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Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Trucking, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Leading by Example and Empowerment
Profile of Marc Althen, president, Penske Logistics
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
How to Succeed With a Supply Chain Technological Rollout
When considering, procuring, and implementing new logistics/supply chain technology, here are three steps to take to ensure a smooth rollout.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—August 2015
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management
Working With the Right Enterprise Logistics Provider Makes Good Companies Significantly Better
An Enterprise Logistics partnership helps improve companies by delivering customized applications to improve market advantage.
Customer Service, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Improving Shipper/Carrier Relationships
To help save money, shippers should build a strong relationship with their LTL carrier.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Choosing Enterprise vs. Software-as-a-Service TMS
Software-as-a-Service transportation management systems offer many advantages over enterprise software.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
What Transportation Providers Gain From an Integrated TMS Platform
With an integrated transportation management software (TMS) platform, service providers can gain complete visibility over their diverse and complex operations.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
What Makes a Great 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.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Select a Transportation Management Solution
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.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
GOOD QUESTION | What disruptive innovation will have the greatest impact on the supply chain?
Readers weigh in and pick the disruptive innovation that will rock supply chains.
Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking, Transportation
Accidents Happen: Is Your Transportation Partner Prepared?
It is never too late to improve your safety operations. The changes you make today will reduce your liability exposure for an accident that happens tomorrow.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain
To Boost Shipment Productivity, Look to the Cloud
Deploying a cloud-based shipment execution system can promote a healthier ecosystem within the company, reduce costs, and pay big dividends via customer satisfaction.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Tips for First-time TMS Buyers
As a first-time TMS buyer, educate yourself on what a modern TMS can do – and come to the table with high expectations.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Is Transportation Management Your Core Competency?
When evaluating your needs for a transportation management system it’s important to look beyond technology and consider who will manage planning and execution. Use this advice to determine if a managed service provider will deliver greater value than developing an in-house team.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Provides Recipe for Visibility, Vendor Compliance
Kuebix TMS and Managed Services take Weis Markets’ supply chain to the next level of excellence.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Becoming a Shipper of Choice
Taking steps to become a shipper of choice delivers benefits across the supply chain, and will help sustain and grow your bottom line.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation
Realizing the Power of a Leveraged Platform
One way a manufacturer can mitigate the effects of increasing regulations and demand volatility is by working with a third-party logistics provider with a leveraged platform.
Logistics, Partnership, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Timely Timeline Reminder
After 30 site visits and two logistics industry conferences, Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo wonders what the future of supply chain and logistics holds.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Overcoming LTL Shipping Challenges
Understanding less-than-truckload shipping challenges is the key to overcoming them.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Benchmarking Transportation Processes With TMS Data
Using the data the TMS is already providing can help shippers improve their transport operations.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—April 2015
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.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
3PLs Put Technology Front and Center
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)
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
On Your Mark, Headset, Go!
To increase fulfillment efficiency and order picking accuracy, eBay Enterprise gives its warehouse a voice.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management
The Luxury of Logistics Excellence
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.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Building a Bridge to Continuous Improvement
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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Five Key Questions to Ask a Vendor Before Buying Supply Chain Software
Five key questions to ask a software vendor to make sure they are the right fit for your operation.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—October 2014
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
How to Get More From Your TMS
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.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Education & Careers, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Memphis: America’s Multimodal City
Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
The Spot Market – And How Not to Use It
Using the spot market correctly can reduce backlogs of shipping and keep costs under control.
Build Your Driver-Friendly Brand
Treat truck drivers respectfully to build a good reputation with carriers and ensure load coverage.
Military Logistics, Chemical Logistics, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Ports, Safety, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—September 2014
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.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Are You Ready for the Capacity Crisis? Oh, It’s Here
Shippers desperately seek capacity in the midst of a record shortage.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
By the Numbers: Tracking Carrier Performance
Tracking carrier performance metrics gives shippers insight into how well trucking companies serve their needs.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Steering Transportation Management Strategies
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: Stacking Up Savings
Freight audit and payment services analyze shipment data to reveal inefficiencies and identify savings opportunities.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Transportation Management, Safety, Trucking, Transportation
A National Standard for Hiring ‘Safe’ Motor Carriers
Motor carrier safety standards dictated by state courts create confusion. National safety standards are more effective.
Electronic On-board Recorders: The Gateway to Intelligent Fleet Management
Fleet managers increasingly rely on electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) to manage fleet data.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking
Trends—August 2014
Google and Barnes & Noble partner to provide same-day book delivery; Shippers prioritize day-to-day problem-solving over contingency planning; APICS and SCC merge; Transplace identifies four areas key to preferred shipper status
Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
LTL Leaders Make Tracks for the Web
Less than truckload (LTL) carriers use online freight portals to offer low-cost extra capacity to small shippers.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation
Partners and Process Management: Freight Business From the Inside Out
To better manage freight spend, track key performance indicators and build strong provider partnerships.
Distribution, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation, Warehousing
TMS: Getting in on the Ground Floor
TAJ Flooring used a transportation management system to improve shipment and freight spend visibility.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Taking a Smarter Approach to WMS RFPs
Create your WMS RFP with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of potential suppliers.
Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Relationship Management
Managing supply chain partnerships strategically improves their viability and reliability.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The Best of Both Worlds: The Benefits of TMS with Integrated Fleet Management Tools
A transportation management system with fleet management tools facilitates transportation planning for private fleets.
Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Plan Better Truck Routes: Long-range Itinerary Generation Enhances Operations
Innovative route planning tools create meaningful links between long-range planning and real-world agility.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Maximizing the Benefits of Your TMS
An automated transportation management system can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and create competitive advantage.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Big Data Tools Enable Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics
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)
Get Real: What ROI to Expect from Your TMS Implementation
Companies interested in automating their transportation management processes should examine their current capabilities.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Avoiding Pitfalls to TMS Implementation
Companies avoid common obstacles to successful TMS implementation by partnering with an experienced solutions provider.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Partnership, Trucking
A Strategic Approach to Strengthening Supply Chains
Partnering with third-party logistics providers offers shippers numerous advantages for stronger supply chains.
Cloud Computing, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Cloud-based System Furnishes Supply Chain Visibility
Faced with long lead times and potential production delays, Badcock Furniture and More invested in a cloud-based tool.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation
Drafting a New Route Planning System
Molson Coors Canada’s new delivery planning system integrates routing, pallet building, and truck loading.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Transportation Planning – A Manual Headache Or an Optimized Dream
Fluctuating fuel prices, Hours of Service rules, and other factors make optimized routing and scheduling vital.
Freight Forwarders, Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Brokers Are Commoditizing LTL Carriers... And That’s a Good Thing
Shippers and trucking brokers must understand the differences among the service levels carriers offer.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Building a Core Carrier Program
When choosing core carriers, evaluate customer service, on-time delivery, company stability, and workforce quality.
Demand Planning, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking
Trends—January 2014
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
Using In-Truck Technology to Cut Costs
Technology such as onboard recording devices help trucking companies gain insight and cut costs.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Why Mid-market Shippers Should Leverage 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.
Truckers and Shippers Prepare to Meet Over-the-Road Challenges
Maximizing truck utilization, managing Hours of Service regulations, and finding enough drivers pose major challenges for trucking companies, says Scott Vanselous of TMW Systems.
Loadboards & Exchanges: Finding the Perfect Match
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., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
SaaS-Based Transload Management Systems Enable Transport Efficiencies
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.
Trucking Communications: Goin' Mobile
Mobile trucking communications technology signals new productivity gains for truckers, and helps improve truck driver safety.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
SaaS-Based TMS Empowers Global Freight Management
The collaborative environment of a Software-as-a-Servivce (SaaS) transportation management system (TMS) enables connectivity and supports seamless collaboration with global supply chain partners, says Jon Kuerschner of LeanLogistics.
Load Boards Evolve Into Social Networking Tools
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.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Software as a Service: Changing the TMS Landscape
With a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) transportation management system (TMS), shippers are quickly taking control of their network of carriers, customers, and vendors, writes Eric Rempel, 3PLogic.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Benefit from SaaS TMS
Transportation and logistics technology solutions such as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) transportation management systems (TMS) enrich and empower the user community by integrating partners and aggregating data.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Technology Provides Visibility into Global Supply Chains
Access to transportation network data allows companies to benchmark with better business intelligence, enabling smarter decisions for continuous improvements, says Matt Ahearn, LeanLogistics.
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
High Tech: The Rise of SaaS and the Cloud
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.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Enhanced Visibility: The Future of TMS
Software-as-a-Service (Saas) transportation management systems encourage collaboration so that all supply chain partners view the same permission-based data to identify mutually beneficial solutions and improvements.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
How to Find the Best EDI Solution For Your Operations
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.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—November 2010
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.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trucking Alert: Steep Grade Ahead
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.
The Best Partner Carriers Provide Transparency
Shippers shouldn't assume all on-time performance is created equal. Make sure every dollar you spend counts by choosing carriers who provide honest, accurate metrics, and foster innovation to improve your business.
Green Logistics, Global Economy, Panama Canal, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Rail, Trucking, Latin America
Trends—September 2010
News briefs: U.S. Ports Dig Panama Gold, Reducing the Carton Footprint, SaaS to the Rescue, BNSF Brings Shortlines On Line, Truckers Tackle Credit Crunch
Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)
Tap the Potential of SaaS and Cloud Computing
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.
Sharing Efficiencies Through Collaboration
LeanLogistics' Chris Timmer explains how collaborating with trading partners, aided by an on-demand transportation management system, helps increase supply chain efficiencies.
Drilling Down Into Supply Chain Data
Sharing key information with all parties can lead to decreased waste, increased orders, and new business, writes J. Kenneth Hazen, CTSI-Global.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Ditch the Spreadsheets, Implement a 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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Free TMS Software: The Price is Right
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)
Global Trade Compliance: See it All, Know it All
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.
Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
2020 TMS Buyer's Guide
Inbound Logistics offers this annual guide of some top TMS providers and solutions that can put you on the right road toward improved transportation management and performance, regardless of the business conditions. Take a look at our 2020 TMS Buyer's Guide.
The High Cost of Invisibility
Supply chain visibility is one of the key drivers to a company’s success, yet still remains a top challenge.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T.
2020 Logistics IT Market Research Survey
To help logistics professionals plan for the future, Inbound Logistics conducts an annual survey of logistics technology providers. Assembling data on current logistics IT trends, we paint a picture of the capabilities available today and the technology investments shippers are making to gain a competitive edge.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T.
2020 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers
Our annual Inbound Logistics Top 100 Logistics IT Providers list is a guide of the leading logistics IT solutions providers in the market in 2020. Next time you're ready to add to your company's logistics IT tools, you'll find our guide an invaluable resource.
Helping Shippers Make Efficient and Effective Truckload Decisions
Read how HNRY Logistics boosted its truckload brokerage offering with Logistical Labs' LoadDex, accelerating response rates and letting shippers initiate rate requests.
Finance, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Manage LTL Spend with a TMS
Partnering with a 3PL that offers a comprehensive transportation management system can help your enterprise take control of the LTL spend.
Demand Planning, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Replenishing the Fuel Supply Chain During COVID-19
With the demand for fuel changing so quickly, how can organizations manage their fuel supply chain in the wake of a crisis like the COVID-19 outbreak?
Manufacturing, Partnership, Supply Chain
5 Steps to a Contract High
Relationship contracts can benefit distribution in many different industry sectors—these five steps can help you put one into action.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
How Supply Chain Drives Business Value
Building high-performing alliances between supply chain and commercial teams is a key driver to success.
Freight Forwarders, Trucking, Transportation
Atlanta Hits the Spot
Atlanta, Georgia, is the easiest market to find spot truckload van freight in 2019, according to a DAT Solutions report. Take a look at the top 10 markets for outbound truckload freight by equipment type.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
SPOTLIGHT | Technology Innovations
Take a look at the latest innovations enabling supply chain stakeholders to achieve instant booking, seamless collaboration, and increased visibility.
The Ultimate RFP Checklist for Shippers: Essential Things to Include in Every Bid
The clearer your RFP, the easier it will be for 3PLs to understand your requirements and provide you with the information you need to make an informed selection.
Big Data, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T.
You Have a Data Problem. Here’s What to Do About It.
In order to make 2020 better than years past, shippers must make this New Year’s resolution: Get the data right before the product leaves the dock.
Global Economy, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Scale to Meet Your Needs
Now more than ever before, shippers should consider working with an experienced managed transportation service provider that has a large, dedicated network of carrier partners and deep relationships with these partners.
What Does FMCSA Increase To 50% Random Drug Testing Rate Mean For Fleets And The CDL Clearinghouse?
For the last four years the random drug testing rate has stayed at 25%. Now that more than 1% of drivers have tested positive in their FMCSA random testing, on January 1st, 2020, the rate automatically reverts to the 50% random testing rate.
FMCSA to Announce Two-Year Delay in ELDT Rule
Federal trucking regulators are nearing completion of a formal notice that they plan to delay implementation of the Entry Level Driver Training rule by up to two years after it was set to go into effect on a limited basis February 7th.
Driving the Efficiency of the U.S. Supply Chain
As the economy adjusts to a new level of output, improving the efficiency of the U.S. supply chain is essential to continued economic growth. Here's what you need to know.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
2019 Trucking Perspectives
Inbound Logistics' exclusive survey of shippers and truckers reveals where the wind is blowing in the trucking industry today.
Carriers Cough Up Hiring Fee
As part of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) new Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse rule, trucking companies soon will be required to pay the agency a fee prior to hiring each driver—in addition to an annual fee for currently employed drivers.
Maersk, Blackbuck Create Containerized Trucking Platform
To help India’s government reach its goal of reducing logistics costs from 14% of the GDP to less than 9% by 2022, integrated container logistics company Maersk is partnering with BlackBuck, India’s largest online trucking marketplace.
Intermodal, Logistics, Trucking
2019 Top 100 Truckers
The 2019 Top 100 Truckers list offers a snapshot of the trucking segment—from large truckload and LTL carriers with global inroads to niche-specific regional haulers that get their white gloves dirty delivering to the final mile.
The Value of a Trucking Company Offering 3PL Services
Combining trucking assets with 3PL services is not an entirely new concept — but it’s one that’s been refined and improved to give shippers a freight model that outperforms past models in the marketplace.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Trucking, Transportation
Trucking Strategies for Whichever Way the Wind Blows
While there are more trucks in the marketplace now than there were a year ago, carriers and others warn against freight capacity complacency. They recommend three essentials for making sure shippers get the capacity they need now and later.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
How to Maintain Composure During Trucking Capacity Shifts
What do you do when trucking capacity shifts? Keep your spend in check and your partnerships tight.
Solving the Trucking Labor Shortage
Transportation and logistics professionals must act quickly to avoid disrupting the supply chain and ultimately losing customer loyalty. There are several strategies that can help curb the driver shortage moving forward and ensure customers remain satisfied.
Carrier Relationships: Core Carrier, Long Term, or Bid?
Before deploying a carrier management strategy, shippers must have a deep understanding of their supply chain, capacity challenges, and customer requirements.
Supply Chain Partner Helps Furniture Maker Get a Leg Up - Evans Distribution
With the help of Evans Distribution, this furniture maker developed an efficient, successful, real-time supply chain.
Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
Getting the Yard in Ship Shape
When Newell Brands Inc. experienced truckload loading issues, costly shipping and driver detention rates, transportation inefficiencies, and a lack of electronic logging device (ELD) data analysis it turned to Echo Global Logistics Inc.
How to Get Profitable Insights from Fleet Data
Fleets today deal with a huge volume of data — more than they’ve ever collected before — pouring in from ELDs, dashcams and other trucking technology. It’s a double-edged sword. Data has become indispensable because it provides key insights that help inform critical business decisions and, used properly, can boost productivity and minimize expenses.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
Identifying the Role of Technology in Managed Transportation Services - Transplace
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
HyperX Game Plan: Win at Demand Planning and Replenishment
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
The Latest TMS Capabilities for Brokerage and Managed Services - 3Gtms
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.
3PL, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Choosing a TMS: How to Make the Right Move
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.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
IT Gap? 3PLs Close the Loop
Today, many 3PLs provide the technology solutions and expertise shippers need to manage increasingly complicated customer relationships.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Securing Truckload Capacity
Practical steps that shippers can take to improve their success in securing capacity.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Walmart Rolls Back Driver Shortage Concern
Even the mighty Walmart is not immune from the challenges of recruiting and retaining qualified drivers.
Distribution, Logistics, Safety, Trucking
The Secret to Combatting the Hidden Costs of Detention Time
Dock appointment scheduling solutions enable shippers, carriers and consignees to avoid decreases in annual earnings and improve driver safety.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Drivers Need Some TLC
With the American Trucking Associations projecting a shortfall of 174,00 truck drivers by 2026, it is important for organizations to understand and address driver concerns in order to retain a strong workforce and attract new talent.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Warehousing
Driver Shortage or Lack of Innovation?
Here are a few ways to think differently about the truck driver shortage to make the industry more efficient and technology friendly.
Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
Old Dominion Freight Line To Carry On MLB Fan Cherished Ritual
This year, Old Dominion will partner with the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Kansas City Royals, New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies for their Spring Training send-offs.
Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
Keeping Truckers Safe on the Road
How supply chain managers can identify risky drivers, reduce liability, and protect their truck drivers.
Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
Wait Loss Program
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
Logistics, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Self-Driving Trucks Are Set to Transform Trucking and Logistics
While much of the attention surrounding autonomous vehicles (AVs) is focused on self-driving cars, the real impact will be felt in the shipping, trucking and logistics industries, where AVs will have a dramatic effect.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Take a Load Off Your Fleet
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
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
How to Become a Shipper of Choice
As shippers, carriers and logistics service providers prepare for a busy Q4, here are some ideas for easing the capacity crunch, controlling costs, and becoming a “shipper of choice.”
Education & Careers, Education, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
The New Faces of Trucking
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
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Transplace TMS Causes Chemical Reaction
Transplace’s technology and expertise helps Brenntag streamline operations and realize greater visibility.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology
Truck Driver Shortage: When Will Autonomous Trucks Fill the Gap?
Self-driving trucks will result in supply chain disruption; the question is “When?” Here are the essential breakthroughs that have to occur first and how many years it will take before autonomous trucks can help address the driver shortage.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Trucking Shortage:
Buckle Up for Worsening Conditions
Rates will continue to increase for two reasons. Here’s why and what to do about it.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Systems Have Changed Dramatically. Your Buying Process Should Too.
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, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Solved: TMS Offers Significant Savings - BluJay
With BluJay’s Transportation Management solution, Ace Hardware has automated tasks and gained visibility of orders, shipment status, and costs.
Finance, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
A Resurgence in Trucking Investments Presents Opportunities for Shippers
In light of a strengthening economy, business owners, controllers, and chief financial officers (CFOs) at companies in need of shipping solutions should evaluate their fleet needs and understand their equipment and financing options.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
H.O.W. | How to Manage Your Carrier Relationships After the ELD Mandate
The implementation of the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate will affect shippers’ supply chain capacity. Shippers and receivers can help with the transition and beyond by understanding the limitations that drivers face.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Making Strategic Carrier Decisions for Shippers With a New TMS - MD Logistics
To better serve customers, MD Logistics implemented a game-changing TMS and integrated it into its current WMS. The new solution allowed MD Logistics to find customers the most strategic carrier based on a variety of factors, including price, transit times, and retail compliance.
The Red Wings Beneath My Feet
The Red Wing Shoe Company gets customers to share how their boots are serving them—and the supply chain—well.
Logistics I.T., Technology , Visibility
Visibility Fills the - Amber Road
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
IBM: Working on the Blockchain Gang
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
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Supply Chain Commentary: 3 Ways to Prepare for the ELD Mandate
The upcoming electronic logging device (ELD) mandate affects more than just the carriers and owner/operators that will be directly responsible for using the devices in their trucks. Here’s how to adjust your truckload strategy.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Next-Generation TMS Can Move Your Organization Into the Future - Transplace
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Investing in the Right Transportation Management System
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.
Careers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
BluJay Solutions CEO Doug Braun:
Leading with Compassion and Conviction
Profile of Doug Braun, CEO of BluJay Solutions
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
2017 Trucking Perspectives
Inbound Logistics' exclusive annual trucking market research report delivers shipper and trucker insights into industry challenges and trends.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Supply Chain Shout Out: In Appreciation of Truck Drivers
The supply chain that is supported by professional drivers often includes three or more cogs to eventually get the product safely, and on time, to the end user. When an interruption occurs within the supply chain, the professional drivers are the individuals who step up and make sacrifices to get the gears back in line.
Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week Celebrates Our Unsung Heroes of the Road
This week presents a good opportunity to recognize the 3.5 million trucking professionals across the country whose work is some of the most personally demanding and economically significant in the United States.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Supply Chain Commentary: Managing the Coming ELD Capacity Crisis
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Trucking Industry Celebrates National Truck Driver Appreciation Week
More than 80 percent of U.S. communities rely exclusively on truck drivers to deliver their goods and commodities. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, September 10-16, highlights the efforts of professional truck drivers.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security, Technology
Is Ransomware Holding Global Trade Hostage? Here’s How to Safeguard Your Supply Chain
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
It Happens Automagically
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Autonomous Vehicle Revolution Is Upon Us
The advent of autonomous vehicles is nothing short of a revolution. For the logistics world, it could mean a near end to human-caused accidents and could single-handedly eliminate the driver shortage problem.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Today’s Options in Technology To Improve Your Transportation Program - KDL
The days of EDI connectivity is quickly becoming outdated and replaced with real-time data feeds that benefit both shipper and their shipping partners.
Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Supply Chain Collaboration: It Works Both Ways
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans
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, Supply Chain, Trucking
Penske Truck Leasing Agrees to Acquire Old Dominion Truck Leasing
Penske Truck Leasing announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Richmond, Virginia-based Old Dominion Truck Leasing.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
DHL Becomes the Logistics Partner of the Council of Fashion Designers of America
The logistics provider will help designers find ways to strengthen their global reach.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Spot Truckload Rates Trending Up
National average spot truckload rates for van and flatbed freight rose during the week ending May 20 while the rate for spot refrigerated freight remained at its highest mark since January, according to DAT Solutions.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
ATA Seeks Trucking Industry’s Future Leaders
American Trucking Associations opened the application window for its premier industry leadership initiative, LEAD ATA. The program is searching for diverse trucking industry leaders looking to grow their careers and meet other ambitious trucking professionals.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Gelnius Launches Supply Chain Management Software
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
ATA Searching for Trucking’s Greatest Advocates
ATA’s Mike Russell Trucking Image Award opens for applications.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
How to Decide if You Should Outsource Your TMS
How to Decide if You Should Outsource Your TMS
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Improves On-time delivery and Increases Supply Chain Visibility - Kuebix
Kuebix TMS greatly improved Holman Parts Distribution’s operations.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Solutions: The Big Picture
Transportation management systems (TMS) streamline the information exchange between shippers and carriers. Cloud technology makes them affordable for many small- and mid-sized firms.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Does Your TMS Provide you a ClearView?
The future of TMS systems is not only to monitor service in real-time, but to properly audit the carrier’s invoice through settlement.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Advice for Transportation Departments on Gaining Corporate IT Buy-in for TMS Solutions
Here is what you need to know about pushback from IT when proposing a TMS implementation.
Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Hitting a Freight Management Bull’s Eye
Ben E. Keith maximized freight management with help from ArrowStream’s Crossbow technology.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Management: It’s IoT Time
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
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
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
We’ve Been Together for 35 Years
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton marks a 35-year career anniversary with a look back at how technology changed supply management forever.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Transportation
TMS Launches New Era: Control Tower Visibility
Your next transportation management system will soon serve as your company’s control tower with widespread visibility across all departments in your organization.
Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Large Multi-National Seeks Global Supply Chain Visibility
Rust-Oleum selected Celtic International, Transplace’s intermodal business unit, to provide intermodal and over-the-road transportation services for domestic shipments between its own facilities as well to its retailer customers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Turn to Technology to Attract the Next Generation of Workers
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.
Labor Management, Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Truck Driver Health Should Drive Business Decisions
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, Trucking, Sustainability, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Trends—March 2017
Freight railroads frustrated by lack of federal funding to bolster private initiatives; trucking industry posts fifth straight month of driver employment growth after a three month year-on-year decline; Warehouse Management System market to garner $3.112 million globally by 2022, supply chain professionals point to cyber security and changing trade regulations as top concerns in 2017.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Winning on Your Terms
Leading logistics providers are driving change – rather than responding to it – by leveraging modern TMS solutions.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
What Your Transportation Management System Should Provide
Get the most out of a transportation management system by ensuring it provides the following functions.
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Today's Competitive Supply Chain: Digital, Smaller, More Resilient
As consumers demand a greater personal experience and more sophisticated product, the digital revolution will prove a competitive advantage to those who embrace it.
Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Transportation
Advantages of Digital Technology
Digitization is no longer an option. It is a competitive necessity.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The Whole Industry Is Struggling to Define TMS. Here's My Take.
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Why the 'Shareconomy' Is the Future of Logistics
The shared economy leverages shared access to goods and services to allow suppliers and consumers to redistribute and reuse excess capacity. Here's why the 'shareconomy' will be a supply chain game-changer and how professionals can begin moving in that direction.
Cloud Computing, Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Supply Chain in the Cloud: How Tech Is Reshaping Logistics
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 Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
7 Ways to Digitally Transform Your Supply Chain
Data integration across systems can help optimize the supply chain and enable organizations to provide their customers with the best possible service from order to delivery.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
6 Simple Metrics for Tracking and Improving Carrier Performance
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Leveraging Your Routing Guide
A routing guide plays an important role in setting the strategy for carrier selection across a variety of shipments within an organization. Use these tips to get the most out of your routing guide.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—January 2017
A closer look at Amazon’s trucking app, Trump’s infrastructure plan may bring much-needed funding, Maersk acquisition of Hamburg Süd faces regulatory hurdles, Congress repeals portion of 34-hour restart requirements, States making progress on FAST Act projects, Foxconn targets U.S. expansion, Self-driving truck makes first successful delivery, Amazon Go cuts check-out lines out of retail process, manufacturers prep for Made in America push, UPS tests artificial intelligence customer service program; Ocean Alliance receives FMC approval
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Cloud Collaboration Increases Supply Chain Efficiency
As more companies replace legacy technology systems with more sophisticated platforms, the benefits of cloud-based collaboration will increase exponentially.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
What supply chain resolutions are you making this year?
Another year is upon us and with it comes a new opportunity to do things differently; to do things better. After all, if you are not evolving, you are dying.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
The Slow, Steady Decline Of the Owner-Operator Model
Today, we face the slow extinction of independent owner-operators. These self-reliant business owners are now dealing with a myriad of regulations that will soon make the owner-operator model impractical, and its survival improbable.
3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
3PL Partnerships: You're In Good Company
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.
Expedited Shipping, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Baseball Logistics: Hitting a Home Run Every Trip
Each year, 30 Major League Baseball teams travel for spring training and dozens of road games in a complex logistics web that's all the more incredible for its anonymity. When you're carrying all the bats, the game can't start until the truck arrives.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Security, Transportation
Trends—December 2016
New Year supply chain health check; DHL uses penguins to train couriers; Ocean Alliance receives FMC approval; Veterans make better truck drivers than non-veterans; Cyberattacks focusing on weak supply chain links
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
How Driverless Trucks Will Change Supply Chain Strategy
The driverless truck phenomenon is closer to reality than you might think and that means it’s time to start strategizing how this could impact supply chains. Here are three areas to start considering.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
The Grass is Greener
Wagner Logistics helps a leading manufacturer of lawn care equipment overcome growing pains.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.
How to Beat Amazon at the Retail and Supply Chain Game in 2017
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply Chain Analytics: Creating Value from Data with Machine Learning
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.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Right on Target
Profile of Mike Wagner, CEO of Target Freight Management.
Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Specialized Logistics, Technology
Fast But Steady Wins The Expedited Race
More companies are relying on expedited shipping a regular part of their inbound transportation planning. However, intelligent systems are helping reduce the need for the Hail Mary emergency moves.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Accurate Product Data Drives Supply Chain Systems
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—October 2016
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
Global Trade Management, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Technology , Transportation, Visibility
Stop the Free-Flowing Expenses of Demurrage and Detention
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.
Asia, Intermodal, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain, Trucking
Amid Hanjin Backlog, Shippers Can Turn to Port Strike Strategies
Shippers will be feeling the ripple effects of Hanjin Shipping’s bankruptcy for weeks or months to come. Here's how looking at a past disruption can inform strategies for this current backlog.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
What Is Your Shipper-Logistics Provider Relationship Costing You?
The challenge for shippers considering a new logistics provider is understanding how to evaluate the overall potential of the relationship. Use these key items to ensure success.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Share Everything: Why Multi-tenant Technology Wins
The benefits of a multi-tenant software platform are immense. Chris Johnson of LeanLogistics outlines the four areas of value with multi-tenant technology.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
The Role of Relationships in Automated Brokerage
The door to an automated brokerage process opens up when a broker strengthens relationships with carriers and customers.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Accurate Transit Times: The Backbone of Efficient Supply Chains
As transit times shift and service areas are updated, customers need a reliable source of data that delivers a standard messaging output that can be easily understood.
Education & Careers, Trucking, Transportation
You Can Only Hit So Many Golf Balls
Retirees from the transportation business find a second career through agent programs with companies such as Bulk Connection.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
18 Sure-Fire Ways to Save on LTL Shipments
Inbound Logistics talks to carriers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers about sure-fire ways to save money on LTL shipments and serves up a list of 18 tips that will help shippers of all types and sizes.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
2016 Trucking Perspectives
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive trucking market research report explores industry challenges and trends.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Visibility
Empower Users to Create and Update Labels for Supply Chain Efficiency
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.
Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Keys to Customer Retention in a Competitive Environment
Customer retention in today’s competitive marketplace is important. Thomas Griffin of DLS Worldwide offers the keys to customer retention.
Mexico, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
What You Need to Know About Nearshoring
When a company initiates a nearshoring program, it is critical to have a partnership with a transportation and logistics company that understands the dynamics of logistics in that country.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Optimum Dental Extracts Transportation Cost Savings
A lack of route optimization software led to out-of-control logistics costs for Optimum Dental Studio, so the company turned to Maxoptra to optimize routing to serve dental offices and their patients.
Intermodal, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Rail, Visibility
Optimizing Freight Rail Supply Chain Visibility
Freight rail has become an integral part of many global supply chains, driving the need for complete visibility across modes and giving rise to a new suite of technologies. Shippers who know how to make effective use of these technologies gain an advantage.
Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Cross-Border Trade is On a Roll
U.S.-Canada cross-border trade continues to be a mutually beneficial partnership between nations with a long history of friendship.
Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Global Logistics—July 2016
Brexit shakes up global supply chain; Amazon invests $3 billion in India; Hyperloop targets Russia as site for science fiction-like transit tube; Australian truckies want better working conditions; Despite the best-laid plans by multinational companies to establish trade compliance, there’s a costly risk gap between knowing and doing that may lead to fines and incarceration.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
The March of Technology
Technology can make the difference between profit and loss in a low-margin environment. As margins squeeze ever tighter, staying current with technology can make the ultimate difference ultimate success or failure.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Is It Time to Think About Logistics Outsourcing?
A company’s ability to efficiently execute a supply chain strategy in today’s environment can be enhanced by logistics outsourcing with a strategic partner.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Truckload Capacity: There is Always a Truck Going That Way
Searching for capacity is sometimes a tough job, but there is always somebody driving where you need to go.
Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Import Express LCL Service
Using an import express less-than-container service, particularly from China, offers cost savings and faster transit times over traditional consolidated LCL services.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Keeping an Eye on Cost Management
An acceleration of mergers and acquisitions is causing dramatic changes to the supply chain. Are you prepared to manage through this changing environment while managing cost?
Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Adapters Win in the Multi-Modal, Omni-Channel Fast Lane
Competitive agility and adaptability help shippers win the multi- and omni-channel race to the customer.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Readers' Choice: Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2016
Year after year, the IL 3PL survey reveals the importance of great customer service to shippers.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation, Warehousing
Tapping Military Talent: Shoes on the Ground
Supply chain logistics companies view veterans as a crucial pool of potential employees, and consequently they are using a range of methods to recruit and hire former members of the military for their workforces.
Distribution, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Delivery App Perks Up Coffee Sales
A new app helped a coffee merchant digitally transformed its retail sales and distribution processes.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Girl Scout Cookie Sales Go Digital and Milk E-Commerce Innovation
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 I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
How Real-Time Information Can Transform Your Supply Chain
Enhancing supply chains with real-time visibility gives shippers the insight and details needed to operate quickly, accurately, and more effectively than ever before.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Trends—June 2016
Nikola Motor Company announces electric class-8 semi truck; FASTLANE grants aim to improve nation’s infrastructure; In spite of rate-driven financial gains for carriers, utilization drop is evident in most recent transportation industry analysis
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Internet of Things on Your TMS
Your TMS is the perfect place to start making sense of IoT–giving you the ability to make smarter decisions faster.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Addressing Vendor Management and Shifting Global Trade Currents
Thomas Griffin of DLS Worldwide explains the most important aspects in good vendor management and how manufacturers can deal with increasing regulations and security concerns.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Lifting the Fog on Extreme Caution Driving
When inclement weather affects visibility or traction, commercial drivers must reduce speed and cease operations when those conditions become sufficiently dangerous.
Customer Service, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
Cloud-Based Route Planning? That Would Be Ideal!
Wholesale distributor Ideal Supply re-routed its delivery network through the cloud with the help of logistics technology provider Descartes.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Enterprise Technology Freight Train Finally Reaches Logistics Sector
Increased funding, bigger ideas, and changing mindsets are setting the stage for the explosive growth of enterprise technology in the logistics sector.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Transportation
Three Key Points to Communicate to Become Your Customers’ Dream Provider
Communication and transparency are key to being a good partner to your clients. Use this advice to effectively communicate with customers.
Cloud Computing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS: Time to Make Your Move?
This article looks at what’s new and interesting in transportation management systems (TMS).
Economic Development, Education & Careers, Site Selection, Rail, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Meet Me in St. Louis
The St. Louis region offers an ideal transportation infrastructure to move goods, skilled labor to meet the peaks and valleys of industrial demand, and the availability of highly qualified IT personnel to manage staff and facilities.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Unleash the Full Potential of Your Supply Chain
By tapping into outsourced logistics support, shippers arm themselves with the technology, talent, and experience at a lower price than employed resources, which allow companies to invest and focus on their core competencies.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Transportation
An Incremental Approach to TMS Acquisition
Savings from a TMS deployment can be significant. Here are the benefits of an incremental approach to acquisition.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Best Practices for Effective Carrier Management
The best solutions provide clear, regularly reported metrics not just to the shipper, but also to the carriers themselves.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Sapa Puts a Dent in Freight Costs
Sapa Extrusions Americas achieves tremendous business benefits by implementing Cloud Logistics’ transportation management system (TMS).
Air Cargo, Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Rail, Pallets, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation, Warehousing
Creating a Lean and Green Culture
Launching a cost cutting, productivity-enhancing, or sustainability initiative creates efficiencies with environmental benefits and cost reductions.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
The “Direct-to-Consumer” Trend: Retail Shift Affects Logistics Operations
Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
The Trials and Errors of Preventability Determinations
This article provides simple but important actions a motor carrier can take to put itself in a position to avoid a jury verdict potentially based on an improper standard or misleading evidence.
Air Cargo, Economic Development, Logistics, Intermodal, Ocean, Site Selection, Rail, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Alaska: The Vast Frontier
By offering air, barge, ocean carrier, rail, and trucking services, logistics providers are minimizing the risks involved with transporting goods to, from, and within Alaska.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Customized and Integrated to Create One Strategic Logistics Platform
A customized and strategic platform provides a company with a competitive edge over their competition.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology , Transportation
Avoid Pricing Pitfalls When Selecting a Logistics IT Solution
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Two Key Factors Drive WMS Adoption Today
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.
Bar-coding Systems, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Packaging, Supply Chain
Enterprise Labeling for a Connected, Flexible, and Efficient 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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Trends—March 2016
A predicted freight slowdown stalls driver wage increases for 2016; President Obama proposes oil tax to fund infrastructure; Logistics trends of 2016
Big Data, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Leveraging Collaborative Logistics for Increased Visibility
The cornerstone of collaborative logistics is timely visibility. Data about orders, inventory, transportation, and spend need to all funnel into a common denominator big data repository and be readily accessible.
Economic Development, Intermodal, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Intermodal Transportation: Rise and Shine
The use of intermodal transportation by shippers continues to grow. Here’s how shippers use intermodal to cut costs and mitigate risk.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology
What Is Your Fleet Trying to Tell You?
Evolving technologies such as data warehousing, in-memory architecture, and data visualization are helping unlock fleet insights.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
What's the first thing you would do to address the truck driver shortage?
Readers weigh in on how to address the truck driver shortage.
Intermodal, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Optimizing Freight Spend
Managing your transportation budget is key to operate Lean and find ways to shed excess cost. Use these tips help lower shipping costs.
Distribution, Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitude
When an outdated warehouse management system was putting a dent in a distributor’s workflow, it turned to a technology partner to grow its e-commerce business.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Leverage Dashboard Technology to Improve Decision-Making Capabilities
For logistics professionals, data is meaningless without context. Dashboards help provide context and enhance decision-making capabilities.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation
Getting Fleets Mobile Ready
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.
Education, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Trends—January 2016
Where the presidential candidates stand on transportation infrastructure; Amazon announces new air cargo fleet; consumers willing to pay more for sustainability; first successful cross-country trip by a vehicle on autopilot; trucking industry driver shortage reaches 48,000 drivers; shippers rail against railroad mergers; hoverboards illustrate problem with American manufacturing; consumers want package deliveries their way; reducing cargo theft risk; FMCSA passes measure to fight back against driver coercion; skills required for a successful career in supply chain management; Surface Transportation Board gets back on track; FMCSA sets deadline for requiring truckers to install electronic logbooks in all vehicles; technologies to watch in 2016.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Advantages of Partial Truckload Shipping
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
Careers, Customer Service, Global Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Multinational Diversity Drives Measurable Success in Logistics Operations
Multiculturalism can be the competitive advantage that makes the critical difference in the success of your supply chain operations.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
So You’ve Decided to Invest in a Global TMS – Now What?
When choosing a transportation management system, it’s important to ensure it will meet all of your requirements.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
Thoughts on Independent Contractor Pitfalls
It is important to be vigilant about new regulations and interpretations that effect the industry and impacts business.
Customer Service, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Real-Time Load Tracking: Improving Productivity and Customer Service, and Reducing Costs
A real time tracking platform helps you revolutionize your logistics operations by improving service while reducing costs.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Inbound Vendor Programs
The expense of inbound vendor traffic and its impact on landed cost is overlooked. Use this advice to better managing inbound vendor freight.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Five Driving Forces Behind Driverless Trucks
The introduction of driverless trucks could be the biggest change the road haulage industry will ever see, and the concept is closer to reality than people think.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Building Strong Supplier Relationships: Procurement Takes the Lead
Procurement professionals should cultivate and maintain good supplier relationships to ensure profitability.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
Supply Chains that Rock Around the Clock: Rock and Roll All Night
This story follows a sleeper team for YRC freight as the two drivers make a run of approximately 22 hours from the Chicago area to Denver.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Keeping Partnerships Strong in a Shifting Landscape
As shippers evaluate existing, merged, or new 3PL providers, they should also be aware of their own processes and approach to vendor relationships and choose partners that best align with their strategies and needs.
Manufacturing Logistics, Lean, Manufacturing, Logistics, Partnership
Lean Management: Ready, Set, Grow
Contract manufacturer Apex International had seen its growth halt as it struggled to deliver products on time and provide sufficient quality control. With the help of Simpler Consulting, Apex adopted Lean management principles to transform its culture and return the company to a path of growth.
Buildings and Structures, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Future Is Now: Strategic Technology Thinking for Shipping and Logistics Facility Managers
Forward-thinking shipping and logistics facility management (FM) professionals turn to next-generation FM software to efficiently manage their facilities.
Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
Global Logistics—October 2015
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
Global Logistics, Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Refugees Cause Price Hike for EU Shippers
Refugees cause price hike for European Union shippers; East-West shippers see sharp decline in contract rates; technology innovations to transform competitive landscape in global freight forwarding market; home delivery in the United Kingdom
Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Great Logistics Sites: Prime Destinations, Unmistakable Results
The pursuit of perfection may seem an impossible goal. But, with the right combination of key elements, four regions in the United States have achieved logistics greatness.
E-commerce, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
The Beauty of Global Logistics
EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.
Economic Development, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Ocean, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Global Logistics—October 2015
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
Intermodal : Making the Connection
Railroads, ocean carriers, and ports are investing in new equipment and technology innovation to move freight from trucks to rails and attract intermodal shippers.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Trends—October 2015
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
Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
If Yogi Berra Were a Logistics and Supply Chain Manager
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.
Careers, Industry Associations, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Getting the Most from Professional Association Memberships
Active participation in a professional association helps advance career growth and offers continuous learning.
E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Trends—September 2015
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.
Lean Logistics, Lean, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Intelligent Technology Provides Visibility into Supply Chain
Intelligent transportation technology provides new sources of competitive advantage through complete supply chain visibility.
Transportation Metrics: Keeping Score
When every dollar counts, along with every mile, shippers need to know which carriers are keeping them on a course to profitability. That’s why carrier metrics are so important.
2015 Trucking Perspectives
Inbound Logistics exclusive trucking market research report delivers shipper and motor carrier insights into trucking challenges and trends.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Leveraged Platforms: The More Efficient Road Ahead
Core carriers participating in leveraged platforms typically receive consistent, attractive internal freight volumes and specific lanes of business.
3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Nourishing a Healthy Supply Chain
Nutrabolt’s rapid growth created several logistics challenges, including processing orders efficiently and quickly; absorbing dramatic swings in order volumes to support promotional campaigns; and providing omni-channel fulfillment through a single warehouse. A third-party logistics partnership with Kane Is Able helped Nutrabolt meet these challenges.
Risk Management, Safety, Trucking, Security, Technology , Transportation
Improving Fleet Safety with On-Board Video
An on-board video solution helps fleet managers review driver performance and improve fleet safety.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Intermodal, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation
Driver Shortage Threatens to Slow Intermodal Growth
The shortage of qualified drivers threatens the continued growth of the intermodal industry.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Growing Efficiency and Weeding Out Waste
With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Global Trade Management, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports
How to Make Ship Arrival Analytics and Predictions More Precise
Automatic Identification System (AIS) can provide analytics that enable companies to more accurately predict ship arrival times.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Reducing Supply Chain Risk by Outsourcing Technology
When downtime impacts a company’s line, outsourcing technology infrastructure to a third party might help.
Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
How to Wirelessly Enable Your Supply Chain
Companies are increasingly using M2M to maximize operational efficiency, minimize loss and theft, and better serve their customers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Terri Anderson: Care and Feeding of the WMS
Terri Anderson, production warehouse management systems analyst at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, configures, enhances, and tests the company's WMS by the book.
Economic Development, Global Economy, Asia, China, Logistics, Ports, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Global Logistics—July 2015
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.
Rise of the Machines: How Self-Driving Trucks Will Alter the Supply Chain
If you are driving through Nevada and see a truck driver reading a book…don’t freak out.
Big Data, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Shape of ‘Things’ to Come
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.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers’ Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2015
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Visibility: Chasing the Big Picture
As technology brings supply chain data into focus, the ability to access and interpret business information moves from nice-to-have to must-have.
Intermodal, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
O Canada!
In the logistics of trade, the relationship between Canada and the United States is both friendly and advantageous on both sides of the border.
3PL, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Retail Collaboration: It’s All in the Jeans
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.
NFL Intercepts Challenges, Tackles Data Collection
To deliver more information to the fans, the NFL turned to a logistics technology provider for help.
Customer Service, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Inventory Replenishment: Why Push When You Can Pull?
Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Cutting Costs While Delighting Customers
Cost reductions are uncovered from raw materials to end delivery, but companies must focus on its customers to keep them satisfied.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
It's Time for an Automotive Aftermarket Logistics Tuneup
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.
Ditch the Spreadsheet and Grow Your Business with Quality Data
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
Benefits of Partial Truckload Shipping
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Top Universities for Supply Chain Technology Education
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.
Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Global Logistics—May 2015
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
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Improving the Warehouse Startup Process
Recent improvements in wireless cellular technology and mesh networks provide solutions that can be adapted for warehousing space, easing startup challenges and costs.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The Driver Shortage—Not Just a Carrier Issue
Shippers making simple, but meaningful changes can go a long way with helping carriers attract and retain drivers.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Five Ways to Mitigate a Truckload Capacity Crunch
These five steps will ensure carriers can provide capacity when you need it most.
E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Building a Smarter Warehouse
Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Awake at the Wheel: Delivering Customer Satisfaction
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 I.T.
Improving Customer Satisfaction with Consumer Engagement Apps
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
Communication is Key When Optimizing Logistics Networks
The key to any successful relationship is communication. Your logistics network is no different.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
The World is Your Warehouse, 2.0
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
Maximizing Intermodal Efficiency
To drive efficiency, intermodal stakeholders need to fit their processes together.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Tracking Isn’t Just Tracking Anymore
Fleet management platforms represent the evolution of location information.
Big Data, Lean, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Next Frontier of Supply Chain Innovation: Analytics, LEAN and the Power of Big Data
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.
Big Data, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Strategic Shipping Solutions
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
How to Forge Successful Value Chain Partnerships
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 .
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Offshore vs. Outsource for Transportation & Logistics
Many transportation and logistics professionals hear outsourcing and think offshoring, but there is a big difference.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Using Technology to Maximize Value Chain Partnerships
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
Improving Operations With a Yard Management System
A yard management system allows greater visibility with key yard information at a glance, and reporting metrics to improve the operation and save money.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Logistics, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Freight Transport in Alaska: The Haul of the Wild
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.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Jim Young: Sourcing for a Startup
Jim Young, senior supply chain manager at Applied Microstructures, Inc., is responsible for everything from sourcing materials and services to shipping finished products
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Is Your Warehouse Software Holding You Back?
New software helps warehouse operators keep up with the real-time demands of omni-channel fulfillment.
3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Georgia: Super Hub of the Southeast
A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Designing a New Strategy for a New Year
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Protecting Your Brand With Product Lifecycle Management
Product Lifecycle Management software produces metrics that can help business make sure they are using ethical vendors.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Improving Your Fleet With Telematics
Telematics technology can bring improved operational visibility to fleet management.
Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—January 2015
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, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Capacity Crunch
Driverless trucks may be a solution to the truck driver shortage in the future, but here are some ideas for how to cope now.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Human Factor: What is Technology Without Leadership?
All the technology in the world won’t help an organization improve if they don’t have what it takes in the leadership department.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Intermodal, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trucking From the Driver’s Seat
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
Regulatory Update: Playing by the Rules
Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.
Education & Careers, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
Filling the Manufacturing Skills Gap With Technology
How manufacturers can use technology to stretch the capabilities of their existing workforce.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Keeping Vendor Risk Under Control During the Holiday Season
With the holiday season in full swing, logistics managers must be able to rely on their vendors to perform.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Lean, Ocean, Rail, Trucking
Reducing Freight Costs
As transportation prices rise, shippers are engaging in smart planning to reduce logistics costs.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Christopher McGovern: Watch Him Soar
Christopher McGovern, vice president, supply chain management at Aero Precision, knows the importance of communication and data collection.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
Trends—December 2014
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, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Supply Chain Integration + Collaboration = Time Travel?
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
The Ins and Outs of Crossdocking Solutions
Crossdocking reduces inventory costs and improves delivery times by eliminating intermediate warehousing activity.
Single Dashboard Streamlines Shipments
After struggling with outdated software that could not keep pace with increased sales, EAM-Mosca found a solution to streamline shipments.
Last Mile Delivery, Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
Avoiding Christmas Past: Use Technology to Ensure Timely Holiday Deliveries
Investments in technology might just be the way to save Christmas.
Education & Careers, Trucking, Transportation
Andy Yablin Goes Back to School
Andy Yablin, vice president, transportation at Scholastic Inc., is responsible for transportation from manufacturing facilities to distribution centers, and from distribution centers to customers.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—November 2014
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.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Three Ways a WCS Can Improve Your Operation
A modular warehouse control system can help smaller operations keep up with larger competitors.
Modal Harmony in a Discordant Market
Intermodal solutions can have significant returns, but there are challenges to consider.
Selecting a Yard Management System
Yard management systems provide visibility into yard operations. Here is advice for choosing the right YMS provider and solution to meet your unique needs.
E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
Global Logistics—October 2014
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Logistics Sector Leads the Internet of Things Revolution
The Internet of Things is the wave of the future – but for the logistics segment, the future is closer than you think.
Chemical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Safety
Making Hazmat Regulation Compliance Less Hazardous
New technologies simplify hazmat transport regulations to help shippers avoid costly fines and suspended operations.
Intermodal, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ocean, Ports, Rail, Trucking
Intermodal: Too Much of a Good Thing?
As intermodal grows, so do its challenges. Increasing cargo volumes create bottlenecks and congestion; while the capacity shortage has everyone scrambling. How are shippers and service providers coping? This article helps solve the dilemma.
3PL, Intermodal, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
Understanding Capacity Constraints
The trucking industry faces capacity constraints, but there are solutions available to help shippers minimize the impact.
3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Star Search: Discovering the Best Site for Your Business
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Challenges for Today’s Global Supply Chain: Cost, Profitability and Personalization
An optimized supply chain allows companies to reduce costs, lower risk, increase transparency, and support new products.
Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
Regulation as an Opportunity
Manufacturers should view legislation as an opportunity to achieve better control and supply chain integration.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
A Mobile Cure for the Warehouse Blues
Mobile communication technologies facilitate warehouse efficiency and productivity.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Safety, Trucking
House Members Seek to Set Due Diligence Standards for Motor Carrier Hiring
Federal legislators have taken notice of the issues relating to motor carrier due diligence caused largely by CSA.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
The New Retail: Three Legs to Stand On
Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.
Selecting the Right Technology to Support Your Lean Operations
Before choosing enterprise solutions, companies should conduct intensive requirements research.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Diving Into Multi-Channel Fulfillment
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
How the Internet of Things Impacts Supply Chains
The Internet of Things can affect supply chain operations by increasing in-transit visibility.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
3PL Evolution Continues
Third-party logistics services evolved to meet shippers' changing transportation, distribution, and warehousing needs.
3PL, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
The Evolution of Enterprise Logistics
Enterprise logistics providers are developing solutions that fuse data elements for insights that enable decisionmaking.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
What is a True Integrated Logistics Services Partner and How Do You Find One?
Integrated Logistics Services providers address supply chain challenges facing shippers to improve logistics operations.
Demand Planning, Retail, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Forecasting Seasonal Surges Keeps Products on the Shelf
Transportation forecasting lets shippers collaborate with carriers to identify capacity gaps and reallocate assets.
Green Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
Could New Fuel Efficiency Standards Lead to Transportation Cost Savings?
New federal emissions standards for heavy-duty trucks may prompt fleet operators to invest in new equipment.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers’ Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards 2014
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Supplier Compliance: Ask the Experts
A panel of supply chain experts address questions related to ensuring supplier compliance.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Empowering Companies Through Integrated Data Flows
An integrated warehouse management system improves data flow, efficiency, and accuracy, reducing operational costs.
Bar-coding Systems, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Wheel Genius: Racing to Improve Data Collection
Bar-code reading errors slowed Champion Tire and Wheel’s operation; a new laser scanner got the company back on track.
Retail, Trucking, Transportation
Innovation in Business Processes from Northwest Arkansas
Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Measuring the Value of Warehouse Data
Warehouse technology that supports communication and data analysis improves efficiency and reduces waste.
Implementing an ERP System
Before adding an ERP system, enlist a cross-functional team, assess operational needs, and revise business processes.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics I.T.
Freight Bill Payment: Meeting the Pepsi Challenge
Pepsi Logistics Company Inc. automates the creation and delivery of carrier and shipper invoices.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Technology Convergence of Forces Offers Improvements for Logistics Sector
Technology trends are transforming the logistics sector, improving safety, efficiency, and competitiveness.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Fight Inventory Pain Points
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
Dispelling Five Common Myths about Voice-Directed Work
Voice-directed technology can help improve worker safety and reduce employee-training time, yet some companies avoid them because of these five common misconceptions.
Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—May 2014
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
Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Refreshing Your Logistics Network: 6 Steps to Success
This article provides a step-by-step guide to logistics network optimization.
Networked Track Sensors Keep Rails and Workers Safe
Track sensors monitor rails for signs of buckling or breakage, improving rail freight safety.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Power of Demand-Driven
Demand-driven supply chains strive for synchronicity between functions and among partners to ensure optimal performance.
Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Tapping Social Media to Power Your Supply Chain
Many companies use social media to improve supply chain operations by connecting shippers and service providers.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation
Fusing Big Data and the Supply Chain: The Future is NOW
By strategically leveraging supply chain data, companies can win in their industry and increase enterprise value.
Invest in Productivity
Equip employees with the most efficient tools, such as computers, software, and Internet service, to boost productivity.
Partnership, Risk Management, Transportation Management
Access to Reliable Transportation Regardless of Transportation Market Conditions
Clear transportation management strategy and technologies allow companies to deliver superior service at lower cost.
Cross-border Trade, Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
Automating Key Steps to Strategically Optimize Inbound Supply Chains
Best in class companies use a variety of global trade automation tools to lower inbound costs and improve processes.
Laying the Foundation For a Long-Term 3PL Partnership
A long-term vision allows a shipper-3PL partnership to make long-lasting improvements.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
Leveraging Big Data
Analyzing supply chain data allows shippers to improve their logistics operations.
2014 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers
Top 100 Logistics IT Providers can equip you with the tools to meet your company's unique supply chain challenges.
Connect, Secure, and Manage the Supply Chain
Mobile technologies are helping secure and more effectively manage the supply chain.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
The Fundamentals of Successful Value Chain Partnerships
Supply chain partners must work together to maximize the benefit to their customers – and boost their own bottom line.
Asia, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Untangling the Complications of Free Trade Agreements
Companies that effectively integrate trade agreements will gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.
Keys to Developing Strong Supply Chain Partnerships
Supply chain partner collaboration improves supply chain performance, create capabilities, and increase efficiencies.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Shipment Monitoring Technology: Picking Up the Signals
Shipment monitoring tools allow manufacturers and shippers to locate cargo, manage inventory and prevent theft.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Inland Barge, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Heading North: Navigating Alaska’s Supply Chain
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.
Selecting a Bar-code Scanning System
Before choosing a bar-code scanning system, consider your facility’s needs and current bar-code technology.
Automotive Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ocean, Ports, Partnership, Specialized Logistics
Trends—March 2014
New Jersey’s salty tale misplaces blame on the Jones Act; UPS unveils new hazmat shipping protocol; Automakers collaborate to map the auto supply chain
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Global Trade in the Key of GTM
Global trade management (GTM) solutions help coordinate trade compliance, and allow trading partners to share data.
Boosting Warehouse Productivity
Automated materials handling tools boost warehouse productivity and improve efficiency.
Scaling Supply Chain Partnerships
Scaling your supply chain can trigger significant adjustments in your partnerships.
Intermodal, Ports, Trucking, Transportation
How the Changing Chassis Market Affects Your Supply Chain
Rapid changes in the chassis market mean shippers must ensure they are creating value from the chassis they use.
Inventory Management, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Collaborative Programs: Not a Chore But an Opportunity
Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.
Using Operational Analytics to Achieve a Digitized, Visible Supply Chain
Developing a business system based on operational analytics requires a focus on decision-making and a clear plan.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
The New 3PL Partnership: More Bang for Your Buck
Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Cargo Security: Protecting the Supply Chain
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
Materials Handling Meets Big Data
Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
7 Steps to Selecting a WMS
Follow these steps to choose a warehouse management system to improve fulfillment operations and inventory visibility.
3PL, Finance, Global Logistics, Partnership, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Risk Mitigation: Supply Chain Safety Net
Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
Plan, Write, and Implement a Successful Software Project
Successful software projects require thoughtful planning, the right partners, and flexibility.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Looking for One Logistics Partner That Does Everything with Excellence?
An enterprise logistics provider delivers holistic solutions that transform your business.
Inventory Management, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
PVMI: A New Approach to Supply Chain Control
Production vendor managed inventory enables manufacturers to gain supply chain control.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Security
Know Thy Partner: Beyond C-TPAT
Knowing your global trading partners can help maintain a smooth flow of goods, while ensuring safety and security.
Global Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Five Ways to Drive Efficiency In International Logistics
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
Maximize Nearshoring Value to Minimize Supply Chain Complexity
Shifting production closer to the U.S. can benefit supply chains, but nearshoring also presents obstacles.
Supply Chain Analytics: Overcoming Obstacles to Stay Ahead of Your Competitors
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
163 Ways to Supercharge Your Supply Chain
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
Achieving True Mobility in Supply Chain and Logistics Operations
Mobile technology offers flexible, affordable solutions for supply chain operations.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
A New Paradigm in Vendor Partner Management
Implementing tools and processes that enable better shipment visibility and control of in-transit inventory helps improve vendor partner management.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics I.T.
Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Tackles Track-and-Trace Challenges
Track-and-trace regulations require pharmaceutical shippers to adapt production and distribution processes to ensure compliance.
Seeking Innovation? Stop IT Overspending
Companies must identify and eliminate overspending on supply chain IT solutions to free up capital for new projects.
Chemical Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
Transforming Liquid Assets into Capital Gains
Flexible tanks turn dry vans into bulk liquid transportation, creating capacity and increasing backhaul opportunities.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management
Trends—December 2013
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
Tapping Technology To Improve Lean Warehouses
Tools such as electronic data interchange (EDI) and advanced picking solutions support lean supply chain operations.
Air Cargo, Expedited Shipping, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Time-Critical Transport: Devising a Master Plan
Expedited shipping modes are a crucial part of shippers’ planned transportation strategies.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Vendor Compliance: Setting Them Straight
Drive out inefficiencies and boost customer service by aligning with vendors to meet your supply chain goals.
How to Take Advantage of Intermodal Transportation
Mixing truckload, less-than-truckload, and rail options allows shippers to create efficient intermodal solutions.
Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
How to Manage Hours-of-Service Regulations Compliance
Shippers must adapt to accommodate federal Hours-of-Service rules affecting the time truck drivers can be on the road.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
How to Transform Your Supply Chain Through a 4PL Approach
A fourth-party logistics provider (4PL) can help companies set and achieve supply chain improvement goals.
China, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Putting Stock in Retail Analytics Tools
Kimberly-Clark China uses retail analytics tools to manage inventory and avoid stockouts at stores like Walmart.
Saving Time and Money Through Automation
Automating office functions, shipment tracking, and data exchange can help companies cut costs and improve customer service.
Intermodal, Ocean, Rail, Trucking
Intermodal Efficiencies
Intermodal allows shippers to cut transportation costs without sacrificing service.
Intermodal, Ocean, Rail, Transportation Management, Trucking
All Aboard a Modal Conversion
Exploring intermodal transportation's potential.
Automating B2B Payments: The Next Frontier
Automating supplier payments through commercial cards helps companies facilitate their payment process.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Creating More Intelligent Supply Chains with BI Technology
Incorporating business intelligence tools into logistics strategy gives companies access to efficiency-boosting data.
Technology Supports 3PL-Carrier Partnerships
Freight management technology strengthens partnerships between third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.
The Benefits of an Integrated Transportation Solution
Integrated transportation solutions allow shippers to optimize modes, and meet capacity and service requirements.
Trucking Perspectives 2013
Shipper and motor carrier responses to Inbound Logistics’ market research survey indicate trucking trends.
5 Trucking Trends on the Table
Shipper and motor carrier responses to Inbound Logistics’ market research survey indicate trucking trends.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
Trends—September 2013
New Hours-of-Service regulations impact trucking companies, driver, and shippers; Restaurant chain Chipotle struggles to maintain supplier standards in the face of growing demand; U.S. Postal Service changes Priority Mail line-up to grow package business
Building Capacity Through Specialized Truckers
Partnering with diversified and specialized truckers can help shippers who are struggling to find freight capacity.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Route Planning Software: Mapping a Path to Savings
Route planning software from Paragon helped poultry supplier George’s gain efficiencies and cut transportation costs.
Moving Logistics Technology to the Cloud Dispels the Fog of Uncertainty
Cloud computing offers democracy to logistics and transportation providers, putting small and mid-sized providers on the same playing field as large global companies.
Retailers Try I.T. On for Size
As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.
Scantastic Bar-Code Tracking Tools
Increasing product traceability requirements are making bar codes an essential part of many supply chains.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Safety, Trucking
When Government Oversight of Motor Carriers Fails, Shippers Pay
Shippers must take steps to supplement inadequate government reviews of motor carrier safety.
Get Airborne with Asset Tracking
GPS tracking devices give shippers shipment visibility, even when cargo is in the air.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
Cintron Quenches Thirst For Order Management System
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.
Using Big Data to Build Tomorrow’s Supply Chain Today
Companies can use the visibility big data provides to improve supply chain processes and meet organizational goals.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The Case for Transportation Management Software
Leveraging transportation management system (TMS) capabilities help shippers make better real-time carrier decisions.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
TMS or 3PL: Which Suits Your Business Best?
Shippers’ needs dictate if a third party logistics provider or transportation management system is the best choice.
Aerodynamic Trailer Add-ons Make Fuel Savings a Breeze
Exporter Anderson Hay & Grain saved on transport costs by installing trailer side skirts that boost fuel efficiency.
Bringing Supply Chain Visibility to the Last Frontier
A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.
Mobility Solutions That Improve Field Productivity
A business-to-employee communications model improves employee productivity through mobile technology and applications.
Trucking, Specialized Logistics
Polishing the Furniture Supply Chain
U.S. furniture manufacturers rely on specialized furniture carriers and white-glove delivery companies.
Natural Gas For Long-Haul Trucking: Working Together to Get It Right
Natural gas fuel can help the trucking industry reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but only if gas leaks are minimized.
Air Cargo, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T.
Sensor-based Logistics: Monitoring Shipment Vital Signs in Real Time
Sensor-based logistics solutions monitor factors like temperature and humidity to protect perishable shipments.
Delivery Scheduling Relieves Loading Dock Bottlenecks
Beer distributor Crescent Crown’s new appointment scheduling system gives it control over when trucks arrive at its DC.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Inventory Optimization: A Natural Fit
A new inventory management system by Manhattan Associates nurses Nature's Best's fulfillment operations back to health.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
What Happens When Your Warehouse Is Unplugged?
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.
Asia, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Trucking, Latin America
Global Logistics—May 2013
Hong Kong strike threatens port’s reputation, shakes up competition; DUBAL turns to SAP for inbound control; NAFTA cross-border trade grows for second consecutive year amid recurring safety concerns; Texas pushes for heavier produce trucks from Mexico
Assessing Your Provider’s Financial Stability
Danny Monson of States Logistics Services Inc. offers tips to help shippers confirm a logistics service provider is financially stable before signing a logistics service contract.
Business Intelligence in the Supply Chain
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
Connect and Collaborate to Better Manage Freight Spend
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.
The Strategic Approach to Optimizing Inbound Shipments
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
TMS Technology for Mid-Market Shippers
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.
Quantifying Transportation Performance With Technology Tools
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.
Managing Shipment Data to Meet Customs Requirements
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 Communication: Connecting Supply Chains On The Go
Mobile communications tools track supply chain data such as shipment status, warehouse worker performance, truck location, and driver safety.
6 Secrets to Finding the Right 3PL
Finding a third-party logistics (3PL) provider you can count on requires due diligence into performance history and resources, writes Kyle tGholston of Conexus.
The Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
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.
Building an Effective Import Compliance Program
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.
Navigating New IT Pathways
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.
CNG as a Transportation Fuel: A Fuel Manager's Perspective
While it promises supply chain sustainability gains, using compressed natural gas as a transportation fuel requires multi-step capital and operating considerations, writes Casey Whelan of U.S. Energy Services.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
GTM: The World at Your Fingertips
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.
Performance-Based Negotiations: Simulation as Support for Decision-Making
Using an advanced logistics simulation tool to analyze system performance and lifecycle cost can help logisticians negotiate better performance-based logistics contracts, writes Justin Woulfe of WPI Services.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Logistics I.T.
Tracking Tools Protect Food Shipment Freshness
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.
Leveraging Technology to Accelerate Productivity and Profit
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.
Crafting Logistics Provider Contracts That Cover All the Bases
When negotiating logistics service provider contracts, shippers should ensure they are clear on payment terms and special conditions.
You’re Faced With a Recall. Can You Find That Product?
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.
Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions
Take Your Pick
Companies choosing between voice-directed and pick-to-light technology often find that the right choice is a combination of both.
Is Your 3PL Financially Healthy?
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Conduct a financial checkup of your potential 3PL partners before you sign the contract.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Latin America
Cloud-Based WMS Fires Up Supermercados Supply Chain
Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).
Technology: The Leading Edge
Innovative technologies are helping companies improve visibility into their supply chains and gain better control over inventory, service, and cost.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Connectivity-Visibility-Optimization: Three Keys To a Successful Supply Chain Trading Partner Network
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.
Yard and Dock Management Tools: An Extra Set of Eyes in Your Facility
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.
Redefining the Race to Profitability Through Innovation
As manufacturers strive to strike the perfect balance between parts delivered and parts consumed in production, technology innovations allow logistics providers to ensure companies receive only the parts they need when they need them, writes John Paugh of Carter Logistics.
Connecting Through an Online Network Gives Supply Chain Partners Strength in Numbers
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.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Measuring the Value of Collaboration
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.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Cutting LTL Costs
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.
Food Logistics Taps into Tech Solutions
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.
Why Innovation Matters for Rugged Mobile Technology
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.
Are You in the Dark About Labor Visibility?
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.
Why Supply Chains Need Business Intelligence
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.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T.
International Shipping: Moving at the Speed of Technology
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.
Embarking On an IT Modernization Journey
Modernizing information technology infrastructure helps companies save money and provide better value for their customers, writes Steve Biondi of Micro Focus.
Air Cargo, Expedited Shipping, Trucking
Expedited Transport: It’s All in the Timing
Expedited services transport cargo by air, sea, or ground to meet shippers’ demands for consistent, on-time delivery with short lead times.
Inventory Tracking: Crunching the Numbers
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.
How to Make Driver Recruitment a Competitive Differentiator
Whether a company is looking to reduce driver turnover costs or vet a business partner to make sure it has the necessary resources to deliver acceptable customer service, maintaining a dedicated recruitment and retention strategy communicates a strong message both internally and within the extended value chain.
How to Foster a Long-Term 3PL Partnership
The value of third-party logistics (3PL) provider partnerships grows infinitely greater when shippers take a long-term approach that focuses on sustainable gains rather than short-term savings.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Filling the Cloud with High-Quality Data
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.
Crossdocking Streamlines Freight Movement
Inbound raw materials and components and outbound shipments that are centrally crossdocked, then line-hauled to final destination, support Lean manufacturing and ensure just-in-time inventory, writes David J. DiSanto of DiSanto & Associates.
Intermodal, Rail, Trucking, Transportation
Rail Intermodal: Where Rail Meets Road
Shippers such as Ste. Michelle, Welch’s, and Michaels Stores are using intermodal transportation to move freight quickly, efficiently, and sustainably.
The Future of Predictive Analytics Looks Certain
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.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Visibility is the Key to Mitigating Supply Chain Risk
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
Shared Technology Resources Hold the Key to Supply Chain Optimization
Supply chain managers must determine the best technology for their supply chain based on their specific organizational needs, says Krishna Rallabhandi of Four Soft.
Logistics I.T., Transportation
Information Access Differentiates Transportation Providers
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.
Putting Labor Management Systems to Work
Labor management systems help distribution centers and warehouse facilities monitor and measure worker performance to identify problems and improvement opportunities.
Handling Change: There's an App for That
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
Can Your Global Supply Chain Withstand a Crisis?
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.
Reliable Transportation: A Key Ingredient to Baking Success
When it needs equipment and consistent service, Dawn Food Products turns to RWI Transportation as one of its core carriers to deliver.
Managing Mobile Devices By Remote Control
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.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
Regulation & Legislation: Truckers Get the Message
Some new trucking regulations – and proposed changes to rules and legislation – have a major affect on motor carriers. Here’s a look at these changes, and how they could affect shippers.
Collaborative Visibility for Optimum Efficiency and User Experience
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.
For Truck Financing, Bank on a Transportation Expert
Having a financing partner that specializes in the transportation industry is important for trucking companies because it will understand their capital needs, collateral values, and financing alternatives, says Nick Weaver, Regions Bank.
With WMS, Small Businesses Can Do It All
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.
Asset-Based Carriers Give Shippers an Advantage
When capacity becomes tight, maintaining relationships with asset-based carriers gives shippers the peace of mind of knowing their supply chain and service will remain seamless and fluid, says Terrence M. Gilbert, CEO, New Century Transportation.
Choosing the Right WMS For Your Business
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.
Available Capacity Brings Value to Today's Logistics Buyers
Unless the trucking sector adds drivers and equipment, shortages will continue, says Bo Bates, The Evans Network of Companies.
Wireless Workstations Unplug Savings
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.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
Cutting Through the Noise
Inbound Logistics' annual trucking issue assesses the challenges and opportunities that await the trucking industry during this period of rapid change, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Perspectives 2012: Exclusive Trucking Industry Research
The results of our trucking industry research report include in-depth analysis of the trends, challenges, and regulations that affect both shippers, truck drivers, and trucking companies.
Mobile TMS Applications Improve Supply Chain Visibility
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.
Discovering the Value of Analytics
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.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
FMCSA Abandons Carrier Oversight
Recent pronouncements by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration signal the agency’s retreat from its statutory and historical oversight of carrier safety in favor of placing more due diligence responsibilities on shippers and brokers.
Data Warehousing System Puts an End to Paperwork
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.
3PL Partnerships: From Tactical to Strategic
If shippers use their third-party logistics partners for more than brokerage—not just as tactical providers, but as strategic partners—a whole new world of logistics excellence and accomplishments could open up, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
3PL Partnerships: From Transactions to Trust
Increasingly, 3PLs and shippers are working much more collaboratively, often sharing pains and gains, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Partnership
Failure is Not an Option: Questions and Answers with Brian Hancock
Brian Hancock, president, North America for Martin-Brower, discusses the unique supply chain and distribution operations supporting the McDonald’s restaurant chain.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Great Partnerships: 3PLs and Shippers
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
3PL Perspectives 2012: Shippers and 3PLs—Perfect Together
Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
Urban Delivery: Getting Into the Grid
Traffic congestion and infrastructure limitations can complicate shipment deliveries in major cities. Carriers such as DHL and UPS use network engineering, communication tools, and contingency planning to ensure they meet customer needs.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Developing a Comprehensive Transportation Strategy
A rich and robust transportation management system (TMS) plays an important role in a company’s inbound transportation strategy.
Harnessing the Power of Information Technology
Information technology tools provide actionable data for supply chain improvements, cost efficiencies, on-time performance, and customer satisfaction, says Gary Neeves, Regal Logistics.
Tech Tools Serve Retailers’ Diverse Needs
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.
Opening the Door To Real-Time Visibility
Door manufacturer The WHITING Group replaced siloed systems with integrated ERP, ushering in transparency and real-time decision-making across its multiple divisions.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Sharing Data Creates Optimal Supply Chain Visibility
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.
The Illuminating Power of Yard Management Systems
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.
Benchmarking Keeps Logistics IT Outsourcing On Track
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.
Tracking Rugged Tablets
Tablets offer several advantages over notebook computers and handheld devices, says Chris Wright, DRS Technologies.
Warehouse Automation Management Goes Mobile
Warehouse managers are using a mix of consumer-grade smartphone technology and rugged mobile devices to optimize their workflow, says Laura Kelleher of Honeywell.
A New Recipe for Effective Warehouse Management
Developing a customized warehouse management system (WMS) was a collaborative process for packaged food products direct-sales company Tastefully Simple and technology provider Softeon.
IT: Advantage @Light Speed
Logistics technology is a source of competitive advantage, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics I.T.
The Three Pillars of Effective Returns Management
Software solutions can help shippers maximize value recovery from inbound shipments of returned material, writes Tamara Dwyer of TAKE Solutions.
All-in-One
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.
The 2012 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers & Market Research Survey
Inbound Logistics' annual logistics technology market research report delivers exclusive insights on logistics technology trends, and reveals this year's best-in-class vendors.
Second-Generation Logistics Software: Accessible Anywhere
New logistics technology makes supply chain data accessible around the clock, says Tom Heine, Aljex Software.
World-Class Logistics Operations Require Multi-Party Processes and Technology
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.
Maximizing Global Logistics Management Effectiveness
Global logistics technology enables companies to successfully manage all modes of transportation under a common umbrella while providing complete visibility, says Chris Johnson, LeanLogistics.
Bringing Clarity to Visibility Solution Investments
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.
KPI Data Creates Improvement Opportunities
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.
Leveraging Lean and Labor Management
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.
The Right ERP Solution Puts All the Pieces Together
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.
Automated Routing: The Path to Optimization
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 Keep Companies Competitive
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.
Technology Enables You to Be Positively Different
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
Cross-Border Shipping: The Road Now Taken
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.
Gaining More From 3PL Relationships
Getting your money’s worth from third-party logistics (3PL) service providers requires willingness to commit to key relationships, according to these tips from supply chain consultant Valerie Bonebrake, Tompkins International.
3PLs: Going Beyond Savings to True Value
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer shippers a variety of beneficial supply chain services, writes Dan Lockwood of Unishippers Global.
Customer Service, Partnership, Transportation Management
Jumping Through Hoops: The Importance of Vendor Compliance
Small companies face challenges in meeting the rules set out in vendor requirements manuals. Best practices help them comply with retailers’ supplier requirements successfully.
Air Cargo, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Trying on a Tailor-made TMS
Ralph Lauren’s transport operations team lacked the ability to dynamically route international air freight according to real-time best service and cost options, and it showed in inflated shipping costs. When a market search found no suitable transportation management system (TMS) for international air freight, the company decided to create its own, with help from solutions provider Acuitive Solutions.
Use Transportation Planning for Competitive Advantage
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.
Wes Kemp: Portrait of a Leader
Recently retired from a 40-year career with less-than-truckload carrier ABF, former president and CEO Wes Kemp shares his insights on the transportation industry, trucking regulation, and the importance of logistics and supply chain education.
Ensuring a Worry-Free ERP Implementation
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.
The Role of Cloud-Based LTL Content in Smarter Supply Chains
On-demand content delivered via cloud-based tools such as CarrierConnect XL help shippers connect with less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers, writes Danny Slaton of SMC3.
Protecting Your Company Against Load Board Scams
Shippers can avoid load board scams by taking the time to research the companies with which they do business, writes Jeff Vielhaber, TTS.
Food Logistics, Logistics I.T., Risk Management
5 Steps to Improving Food Product Traceability
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.
How Carriers Keep Great Drivers Behind the Wheel
Driver turnover takes a significant hit to motor carriers’ bottom lines, undermines safety performance and customer service, and exacerbates the capacity shortage. Trent Dye of Paramount Freight Systems explains why focusing on retaining drivers makes more sense than trying to recruit new ones.
The Scoop on Route Accounting Automation
Ice cream distributor Berliner scoops up savings with an automated direct store delivery solution that helps drivers manage customer information collected along their routes.
Integration: Call of the X-duty
Nussbaum Trucking and Wabash National collaborated with appliance maker Electrolux to create the X-duty trailer, which combines the protection and security of a dry van with the strength of a heavy-duty flatbed trailer, allowing Electrolux to use the same trucks for its inbound raw material and outbound finished goods shipments.
Smarter Trucking Saves Fuel Over the Long Haul
Trucking companies around the world are looking to boost fuel economy by improving driver behavior, and they are using on-board technology to monitor and control what goes on behind the wheel.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Trends—December 2011
C.H. Robinson and Menlo Logistics Worldwide streamline managed TMS services; Ohio, Wisconsin, and California transportation legislation; GE opens renewable energy DC; Order fulfillment process grows in complexity
Forklifts, Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
VMS Lifts Warehouse Labor Productivity
Vehicle management systems allow lift truck operators to complete pre-operation checklists electronically, saving valuable production time, writes Joe LaFergola of The Raymond Corporation.
RFID and Supply Chain Visibility: You Can’t Manage What You Can’t See
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.
Strengthening International Cargo Security
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.
Expedited Carriers: The Fast and the Furious
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.
How to Evaluate a 3PL Partner
Shippers, carriers, and small intermediaries that rely on third-party logistics (3PL) service providers to manage non-core logistics and supply functions, access capacity, and tap technology capabilities must review 3PL performance periodically to ensure quality service.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Getting a Handle on Transportation Costs
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.
Safety, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
CSA Compliance Through TMS: A Beauty of an Idea
CSA 2010 regulations inspire global cosmetics company L’Oreal USA to create a qualification program that holds its fleet of 80 carriers to higher safety standards.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Trucking
Refrigerated Trucks Haul More Than Just Perishables
No longer hauling just fresh produce and other groceries, today’s truck and trailer refrigeration systems also keep other high-value loads at ideal temperatures and humidity levels so they arrive safely at their final destinations, writes Thermo King’s Tom Kampf.
Freight at Rest is Freight at Risk
Motor freight carriers employ a variety of strategies to keep cargo secure in transit, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Trends—September 2011
Best-in-class service parts excellence relies on integration; Truckers are wary about new equipment investments; CSA rules confuse truckers; Amazon invests in new products and warehouses; AAR and Amtrak relations derail
Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing
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.
Looking Down the Road
Inbound Logistics spoke to CEOs at five leading motor carriers and logistics service providers about the issues driving change for their companies and the industry.
Trucking Perspectives 2011: Exclusive Inbound Logistics Research
Inbound Logistics' annual motor carrier survey provides an in-depth look at the trucking sector, addressing growth areas and obstacles such as CSA, hours of service rules, capacity and driver shortages, fuel surcharges, and freight brokerage.
Risk Management, Safety, Trucking
Truckers Play Role in Homeland Security
Curt Shewchuck, chief security officer, Con-way Freight discusses how the carrier's security protocols helped avert a terrorist threat.
APIs Enrich Software Users’ Experience
Tom Heine, CEO, Aljex Software Inc., explains how application programming interfaces (APIs) enrich software users’ experience by connecting them to Web tools.
Trends—August 2011
Cargo theft is a greater concern than terrorism; University of Tennessee creates advisory board of shipper supply chain executives; Trucks to dominate tonnage and revenue over the next decade; State DOTs get lean and green; Inland ports grow in importance; Best Buy consolidates its brick and mortar presence
Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Maximizing TMS Resources Helps Achieve Sustainable ROI
When it comes to transportation management systems, a combination of SaaS plus managed services represents the next step in supply chain optimization, writes Jordan Kass, TMC.
Switching to Emissions-reducing Fuel Technologies
Shipping and logistics professionals facing stricter emissions regulations and rising diesel prices will have an opportunity to take control of their fleets and realize the fuel and cost savings selective catalytic reduction brings, writes Chad Dombroski of Yara North America.
Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T.
Managing the Logistics Lifecycle
Transportation procurement provides the greatest opportunity to create efficiency in the the Logistics Management Lifecycle, says Martin Hubert, Freightgate.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
The Perfect Time to Optimize Labor Management
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.
Technology Powers New Supply Chain Security Systems
Since the events of September 11, the public and private sectors have committed themselves to developing new supply chain security technologies.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Looking Beyond Rates: The Road to Smoother Carrier Contract Negotiations
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.
Ports Plug In: Electronic Tracking Tools Create Smooth Sailing for Ocean Cargo
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.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
When Just Enough Goes All the Way
In the midst of organizational change, furniture retailer Design Within Reach upgrades its demand forecasting and replenishment system to better control inventory.
Green Logistics, Rail, Trucking
Green on the Ground
When looking for environmental sustainability solutions, which ground transport mode -- truck or rail -- is greener?
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Safety, Trucking
The Surprising Upside to CSA 2010
CSA 2010 guidelines can benefit shippers by increasing carrier attention to driver safety, writes David Strand, Wholesale Truck & Finance.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Security
Container Security: Filling in the Blanks
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 Delivers the Power to Transform Markets
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.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
New Kids in Town: 3PLs Move Into the TMS Market
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are bringing transportation management systems (TMS) to market.
Global Economy, Logistics I.T.
The Future Ain’t What It Used to Be
Globally interconnected supply chains face challenges such as natural disasters and currency fluctuations, but benefit from the latest logistics technology.
Going Mobile: Optimizing Inventory Management
Rick Pontin, CEO of Airclic, explains how to improve inventory management through better visibility.
Cloud Computing, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The New Breed of Cloud-Based TMS
Today’s new cloud-based transportation management systems empower companies to connect in real-time with their global supply chain partners, helping supply chain managers streamline their processes and save significant time, costs, and resources.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
TMS Helps Shippers Rise Above the Status Quo
Move out of your comfort zone and into a multi-functional, cost-saving, online transportation management system.
Achieving Air and Ocean Freight Flexibility
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.
Ensuring Successful System Integration
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.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management
Benchmarking Data Supports Pricing Decisions
Measuring against industry benchmark data allows you to identify areas for improving transportation spend.
Transportation Management, Trucking
Establishing a Successful Core Carrier Program
Charlie Hitt, 3PD Inc., offers tips for implementing a successful core carrier program.
Retail Recovery Depends on an Integrated Supply Chain Strategy
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.
A New Day Dawns for 3PL Partnerships
Most logistics outsourcers today use an RFQ to select their 3PLs. But that model is outdated and ineffective. A handful of forward-thinking shippers and logistics providers are instead embracing a collaborative outsourcing method, with powerful results.
The Perfect Storm: Weathering a Chassis Crisis
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Roadability Rule has shifted responsibility for obtaining and maintaining chassis to shippers and drayage companies.
Balancing Shipper and Carrier Interests
The new world of supply chain management requires that carriers and shippers both understand and respect the economics of the industry.
How the Driver Shortage Impacts Capacity
Although a driver shortage is imminent, many supply chain professionals have yet to grasp how it will affect capacity. Here's a guide.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Gain: Better Data, Better Results
New technology solutions help improve inventory visibility, increase routing agility, manage labor more effectively, and capture valuable information from the field.
Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Gain: Trucking Tactics
Strategic transportation management puts shippers on the road to increased fuel economy and improved asset utilization.
Freight Forwarders, Partnership
You’re in Charge: Selecting and Managing Freight Forwarders
Effectively managing your freight forwarders helps improve supply chain compliance.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Security, Warehousing
Securing the Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
CSCMP Annual Conference: Can We Talk?
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
Air Cargo, Expedited Shipping, Trucking
Supply Chain Velocity: Shifting Into Overdrive
When expediting shipments, visibility, communication, and customer service get into gear.
Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
How to Drive Collaborative Distribution
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
Gaining Alignment With Your 3PL is Key to Supply Chain Success
Duane Sizemore of Total Logistic Control discusses how companies can build better relationships with third-party logistics providers through measurement, monitoring, and rewards.
3PL Partnerships: Finding Your Better Half
Robert Russo of Port Jersey Logistics explains how to choose the best third-party logistics provider for your company.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Optimizing Global Supply Chain Management
Andrea Robinson of CargoWise provides tips on handling global supply chain management challenges.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T.
Predicting Demand Levels Down the Road
Polymer and fibers manufacturer INVISTA turned to a new inventory planning tool to meet recessionary challenges.
Partnership, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Supplier Disruptions: Preparing for the Unpredictable
Chandler Hall of BravoSolution explains how to reduce the frequency and severity of disruptions by fostering collaborative relationships with your suppliers.
Exclusive Research: Trucking Perspectives 2010
Our annual motor carrier survey provides an in-depth look at the trucking sector, addressing growth areas and obstacles.
Risk Management, Safety, Trucking, Security
Balancing Risk Management With Your Operations Strategy
Increased regulation in the form of CSA 2010 affects not only truckers, but also freight brokers providing insurance, according to Mike Williams, chief operating officer, Sunteck Transport Group.
Green Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking
First They Came For Our Trucks
Is there a war on trucking? CSA 2010, cap and trade, and Hours of Service changes are challenging the ability of truckers to operate profitably in America, says Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
Collaborative Distribution Eases the Capacity Crunch
Small and mid-sized manufacturers lack the scale to ship in full truckloads, creating thousands of separate, inefficient lines of supply—all moving to the same mass retailers. Collaborative distribution reduces the number of trucks on the road and cuts distribution costs.
Want Better Service? Take the Driver-Friendly Approach
Weather the driver shortage by keeping detention low and utilization high, practicing good communication, staying flexible in scheduling, and taking advantage of dedicated drivers and equipment.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Trucking
It’s Time to Implement Cross-Border Trucking
Fully implementing cross-border trucking policy benefits both the United States and Mexico, writes Kyle Burns of Free Trade Alliance.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
What We’ve Got Here is Failure to Communicate
A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.
3PL Perspectives 2010: A Paradox Bound by Demand
Inbound Logistics' exclusive market research compiles shipper and 3PL input to illustrate the outsourcing sector's rapidly changing dynamics.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Intermodal, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—July 2010
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
Tying the 3PL Knot
Shippers and service providers discuss their experience building a strong working relationship.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Are You Talkin’ to Me?
To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Managing Labor Boosts Warehouse Operations
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
Digitizing the Global Supply Chain
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
What’s Ahead in Transportation Forecasting?
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.
The Evolution of Transportation Buying Practices
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.
Can You See Me Now? Achieving Supply Chain Visibility
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.
Getting the Most from Advanced Planning Tools
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.
The 3 Elements of a Successful Private Label Program
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.
Finding Hidden Profits in Your Warehouse or Transport Operations
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.
Choosing Between Hosted And On-Demand Technology
Learn how to choose the type of technology delivery that best meets your needs.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The Power of Flexible Transportation Management
Flexible transportation management systems empower shippers by integrating inbound and outbound transportation throughout the supply chain management process.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.
ALDO Boots Up a New System
Global shoe retailer ALDO implements a high-stepping, end-to-end inventory and distribution system.
Crack the WIP for a Leaner Supply Chain
Zebra Technologies' David Phillips explains how eliminating excess work-in-process waste improves your supply chain.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
TMS Evolved: Intelligent Execution Tools That Add Context
Transportation managements systems (TMS) have evolved into intelligent execution tools that add context, writes Steven Shoemaker, RateLinx.
Why You Should Vest With Your Outsourcing Partners, Now!
Vested outsourcing yields innovative logistics relationships that deliver results, writes Kate Vitasek of the University of Tennessee's Center for Executive Education.
Transformative Technology
Inbound Logistics' April 2010 issue presents a fully integrated editorial lineup that embraces different perspectives of the logistics technology space.
Technology Drives Supply Chain Excellence
Growing companies harness a variety of IT solutions to help them maintain outstanding performance.
Crossdocking: A New Vision for an Old Idea
Jason Howton, TAKE Supply Chain, outlines strategies for achieving best-in-class crossdocking performance.
Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
GTM Software: Read This Before You Buy
Technology-enabled global trade management offers significant benefits for improving supply chain efficiency and increasing profitability, writes Don Mabry of ClearTrack Information Network.
Keep Partners In the Loop
Jim Caudill of Xterprise recommends strategies for matching retail demand to supply, enhancing enterprise scalability, and increasing supply chain efficiencies through sustainability initiatives.
Strong Relationships Net Long-Term Value
Rich Wilson of CombineNet Inc. explains the value of strong shipper-carrier relationships.
Be the Captain of Your Fleet
Fleet optimization software helps you maximize driver, vehicle, and fleet productivity while delivering superior customer service, writes Steve Brown, Intergis LLC.
Global Trade Management, Logistics I.T.
FTZ Solutions: Zoning in on the Right Fit
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.
Trends—April 2010
Technology providers identify the transportation and logistics challenges facing shippers; Johnson & Johnson upgrades its quality assurance and supply chain systems
Implementing an RFID Solution
Proper management and execution are key to a successful RFID implementation project for shipment tracking, according to Scott Thomas of Intel.
Building Better 3PL Relationships
Third-party logistics providers can provide capacity, expertise, technology, and buying power. Chip Smith, president of CS Advisory Group, discusses how to ensure you're getting the most from your 3PL.
It's Time to Start Looking at the Future and Preparing for the Long Haul
As truckload prices starting to rise, more shippers are choosing stability over short-term cost advantages, writes Jerry DeMeuse of Schneider Logistics.
Business Intelligence: The Key to Success in Asia Pacific
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
All You Need To Know About Co-loading
Co-loading truckload and less-than-truckload shipments can reduce transportation costs, lead times, and shipment damage.
Big Wheels Keep on Turnin'
Trucks continue to move—in many cases faster than usual—to respond to the demands placed on the industry by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new data from the American Transportation Research Institute.
Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Trucking Companies Need to Flex in the Face of Disruption
This is an unprecedented time of disruption and volatility. The pandemic is showing the need to be more diversified. Trucking companies built around a specific customer base shut down when that industry shut down. Oversaturation in one market or customer base means disruptions hit harder. Companies supporting the food and beverage supply chain saw traffic jump exponentially, as grocery stores remained open and in high demand.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
Supply Chain Movers and Do-Gooders: Companies Step Up in Response to the Pandemic
Companies in the logistics space are responding to the crisis by providing free goods and services.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
How Can Trucking Companies Navigate COVID-19-Driven Regulation Complexity?
Shifting COVID-19 guidelines and consumer demands are a constantly moving target for truck drivers and transport companies. What steps can they take to stay healthy, flexible, and compliant all at the same time?
Finance, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Manage LTL Spend with a TMS
Partnering with a 3PL that offers a comprehensive transportation management system can help your enterprise take control of the LTL spend.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Technology
Uncorking Automation Bottlenecks
Although 57% of organizations say they're piloting automation processes and 93% of employees are optimistic automation will make their jobs easier, digital transformation efforts often fall apart. Many companies rely on IT to drive transformation without engaging other departments, creating bottlenecks.
Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
Take a look at some of the newest services and solutions in the supply chain industry.
Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Ship More, Pay Less: Controlling Transportation Costs
Better matching demand to supply and adjusting contracts, tendering, and invoice auditing strategies can help shippers control transportation costs as rates rise in 2020.
Customer Service, Logistics Solutions Providers, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Importer Maximizes Savings and Customer Service with Kuebix TMS
By leveraging Kuebix and an integration with NetSuite, equipment parts importer Summit Supply ensures every order is shipped with the quickest, least expensive option to maximize savings and service.
Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
New services and solutions
Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
New services and solutions
Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Hidaka Forges Automated Inventory Solution
An unusually large customer order drives Hidaka to implement the Mobility Physical Inventory App from AIM Computer Solutions. Along with automating the inventory process, the solution provides accurate and timely information.
Audit Services, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
How a Freight Audit and a TMS Can Drive Efficiency for Your Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
E-Commerce Fulfillment: No Pain, No Gain
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
Control Tower Approach Drives Visibility, Aids Planning and Supply Chain Reliability
LANXESS, a global specialty chemicals supplier, selected Odyssey Logistics & Technology to track multiple assets for four business units that provide products across 33 countries.
Kicking the Tires on an IoT Solution
Tire manufacturer Michelin is a shipper with a massive global footprint and complex demands. With headquarters in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin operates 121 production facilities in 17 countries; those facilities produced approximately 190 million tires in 2017. With a presence in 170 countries, distributing products across the globe is a challenging and sophisticated operation.
GOOD QUESTION | What’s the first thing to look for when selecting a logistics partner?
Readers share what you should look for to find an optimal logistics partner.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain
Choosing a 3PL: How to Make a Mature Decision
A 3PL partner that is aligned on purpose, value, strategy, and culture can provide far more value than what is seen in a transportation budget variance report.
Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Selecting a 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.
Economic Development, Partnership, Supply Chain
Collaboration Grows Freight Economy
At the heart of St. Louis’ strategy to advance as a global trade hub is a focus on collaboration to strengthen and promote the region’s already robust freight network.
Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Choose a TMS - Fortigo
Deploying a transportation management system (TMS) can be time-consuming. Here's how to save time and money.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Getting Shipments on the Right Track
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.
Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
Ocean Spray Teams Up With Uber Freight to Create a Refreshingly Simple Supply Chain
In an effort to stay ahead of industry trends, Ocean Spray jumped at the chance to partner with Uber Freight for more efficient transportation.
Logistics I.T., Security, Technology
Is Your IoT Deployment Secure?
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
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Four Tips for TMS Buyers - WSI
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)
2019 TMS Buyer's Guide
Some leading vendors in the TMS market.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology
The Impact of Technology on Trucking
Although the trucking industry is slow in changing its traditional models or absorbing new methodologies, the impact and benefits of emergent technologies can no longer be ignored.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Japan Tests Self-Driving Delivery System
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
What to Look for in Real-Time Track & Trace - RateLinx
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
How to Leverage a 3PL's Expertise with Packaged Applications
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.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Integrating Multiple Data Sources in a TMS
How to overcome the challenge of data management—integrating multiple data sources in a transportation management system (TMS)
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
2019 Logistics IT Market Research Survey
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, Trucking, Technology
The Future of Trucking Rides on Employee Experience
While today the trucking industry faces a supply and demand problem—i.e. the industry is growing at an epic rate and dealing with a severe shortage of drivers—new transportation models and technologies on the horizon are creating demand for new skills and expanding the talent pool.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Transport Decision Makers: Prepare for the Future
What is happening and what will happen to trucking capacity and costs? Here's the data you need to help plan for the coming months.
Big Data, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Get IT Together
Integrated WMS and TMS solutions increase visibility and communication and optimize the movement of goods.
Logistics, Trucking, Transportation
Hot Tips to Stay Safe This Winter
As harsh weather and poor driving conditions are universal concerns for drivers and fleet managers across the country, Jim Maltby, corporate director of health, safety, security and environmental management, and Tyler Bones, safety manager of Lynden Alaska West Express, offer five tips for navigating the challenges of winter driving.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Helping Del Monte Optimize its Transportation Network - Transplace
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.
Logistics, Trucking, Technology
New App Drives Compliance
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
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
What Are The Possibilities?
Profile of Mark Baker, chief technology officer of Pilot Freight Services.
Logistics, Trucking, Technology
VR Training Combats Trucking Industry’s Critical Driver Shortage
To many of us, truck driving and virtual reality (VR) using simulation are at the opposite end of the technology spectrum. However, VR using proper simulation is the solution to a major problem that exists in the world of trucking and freight movement.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Amway India Inks Digitized Warehouse Plan
Amway India boosted warehouse efficiency and accuracy by deploying JDA’s warehouse management solutions.
Loading Dock, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Good Question: What was your first job in logistics and what did it teach you?
Readers reminisce about their first jobs in logistics/supply chain and reveal the lessons they derived.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation
People-Centric Solution to TMS - Trinity Logistics
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 Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Use a TMS for Shipment Visibility And Connectivity - Manhattan Associates
Here’s how a transportation management system will completely transform the efficiency of your supply chain.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
The Key to Logistics Visibility: Connecting Things
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
An Open Ledger: Six Ways Blockchain Will Change Supply Chains
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
Invest in Logistics IT in a Grow Economy
Creating an ongoing logistics/supply chain technology investment strategy can radically advance supply chain efficiency. In a growing economy, it’s essential.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehousing
Supply Chain Commentary: Boost Productivity, Efficiency, and Security in Your Warehouse
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
10 Ways To Play IT Safe
Here are 10 supply chain threats and trends to look out for.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
5 Things to Consider When Choosing an ELD Provider
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.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology
Predictive Applications Take Supply Chains into the Future
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, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Systems Have Changed Dramatically. Your Buying Process Should Too.
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, Trucking, Transportation
How to Navigate the Driver Shortage
The industry’s driver shortage is no secret. As carriers get more selective about the freight they haul, shippers need to make themselves more carrier-friendly.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Assessing U.S. Shipments and Spend
A tighter truck market, increase in national shipments, and accelerated factory output are among the highlights of the Q3 2017 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index, which measures quantitative changes in shipment and spend activity (see chart) based on data from transactions the company processes.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
6 Strategies for Finding the Right 3PL Partner
Logistics, Partnership, Pallets, Supply Chain
New Pallet Program Better by Half
When Jel Sert needed to improve on the half-pallets it was using to deliver product displays for in-store promotions, CHEP developed a better solution.
Big Data, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Using KPIs to Optimize Transportation Data
Here are some of the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that companies can use to improve supply chain visibility, cut transportation costs, and improve parcel shipping service.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Is Supply Chain Planning Right for the Cloud?
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?
3PL, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Shippers Seek 3PL Efficiencies Amidst Capacity Constraints - DLS Worldwide
DLS Worldwide President Thomas Griffin reveals the 3PL efficiencies in highest demand as shippers face capacity constraints in 2017.
Economic Development, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
The Economy Will Grow. Is That Bad News?
Truckers and shippers weigh in on the state of the economy as we head into 2018.
Freight Payment Services, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Data by the Truckload - U.S. Bank
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 Bill Audit & Payment: Getting More Bang for Your Bucks
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
Top 6 Factors for Selecting and Implementing a WMS
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.
Import, Export, Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Global Trade Content: Unlocking the Supply Chain Value
Integrating external content is becoming more valuable for companies seeking more automation and real-time control over their supply chain planning and execution functions.
Distribution, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Keeping Your DC in Peak Shape:
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
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
Reverse Logistics: Earning a High Rate of Return
Opportunities that will make a difference in reverse logistics programs, and establishing goals for returns programs.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology
Freight Management and Route Optimization: A Critical Combination
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology
Fleets Must Be Hyper Vigilant About Securing Telematics
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Improving Network Efficiency And Visibility - Transplace
Transplace helped Huhtamaki reduce costs while improving customer service.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Five Ways to Simplify Your Supply Chain Design with Analytics
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 Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management
Choosing a TMS Today: Measure Five Times, Cut Once?
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology
Do you think self-driving trucks will affect the supply chain in the next two years? How so?
Readers consider the near-term prospects of self-driving trucks in the supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability
Electrifying Big Truck Fleets
Hyster Company is testing high capacity lift trucks with electric motors. The company suggests that, in the near future, ports and heavy industry will be able to electrify their big truck fleets, producing zero emissions while achieving comparable full shift performance.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Commentary: Wearable Technology Set to Permeate the Supply Chain Workforce
Think of wearable technology as consumer facing? Think again. Wearables one-up handheld devices and have real supply chain implications.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Security
Looking Beyond Your Desktop
Recent randomware attacks reveal vulnerabilities in manufacturing, logistics and supply chain security.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
From the Front Lines to the Boardroom
Profile of David Congdon, CEO, Old Dominion Freight Line
E-commerce, Logistics, Partnership, Packaging, Supply Chain
New Packaging Innovation Center
UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
3 Green Measures Your Fleet Provider Should Be Taking
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Transportation
Shopping for a Transportation Management System: Factors to Consider
Use these five points to help find a transportation management system
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Consumer Demand Helping Drive 3PL Industry Growth
Organizations are turning to third party logistics providers and enhanced transportation management technology to deliver the velocity, visibility, predictability, and control they need.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
3PL Perspectives 2016
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Blockchain, Meet Supply Chain
This story looks at some recent applications of blockchain technology in supply chain management.
Careers, Labor Management, Partnership
Peak of Perfection
Leadership profile of Juliann Larimer, CEO of Peak-Ryzex
Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Ship More, Pay Less: Controlling Transportation Costs
Better matching demand to supply and adjusting contracts, tendering, and invoice auditing strategies can help shippers control transportation costs as rates rise in 2020.
Global Trade Management, Partnership, Supply Chain
6 Supply Chain Risks Worth Taking
Supply chain professionals working in small and mid-sized businesses often operate with little margin for error. Taking calculated, thoughtful risks can pay off.
Global Economy, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Scale to Meet Your Needs
Now more than ever before, shippers should consider working with an experienced managed transportation service provider that has a large, dedicated network of carrier partners and deep relationships with these partners.
Cloud Computing, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Formulating a Predictive Flow
Chemical company BASF Corp. improves real-time visibility of its transportation operations and moves towards predictive supply chain activities with Transplace and Descartes’ MacroPoint solutions.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
Supporting Women Behind the Wheel
A recent bill would require the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to support women truck drivers.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Technology , Transportation
IN BRIEF: New Services & Solutions
The latest supply chain services and solutions
Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
The Business Value of Managed Transportation Services
Shippers are turning to managed transportation services (MTS) to help address logistical challenges. Here are the advantages.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
How to Maintain Composure During Trucking Capacity Shifts
What do you do when trucking capacity shifts? Keep your spend in check and your partnerships tight.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Sunset Enters Its 30s With Big Plans and Dynamic Solutions
2019 marks 30 years of business for 3PL Sunset Transportation. The future is bright as the 3PL starts its 30s with a new facility and innovative new solutions.
Manufacturing, Partnership, Transportation Management
Global Manufacturer Cuts Costs and Drives Efficiencies through a Managed Transportation Partnership - GlobalTranz
The world’s leading provider of receipt and innovative label solutions turned to GlobalTranz to create visibility, enhance communications, and fully merge acquired businesses.
Logistics, Trucking, Technology
How Tech Keeps Talent
For the logistics and transportation industries, the evolving on-demand economy means an increased demand for warehouse staff and commercial drivers. In fact, the American Trucking Association estimates the commercial trucking industry will need a million new drivers within the next decade.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Supply Chain Management
HyperX Game Plan: Win at Demand Planning and Replenishment
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
Manufacturing Logistics, Manufacturing, Partnership
No Challenge Too Great - Milestone
Milestone’s Mobile Warehousing & Storage (MW&S) solution enables a manufacturer to create an efficient distribution process with timely deliveries as drivers did not have to wait for each other and transfer loads between trailers.
Expedited Shipping, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Saving More Than $38 Million In Less Than 24 Months - nVision Global
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.
Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Manufacturers Laser-Focused on 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.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
The Search for a Connected Supply Chain
The Search for a Connected Supply Chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Leveraging Logistics Communities to Find Capacity in a Tight Market - Kuebix
Finding truckload capacity is on everyone’s minds as the capacity crunch and driver shortage worsens.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
Pushing Blockchain Past the Hype
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, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Selecting a Cloud-based TMS
10 tips for selecting and implementing a SaaS-based TMS solution.
Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
5 Ways a WMS Can Cut Supply Chain Costs
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
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
IN BRIEF | New Services & Solutions
New supply chain services and solutions
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Companies Go for IoT
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.
PROJECT RUNWAY: Airfreight Forwarders Model New Service Collections
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
How to Prioritize and Select Logistics Technology - SEKO Logistics
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)
How to Use a TMS for Shipment Visibility And Connectivity - Manhattan Associates
Here’s how a transportation management system will completely transform the efficiency of your supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
6 Ways to Find Hidden Capacity
As a booming economy, an aging and shrinking driver workforce, and the new EDL mandate combine with other factors to create a truckload capacity shortage, shippers have to change how they do business to make sure they can move goods. Experts share how to survive in a new economy where truckers are in the driver’s seat in more ways than one.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Good Question: To address the truck driver shortage, should we lower the minimum driver age to 18?
Readers take sides in the debate on whether to lower the minimum age for getting a CDL to 18 as a way to address the truck driver shortage.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Good News From the Government!
(Yes, You Read That Right)
The U.S. government reports strong growth for the GDP and freight in Q2 2018 but will such a growth continue despite truck capacity issues?
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Conserving a National Resource
Driver wellness programs are relatively easy to implement, don't cost money, and are the right thing to.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Driver Wellness Programs: The Right Thing to Do
Wellness programs keep drivers healthy, and carriers wealthy and wise.
Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Securing Capacity While Pivoting for Peak Season - Hub Group
A home goods retailer turned to Hub Group to secure capacity in the face of a hectic peak season.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
2018 Top 100 Truckers
Inbound Logistics' annual Top 100 Truckers directory provides an in-depth index of carriers that match shippers' diverse and demanding needs.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
2018 Trucking Perspectives
Insights collected through Inbound Logistics' exclusive annual survey of shippers and truckers find the industry's most significant trends and challenges.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
A Real-Time, Cost-Saving Opportunity - PLS Logistics
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Integrated TMS Platform Provides Supply Chain Benefits - DLS Worldwide
With an integrated TMS platform, customers can feel confident that they will get a variety of shipping options and correct pricing based on where they are shipping to.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Setting New Standards: Six Key Trends Reshaping Enterprise Software User Experience
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.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
A Sweet deal: Nestlé, XPO Build Digital Warehouse
Nestlé, the world's largest food and drink company, and XPO Logistics, a global provider of transport and logistics solutions, are co-creating a 638,000-square-foot distribution center at the new SEGRO East Midlands Gateway Logistics Park in Leicestershire, UK.
Mexico, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Securing Capacity for Freight Moving In and Out of Mexico - Landstar
For shippers, importing to and exporting from Mexico can present a unique set of challenges. One of the toughest challenges that cross-border shippers in today’s market face is securing high quality capacity on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
How an End-to-End Strategy Can Help You Overcome The Capacity Crunch - Unyson
Here are five tips for refocusing your approach to solution design with an end-to-end mindset.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
How to Choose a TMS - Fortigo
Use this advice to navigate the process of selecting and deploying a TMS solution in a fraction of the time and cost of traditional solutions.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Innovative Partnership Reduces Claims and Decreases Time in Transit for Home Delivery - SEKO Logistics
When an electronics store was faced with consistent freight forwarding damage claims they turned to Seko Logistics for a solution.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Partnering for Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings - Transplace
Transplace helped a frozen pizza business expand its transportation network to increase operational efficiency and maximize financial savings.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Solution Generates Cost Savings - Crane Worldwide Logistics
When an industrial manufacturer needed to reduce supply chain costs they teamed up with Crane Worldwide Logistics for an innovative solution.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Transportation
Choosing a TMS: What’s Your Endgame?
With so many choices available, shippers must truly understand what they want a Transportation Management System to accomplish in order to make the right selection.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
What Does World-Class Supply Chain Planning Look Like?
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
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.
Inventory Management, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Supply Chain Productivity Boosters: Three Technologies Making Maximum Impact
No hype here. These three technological innovations are already enhancing effectiveness, lowering operational costs, and increasing customer satisfaction in supply chain management.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Now Is the Time to Take Action to Combat Carrier Capacity Issues - Transporeon Group
To find additional capacity, strategic, proactive sourcing methods based on technology specifically created for transportation procurement can uncover hidden carrier capacity by connecting shippers to logistics service providers.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Truck Driver Shortage Solution: Recruit Generation Z
Recruiting Generation Z members is one solution for the truck driver shortage, but companies should gear their recruitment tactics toward this tech-savvy set.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
A Cool Supply Chain Solution
A 3PL's cold call leads to a cool technology solution that streamlines processes and minimizes service disruptions
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Technology
Unblocking the Blockchain: Beyond the Hype
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: Raising Expectations in Logistics
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.
Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Technology
Software-as-a-Service or Outsourced Managed Services: Which is Right for Your Organization? - Transplace
There is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to managing transportation operations, so each shipper needs to carefully consider each option before making a decision.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
IoT and Security in the Supply Chain: Making Smart Choices
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, Supply Chain, Trucking
Capacity Crunch? Carriers Weigh In
Shippers express concern about finding capacity, but how do carriers see the situation? To find out, Transporeon Group, a cloud-based supply chain execution platform provider, surveyed its base of more than 3,000 North American logistics service providers.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
AI Ushers Supply Chains Into Data-Driven Future
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, Trucking
How to Contain Rising Truckload Prices
Truckload shipping costs are skyrocketing. Here are some strategies to help you contain increasing prices.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Spot Market Strategies: Making the Right Connection
Digital loadboards are transforming the spot market from a people business to a fast-paced online marketplace that matches freight and shippers faster than ever. Shippers can tap into the flexibility of the spot market while working with carriers that meet their standards.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Truckload Carriers and E-commerce: Serving the Middle Mile
E-commerce is redrawing the landscape for freight transportation. Do truckload carriers have a place in this new world of high-velocity supply chains, especially as shipments get smaller and delivery windows shrink?
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
LTL Carriers: E-Commerce Powerhouse
As more consumers choose e-commerce for a variety of goods, how are less-than-truckload carriers being impacted? Trucking companies are developing new strategies to serve retailers and manufacturers creating the goods that impatient consumers expect fast and free.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Multi-Stop Steps
If you suspect that carriers reject multi-stop truckloads more often than single-stop loads, you’re only partially right.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Three Transportation Innovations that Can Deliver Short-Term ROI
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 I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply Chain Commentary: Taking the First Steps to Digitizing Your Supply Chain
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?
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
H.O.W. | How to Turn Data Into Supply Chain Action
Simply generating supply chain data doesn’t eliminate waste, reduce costs, or improve service. Shippers should implement systems that give managers insights behind the data. Find a TMS that is available as a customized solution to incorporate your unique industry and supply chain requirements.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Is Supply Chain Planning Right for the Cloud?
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, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Supply Chain Commentary: Out Darn Spot! Out, I Say!
Capacity is getting tighter across the board. Some carriers may not be willing to commit capacity in lanes they were previously happy to do so. What’s a shipper to do? Should companies use the spot market less?
Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Manufacturers Take to Technology, Automation
Manufacturers embrace IIoT to improve quality and operational visibility.
3PL, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Shippers Seek 3PL Efficiencies Amidst Capacity Constraints - DLS Worldwide
DLS Worldwide President Thomas Griffin reveals the 3PL efficiencies in highest demand as shippers face capacity constraints in 2017.
Trucking, Security, Transportation
Cargo Security: The Art of the Steal
Keeping your cargo safe from theft is a bigger challenge than you might think. Follow these steps to reduce the risks that make your company a target.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Next-Generation TMS Can Move Your Organization Into the Future - Transplace
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Investing in the Right Transportation Management System
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.
10 Tips for Transportation Sourcing
Selecting a transportation mode and carrier isn’t as simple as identifying the fastest or least expensive option. It’s a complicated process that takes into account timelines and risks as well as budgets. Industry experts share best practices that will help save money and prevent costly mistakes.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
The Ins and Outs of Deploying Mobile Devices Across the Supply Chain
Businesses face many challenges when it comes to mobile technology in their supply chain, from application selection to ongoing support. Here’s how to get with the mobile program.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Ports, Technology
The Next Transformational Technology for Terminal Operations: Simplified and Integrated Systems
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
Digitally Transform Your Supply Chain Today
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.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
The Key to Lasting Supply Chain Innovation: Get Real
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.
Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Stay Competitive with a Flexible TMS
Volatile demand, shrinking lead times, and new consumption patterns have impacted transportation systems in many ways. That makes it ever more important to maintain an agile, flexible supply chain to gain a competitive advantage.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Is Your Supply Chain Cyber Secure?
5 Tips for Keeping Viruses Away
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.
Big Data, Trucking, Technology
Commentary: IoT and Analytics to Usher in New Era in Logistics
The ultimate way to transform logistics is by improving efficiencies through the help of IoT, analytics, and intelligent platforms that run independently. Here's a look into the future.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Why Supply Chain Visibility Is Vital to Company Success
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.
Green Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Supply Chain Commentary:
5 Ways Shippers Can Go Green
Here are five simple steps shippers can take to reduce the environmental impact of supply chain operations.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Commentary: Are ELD’s All That Bad?
Data from electronic logging devices could close the visibility gap for every party in the transportation industry.
Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Hitting a Freight Management Bull’s Eye
Ben E. Keith maximized freight management with help from ArrowStream’s Crossbow technology.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
Supply Chain Movers and Do-Gooders: Companies Step Up in Response to the Pandemic
Companies in the logistics space are responding to the crisis by providing free goods and services.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Trucking, Technology
Most Read Articles of 2019
Take a look at the top ten Inbound Logistics articles that got readers buzzing in 2019.
Cloud Computing, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Formulating a Predictive Flow
Chemical company BASF Corp. improves real-time visibility of its transportation operations and moves towards predictive supply chain activities with Transplace and Descartes’ MacroPoint solutions.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Death of Your Profession?
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
Using Real-Time Tech to Mitigate Risk
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.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
How Smarter, Stronger Supply Chains Improve the Customer Experience
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.
Audit Services, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
How a Freight Audit and a TMS Can Drive Efficiency for Your Supply Chain
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
Shining New Light On Dock Operations
With better visibility into loading dock activity, companies can bring significant improvements to their warehouse operations.
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Technology
The Fastest Growing 3PLs Spell Success “C-L-O-U-D”
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
Selecting a Cloud-based TMS
10 tips for selecting and implementing a SaaS-based TMS solution.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
3PLs, Tech Providers Empower Ethical Supply Chains
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
Intermodal, Logistics, Rail, Supply Chain, Trucking
Intermodal Transport: Finding the Road to the Right Track
This story provides an update on the state of intermodal transportation in the U.S., including the conditions driving shippers to make greater use of intermodal, moves the railroads are making to improve service, and the factors that help to determine whether a shipment should go intermodal or over the road.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Rooted in Data, Business Blooms
Metrolina Greenhouses integrates ERP and customized, industry-specific tools to improve order, shipping and billing management.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
TMS Brings the Power
Celestica improves visibility, controls costs and seeks greater logistics flexibility with MercuryGate’s transportation management system solutions.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Bridging the Gap Between Women and Funding
Thirty women have become small business owners in the trucking industry thanks to the efforts of Expediter Services (ES), in conjunction with the Women in Trucking Association.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Italy's Ritrama Sticks a Landing in SC
Ritrama, an Italian multinational self-adhesive materials producer, chose Ferretto Group's technological solutions for its new automated warehouse located in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Fleet Operators Get No ELD Satisfaction
Slightly fewer than half of fleet operators responding to a Coretex Electronic Logging Device (ELD) satisfaction survey say the mandate is good for the transportation industry. Coretex surveyed 303 U.S. trucking companies of various sizes.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
IoT: Where We Are, What Comes Next
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of the Internet of Things (IoT) and advice for a successful IoT implementation.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
5 Ways to Mitigate High Freight Rates
Here are the main factors impacting the current freight market and strategies for driving overall cost savings during this historic time.
Labor Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Preparing for the Rough Road Ahead: Taking a Long-Term Look at How the Driver Shortage Is Affecting LTL
According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the industry expected a driver shortage of more than 50,000 at the end of 2017. Unfortunately, it’s projected to only get worse. By the ATA’s projections, the shortage could extend to more than 174,000 drivers by 2026.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Move Beyond Traditional Label Maker TMS or Surrender to Amazon’s Profit Squeeze - SwanLeap
Retailers and manufacturers are beginning to seek a solution to eliminate supply chain silos and transcend the restrictions of traditional TMS static rules and rates that lead to customer disruptions and cost inefficiencies.
Inventory Management, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Supply Chain Productivity Boosters: Three Technologies Making Maximum Impact
No hype here. These three technological innovations are already enhancing effectiveness, lowering operational costs, and increasing customer satisfaction in supply chain management.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Windows Mobile Migration: Three Ways to Ensure Business Continuity and Minimize Supply Chain Disruption
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
2018 Top 100 Logistics IT Market Research Survey
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, Trucking, Technology
Technology Fuels Truckload Transport
Dedicated truckload fleets fill up on technology solutions that pump crucial data from power units and trailers and deliver it to shippers ready to give their supply chains the gas.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehousing
Supply Chain Commentary: Boost Productivity, Efficiency, and Security in Your Warehouse
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Slowing Down the Driver Shortage
Companies need to develop successful tactics and strategies in the recruitment and retention of drivers in order to remain competitive.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Supply Chain Convergence: Stitching Together Best-of-Breed Technologies
Supply chain technology ecosystems are evolving as once distinct processes for executing TMS, WMS and YMS functions converge. Is the best path forward stitching together a trifecta of best-of-breed technologies, or going all-in on a single instance, single platform for all three?
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
VMI Strategies: A Matter of Trust
Vendor-managed inventory partnerships strive to improve efficiency by allowing suppliers to maintain the inventory of their products at the stores and other locations operated by their partners in the supply chain. VMI relies on a tight-knit collaboration between supplier and buyer to improve product availability while decreasing excess inventory.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Capacity Crunch
The perfect storm is here: between the back-to-back hurricanes of 2017, the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate going into effect, and the ongoing driver shortage crisis, the transportation industry is experiencing a critical capacity crunch.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
How TMS is Proving ‘Time is Money’ for Shippers in 2018 - UltraShipTMS
Shippers with solid TMS platforms in place can save money not only in terms of freight rates, but also in terms of cost avoidance and labor expenses.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
It's Time to Make Inbound Freight Management a Priority - Kuebix
It’s time to make inbound freight a priority and begin reaping the benefits of a program that creates win-win rewards for all supply chain partners.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
Maximizing Deliveries While Driving Down Transportation Costs - Transplace
Transplace established an LTL consolidation program to increase load capacity and reduce freight costs for a Canadian hardware wholesaler.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Tracking Trucking
Data scientists at fleet management solutions provider Omnitracs recently conducted some research into what the trucking industry looked like in 2016 vs. 2017.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Better Routing Takes Root
This case study tells how Weatherford Farms increased efficiency in its delivery network by switching from manual routing to an automated routing system.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
The New Era of Smart City Logistics - MHI
The continued migration of people to cities and increase in online shopping will generate more freight deliveries to and within urban areas. Let’s talk about your company’s futureproof strategy to meet the challenges and opportunities of smart city logistics head-on.
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
How Supply Chain Managers Can Use
Artificial Intelligence to Their Advantage
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
Consumer Behavior: The Missing Link
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
Supply Chain Commentary: The Future of Blockchain in Ocean Shipping
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
From Nervous to Chill: Unlocking IoT's Value Across the Cold Chain
Here are five steps to consider when implementing the Internet of Things across the cold chain.
Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
Supply Chain Commentary: Managing the Coming ELD Capacity Crisis
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs
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
Supply Chain Commentary: Grocery Retailers Need to Embrace Digitization Now
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
The Key to Lasting Supply Chain Innovation: Get Real
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.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Transportation Management
Choosing a TMS Today: Measure Five Times, Cut Once?
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Sustainability, Technology , Transportation
5 Ways Your TMS Can Help You Go Green
Transportation Management Systems’ have the ability to help you be more environmentally responsible. Here are the top five ways a TMS can help your supply chain go green.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation
Commentary: 8 Sustainable Freight Trends Smart Supply Chains Need to Embrace
Follow these 8 steps to reap significant cost savings and performance enhancements while also reducing the use of limited natural resources and mitigating the negative environmental effects of transportation-related emissions.
Air Cargo, Economic Development, Logistics, Ocean, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Alaska: Conquering The Last Frontier
By offering air, barge, ocean carrier, rail, and trucking services, logistics providers are minimizing the risks involved with transporting goods to, from, and within Alaska.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Ensuring Supply Chain Visibility
In today's increasingly omnichannel marketplace, good visibility is vital throughout the supply chain. Here's how to maintain optimal visibility at 10 key touchpoints.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
It’s Supposed to Be, But ACE Isn’t Simple
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Trouble Finding Capacity? How a 3PL Can Help
Partnering with a 3PL could be the best solution to improved visibility and lower costs over the long haul.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
New IoT Tools Enable Greater Visibility Into Complex Supply Chains
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
Solved: Optimizing and Speeding Up Shipments to Mexico - Transplace
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.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Top 6 Factors for Selecting and Implementing a WMS
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.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Insights into Complexities of Managing Secure Global Transportation for the Government - General Dynamics IT
Establishing a committed team and communicating procedures and expectations is the key to managing the complex web of global shipping.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
3 Ways Your 3PL Can Help You Overcome E-commerce Challenges
By collaborating with a knowledgeable third-party logistics (3PL) provider, shippers can add both scale and visibility to their supply chain.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
3PL Change Agents
Trying to plot a different course? Figuring out how to spread your wings? A third-party partner might offer…just the kind of help you need.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Why Supply Chain Visibility Is Vital to Company Success
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.
Big Data, 3PL, Import, Export, High-Value/High-Risk Cargo, Ocean, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology
Ocean Freight Visibility on the Horizon?
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
IN BRIEF | New Services & Solutions
New supply chain services and solutions
Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Ports, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Warehousing
Georgia: Pathways to Progress
In the logistics sphere, Georgia offers every important road—as well as air and sea route—to success.
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