex routing operations and streamline the bid process have a significant advantage in both demonstrating results and helping clients cut costs. When they cut modeling time to a fraction of what it was, and utilize new tools, 3PLs can uncover opportunities and quickly implement changes that provide benefit for their clients.
Globally sourced, private label products allow merchants to maximize margins while maintaining price points, ensuring a good return on investment. But sourcing product globally is complex. By focusing on visibility, intelligence and collaboration, retailers, brand owners and wholesalers who globally source private label products can ensure a successful return on investment.
Sometimes it's easier than you think to find hidden profits in your warehouse or transportation operations. Many successful companies are doing more with less by simply optimizing their slotting practices, pick paths, truckloads and delivery routes.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.
Global shoe retailer ALDO implements a high-stepping, end-to-end inventory and distribution system.
China, Supply Chain Management
Learn five strategies for keeping your Far East concerns running smoothly.
A lean manufacturing value chain sometimes carries the risk of falling behind demand, as John Deere discovered, but the alternative can be worse, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Zebra Technologies' David Phillips explains how eliminating excess work-in-process waste improves your supply chain.
Inbound Logistics' April 2010 issue presents a fully integrated editorial lineup that embraces different perspectives of the logistics technology space.
Growing companies harness a variety of IT solutions to help them maintain outstanding performance.
Jason Howton, TAKE Supply Chain, outlines strategies for achieving best-in-class crossdocking performance.
LeanLogistics' Chris Timmer explains how collaborating with trading partners, aided by an on-demand transportation management system, helps increase supply chain efficiencies.
Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
Technology-enabled global trade management offers significant benefits for improving supply chain efficiency and increasing profitability, writes Don Mabry of ClearTrack Information Network.
Jim Caudill of Xterprise recommends strategies for matching retail demand to supply, enhancing enterprise scalability, and increasing supply chain efficiencies through sustainability initiatives.
Sharing key information with all parties can lead to decreased waste, increased orders, and new business, writes J. Kenneth Hazen, CTSI-Global.
Rich Wilson of CombineNet Inc. explains the value of strong shipper-carrier relationships.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Ongoing cooperation with value chain partners is possible with integrated transportation management software for optimal resource utilization, business efficiencies, and cost control, writes Scott Vanselous, TMW Systems Inc.
Fleet optimization software helps you maximize driver, vehicle, and fleet productivity while delivering superior customer service, writes Steve Brown, Intergis LLC.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Tim Higham of Interstate Transport Inc. predicts that within a few years, many service providers will be offering free TMS technology to help their shipper customers move more freight.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
As different countries implement both security and trade-led initiatives around the world, it is critical to improve global regulatory knowledge and visibility, writes Tom Barnes of Integration Point Inc.
Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
A global trade management system can help support foreign trade zone operations, whether distributing from or manufacturing within the zone, writes Wayne Slossberg of QuestaWeb Inc.
Technology providers identify the transportation and logistics challenges facing shippers; Johnson & Johnson upgrades its quality assurance and supply chain systems
Benchmarking before negotiating carrier rates can be a money-saving opportunity, writes Niko Michas of BridgeNet Solutions.
Proper management and execution are key to a successful RFID implementation project for shipment tracking, according to Scott Thomas of Intel.
Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Online haberdasher Bonobos relies on its third-party fulfillment partner, Quiet Logistics, which operates warehousing facilities with Kiva's robotics materials handling solution.
Tim Richards of States Logistics Services offers advice on using Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social networking sites to enhance your supply chain.
A logistician's resilience is valuable when opportunities are ripe, but it's invaluable when problems persist, writes Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton.
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly's supply chain travelogue details a year spent visiting logistics and transportation sites and businesses around the country.
Industry experts explain the source of some common misperceptions regarding supply chain and logistics lexicon.
Smart companies are using the recession to address supply chain inefficiencies so they will be ready for the economic rebound, writes Kurt Cavano of TradeCard.
To optimize transportation management into the supply chain, it's critical to integrate transportation management best practices, process management and people across the entire supply chain, writes Geoff Comrie of Transite Technology.
Asia Pacific companies can implement sophisticated supply chain management solutions quickly and effectively via cloud computing, creating visibility to generate logistics business intelligence data.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Co-loading truckload and less-than-truckload shipments can reduce transportation costs, lead times, and shipment damage.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
That's right, if you work in the supply chain management field, and have a decade or so until you retire, it's time to dust off your resume and consider other career paths. That's according to a Harvard Business Review article. Let's do an autopsy.
Food Logistics, Demand Planning, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in on the Popeyes chicken sandwich shortage: Was it a supply chain miss or a marketing ploy?
E-commerce, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Escalade Sports transforms supply chain to capture e-commerce growth, improve customer service levels, and better manage inventory and demand planning.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Technology
LANXESS, a global specialty chemicals supplier, selected Odyssey Logistics & Technology to track multiple assets for four business units that provide products across 33 countries.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Readers reveal the supply chain moves that can let brick-and-mortar retailers compete with Amazon.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
To gain visibility to the location and condition of their shipments, no matter where in the world they might be, and no matter the transport mode, RFS turned to a solution from Tive Inc. that combines a tracker and software.
Manufacturing, Partnership, Transportation Management
The world’s leading provider of receipt and innovative label solutions turned to GlobalTranz to create visibility, enhance communications, and fully merge acquired businesses.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Regardless of the method a shipper or consignee chooses to take, consolidation is an easy way to get quick wins for your supply chain.
Transportation Management, Technology , Transportation
Transportation is evolving rapidly, thanks to supply chain technology powered by data and analytics. Digitization is driving big changes that can help meet the pace of change.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Why supply chain managers need to stop using the word backhaul and simply refer to them as loads.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers reveal the parts of the supply chain that should gain more notice.
Retail, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
The baby products category is one of the most highly regulated in the world. Rigorous testing and certification are designed to protect the smallest humans from injury and illness caused by everything from loose parts that could cause choking to flammable fabrics or toxic materials. In addition to intense regulation, manufacturers must deal with consumer preferences that change almost as quickly as a parent can diaper a baby.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
If a transportation route, supplier, customer, or other essential supply chain partner is located in an area at high risk for hurricanes, then your business could risk a major disruption.
Logistics I.T., Security, Technology
Transportation and logistics companies recognize they must strengthen their approaches to cybersecurity but are not yet taking the practical steps to safeguard their industrial IoT deployments
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Growth presents some new and sometimes unique challenges to overcome, regardless of your industry. Here’s how to optimize your supply chain during a growth period.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Better manage your yard operations with this comprehensive guide. We showcase the providers and systems leading the market.
Expedited Shipping, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
By utilizing nVision Global’s Impact TMS, a shipper saved more than €34,000,000 by avoiding expedited freight costs. The company improved transportation planning, optimization capabilities, workflow management, and exception handling.
3PL, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The variety of transportation management systems available can make it difficult for shippers to target the solution that is the best fit for their organization. Experts say companies should strive to identify the features that will support their unique operation rather than falling into the trap of chasing options that will not provide a useful impact. The process for selecting a TMS should be marked by disciplined decision-making and a focus on the business case.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Robot maker e-Novia is testing a self-driving delivery system in Japan to service the areas hit by the 2011 Fukushima earthquake.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Track & trace data allows for the shipping process to move smoothly and expectedly and provides opportunities for remedies when things don’t go smoothly.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Knowing how to quickly set up and configure supply chain technology so the solutions work for individual customers is the key to getting the most flexible and powerful performance from industry leading package applications.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Inbound Logistics' annual survey highlights key trends in the supply chain technology market and shines a light on the brightest and most innovative providers.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Successfully tapping into Alaska’s growth depends on the perseverance, innovation, efficiency, and resources of logistics providers whose experience has withstood the test of time and travel in this most extraordinary state.
Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The latest news and trends impacting the steel supply chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
This article profiles Bernice Cannon, supply chain manager with Nouryon Pulp and Performance Chemicals, LLC, a global leader in specialty chemicals and formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.
Lean Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
It is possible to anticipate and plan for future omnichannel retail challenges by following these four rules.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New and noteworthy in the supply chain.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation
Shippers experienced a range of supply chain challenges in 2018, according to results from Averitt Express' fourth annual State of the North American Supply Chain survey.
Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail
Canada is still ahead of the United States when it comes to Buy Online Pickup In-Store (BOPIS) options.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
10 tips to help shippers become a “shipper of choice” in today’s logistics marketplace.
Supply Chain, Security, Supply Chain Management
One of the biggest issues that will quickly come to the forefront in 2019 is cybersecurity for the supply chain.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Readers weigh in on whether the USPS should go private.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Logistics and supply chain jobs, by the numbers.
Logistics, Transportation Management, Transportation
The University of Wisconsin-Superior is located on the shore of Lake Superior where a major international transportation hub serves world markets using all five modes of transportation. But it isn’t just the location that makes the University of Wisconsin-Superior’s undergraduate Transportation and Logistics Management (T&L) program unique.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
SMC³, the transportation industry’s leading authority for LTL data, technology and supply chain education, is developing the industry’s only LTL certification program.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A profile of Jennifer Daniel, head of global logistics for Redbubble, an online marketplace that connects independent artists of graphic design, fine art, or photography with customers.
Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
Economic performance is the top-ranking corporate sustainability priority for the majority of organizations, reveals a global survey of supply chain decision makers. When directly asked whether profitability or sustainability is more important, however, 60 percent give equal priority to these objectives, with another 25 percent leaning towards sustainability.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology
Two-thirds (66 percent) of retail store associates believe that if they are equipped with tablets, they could provide better customer service and improve the shopping experience, according to the results of Zebra Technologies Corporation's 11th annual Global Shopper Study, which analyzes the attitudes, opinions, and expectations of shoppers, retail associates, and retail decision makers.
Automotive Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
It is helpful to understand consumer behavior when crafting efficient supply chains. Ford's 7th annual Trends Report, which analyzes consumer behavior based on interviews with more than 13,000 people across 14 countries, provides some insight.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The current emphasis on supply chain performance is not going to go away once the back-and-forth sparring of tariffs and retributions have been resolved. Supply chain management will continue to play an important role in obtaining raw resources in a timely, efficient manner. A non-interrupted flow of materials is a necessity to meet customer expectations and remain competitive.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
By improving its business intelligence and more quickly addressing supply chain issues with the help of Transplace, Del Monte has been able to optimize its network and reduce overall transportation spend.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
Profile of Mark Baker, chief technology officer of Pilot Freight Services.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
When first engaging in a partnership, shippers and their logistics providers identify a desired outcome and work collaboratively to deliver on those promises. In order to achieve the desired ROI and deliver on the promises made during the sales process, both parties need daily activities to align with that objective.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A profile of Denise Kopko, vice president of operations—commercial, supply chain and logistics, with Veolia North America, an environmental services company focused on designing and providing water, waste and energy management solutions for commercial, municipal and industrial customers.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Amway India boosted warehouse efficiency and accuracy by deploying JDA’s warehouse management solutions.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
A profile of Lori Fellmer, vice president of logistics and carrier management with BassTech International.
Labor Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
Health Care Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Leadership profile of Chris Cassidy, president of global healthcare logistics strategy, UPS.
E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There’s a lot of interest in the industry right now regarding advanced technologies like blockchain and AI and the benefits they could bring to logistics operations – and with good reason. But, for all the promise these appear to hold, there are proven enhancement-focused tools already available – in particular, scorecards – that supply chain managers should take full advantage right now to ensure optimized performance across all supply chain functions.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation
Trinity Logistics was chosen as crop protection products maker Albaugh’s single-service logistics provider because of its people-centric transportation solutions, combining transportation technology and an expert team dedicated to freight optimization.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
An M&A creates an opportunity to derive significant supply chain value. It requires logistics managers to establish partnerships and develop organizational processes that increase operational excellence. Here are 6 supply chain optimization strategies for success.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation
Inefficiencies at the dock can cause long lines of trucks outside a warehouse, congestion on access roads, delayed deliveries and long driver wait times, all with the potential of accruing steep detention fees. European logistics managers deal with these inefficiencies—resulting from space constraints and too few docks for trucks—on a regular basis.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
Tracking shipments independent of the carrier or mode of transport provides you with analytics that help you cut through the noise and make sense of the data to improve operational efficiencies.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
With e-commerce giants fueling a spike in shipping volumes, to stay competitive logistics companies need to increase efficiency, while reducing costs.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Creating an ongoing logistics/supply chain technology investment strategy can radically advance supply chain efficiency. In a growing economy, it’s essential.
Customer Service, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Here’s how to navigate disruptions in the supply chain and turn them into new opportunities.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
These can't-events dive into the latest innovations and top-of-mind challenges facing supply chain professionals. Come for the insightful perspectives and stay for the thought-provoking discussions.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The current U.S. administration is not averse to disruption, and risk professionals in the supply chain and logistics sector need to be prepared to manage political and regulatory unknowns. Here's how.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
Here are 10 supply chain threats and trends to look out for.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Now that the ELD Mandate has taken effect, grabbing an ELD device off the shelf may seem like a quick and effective fix. It’s not. Here’s what to look for and avoid when making this critical selection.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chain collaboration (SCC) is vital for companies to make critical decisions quickly and outpace the competition. But, are the key concepts of collaboration a current reality or a myth? This article breaks them down.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology
Many companies handle supply chain anomalies with reactive planning systems, but this approach leaves them vulnerable to disruption. One new approach to dealing with supply chain uncertainty is to use machine learning to predict what might go wrong.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Managing transportation has become increasingly challenging as customers grow more demanding and the driver shortage constrains capacity. Consider these three innovations, which can deliver short-term return on investment:
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The inaugural 2018 CSCMP/Penske Young Professionals Survey sheds light on what young professionals are looking for in a career. Understanding their motivators is key to solving the supply chain talent gap.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Finance, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain managers face many types of risk on a daily basis—cargo theft, natural disasters, long lead times, and unpredictable demand. But none is currently at an inflection point quite like debt.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
Lean Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
It’s worthwhile to consider the push/pull boundaries already in place at your company and where they should be to best serve your customers–and shareholders–in the future.
Careers, Education, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
IL Editor Felecia Stratton was lucky to get an annual glimpse into the future of the logistics workforce—and can say with confidence that we’ll be just fine.
Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.
Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Yone Dewberry, chief supply chain officer, Land O’Lakes
Freight Payment Services, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
With increasing access to data, it can be difficult to hone in on the information relevant to shippers. Here’s how to determine what data to analyze.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Freight is a key part of most companies’ transportation expense. Along with ensuring freight bills are accurate and reflect contracted terms—a key capability—freight payment and audit firms can add even greater value.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Warehouse management systems provide organizations with a boost to their operations and help them keep up with the growing demands of their customers and partners. Still, implementing a WMS is a complex process that requires extensive planning, study and patience. Experts point to a number of key factors to consider when shopping for a system for your organization.
Lean Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
With a pull instead of a push replenishment strategy, golf ball maker Acushnet increased supply chain efficiency.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Most companies rely on static models of the supply chain and wait until a problem occurs. Try predictive planning instead, an AI-based approach designed to avoid surprises in delivery performance and last-minute orders.
Careers, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Transportation Management, Safety
James Welch, CEO of YRC Worldwide, discusses his leadership philosophy.
Import, Export, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Integrating external content is becoming more valuable for companies seeking more automation and real-time control over their supply chain planning and execution functions.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.
Distribution, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Getting a distribution center in shape for a high-volume holiday or seasonal period requires advance planning to make sure all systems work, the facility is properly staffed, and temporary workers are properly trained. Inbound Logistics asked the experts for their holiday preparation advice; they provided these seven commandments that will light the way.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Opportunities that will make a difference in reverse logistics programs, and establishing goals for returns programs.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Grocers will have to transform aggressively and adapt swiftly if they want to avoid the fate of retailers in other segments. They will need to digitize their stores and consumer experiences. Here's how they should optimize their supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Here’s a list of books that will help keep your logistics and supply chain skills sharp.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply chain professionals now have access to more data from more sources than ever before. Here are five ways to utilize data to simplify your supply chain design process:
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
What do supply chain professionals consider their top three priorities in 2017? According to a recent APQC survey, it’s a mix of the old and the new.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management
Lengthy, months-long selection processes are a thing of the past. For roughly two-thirds of shippers, the focus is on improved efficiencies, execution, and visibility. For these companies, a modern TMS can be live and saving money within weeks or even days.
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Warehousing
Supply chain infrastructure is rebuilding itself, below the surface where only logisticians can see it.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Pharmaceutical companies face many challenges. To operate more efficiently manufacturers are turning to labeling to provide an edge in the face of these challenges.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Think of wearable technology as consumer facing? Think again. Wearables one-up handheld devices and have real supply chain implications.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
Recent randomware attacks reveal vulnerabilities in manufacturing, logistics and supply chain security.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The cosmetics industry’s supply chain challenges include an above average number of SKUs, color changes linked to seasons and seasonal collections, products and ingredients requiring a temperature-controlled environment, multiple retail channels, and product trends influenced by celebrities and other taste-makers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
This feature provides examines the supply chain challenges arising from some recent trends in the fashion industry, and looks at how brand owners and retailers are meeting those challenges.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.
Big Data, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Many industries use supply chain analytics to drive insight, make better business decisions and verify or disprove existing models or theories.
Food Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Ashley Tyrner sources fresh organic and natural produce, forms partnerships with farmers, works with shipping companies, and designs produce boxes that customers receive.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
The latest supply chain services and solutions
Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Technology , Supply Chain Management
A quick rundown of notable events, from sealed deals to green initiatives, in the supply chain
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As the supply chain exercises more influence over business outcomes, its managers are rising to top leadership positions. Supply chain pros with sights set on a corner office would do well to expand their skill sets and seek job experiences that prepare them for complexity.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Strategic technology trends have the potential to drive significant disruption and deliver significant opportunity. Enterprise architecture and technology innovation leaders must evaluate these trends to identify opportunities, counter threats, and create competitive advantage
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
From Point A to Point Z, the supply chain provides fertile ground for persistent myths. Whether they concern job qualifications or day-to-day business practices, they merit some serious scrutiny.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
For sellers looking for a new logistics provider, knowing what to look for in a 3PL or ISP — and what to avoid — is difficult, especially for businesses that are trying to make their way in the e-commerce economy.
Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Packaging is a significant element of the supply chain. Optimizing packaging strategy and processes can significantly impact your ability to maintain a smooth and efficient supply chain.
Retail, Supply Chain, Sustainability
This article looks at three companies that aim for environmental sustainability in their operations. It examines their “green” practices and also considers the financial impact of those activities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Pallets, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Regardless of the type of pallet—wood, plastic, composite, or metal—shippers are looking for some essential characteristics to move their goods safely and efficiently.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Sectors such as food and beverage, industrial, and cold storage emphasize using data and metrics to improve efficiency, and loading dock control systems such as Serco Digital Master Control Panels can play a crucial role in that pursuit.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Today’s Tier 1 TMSs can help you get work done faster, cut the need for calls and emails, reduce the number of screens and clicks, and increase your profitability.
Retail Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The latest news and trends impacting the beauty products supply chain
Retail, Supply Chain, Visibility
Boll & Branch promises full comfort with zero chemicals.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers reveal the first action they would take to address the supply chain talent gap.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Four recent independent Artificial Intelligence (AI) advances indicate that self-aware supply chains, or what some are calling cognitive supply chains, may be closer than we think.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To address today’s logistics talent gap, we need to rethink how we rethink the pipeline for talent in our own companies.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Track & trace data allows for the shipping process to move smoothly and expectedly and provides opportunities for remedies when things don’t go smoothly.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The longer the trade tensions between the United States and other countries persist, the more the U.S. agricultural industry needs to rally around containerized soybean shipping to overseas markets.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New supply chain services and solutions
Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Victor Finnegan, president and CEO, American Expediting
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Practical steps that shippers can take to improve their success in securing capacity.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software
Freight Forwarders, Transportation Management, Transportation
Switzerland digs into an ambitious initiative: a vast underground network of tunnels transporting cargo.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Women in logistics need support from their companies to succeed in their careers.
Freight Payment Services, Transportation Management, Transportation
As freight payment processor IPS Worldwide heads to bankruptcy court, shippers are reminded how important it is to be diligent when choosing a freight bill processor.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Even the mighty Walmart is not immune from the challenges of recruiting and retaining qualified drivers.
Education, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
We asked faculty at four academic supply chain management programs to describe elements of a curriculum to prepare students for the supply chain challenges found in businesses today.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
DHL Express has launched DHL Medical Express Service (WMX) between Brazil and the United States for pharmaceutical and clinical research sector shippers.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are among those most impacted by the proliferation of delivery channels over the past several years. To succeed in this changing marketplace, successful CGP businesses are refining factory operations and developing new distribution and transportation models.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
This story examines some of the new models for e-commerce fulfillment that retailers are using today, particularly ones that involve the use of physical stores.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Industry professionals share their best supply chain tips.
Demand Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain
Inbound Logistics continues to provide actionable content to help drive supply chain change.
Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Digital transformation is truly underway in manufacturing. While digital technologies such as cloud, mobile, big data and analytics, and Internet of Things have been industry drivers for years, manufacturers now have high expectations for the business value of technologies that are in earlier stages of adoption.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
A profile of Mark Bakker, head of supply chain operations, Americas, with HP Inc.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
The Search for a Connected Supply Chain
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
The four trends that will have the greatest impact on operations in North America in the coming year, according to DHL Supply Chain.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hub Group generated savings and efficiency for a leading national retailer.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
By developing a more holistic view of company operations, businesses can then turn to the channel community to identify real-world, impactful applications for blockchain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
How the growing millennial market will transform the supply chain sector.
Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management
AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
An interview with Donald Broughton about freight flow and the economy; report details how private investment could improve nation’s aging infrastructure; research finds almost two-thirds of transport organizations are pursuing Industrial IoT to improve environmental footprint; new report finds 75 percent of manufacturing workers don’t harbor concern for their job security amid the rise of new technologies; Port of Baltimore welcomes the largest containership ever to visit Maryland; TECSYS offers five ways to start cutting supply chain costs
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Companies have struggled for many years to manage the growing complexities of their supply chains and go-to-market packaging content. Labeling has become more complicated, and Artwork Management has been challenged to meet an increasing number of demands on a global basis.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Symphony RetailAI, and CPG manufacturers, announced the findings of a benchmark report. The fourth annual study, conducted by Retail Systems Research (RSR) and sponsored by Symphony RetailAI, shows enhanced efficiencies from previous years, but clear room for improvement in fulfillment strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory accuracy and visibility.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
New supply chain services and solutions
Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A retailer or manufacturer who has a clear monitoring program in place will have peace of mind going through this holiday season. When everyone in the supply chain knows exactly what is going to happen if products are damaged, then the groups can work better together to ensure products arrive safely and consumers are happy.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Air Cargo, Freight Forwarders, Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Many traditional airfreight forwarders are remaining relevant by enhancing their online capabilities and expanding the range of supply chain services they offer.
Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Technology is the backbone of today's logistics systems, and shippers want to make the right choices for mission-critical systems.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Here’s how a transportation management system will completely transform the efficiency of your supply chain.
3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With so much at stake this holiday shipping season, retailer suppliers and 3PL partners must have a plan to deal with the inevitable disasters and near disasters.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Nearly two-thirds of retail supply chain professionals struggle with disconnects between systems, finds Symphony RetailAI's Strengthening the Retail Supply Chain survey of North American retailers.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain
The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.
Demand Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain
The second-busiest shopping season (after the holidays) gets ports bustling, retailers scrambling, and consumers wallet-busting.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Home Depot will spend $1.2 billion to overhaul its supply chain to offer faster delivery for consumers and businesses. Walker Sands' 2018 Future of Retail report offers the home improvement retailer some advice:
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply chains should allocate product across today's complex omni-channel networks to fulfill customer demand.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Businesses are increasingly realizing that user experience (UX) correlates closely to user engagement. The implications of a successful UX make it way more than just a satisfaction ranking.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
While many challenges arise from an omnichannel retail strategy, supply chain professionals must rise to the occasion and stay ahead of these changes.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Consumer expectations are becoming increasingly demanding, and matching supply to demand is crucial for any successful supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Consolidating three independent operating companies into one at Smithfield Foods is triggering significant changes in the three organizations’ supply chains. Reducing complexity and improving visibility are not only making supply chain processes more efficient, they’re also saving money and helping the corporation achieve its sustainability goals.
Demand Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain
By 2019 there could be 224 million digital shoppers in the U.S., and according to research by McKinsey, about 70 percent of those shoppers will choose the cheapest form of home delivery. Why? Because of increased consumer preferences and the evolution of warehouse-to-home delivery systems.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
In an increasingly competitive marketplace, advanced analytics is the key to gaining access to hidden insights about your business that can drive growth and improve performance.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The aftermath of the overhaul of U.S. customs admissibility program – Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) – has created a heavier administrative burden on importers, not a lighter one. Find out how it misses the mark in this key area.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Despite its criticality, most companies are very poor at supply chain planning. Here’s a recipe for dealing with complexity and deploying a set of world-class supply chain planning capabilities.
Inventory Management, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
No hype here. These three technological innovations are already enhancing effectiveness, lowering operational costs, and increasing customer satisfaction in supply chain management.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
Blockchain adoption is not as swift as it seems. The industry giants leading the charge are backing closed, permission-based blockchain initiatives, which are bound to limit their effectiveness in the long run. Here’s how to unleash the full potential of blockchain.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Robotic process automation is redrawing the logistics landscape, bringing productivity gains that are compounded across thousands of transactions in supply chains. Find out what it means for buyers of 3PL services.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
IoT is creating amazing opportunities for supply chain stakeholders to process data and automate environmental interactions in new ways. Here’s how to manage security risks.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
Artificial intelligence is poised to transform supply chains with breakthrough capabilities to process real-time data and make intelligent recommendations. So where should you start?
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Supply chain professionals need more accurate and effective cost information to help their decision-making.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
With its distribution center approaching capacity, Michael Kors had several options to consider, including one that would expand the existing facility. The fashion company turned to supply chain software company LLamasoft for help evaluating possible solutions. The collaboration also led to Michael Kors developing a core supply chain decision-making capability as well as systems it could use for other purposes.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There is a great opportunity for growth in many business sectors, and the role of supply chain excellence is fundamentally important in that economic environment.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
For the supply chain and warehousing sector, the burgeoning millennial workforce means an increased need for providing more sophisticated and functional mobile solutions.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chain collaboration (SCC) is vital for companies to make critical decisions quickly and outpace the competition. But, are the key concepts of collaboration a current reality or a myth? This article breaks them down.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Achieving end-to-end real-time visibility across the supply chain can’t be an aspirational goal any more, it’s becoming a requirement to stay competitive and deliver the level of service customers want today.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
The clarion call to digitize the supply chain is louder than ever before. In order to meet consumer demands and gain competitive advantage, shippers are retooling their supply chains to be more agile, efficient, and transparent. But where do you start? What steps can you take today?
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Cloud-based deployments can remove IT obstacles and accelerate the launch of supply chain initiatives. However, are the advantages of cloud deployments for supply chain solutions real and worthwhile?
Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Manufacturers embrace IIoT to improve quality and operational visibility.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
While the idea of tracking inventory in transit isn’t new, expanding cellular networks, improved battery technology, and advances in cloud computing are enabling low-cost, long-lasting, globally connected trackers that make real-time supply chain visibility possible. Peek into the future.
Careers, 3PL, Transportation Management
Profile of Denis Reilly, president and CEO of Kenco Logistics
Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions
Humanitarian Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
FedEx and UPS set aside rivalry to lobby White House on infrastructure, Retailers will rely heavily on technologies such as live chat, Facebook Messenger and Amazon Alexa for customer service, according to new research from Linc and Brand Garage, Research shows that U.S. industry executives are most concerned about the impact of trade protectionism, risk management, and border adjustment tax proposal
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
To get the most out of a TMS, professionals must identify and match operational requirements with the solution’s features. Joe Couto, chief operating officer at HighJump, outlines 10 tips for picking a TMS.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation
Manufacturer of drywall and joint compound USG partnered with Transplace and was able to reduce the delivery time of its product from 6 weeks to 48 hours to Mexico—leading to double-digit sales growth.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
All fleets will have to adopt electronic logging devices (ELDs) starting Dec. 18, 2017. The result will be a tightening of capacity for shippers. Here’s how to prepare.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods Market closes today August 28, 2017. Find out what it means today and for retailers in the near future.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Ports, Technology
Terminal operations today leverage highly integrated systems—from vehicle/fleet management, remote crane management, terminal operating systems, gate operation, position detection, and many others. So, how do we make this integration work better? The short answer—simplify and standardize.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Supply chain executives need not consider digital transformation as a large-scale undertaking with an expensive and complex integration process. Applying simple-to-implement steps like document automation can greatly improve productivity and elevate the customer experience.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Opportunities that will make a difference in reverse logistics programs, and establishing goals for returns programs.
Cloud Computing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Keeping your supply chain secure is not complicated but it needs to be done on a regular basis. Here are five tips to help keep your online security strong and virus-proof.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.
Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
These key elements can significantly improve your foodservice supply chain, and ensure your brand is in the best position for success.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Gelnius’ new technology platform has the ability to save money based on customers achieving reduced transportation cost and better management of administration overhead, as well as cost savings linked to visibility of all freight transactions on a single platform.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Visibility is a key issue in the management of supply chains. Introducing transparency throughout all aspects of your business will bring about remarkable results. Here's how.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Slotting – determining the locations of your SKUs in your warehouse – used to be an easy concept. But in the new world of warehousing focusing exclusively to a large degree on e-commerce sales, this is no longer simple.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When a paper-based order management system slowed a baseball bat manufacturer’s growth, the company digitized for out-of-the-park growth.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
This story looks at several ways in which companies are applying Internet of Things (IoT) technology to supply chain management.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
That's right, if you work in the supply chain management field, and have a decade or so until you retire, it's time to dust off your resume and consider other career paths. That's according to a Harvard Business Review article. Let's do an autopsy.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain, Technology
Real-time technology can help shippers keep abreast of high-impact incidents around the world and provide extra time and context to activate their supply chain risk mitigation strategies.
Education & Careers, Education, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The optimal way to understand the intricacies of today's supply chain environment is to participate in an educationally focused transportation conference.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Companies are turning “big supply chain data” into real insights that improve efficiency, bring products and services to market faster, and deliver differentiating customer value, all of which are key to remaining competitive in the new digital economy.
Big Data, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The age of the digital supply chain is here. And yet, even with technology investments on the upswing, not every company is moving along the digital path at the same pace. Are you up to speed?
Audit Services, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
A lack of oversight can cost a company tens of millions of dollars in unnecessary freight spend. A transportation management system (TMS) with an integrated freight approval tool could stop these kinds of problems before they occur.
Loading Dock, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
With better visibility into loading dock activity, companies can bring significant improvements to their warehouse operations.
Logistics, Rail, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Aurora Plastics automates resin off-loading process and avoids costly inventory and quality management errors with RFID reader hardware from Janam Technologies and customized software applications from Quest Integrated Solutions.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
New supply chain services and solutions
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Third-party logistics (3PL) companies have it tough. Not only do they need air-tight control of their data, 3PLs need to prove to customers that their data is safer than Fort Knox. In today’s world where one person in a black hoodie sitting at a coffee shop can do more damage to a business than a ten-ton bomb, that’s a big ask.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
10 tips for selecting and implementing a SaaS-based TMS solution.
Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management
AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.
Education & Careers, Education, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There are a multitude of resources available to help even the busiest logistics professionals hone their skillsets.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
2018 has been marked by tariffs, trade deals, and technological advancements. Here are the highlights.
Education & Careers, Education, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
No matter how skilled or credentialed, today’s supply chain managers have a lot to learn–and a lot of ways to do so. With the marketplace growing more complex, continuing education professionals are introducing new programs and revising old standbys.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Green Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Companies in Asia Pacific place more importance on green transport than other regions do, according to DHL’s latest research report on ground transportation logistics.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.
Lean Logistics, Lean, Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
This article defines strategic sourcing and how to implement it.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Workforce and career development are on the national radar and many companies are stepping up with financial, time and expertise commitments to accomplish the goals of developing the U.S. workforce for tomorrow.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
A client looked to PLS Logistics for a way to drive real-time visibility, performance and cost savings to allow each of its 200+ office locations to operate effectively.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Up to 30 percent of e-commerce orders shipped to customers wind up coming back. Here's how smart retailers box up their reverse logistics strategies.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of the Internet of Things (IoT) and advice for a successful IoT implementation.
Demand Planning, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouses should use these techniques to maintain service level agreements—the guaranteed turnaround time for an order to go out—during peak demand periods.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
For businesses that haven't transitioned to new operating systems, time is running out to avoid the costs and risks of business disruptions. If you haven't already made a switch, here are some potential next steps.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
A 3PL's cold call leads to a cool technology solution that streamlines processes and minimizes service disruptions
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Inbound Logistics surveys the supply chain technology market to evaluate the latest trends and uncover the most innovative providers in their respective fields.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Every two years, the Olympics bring together some of the best athletes in the world. But in between the games, supply chain professionals, logistics experts, and manufacturers work to bring the event itself together.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehousing
Today, software underpins many warehouse functions, giving leaders a new source of productivity and efficiency insights—and a new concern for corporate security. Here’s how to boost all three: productivity, efficiency, and security.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
In the rush to satisfy ever-increasing demands for speed and efficiency, and the clarion calls to deliver your best customer experience, supply chain managers need to consider that impact on the worker experience.
Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Maturing systems, implementation expertise, and newly enacted tax incentives bode well for significant leaps in supply chain efficiency. Here’s why 2018 will be the year for technology ROI.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.
Big Data, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Cloud technologies support innovative supply chain solutions that deliver the right goods to the right place at the right time—as quickly and cost effectively as possible. Here’s why supply chain managers should look to the cloud now.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Every holiday season, warehouses expand their workforces two times or more to handle peak retail demand that can make or break the entire year. Here’s how augmented reality can help.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
With more and more companies hopping on the AI bandwagon, the technology will affect supply chain planning across industries. Find out which verticals have the most to gain and how supply chain managers can make smarter decisions.
E-commerce, Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Retailers and manufacturers can unlock significant competitive advantage by leveraging consumer insights to make category decisions and create localized merchandising assortments.
Global Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Technology
As ocean shipping becomes increasingly digitized, blockchain will play a key role, providing authenticated data and bringing costs down. Here’s what SMBs should be doing now to get ready for a blockchain future.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Here are five steps to consider when implementing the Internet of Things across the cold chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Readers share the logistics mementos and paraphernalia they would preserve in a time capsule for people to open in the year 2067.
E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability
Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Grocers will have to transform aggressively and adapt swiftly if they want to avoid the fate of retailers in other segments. They will need to digitize their stores and consumer experiences. Here's how they should optimize their supply chain.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
Managing a business for sustained growth means finding and implementing innovative solutions to the challenges of complex supply chain logistics. To achieve lasting, repeatable innovation, check out these real-world solutions.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
When Dippin’ Dots needed more visibility in retail locations they teamed up with SEKO to get display freezers to market quickly.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.
Military Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As professional logisticians and supply chain managers, we are in a unique position to assist military service members transition into jobs in the supply chain sector. Here's why it's critical to help them and how to do it.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
A retailer needed to bring suppliers together and optimize processes so they teamed up with Unyson for a solution.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Symphony RetailAI, and CPG manufacturers, announced the findings of a benchmark report. The fourth annual study, conducted by Retail Systems Research (RSR) and sponsored by Symphony RetailAI, shows enhanced efficiencies from previous years, but clear room for improvement in fulfillment strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory accuracy and visibility.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The aftermath of the overhaul of U.S. customs admissibility program – Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) – has created a heavier administrative burden on importers, not a lighter one. Find out how it misses the mark in this key area.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Despite its criticality, most companies are very poor at supply chain planning. Here’s a recipe for dealing with complexity and deploying a set of world-class supply chain planning capabilities.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Cloud-based deployments can remove IT obstacles and accelerate the launch of supply chain initiatives. However, are the advantages of cloud deployments for supply chain solutions real and worthwhile?
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
While the idea of tracking inventory in transit isn’t new, expanding cellular networks, improved battery technology, and advances in cloud computing are enabling low-cost, long-lasting, globally connected trackers that make real-time supply chain visibility possible. Peek into the future.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation
Manufacturer of drywall and joint compound USG partnered with Transplace and was able to reduce the delivery time of its product from 6 weeks to 48 hours to Mexico—leading to double-digit sales growth.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Establishing a committed team and communicating procedures and expectations is the key to managing the complex web of global shipping.
Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Transparency, honest communication, and a commitment to forming a true partnership with shared goals and values are keys to successful supply chain collaboration between shippers and their third-party logistics providers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
New supply chain services and solutions
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
New supply chain services and solutions
Expedited Shipping, Logistics, Transportation Management, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
Mobile weighing technologies meet the emerging “need for speed” trend by providing a means of weighment at the point of loading and unloading. They do this while at the same time immediately communicating a wealth of specific business and logistical data, eliminating inefficient traffic patterns, and improving safety by reducing traffic congestion.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.
About Inbound Logistics | Contact Us | Advertising Opportunities | Editorial Submissions | Order Reprints | Glossary | Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions | Get the App!
©2019 Thomas Publishing Company