3PL, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As product demand continues to rise, companies in all industries are partnering with third-party logistics (3PL) providers to ensure their products are delivered to customers on time and cost effectively.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management
An Enterprise Logistics partnership helps improve companies by delivering customized applications to improve market advantage.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Aftermarket parts providers must take advantage of innovations in the supply chain to remain competitive in today’s global market.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Third-party logistics services evolved to meet shippers' changing transportation, distribution, and warehousing needs.
3PL, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Enterprise logistics providers are developing solutions that fuse data elements for insights that enable decisionmaking.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Integrated Logistics Services providers address supply chain challenges facing shippers to improve logistics operations.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Readers select the third-party logistics providers that provide the best outsourced logistics services.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
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
Ensuring supply chain security requires that shippers and logistics providers stay one step ahead of thieves.
3PL, Finance, Global Logistics, Partnership, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation Management, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
An enterprise logistics provider delivers holistic solutions that transform your business.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Drive out inefficiencies and boost customer service by aligning with vendors to meet your supply chain goals.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Many companies, including Kimberly-Clark, Ebro, and USG Corporation, are moving beyond the traditional, transactional shipper-3PL relationship to form collaborative partnerships focused on mutual gain.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
In the life science and pharmaceutical area, an inefficient supply chain can cause serious problems. Here are the benefits in adopting innovative approaches to the pharmaceuticals supply chain.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Wagner Logistics helps a leading manufacturer of lawn care equipment overcome growing pains.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Year after year, the IL 3PL survey reveals the importance of great customer service to shippers.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Transportation
Communication and transparency are key to being a good partner to your clients. Use this advice to effectively communicate with customers.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies that work with third-party logistics providers such as Penske Logistics get to share the pain when unexpected situations arise.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Trucking, Transportation
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
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, Lean Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
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.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Ocean, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
3PLs tout IoT as top disruptive innovation in the supply chain; Hyundai and Accenture team up to design smarter ship; TMS use has tripled over the past decade; new sustainability web platform helps shippers assess key trends and best practices.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Packaging, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Increasing costs and challenges within the logistics industry affect your bottom line. Use these steps to reduce logistics costs.
Bar-coding Systems, 3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Value-added services that fall outside the realm of traditional supply chain solutions can save millions of dollars and create mutually beneficial, collaborative relationships.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, 3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
As e-commerce continues to transform consumer behavior, retailers explore hybrid omni-channel supply chain models that deliver the best that online and in-store have to offer.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management
Freight damage, loss, and theft will always occur. Planning for those inevitabilities is key to prevention and faster claims settlement.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When you consider the rapid evolution of supply chain management over the past two decades the 3PL industry has been a featured piece in an increasingly pixelated mosaic.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Understanding less-than-truckload shipping challenges is the key to overcoming them.
E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Chemical Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Amazon and Walmart vie for last-mile supremacy; Nevada community college establishes logistics program to meet Tesla labor demand; Industrial buyers think outside the box; Consortium establishes new chemical footprint assessment; VMI opportunities abound as shippers look to optimize inventory; study looks at the ghost economy
Economic Development, Global Economy, Asia, China, Logistics, Ports, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Port of Hamburg unveils new traffic light system; CEVA Logistics TireCity in Italy demonstrates interest in sector-specific supply chain collaboration; China debuts longest freight rail route in the world; TPP agreement raises concerns about traceability in the seafood supply chain; Africa capital investment heats up; New G6 Alliance rotation features Polish port; Indian 3PL uses containers as mobile logistics classrooms; Intel eyes Asia for IoT ecosystem.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Digital Business integrates the value chain to realize a constant stream of operational data and transform it into balanced, end-to-end metrics that improve decision making.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Join us as we turn back the clock and consider how outsourcing demand has changed over the past 20 years – and perhaps shed some light on where the 3PL industry is tracking.
3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
All global supply chains carry some element of risk, but working with third-party logistics providers, with transparency in full effect, can help you achieve the best risk management outcome.
Cross-border Trade, Canada, Intermodal, Logistics, Partnership, Rail, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
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, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Work with a team of service providers to get a new retail distribution center up and running in only six months? We should all be so lucky.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Cost reductions are uncovered from raw materials to end delivery, but companies must focus on its customers to keep them satisfied.
3PL, Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Middle East countries show signs of regional collaboration around transportation and logistics; China’s “red supply chain” threatens Taiwanese semiconductor industry; India looks to Korea as both a model and partner for its economic modernization program; U.S. fashion industry supports extension of African Growth & Opportunity Act; Cuba’s Port of Mariel attracts investment from CMA CGM; China looks to replicate U.S. rail freight model
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ports, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Short-term Highway Trust Fund extension renews call for national transportation strategy; Medical cost inflation and cyber risk are the most prying business concerns; Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach create shared working groups to explore operational efficiencies; GS1 Simple Product Listing creates new standard for e-commerce marketplace
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Lean, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Finding a common ground between cost and corporate social responsibility remains a challenging proposition – unless organizations nurture a culture of sustainability.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Lean, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
These supply chain, logistics, and transportation companies lead the way in supporting sustainability.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Safety, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A look at logistics trends and challenges that affect companies in the chemical industries, and their strategies for dealing with those issues.
Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trans Pacific Partnership nears resolution; Indonesia logistics industry fights new capital requirement regulation; China and Pakistan pave way for new trade corridor; Global ocean container trade shows signs of growth despite enduring supply-demand imbalance; European railroads partner around procurement; China looks to replicate U.S. rail freight model
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Recent improvements in wireless cellular technology and mesh networks provide solutions that can be adapted for warehousing space, easing startup challenges and costs.
E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
This story looks at the role technology plays in the value that various third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer to their shipper customers.
Big Data, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Predictive modeling and big data help develop efficient shipping solutions to lower shippers’ freight spend and overall supply chain costs.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Today’s supply chain environment is more complex than ever, and it is important for business partners to work together across the value chain with the intent to maximize the benefit to their customers .
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Providing technology solutions helps third-party logistics providers stand out from competitors and adds value to their services.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Logistics, Ocean, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Challenging weather and a remote location make delivering freight to and from Alaska a complex operation. To simplify operations, many shippers turn to transportation companies and logistics service providers that have the expertise to make sure freight flows smoothly despite the complexities.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
To increase fulfillment efficiency and order picking accuracy, eBay Enterprise gives its warehouse a voice.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Globalization has a dramatic impact on strategic sourcing, logistics excellence, and supply chain management. Here’s how your company can become a preferred employer in today’s global age.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Here are three ways companies are optimizing their oil and gas supply chains and creating more predictable financial returns.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
A good reverse logistics program offers mobile device retailers and OEMs a world of opportunity.
3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Site Selection, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
A look at the many logistics assets that make Georgia a terrific location for companies involved in manufacturing or distribution.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Freight forwarders provide value-added services beyond just transportation and logistics. Here's advice for choosing the right one for your business.
E-commerce, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
E-commerce excellence and proximity to large population areas are the new drivers behind site selection for fulfillment centers.
3PL, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies are seeking data to help them understand their supply chain networks, and strategic enterprise partners are providing the needed information to them through logistics.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Saving a few bucks doesn’t always mean throwing the customer under the bus.
Food Logistics, 3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Mark our words: Legislative and regulatory resolutions could spell trouble for shippers and carriers in 2015.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Mexico, Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
It was the worst of times for U.S./Mexico healthcare. Can demand-driven logistics make it the best of times?
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation, Supply Chain Management
Tired of relying on e-mail blasts to place freight, L.B. Foster ups its game with a third-party solution that has transformed the enterprise.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
With the holiday season in full swing, logistics managers must be able to rely on their vendors to perform.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Technology is enabling an unprecedented level of transparency and communication to help shippers and their logistics providers understand each other's operations, and collaborate in ways that were much more difficult in the past.
A successful supply chain team needs just the right mix of talent, skills, and personalities, not to mention a clear mission, the freedom to pursue it, and the structure to succeed.
3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Education & Careers, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Memphis supports global supply chains through highway, rail, airport, and inland port assets, and a qualified workforce.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Managing transportation strategies requires a team effort — and sometimes a ‘dedicated’ transportation partner.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Intertape Polymer Group outsourced transportation to gain control of its diverse product line and protect profit margins.
3PL, Food Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
Expanding beverage product lines are generating new stockkeeping units (SKUs) - and supply chain management challenges.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
State of Logistics Report predicts moderate growth for freight industry in 2014; freight brokerage M&A shakes up industry; FMCSA extends comment period for ELD rulemaking; Online consumers willing to pay more for sustainable delivery options; Shippers register growing discontent with parcel carriers and trucking companies; University of Kansas MSB program prepares active-duty military for private sector roles
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Logistics market report reveals trends in 3PL offerings and shippers' logistics outsourcing strategies.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A panel of supply chain experts address questions related to ensuring supplier compliance.
Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Managing supply chain partnerships strategically improves their viability and reliability.
Customer Service, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Many companies use social media to improve supply chain operations by connecting shippers and service providers.
A long-term vision allows a shipper-3PL partnership to make long-lasting improvements.
Supply chain partner collaboration improves supply chain performance, create capabilities, and increase efficiencies.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Economic Development, Inland Barge, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Alaska’s extreme weather and geography create logistics challenges for shippers moving cargo to, from, and in the state.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Partnership, Trucking
Partnering with third-party logistics providers offers shippers numerous advantages for stronger supply chains.
3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Georgia offers manufacturers and distributors superior access to logistics providers and transportation infrastructure.
Scaling your supply chain can trigger significant adjustments in your partnerships.
Inventory Management, Lean, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.
3PL, Economic Development, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
U.S. companies stand to gain from establishing manufacturing operations in Mexico – if they manage the challenges.
3PL, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.
Import, Export, 3PL, Intermodal, Global Logistics, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Transportation, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
Inventory Management, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Production vendor managed inventory enables manufacturers to gain supply chain control.
3PL, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Security
Knowing your global trading partners can help maintain a smooth flow of goods, while ensuring safety and security.
Global Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
These five components are key for companies who want to streamline their international supply chain.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Shifting production closer to the U.S. can benefit supply chains, but nearshoring also presents obstacles.
3PL, Expedited Shipping, Global Logistics, Ocean, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Risk Management, Trucking, Security, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management
Geodis Wilson helps integrated design technology company Dana Innovations expand its international supply chain.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A fourth-party logistics provider (4PL) can help companies set and achieve supply chain improvement goals.
Flexible 3PLs drive business process improvements for shippers.
Outsourcing transportation and logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) blends function and flexibility into a supply chain feng shui.
Logistics providers can help shippers save money through decreased labor, lower overhead, and technology tools.
Four companies worked with 3PLs to make over their logistics operations, so they could meet evolving business demands.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.
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.
Finding a third-party logistics (3PL) provider you can count on requires due diligence into performance history and resources, writes Kyle tGholston of Conexus.
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.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Conduct a financial checkup of your potential 3PL partners before you sign the contract.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
A well-oiled trading partner network allows one-to-many and many-to-many partners to collaborate and communicate using a single source of truth garnered from real-time information, writes Christopher P. Mazza of IAS.
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.
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.
As senior supply chain manager at blood management devices manufacturer Haemonetics Corporation, Emily Ross monitors the pulse of the company’s transportation and warehousing services sourcing.
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.
Increasingly, 3PLs and shippers are working much more collaboratively, often sharing pains and gains, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Companies are increasingly realizing that supply chain must become a core competency. Adding a supply chain control tower and taking on the fourth-party logistics (4PL) role offers them the ability to accelerate collaboration and achieve higher performance levels.
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.
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer shippers a variety of beneficial supply chain services, writes Dan Lockwood of Unishippers Global.
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.
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 new world of supply chain management requires that carriers and shippers both understand and respect the economics of the industry.
Chris Baltz of Transportation Insight explains how the right 3PL partner can help you achieve competitive advantage and dominate your market.
Outsource your way to a more efficient supply chain by selecting a knowledgeable and resourceful third-party logistics provider.
3PL, Customer Service, Supply Chain Management
Logistics providers who work to understand shippers' needs help create customer service success, as illustrated by case studies involving Pep Boys, McCain Foods, and USG Corporation.
3PL, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
Duane Sizemore of Total Logistic Control discusses how companies can build better relationships with third-party logistics providers through measurement, monitoring, and rewards.
Robert Russo of Port Jersey Logistics explains how to choose the best third-party logistics provider for your company.
3PL, Economic Development, Utilities, Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Here is a look at the attributes that rank high on the list for any company seeking a location for supply chain activities.
3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.
Air Cargo, Intermodal, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Ports, Site Selection, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
Partnership, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Chandler Hall of BravoSolution explains how to reduce the frequency and severity of disruptions by fostering collaborative relationships with your suppliers.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Faced with challenges such as a capacity shortage and lack of qualified drivers, companies that ship product by truck are learning that working collaboratively with carriers can benefit both parties.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
To improve supply chain performance at Medco Health Solutions, Gemma Fillmore focuses on getting C-level executives to give logistics issues the attention they deserve.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
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.
3PL, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Retailers publish routing guides to establish rules for manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors to follow when fulfilling and shipping orders. Here are the benefits of establishing a routing guide.
3PL, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.
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
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
Shippers and service providers discuss their experience building a strong working relationship.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Global Logistics, Freight Forwarders, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
A professional freight forwarder that represents the interests of all supply chain participants can serve as the missing link in supply chain communication.
Vested outsourcing yields innovative logistics relationships that deliver results, writes Kate Vitasek of the University of Tennessee's Center for Executive Education.
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.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Digital transformation cannot be considered in a silo; it needs to be approached from a holistic perspective. Data has to be linked to processes and action to be meaningful.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Your 3PL should be a catalyst for producing unmatched retail logistics performance levels and total supply chain optimization. Here are 10 tips for choosing the right partner.
Automation, Technology , Supply Chain Management
How AP automation, AI, and machine learning can transform logistics departments
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
During a period of rapid growth, online grill retailer BBQGrills.com reduced damaged freight claims by more than 75% and lowered shipping costs by working with a logistics services provider for country-wide less-than-truckload services.
Partnership, Risk Management, Technology
Developing mutually beneficial relationships guarantees your partners will be there for you – in good times and bad.
By thinking creatively and embracing new solutions, third-party logistics providers support shippers through demand surges, labor shortages, cost increases, and capacity constraints.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
RedStone understands that cost savings are just a part of each client relationship; a 3PL must provide more if the relationship is to withstand the demands of an ever-changing supply chain.
LoadDex from Logistical Labs lets Sunset Transportation take a strategic focus when making pricing decisions, improving customer opportunities and fueling year-over-year growth.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics readers encapsulate the state of the supply chain in 2021.
A low-cost provider may produce short-term savings but will not deliver sustainable efficiencies and the level of service shippers expect. Strategic partnerships that are mutually beneficial stand the test of time and drive waste out of shippers’ supply chains.
To best serve those who serve, Lisa Mernin, director of operations at military equipment supplier ADS, doesn’t look for the cheapest partners; she looks for the best value and prioritizes customer service.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Technology
E-commerce acceleration and massive shifts in consumer expectations have changed the equation. Shippers are turning to 3PLs’ technology expertise to manage logistics costs and meet service expectations in an ever-changing marketplace.
3PL, Demand Planning, Risk Management
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for more robust and responsive logistics, with more consumers and businesses expecting just-in-time delivery or products shipped directly to their front doors. One option is utilizing third-party logistics (3PL) suppliers to move and transport excess raw material or finished goods.
Parties to a supply contract should consider regulating these 10 points to help limit liability.
Supply chain leaders share their insight on the secret to a successful shipper/3PL partnership.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Whether you're pushed over the edge by the pandemic, labor shortages, supply scarcity, or the surprise consumption explosion, the question is the same: Who has your back?
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Shippers trust their third-party logistics partners to be there through thick and thin.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
These third-party logistics providers have your back, earning shippers’ votes with their consistency and customer service.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Our 16th annual 3PL market research report reveals the current state of the union between shippers and their logistics service partners.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
When your enterprise faces supply chain and logistics challenges, these partners won't let you fall. In alphabetical order, here are the 100 third-party logistics providers deemed best of the best by Inbound Logistics editors.
3PL, Partnership, Risk Management
Ruan’s approach to effective continuous improvement (CI) is centered around creating value within its partners’ businesses. CI begins with a clear understanding of each unique supply chain and baseline performance measures.
Labor Management, Partnership, Technology
Supply chain leaders share their takes on how the pandemic has affected supply chain partnerships.
Locus Robotics deployed autonomous mobile robots along with actionable reporting tools and dashboards for Taylored Services. The scalable solution brought immediate gains.
3PL, Risk Management, Technology
The companies who develop long-term logistics solutions enabled by technology and data insights to adjust to consumer demand and pandemic uncertainty are the ones who position themselves for growth in the new reality for supply chain operations.
From providing seamless technology integrations to tailoring transportation networks, 3PLs reinforce supply chains of all shapes and sizes.
Fulfillment, Retail, Partnership
Leveraging its network of cross dock locations, Hub Group optimized a top retailer’s supply chain, reducing transportation spend, condensing inbound loads to the retailer’s fulfillment centers, and shortening transit times.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
In any field—but particularly male-dominated industries—it is important for managers and supervisors to challenge and encourage their young female workers. This is certainly the case in the logistics and e-commerce sector of which I am a part, both fast-growing and exciting fields that offer young women many opportunities.
Understanding these seven key differences between shipping full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) allows shippers to achieve the best possible results and support planning.
When managing your next RFP, make sure you have the right tools in place that eliminate inefficiencies and allow you to keep your eye on the prize—finalizing and executing the routing guide.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
When supply chains require unique equipment and depend on damage-free, on-time service, partnering with a carrier such as PITT OHIO, that can execute mode optimization strategies, can impact the success of your business.
A Chicago-based 3PL turned to Aptitive to design a scalable data and analytics modernization platform. Aptitive delivered a solution that not only helped the provider, but their customers as well.
These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
While C-level executives manage their business with social distancing, the protocols aren't ideal for productivity, finds a survey by consulting firm West Monroe. More than half say they primarily work remotely to avoid social distancing.
BlueGrace Logistics named Mark Derks as its new Chief Marketing Officer. Strategic investments in leadership team augments customer focus and value.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
With the pandemic forcing companies to embrace a new normal, many are reimagining their supply chains and turning to third-party logistics (3PL) providers for guidance. Here’s how to get the most out of your 3PL relationship.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
The acquisition triples Taylored’s footprint in key areas, totaling more than 4.1 million square feet of distribution space.
Big Data, Manufacturing, Partnership
TForce Worldwide partnered with a large manufacturing client, building a system that met its needs and a unified platform that provides complex data to support better business decisions.
Information technology leaders should focus on these three key areas in their warehouse operations to stay competitive in 2021 and beyond.
3PL, Food Logistics, Partnership
West Pak Avocado distributes avocados to hundreds of customers around the globe. To maintain efficient transportation through seasonal peaks, West Pak partnered with a third-party logistics provider to move produce as quickly as possible.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership
Thomas Griffin, president at DLS Worldwide, discusses how partnering with a large, experienced logistics company can offer technology, agility, and customer service benefits.
Health Care Logistics, Partnership, Transportation
Those in transportation logistics face new realities brought by COVID-19, but are especially challenged in the time-sensitive delivery of tissue for transplants. Perhaps the biggest challenge is ramping back up to meet pent-up demand for surgeries.
Order volumes increased by 81% for third-party logistics (3PL) providers supporting e-commerce since the lockdown began, according to data from 3PL Central's customer base. These are the highest order volumes per 3PL ever, on par with Black Friday in 2019.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
The pandemic has reached an unprecedented level of uncertainty in supply chains. Leaders share the most significant way COVID-19 has changed the supply chain.
3PL, Finance, Supply Chain Management
The three M’s are key areas to explore and break down to realize the full potential of your company and help you to get the biggest, fastest savings in your supply chain, today.
Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Technology
When selecting the best provider for your company, there’s a lot to consider to ensure that freight is handled efficiently and with great care. Keep the following five tips in mind when evaluating your partnerships.
3PL, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
Although shippers should be prepared to see varying results compared to their original 2020 goals, a recovery in consumer demand is not too far away.
Audit Services, Partnership, Technology
New contract audit methodologies uncover root causes of value leakage and help prevent future losses.
Manufacturers have been outsourcing noncore production processes for decades, and the trend continues. The key to successful outsourcing is assuring the 3PL value-added assembler (VAA) has a quality management system.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Can third-party logistics (3PL) providers bring chaos to order? Or order to chaos? For starters, they can help you wrangle and bring some order to the current COVID-caused confusion in your logistics process.
When supply chain and logistics trouble brews, shippers summon third-party logistics (3PL) providers for their expertise, technology, and dedication to customer service.
Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Matt Tiedens, director of logistics solutions with Ruan Transportation Management Systems, discusses how to manage the RFP process and attract the best results.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
When shippers send out distress signals, 3PLs answer the call. The providers that earned a 2020 Readers' Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Award are among the most responsive and respected in the industry.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Inbound Logistics' newest exclusive 3PL market research provides a snapshot of how the world appears to shippers and their logistics service providers.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
The top 100 third-party logistics providers of 2020 as chosen by Inbound Logistics' editors.
Big Data, Finance, Supply Chain Management
Cost savings has been the number-one priority for heads of procurement and finance across industries. Unfortunately, there is a common misconception that this must be achieved through lean, just-in-time processes and a focus on limited inventory.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
To maximize your decision to act, adapt a solution to the company’s processes or adapt the company’s processes to the solution.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Rather than wait for the next man-caused disruption or pandemic, smart business managers are extracting knowledge from a forensic investigation of their operations based on COVID-19 stress and kicking bad practices to the curb.
Fulfillment, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Fulfillment centers have adapted throughout COVID-19, supplying workers with masks, suspending in-person meetings, and enhancing their cleaning protocols. Suppliers will need to remember the lessons learned, even beyond the pandemic.
Risk Management, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management may have changed forever as COVID-19 brings heightened awareness to its fragility. With careful planning, shippers can minimize risks related to the pandemic.
Increasing visibility, flexibility, and accuracy, these technological tools enable 3PLs to more effectively move, store, and fulfill shippers’ orders—even during supply chain disruptions.
Manufacturing, Partnership, Supply Chain
Relationship contracts can benefit distribution in many different industry sectors—these five steps can help you put one into action.
Growing demand for low-cost services and a rapidly expanding e-commerce sector will boost the market valuation of third-party logistics (3PL) to $1.8 trillion by 2026.
3PL, Customer Service, Insurance
3PLs can become an ally for their customers in the event of a loss, damage, or delay, providing outstanding customer service and support.
Big Data, 3PL, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
From establishing secondary suppliers to setting up alternative routes, here’s a look at how Plan B strategies can keep you up and running even during extreme weather events.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Building high-performing alliances between supply chain and commercial teams is a key driver to success.
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, 3PL, Transportation Management
Third-party logistics providers are future-proofing supply chains, using a toolbox filled with business insights, predictive capabilities, and other new solution sets.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Supply Chain Management
Logistics leaders meet or exceed their end-to-end supply chain goals with the help of logistics outsourcing, such as third-party logistics providers.
Careers, Food Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Frank Armetta, global vice president of supply chain with Sabra Dipping Company, discusses the hummus company's warehouse transformation, how he leads his team, and insight into his career journey.
3PL, Customer Service, Technology
A business looking to outsource part or all of its logistics to a 3PL should consider a variety of factors to identify a logistics provider that is part tactical service provider and part strategic business partner.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
Industry professionals share whether they think the supply chain management function will be obsolete in the next 10 years.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The hot supply chain words or phrases for the coming year and the concepts behind them.
Whatever challenges your perishable goods operation faces, it’s likely that the right 3PL can offer innovative solutions.
3PL, Supply Chain, Warehousing
A third-party logistics provider with its own dedicated workforce is still a company's best option for handling and storing sensitive goods.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Increasing consumer expectations, market uncertainty, and other recent trends, have only enhanced the value 3PLs bring to shippers. From technology innovations to process insights, here are the ways 3PLs unlock and increase supply chain efficiencies.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Five top tips to achieving supply chain career success
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Companies must take a holistic approach to serving customers by eliminating silos and fully understanding their end-to-end supply chain today, especially in terms of customer service. 3PLs can help.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
In the downtime between storms, companies can take crucial steps to help prevent supply chain disruption.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) can be integrated into almost any industrial business. The key to implementing this concept is to identify areas where sustainable practices can be applied to an existing supply chain.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Automated bidding tools bring benefits to shippers and carriers alike. Carriers that receive complete shipment history and future volume forecasts from shippers are able to make the most competitive offers, which can lead to shipper savings.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
Before deploying a carrier management strategy, shippers must have a deep understanding of their supply chain, capacity challenges, and customer requirements.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As any successful business owner will tell you, SCM is an extremely crucial part of operations. It establishes strong communication and relationships with suppliers, helping to avoid shipment delays and minimize logistical errors.
A look back over 21 years of Inbound Logistics' Top 10 3PLs.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Whether brand new, solidly up and running, or decades old, shipper-3PL partnerships thrive on open communications, flexibility and trust.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
When a shipper finds a 3PL who can be a true partner, the choice should be easy and the benefits evident, from letting team members focus on core competencies to leveraging the 3PL’s expertise.
With the help of Evans Distribution, this furniture maker developed an efficient, successful, real-time supply chain.
The Inbound Logistics audience has stamped it license-plate official: These top-tier third-party logistics providers deserve accolades and the distinction of being a Top 10 3PL.
3PL, Risk Management, Supply Chain
Partnering with a 3PL does much more than free up time to focus on core competencies—it offers a buffer between the shipper and the ever-shifting challenges of the logistics realm.
3PL, Economic Development, Logistics
In good times and in bad, world-class third-party logistics providers will continue to solve fundamental business challenges wrapped around supply chain operations.
This story highlights the results of Inbound Logistics’ 14th annual survey of shippers and 3PLs.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
For sellers looking for a new logistics provider, knowing what to look for in a 3PL or ISP — and what to avoid — is difficult, especially for businesses that are trying to make their way in the e-commerce economy.
While 3PLs and retailers have many options to compete in an Amazon world, inaction is not one of them. Amazon plans to invest an incremental $800 million in the second quarter alone to bring standard one-day shipping to Prime customers.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Knowing how to quickly set up and configure supply chain technology so the solutions work for individual customers is the key to getting the most flexible and powerful performance from industry leading package applications.
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics I.T., Technology
Third-party logistics (3PL) companies have it tough. Not only do they need air-tight control of their data, 3PLs need to prove to customers that their data is safer than Fort Knox. In today’s world where one person in a black hoodie sitting at a coffee shop can do more damage to a business than a ten-ton bomb, that’s a big ask.
Shippers can mitigate supply chain fluctuations and disruptions by leveraging the expertise of 3PLs.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Two trends have been nudging US inflation higher: a growing economy and a tight labor market. Add in tariffs, high transportation costs, and rising prices for many commodities, and the United States is poised for a long-term period of double-digit inflation.
3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With so much at stake this holiday shipping season, retailer suppliers and 3PL partners must have a plan to deal with the inevitable disasters and near disasters.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To maximize productivity, efficiency, and profit, Chief Supply Chain Officers should strive for visibility into the supply chain and confidence that it could handle any type of disruption.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Some shippers find the 3PL model doesn’t go far enough. Here's how to make 4PLs work for you.
Careers, 3PL, Transportation Management
Profile of Denis Reilly, president and CEO of Kenco Logistics
3PL, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
DLS Worldwide President Thomas Griffin reveals the 3PL efficiencies in highest demand as shippers face capacity constraints in 2017.
3PL, Expedited Shipping, Specialized Logistics
Readers share unexpected supply chain challenges and how they overcame them.
3PL, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology
Choosing the third-party logistics partner (3PL) that has the resources and expertise to handle every fulfillment challenge will help suppliers adapt to ever-evolving market conditions and complex customer requirements.
Careers, Education & Careers, Industry Associations, Education, Supply Chain Management
New technologies, consumer demands, and the rise of the mobile workforce are shifting the business landscape quickly, and specialized workers in supply chain and logistics are more valuable than ever. Use these tips to plan and attract the industry’s future leaders.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
By quickly adapting to various industries and commodities and responding to client requests with urgency and an extremely high level of customer service quality, a strong 3PL will find it can outlast even the most convenient warehousing options.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
By collaborating with a knowledgeable third-party logistics (3PL) provider, shippers can add both scale and visibility to their supply chain.
Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Transparency, honest communication, and a commitment to forming a true partnership with shared goals and values are keys to successful supply chain collaboration between shippers and their third-party logistics providers.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Inbound Logistics’ 12th annual 2017 3PL Perspectives market research report examines the trends and challenges shaping logistics outsourcing strategy and the third-party logistics industry.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
ProTrans created a tracking map or heat map where all in transit loads belonging to the customer can be viewed on the tracking map.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Getting the most from your third-party logistics provider (3PL) is more important than ever. Use these tips to leverage your 3PL relationship.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
If your firm is looking to break into chemical handling or currently handles chemicals and wants to perform better, this guide offers key factors to becoming the best in the industry.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
The logistics provider will help designers find ways to strengthen their global reach.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Surveying 237 suppliers around the globe, the report uncovers insight on the most urgent trends, opportunities, and challenges facing suppliers today.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management is often viewed as solely a statistical endeavor, but soft skills are often required in maintaining buyer and supplier relationships, according to new research from Penn State.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Once you understand where the complexities lie in your supply chain, you can get to the source of your problem and streamline issues to help your organization.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Network optimization studies help simplify supply chain operations and provide continual year-over-year savings.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Yard management systems (YMS) can boost driver efficiency, cut detention costs, and bring visibility to this link in the supply chain.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers pick the song/movie/TV show title that best describes their job.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The supply chain is creating more jobs than it can fill. Here's why companies should use technology to change people's perceptions of the field.
Labor Management, Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Truck drivers are the lifeblood of the supply chain. Here's how to protect this invaluable asset and address the driver shortage.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Utilizing technology is key to the future of business and IoT has increased the connectivity of all areas of business.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Finding the right candidate for your business is a challenge that requires broad advertising, rigorous interviews, and ultimately some give and take. Here are five hacks for outstanding recruiting in supply chain management.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Many companies are finding that value-added logistics services can help to give their supply chain a competitive edge. Use this advice to add value to your supply chain.
3PL, Food Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology
Produce distributor SunTerra Chicago uses technology to boost on-time deliveries and cut costs.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Readers share the best part about working in the supply chain.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
3PL warehouses are not only in demand, but in a position of strength. This provides 3PL operators a unique opportunity to build lasting relationships with key customers, suppliers, and retailers of their choice.
3PL, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
As consumers demand a greater personal experience and more sophisticated product, the digital revolution will prove a competitive advantage to those who embrace it.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The e-commerce race is only heating up. Here's what small to mid-size retailers should do to stay in the game.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With no standard terminology in an already-complex industry, it’s not surprising that so many TMS buyers have trouble figuring out the differences between solutions and which one best fits their needs. Here's how to cut through the confusion.
E-commerce, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
Find the right solutions, carriers and partners to drive efficiency in your supply chain operations and enable your enterprise to navigate the twists and turns, ups and downs of the coming year.
Cloud Computing, Logistics, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
From basic improvements like streamlining operations and increasing process efficiency to fully automating delivery trucks, technology is enabling much smarter, simpler supply chain management. Read about the three technologies making the most impact.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Trump Administration makes infrastructure a priority; top locations and methods for cargo theft, 2017 State of the North American Supply Chain survey.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The subscription box industry launched by beauty products curator Birchbox in 2010 has expanded to include services for a remarkably wide range of consumer interests. A behind-the-scenes peek at this new e-commerce model reveals a highly complicated business that relies heavily on logistics pros managing everything from inventory to kitting to delivery and returns.
Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Lean, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
A North Carolina hospital improves patient care by prescribing a lean and healthy supply chain.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Consolidated procurement offers cost benefits as well as improved efficiency throughout the supply chain. Find out how you can implement this approach and realize its advantages.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As the economic rollercoaster trends up quickly, best logistics practices will give your enterprise vitality to scale up quickly without disrupting.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
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.
3PL, Forklifts, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Jungheinrich® reach trucks help LeanCor’s mission to advance the world’s supply chains.
3PL, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
To meet the changing needs of today’s manufacturers, third-party logistics (3PL) providers need to distinguish themselves through collaboration and technology investments.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Warehousing
Thirty years ago, third-party logistics providers offered mainly rudimentary logistics and warehousing services. Today, however, many 3PLs offer complex solutions that help companies achieve strategic goals.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
This story looks at some of the major challenges and practices found in construction logistics, illustrated with stories from experts who work in this field.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Cruise ship provisions must support a small town at sea for a week or more. Supplies are loaded on a docked vessel in four hours or less; there’s no second chance for deliveries that arrive after the ship has sailed.
Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Franchisees sometimes don’t appreciate how important an efficiently functioning supply chain is until it isn’t there.
Big Data, Education & Careers, Inventory Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Winter provides a great advantage–time. The hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and colder weather prevails. There’s no better time to hit the books and amp up your knowledge of important logistics and supply chain management issues.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Kowalski Sausage implements a new in-house routing and dispatching system to improve how the piggies get to market.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Warehousing
Ariens' tailored transportation planning solution from Redwood Logistics has led to efficiency gains, delivery improvements, increased visibility and cost reductions.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Even when the economy isn’t booming, the supply chain offers numerous opportunities for shippers to increase efficiency, save money and enhance revenues. This story looks at some of the bright spots in transportation, technology, global trade and outsourcing.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
The overall complexity of running the supply chain will drop as the product portfolio becomes more streamlined. Here's how to do just that.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Working with a specialized transportation provider will save you time and headaches while keeping your customers happy and costs down.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
Readers choose between cost and customer service as the most important selection criterion for a carrier or supplier.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Profile of Mike Wagner, CEO of Target Freight Management.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Working with a single-source third-party logistics provider offers many benefits. Here are tips for choosing a partner with capabilities that fit your company’s needs.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in and pick the disruptive innovation that will rock supply chains.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Trucking, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Profile of Marc Althen, president, Penske Logistics
Asia, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
South Korean ocean liner Hanjin Shipping files for bankruptcy protection in a dozen countries; Few respondents to a GT Nexus survey say they have a chief supply chain officer on hand who would be equipped to deal with supply chain disruptions; Maersk splits its transportation and oil businesses
Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking, Transportation
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.
Careers, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As professionals who understand the entire process of manufacturing, shipping, and marketing products, and who recognize that suppliers can be closely aligned with the company’s goals and objectives, chief procurement officers help define a company’s competitive advantage.
Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Product proliferation can bring supply chain inefficiencies. Here's a comprehensive approach to refreshing your product offerings that can reduce complexity and increase the bottom line.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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
The benefits of a multi-tenant software platform are immense. Chris Johnson of LeanLogistics outlines the four areas of value with multi-tenant technology.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hiring challenges in the supply chain sector include attracting the best talent, developing leaders, and retaining high performers. To solve these issues, employers must step up and build training programs that instill passion, share purpose, provide clear leadership and promotion tracks, are authentic, and ultimately diminish turnover.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
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 I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Visibility
Ensuring labeling accuracy and consistency is critical to supporting efficiency up and down the supply chain. Here's one approach that can ensure your labels boost supply chain activities.
E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.
Mexico, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Complying with big-box retailer requirements isn’t always easy, but it pays off in the result of a cohesive 3PL team, satisfied employees and continued business.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
A standards-based supply chain can provide an organization with the speed and accuracy required when it’s needed most—helping to manage risk during normal operations and at times of crisis.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Using the best logistics IT available, and partnering with world-class carriers and 3PLs, can help you find a better way towards supply chain success.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Inbound Logistics editor lists six cool things she learned (or just realized anew) as she edited the annual 3PL issue.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
If they haven’t already, supply chain executives need to immediately deploy more flexible and agile supply chain management solutions that encompass an enterprise resource planning system.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The supply chain strategy shift, from business cost efficiency to customer purchase location flexibility, is similar to the Copernican Revolution. Here’s how supply chain managers can increase product velocity using a customer-centric business model.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
3PL, Education, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
With schools across the country rapidly increasing the use of technology in the classroom, recent graduates entering into the logistics workforce expect similar atmospheres.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Freight location and status updates, along with advanced predictive analytics capabilities, are making load tracking a valuable tool for shippers, brokers, 3PLs, and carriers
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A successful procurement project or event is all about the right preparation.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
As entities responsible for brokering appropriate carrier rates, ensuring accurate quantities of orders and guaranteeing high quality of products, third-party logistics providers are extensions of companies’ brands.
3PL, Customer Service, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Industry expertise is the most impactful way to positively affect customer service requirements.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
Emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, 3-D printing, collaborative robotics, self-driving trucks, drones and the Uberization of deliveries are poised to be disruptive influences on logistics in the coming years.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
This story examines the secrets behind a successful shipper-3PL relationship, as seen through the eyes of four pairs of successful business partners.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
3PL, Education & Careers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation, Warehousing
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.
Air Cargo, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A handy reading guide summarizing supply chain books and their key takeaways.
Distribution, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
A new app helped a coffee merchant digitally transformed its retail sales and distribution processes.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) created and implemented a new way of taking and filling orders for its annual cookie drive. Here’s how it made sure cookie sales didn’t crumble.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Enhancing supply chains with real-time visibility gives shippers the insight and details needed to operate quickly, accurately, and more effectively than ever before.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Kuebix TMS and Managed Services take Weis Markets’ supply chain to the next level of excellence.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
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.
Customer Service, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology , Visibility
Wholesale distributor Ideal Supply re-routed its delivery network through the cloud with the help of logistics technology provider Descartes.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Texts, tweets, and posts are changing the ways in which the supply chain operates. Large suppliers and warehousing companies should use social media to better communicate with consumers and maximize productivity.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in on what hobbies make them better at supply chain and logistics management.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Transparency and communication are key in the RFP process to develop a true and lasting partnership with a 3PL provider.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Technology
This story looks at ways in which 3PLs help small and midsize companies implement and take full advantage of information technology.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Temperature Controlled
Working with a third-party logistics partner who also offers foreign trade zones can provide big benefits in the right scenarios.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Safety, Security, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Vulnerable to cargo theft? This monitoring solution provides layers of assurance for shippers and transporters.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The 2016 Allianz Risk Barometer identifies top 10 risks for global companies.
3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain professionals face increasing complexity. In order to succeed, they must prepare for data security concerns, identify preferred team member attributes, and develop a strong collective financial acumen.
Big Data, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
Big Data, 3PL, Economic Development, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Technology , Transportation
From well-designed redundancies across intermodal shipping methods to creative solutions when the unexpected happens, Georgia’s logistics industry is positioned to help shippers connect, compete, and grow.
Distribution, Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
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
For logistics professionals, data is meaningless without context. Dashboards help provide context and enhance decision-making capabilities.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management
So how prepared is your business to withstand a crisis? Effective risk analysis and crisis preparation is an essential strategy.
3PL, Global Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Why Inbound Logistics decided to re-publish Strikepoint, a fictional logistics novella originally published in 2001.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Taking steps to become a shipper of choice delivers benefits across the supply chain, and will help sustain and grow your bottom line.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers should consider partial shipping when looking for faster transit times, less handling, and a more cost-effective solution.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Risk Management
Logistics has evolved into a strategic business concern, driving enterprises to seek third-party logistics (3PL) providers with multi-modal capabilities for complete end-to-end integration.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
It is critical that 3PLs take a hard look at operations to determine areas for cost reduction, productivity and efficiency improvements, and opportunities for new service offerings and revenue streams.
Careers, Customer Service, Global Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Multiculturalism can be the competitive advantage that makes the critical difference in the success of your supply chain operations.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
When choosing a transportation management system, it’s important to ensure it will meet all of your requirements.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The burgeoning need for talent to operate today’s complex supply chains has begun to garner significant attention. Develop new ways to find, recruit, develop, and retain talent with these tips.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Procurement professionals should cultivate and maintain good supplier relationships to ensure profitability.
3PL, Customer Service, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
With so many choices available, varying freight, and small package shipping needs, the 3PL service offering needs to be about more than the transaction.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Specialized Logistics
The booming liquor business has added several layers of complexity to the supply chain with the addition of many new product SKUs. Shippers are using technology, data, and collaboration to keep the supply chain moving efficiently.
Big Data, Education & Careers, Education, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Intermodal, Ports, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
It's important to stay up to date on supply chain and logistics developments. Here's a list of books on wide ranging topics.
Manufacturing Logistics, Lean, Manufacturing, Logistics, Partnership
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
Forward-thinking shipping and logistics facility management (FM) professionals turn to next-generation FM software to efficiently manage their facilities.
Supply Chain, Safety, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The potential legislation of COR-related laws is expected to have a profound effect on all areas of the supply chain, requiring changes that will ultimately come at an increased cost.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Companies can support sustainability throughout their supply chains with these approaches.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Lin Ding, procurement manager at Ultimate Medical Academy, manages a team with a shared focus on procurement, supplier management, and contract management.
Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When Azteca Foods outgrew its manual pallet tracking system in its production facility, Barcoding Inc. delivered a solution.
Careers, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Bobby Harris, President and CEO of BlueGrace Logistics, discusses the talent gap, entrepreneurship, the importance of keeping employees happy, and more.
Careers, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics editor Felecia Stratton discovers that change management is not only a supply chain challenge.
3PL, HazMat, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
The Globally Harmonized System of Classification (GHS), which ensures hazardous materials are safely produced, used, and disposed of, continues to evolve. Supply chain management technology tools remain a priority. Third-party logistics providers project future growth. St. Louis, Mo. remains an epicenter for all transportation modes, and is ripe for future growth opportunities.
Careers, Panama Canal, Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Freight Forwarders, Ocean, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Tim Thoma, international logistics and compliance manager at Northern Tool and Equipment, is responsible for moving product purchased from overseas.
E-commerce, Import, Export, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.
Economic Development, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Ocean, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Slovenian Post acquires logistics network to diversify business; Ontario cap-and-trade threatens Great Lakes-St. Lawrence shipping; China looks to build modern logistics cities; UAE manufacturing potential exposes labor market flaws; Nicaraguan Canal financing faces fresh skepticism in light of stock market crash.
Intermodal, Ocean, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
Railroads, ocean carriers, and ports are investing in new equipment and technology innovation to move freight from trucks to rails and attract intermodal shippers.
Careers, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
Inbound Logistics interviews XPO Logistics’ Brad Jacobs to discuss his vision for XPO Logistics, and shares insight into what it takes to be a successful leader in today’s business world.
Lean, Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
It is critical to set meaningful, relevant, and attainable targets to ensure that everyone is focused on a Lean supply chain.
Education, Supply Chain Management
Today, millennial and Generation Y candidates who have a supply chain degree or education can immediately fill a gap that previously took a senior person. But that's only part of the solution.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Applying Berra-isms to logistics management yields valuable insights. Remembering the beloved Yankees legend Yogi Berra with fondness and celebrating his memorable words of wisdom.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Risk Management, Security, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Supply chain continuity planning is critical for global businesses. Armed with an end-to-end digital model of their supply chains, shippers can react rapidly and intelligently when unplanned events occur.
Careers, Industry Associations, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Active participation in a professional association helps advance career growth and offers continuous learning.
3PL, Audit Services, Freight Payment Services, Third-Party Logistics
Freight audit and payment companies help shippers find the hidden cash in their supply chains by eliminating overbilling, and paying invoices accurately and quickly.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Trucking, Technology , Transportation
Core carriers participating in leveraged platforms typically receive consistent, attractive internal freight volumes and specific lanes of business.
3PL, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Third-Party Logistics
From a shipping perspective, manufacturers can best address today’s increasing regulations and demand volatility by outsourcing shipping to a third-party logistics provider.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Global Economy, China, Freight Forwarders, Third-Party Logistics, Ocean, Transportation
Use these seven tips to find a partner in China that is right for your company.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Safety
No matter how thoroughly safety training requirements are followed, there are still likely to be gaps in your company’s loading dock safety efforts. Use these tips to better shape safety training plans.
E-commerce, Canada, Automotive Logistics, Economic Development, Global Economy, China, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
In spite of U.S. dollar strength, domestic manufacturing remains competitive globally; UPS tests new electric cargo bikes to handle urban deliveries; Bi-national Great Lakes Seaway Partnership promotes commercial shipping along the Saint Lawrence Seaway system; Mercedes-Benz reconfigures its global supply chain; Global Logistic Properties shifts investment from China to United States; Freight rail gains traction in passenger transport-focused China; China debuts the world’s longest freight train route linking the northeast city of Harbin with Hamburg, Germany.
E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
E-commerce and omni-channel retailing have a major impact on supply chain and logistics needs, and customers have to make sure their supply chain is equipped to offer maximum flexibility.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Ports, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Latin America
Latin American perishable exports have grown dramatically in recent years, but there are still some logistical shortcomings preventing maximum cold chain efficiency.
Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
When applying Lean principles to procurement and purchasing processes, non-traditional sources of waste can be identified, which benefits the entire supply chain.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Sustainability and cost savings are driving shippers to reduce packaging waste.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
When downtime impacts a company’s line, outsourcing technology infrastructure to a third party might help.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
The third-party logistics (3PL) segment evolved from shippers driving the process based on their needs, to collaboratively working together to create new solutions and change business operations.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Terri Anderson, production warehouse management systems analyst at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, configures, enhances, and tests the company's WMS by the book.
Global Economy, China, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Before sourcing globally, it’s important to know the risks.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
The right 3PL partner can help to even the playing field between SMBs and their larger big box competitors.
Logistics, Security, Supply Chain Management
Minimizing employee downtime with ergonomic initiatives and equipment can have a big impact on the bottom line.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Collaboration is key to having a productive relationship between the supply chain and marketing departments.
Logistics, Security, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
These four tips can help you make sure your specialized shipment arrives safely and on time.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Using the data the TMS is already providing can help shippers improve their transport operations.
Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The Panama Canal expansion will provide many businesses with opportunities for growth on a global scale.
Big Data, Cloud Computing, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
The Internet of Things is bringing major changes to the way companies plan and execute supply chain activities as sensors, communications systems, and analytics solutions all become cheaper, faster, and more capable.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
As technology brings supply chain data into focus, the ability to access and interpret business information moves from nice-to-have to must-have.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Yokohama senior director Jeremy Kahrs reveals the strategy behind the tire maker’s new distribution center and headquarters.
Logistics, Security, Supply Chain Management
Successful companies are concerned about supply chain security. Here’s how to prevent supply chain threats from negatively impacting your company’s bottom line and reputation.
3PL, Project Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics
When it comes to transporting the oversized, the awkward, the exotic, and the endangered, the secret to success is planning, planning, and more planning.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
This list of new supply chain and logistics books helps logistics professionals keep their skills up to date.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
When BaubleBar saw the untapped potential of the international market, they tapped an parcel shipping partner to help them succeed.
Customer Service, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.
3PL, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics
When selling products across the northern border, these three tips can help.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics
Companies are breaking through functional silos to initiate sweeping sustainability mandates.
Military Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Kelvin Miller, an equipment and mobility readiness spare parts allocation supervisor with the military contractor DynCorp International, manages inventory and gets it ready to deploy when the time comes.
Green Logistics, Lean, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
These seven non-traditional forms of waste can have a direct impact on your bottom line.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
A new study determines the top 15 undergraduate and graduate supply chain management programs in the United States, based on the teaching of technology, software, and quantitative tools used by supply chain professionals, as well as the variety and depth of this coursework.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
When Ocean Spray wanted to reduce its carbon footprint, they found the answers they were looking for from an MBA student.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Supply management professionals are increasingly accepting cross-functional cooperation in purchasing, supply management, production and inventory control to optimize overall company performance and increase competitiveness.
Customer Service, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
To help save money, shippers should build a strong relationship with their LTL carrier.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Lori Harper, vice president, supply chain management at Ingalls Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), is a natural leader who figures out solutions to unexpected challenges.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Martin Associates report points to the importance of continuing U.S. port investment; Henry Ford College introduces associates degree in supply chain management; Freight Can't Wait program encourages Congress to earmark funding exclusively for freight infrastructure projects; Manufacturers are finding better ways to engineer and prototype products using 3D printing technology; McDonald's pledges to lessen impact on global deforestation throughout its entire supply chain.
Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
When setting future supply chain budgets, companies must take into account not only the increased cost of industrial real estate, but also longer lead times for new space in many markets.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Shippers making simple, but meaningful changes can go a long way with helping carriers attract and retain drivers.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Inventory management is often difficult and time-consuming for smaller businesses, but the right solution can remove some of the pressure.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
These five steps will ensure carriers can provide capacity when you need it most.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
A look at the challenges warehouse managers face as they build a well-integrated warehouse workforce, and how they address those issues.
Intermodal, Economic Development, Utilities, Logistics, Site Selection, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
In today's high-speed logistics infrastructure, rail represents a key component of the intermodal framework.
Logistics, Materials Handling, Pallets, Supply Chain Management
Choosing the right pallet unlocks myriad benefits from improved process efficiency to cost savings and sustainability.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
When Sleepy's customers got tired of short notice and missed deliveries, the specialty mattress retailer brought in a technology partner and dreamed up a solution that put those problems to bed.
Labor Management, Supply Chain Management
Employee incentives are a simple and valuable way to increase productivity in your facility.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
The key to any successful relationship is communication. Your logistics network is no different.
Inventory Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
New lower-cost commercial systems and equipment are just over the horizon; they will provide an exciting array of inventory control to the logistics and supply chain community.
Intermodal, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
To drive efficiency, intermodal stakeholders need to fit their processes together.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Judi Griffin, director of logistics at Burkhart Dental, is responsible for three distribution centers, purchasing and customer service teams, and inbound and outbound freight costs.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Supply chain ‘modeling’ replicates real-world events; Retailers and manufacturers make the jump to RFID; U.S. trucking industry sees better utilization and financial results; Data analytics is a big growth market.
Global Logistics, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Ocean, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
Larger container ships pose new risks and liabilities... Peel Group invests in oil and gas business while European interests dry up... Scientists raise concerns about Nicaragua canal environmental impact.
Lean, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
When trying to avoid waste in your supply chain, it’s all about location, location, location.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Taking steps to adapt to ACE regulations ahead of final deadlines will save businesses much time, money, and hassle.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Fleet management platforms represent the evolution of location information.
Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Enabling a holistic, integrated approach to managing global supplier risks allows companies to minimize risks, protect brand integrity, and reduce supply chain costs.
Big Data, Lean, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The confluence of faster data access, better analytical tools, and data-driven business decisions, make it more likely that future supply chain optimization will be continuous.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
In the face of increasing capacity issues, carriers prefer to work with shippers that will support their business needs
Big Data, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Many transportation and logistics professionals hear outsourcing and think offshoring, but there is a big difference.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
A yard management system allows greater visibility with key yard information at a glance, and reporting metrics to improve the operation and save money.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
New regulations ensuring the integrity of the pharma supply chain are nearing the finish line. While some companies have taken an early lead to compliance, others are late getting out of the gate. Which team are you on?
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
To break the cycle of needless, duplicative logistics costs, many competitors are choosing to work in tandem.
Global Economy, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Companies doing business globally are learning to be more flexible to adapt quickly to uncertainty without sacrificing economy, speed and service.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Jim Young, senior supply chain manager at Applied Microstructures, Inc., is responsible for everything from sourcing materials and services to shipping finished products
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
U.S. beef supply chain participants form partnership to improve sustainability; Manufacturers and retailers fail to adopt best-in-class processes and technology to address global complexities; Online retailers need to rethink how they align their distribution networks; Spot market rates dip seasonally as West Coast volumes catch up; Staples and Syracuse University partner to drive new research and innovation.
Asia, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Rail, Supply Chain Management
Port of Beirut plan for transshipment expansion irks truckers; New treaty greenlights Ghent–Terneuzen Canal lock upgrade; China-Europe rail development continues with UTi and Changjiu partnership; Global suppliers still laggard when it comes to environmental mitigation; Hong Kong looks to ease industrial real estate regs to create more warehouse capacity.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With a skills gap narrowing the options, companies must hire employees that are valuable in the long-term.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
New software helps warehouse operators keep up with the real-time demands of omni-channel fulfillment.
E-commerce, Global Economy, Mexico, China, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Shifting global dynamics and internal business process changes are compelling manufacturers and retailers to challenge the status quo and reinvent their supply chains.
Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
The United States Postal Services has revised domestic mail regulations for shipping lithium batteries. Here’s what shippers need to know.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.
Green Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Here are 10 common packaging errors and how to overcome them.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
The role of supply chain practitioner is evolving by integrating technology, functional expertise, and experience to identify problems and engineer solutions.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Digital technologies are shaking up supply chain solutions; Maritime industry opposes Keystone XL Pipeline amendment; Procurement is the gateway to innovation, collaboration, and revenue growth; Introducing the 10 best warehouse networks
Panama Canal, Canada, Global Economy, Global Logistics, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain Management
United States and Canada are investing $7 billion in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system; Changing political relations between the United States and Cuba could signal new trade opportunities; UK faces a truck driver shortage among younger people; Panama approves new port development
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
By paying close attention to detail, shippers can avoid the following simple mistakes.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Product Lifecycle Management software produces metrics that can help business make sure they are using ethical vendors.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The list of competencies employers seek when they recruit supply chain professionals keeps growing longer and more complex. Here’s how degree-granting programs keep pace, and enable well-rounded graduates to fill prime positions.
Global Economy, Canada, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Volatility in the oil, gas and energy business is forcing producers and industry to confront a legacy of poor logistics execution.
3PL, Global Economy, Customer Service, Freight Forwarders, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Technology
When it came time to face the ACE, HW St. John bet on an automated solution that streamlines processes and deals customers a winning hand.
Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
A review of the important mile markers in supply chain management that brought us to present day shows we have made progress, but there is more work to be done.
Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
ThomasNet, ISM and Inbound Logistics partner to create the 30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars program to recognize the brightest young stars in supply chain management today.
Customer Service, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A route planning systems can drastically reduce the time it takes to plan your transportation schedule. Other benefits include lower mileage and fuel usage, decreased carbon emissions, and increased customer service.
Green Logistics, Global Economy, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Eelco de Graaf, vice president, supply chain operations at Lewis-Goetz and Company, is responsible for purchasing, shipping, manufacturing, and operational excellence.
Logistics, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
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
Global Economy, Mexico, China, Logistics, Rail, Safety, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Latin America
United States gives Mexican truck drivers the green light for cross-border moves; Uber pilots cargo service in Hong Kong; Latin American rail freight market ripe for investment; Panama Canal Authority restructures its toll system; Turkey and Iran toil over truck fees; Global airfreight market set for steady growth; Lithuania railroad faces antitrust inquiry over competitive switching practices
Logistics, Supply Chain Management
How a logistics data refinery can improve supply chain visibility and analytics.
Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Companies must formulate a strategic plan that includes core competencies and future business objectives to prepare to meet the challenges of the next decade.
Logistics, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Driverless trucks may be a solution to the truck driver shortage in the future, but here are some ideas for how to cope now.
Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Packaging, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Shippers, carriers, manufacturers – everyone in the business of shipping Dangerous Goods needs to stay up to date on what’s going on in the industry.
Export, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Before entering the international trade arena, shippers must understand the stakes involved in regulatory compliance.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
All the technology in the world won’t help an organization improve if they don’t have what it takes in the leadership department.
Global Economy, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
All logistics and transportation stakeholders must work together to eliminate the supply chain talent gap.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Managing supply chain risk means recognizing that things won’t always go according to plan, and having the right infrastructure in place to succeed even through the unexpected.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Many manufacturers have turned to molded pulp as an environmentally friendly packaging alternative.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
Areas like Northeast Florida actively work to make their local climate a business-friendly one.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Intermodal, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
From first mile to last mile and every mile in between, truck drivers are the lifeblood of your supply chain. Meet some of these dedicated professionals.
E-commerce, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
With its subscription-based clothing rental model, Gwynnie Bee is tailoring the rules of e-commerce to make fashion fulfillment a perfect fit.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
IBC Advanced Alloys puts a pedal to the metals to manage the logistics of complex manufacturing.
Green Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Six Sigma helps electronic products company Jabil run like a lean, green manufacturing machine.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Health Care Logistics, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
As hospitals begin transforming to adapt to new healthcare initiatives, they are easing the pain by restructuring and streamlining supply chain operations.
Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Whirlpool is taking a page out of its Lean production manual and following Penske’s lead to create a more flexible and responsive North American supply chain.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Vendor Managed Inventory is shaking off its old-school image and regaining popularity thanks to improved technology, robust communication, tighter demand signal linkage, and a new openness to collaboration that has turbo-charged enterprise benefits.
Intermodal, Mexico, Canada, Logistics, Rail, Supply Chain Management
We hit the road this past fall to get an up close view, around the bend, of where the railroad industry is tracking in 2015 and beyond.
Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Big data is a big deal, but what is it? Inbound Logistics asks four industry experts to file their report on big data and its benefits.
Global Economy, Intermodal, Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Rail, Supply Chain Management
Facing a number of challenges and constraints, the global port industry is addressing concerns and capitalizing on new opportunities.
Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics asked these experts to weigh in on the dimensional weight pricing changes that UPS and FedEx implemented on January 1, 2015.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
This article looks at issues that companies should consider when developing a more resilient supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Inclement weather and capacity problems giving your supply chain the winter woes? Chill out! Here are some good reads to keep you up to date on supply chain, logistics, and transportation best practices.
E-commerce, Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management
To expand its footprint in the luxury accessories market, Royce Leather indulged in a solution that connects it to new customers and streamlines fulfillment. That’s how Royce rolls.
Military Logistics, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain Management
Increases in public and private aircraft demand have aerospace supply chain stakeholders changing the way they get things done.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Carriers need to be ready to keep freight moving no matter what gets in the way.
Bar-coding Systems, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
Managers must carefully consider all factors of their operation before selecting a new bar-coding system.
Air Cargo, 3PL, Lean, Ocean, Rail, Trucking
As transportation prices rise, shippers are engaging in smart planning to reduce logistics costs.
Demand Planning, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Christopher McGovern, vice president, supply chain management at Aero Precision, knows the importance of communication and data collection.
3PL, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T.
To mark SmartWay's 10th anniversary, several shipper partners share their best tactics for getting the most out of the program... Sourcing and procurement functions have become areas of core incompetency says new survey.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Specialized Logistics
Smart shippers are already preparing and making changes to their supply chain operations to ensure they will be in compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act from day one.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
All companies should incorporate a business continuity plan into their operation so they are never unprepared for a disruption.
Expedited Shipping, Supply Chain Management
The best way shippers and consignees can accommodate speed and reliability is to practice demand-driven logistics.
3PL, Mexico, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America
Latin America is fast becoming the destination of choice for companies looking to expand their global footprint, and 3PLs with knowledge and regional expertise will be valuable partners.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.
Customer Service, Food Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Leslie Dean, senior director, supply chain, at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt.
E-commerce, Air Cargo, Customer Service, Economic Development, Retail, Ocean, Ports, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations
E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
Pilot program uses drones to deliver time-sensitive goods; Canadian government lines up two new bilateral trade agreements; Labor rights causing supply chain disruption; Using social media to understand carrier usage.
Companies can benefit from have a hybrid supply chain that is not only Lean, but also agile.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The Internet of Things is the wave of the future – but for the logistics segment, the future is closer than you think.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain Management
Global Trade Management Systems (GTM) can help automate and optimize international supply chains. Here’s some advice for successful implementation.
Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Shippers, carriers, 3PLs and brokers who are not fully utilizing their transportation management systems to secure capacity and manage global trade may be leaving money on the table.
Customer Service, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Kevin Hickey, Vice President, North American Customer Service for Maersk Line outlines the benefits of performance metrics, and the impact they have on carrier relationships and ongoing improvements.
3PL, Intermodal, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Trucking, Transportation
The trucking industry faces capacity constraints, but there are solutions available to help shippers minimize the impact.
Customer Service, Distribution, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Executives at two leading companies weigh in on supply chain’s value to their organizations.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
When a merger required Nature’s Way to consolidate distribution facilities, it called on the services of system supplier The Numina Group for a new design and technologies. Today, the facility successfully distributes products to customers in 50 states, and overseas through five supply chain channels.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
Using the spot market correctly can reduce backlogs of shipping and keep costs under control.
Global Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
An optimized supply chain allows companies to reduce costs, lower risk, increase transparency, and support new products.
Freight Forwarders, Supply Chain Management
Don’t risk entrusting your shipments to a fraudulent freight broker. Check broker credentials to protect your goods.
Considering six key factors allows purchasing managers to make timed purchasing decisions.
Treat truck drivers respectfully to build a good reputation with carriers and ensure load coverage.
Education & Careers, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
For Tamsen Fricke, operations manager at Divine Chocolate USA, fair trade and logistics make a delicious combination.
Military Logistics, Chemical Logistics, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Ports, Safety, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
OSHA issues updates to its Hazard Communication Standard; HP’s Dave Thomas addresses the importance of data quality; Ohio Trucking Association debuts military exhibition class at truck driving competition; Companies fail to use procurement in a strategic way; Shippers planning ahead for labor disruptions.
E-commerce, Asia, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Plan now to avoid supply chain disruptions from the latest Icelandic volcano eruption; Australia struggles with home delivery challenges; EU and China sign landmark customs agreement.
Mexico, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Mexico presents an attractive option for U.S.-based companies moving all or a portion of their supply chains closer to home.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers desperately seek capacity in the midst of a record shortage.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Tracking carrier performance metrics gives shippers insight into how well trucking companies serve their needs.
Freight Payment Services, Finance, Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation Management, Transportation
Freight audit and payment services analyze shipment data to reveal inefficiencies and identify savings opportunities.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Transportation Management, Safety, Trucking, Transportation
Motor carrier safety standards dictated by state courts create confusion. National safety standards are more effective.
Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
When customers need products fast, Chet Mullen of lift truck manufacturer Raymond Corporation rises to the occassion.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking
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
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.
Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Hospitals can cut costs by improving supply chain operations, inventory control, and transportation management.
Import, Export, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Incoterms simplify international purchase-sales contracts. Here are tips for applying them correctly.
Economic Development, Utilities, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
Site selection teams get help from energy providers looking to boost local economic development.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
Demand Planning, Retail, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Transportation forecasting lets shippers collaborate with carriers to identify capacity gaps and reallocate assets.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart, focuses on building transportation synergies.
3PL, Military Logistics, Education & Careers
Military veterans bring valuable skills and characteristics that make logistics operations stronger.
Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
When a natural disaster hits, consumers rely on home improvement stores for the products they need to repair or rebuild.
3PL, Chemical Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Transporting and storing oil and gas products represents a complex challenge and big opportunity.
3PL, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Cross-border import and export trade between the United States and Canada requires planning and expertise.
New supply chain and logistics books help logistics professionals thaw out their skills after a brutal winter.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
SaaS TMS solutions allow shippers, carriers, suppliers, and consignees to conduct business on a single platform.
3PL websites should offer tools that offer shippers information they need, and make working with carriers easier.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Transportation
To better manage freight spend, track key performance indicators and build strong provider partnerships.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Create your WMS RFP with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of potential suppliers.
Manufacturing, Ports, Supply Chain Management
Port of Los Angeles targets $3 billion for infrastructure investment; Montreal-based Fednav uses drones to scout shipping conditions; U.S. manufacturing renaissance faces a skilled labor shortage; Apple tops Gartner’s Top 25 Supply Chain list for the seventh consecutive year.
With warehouse capacity at a premium, shippers consult 3PLs to help locate shared space.
Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network
A strong corporate culture boosts productivity, improves service, and reduces workplace injuries and employee turnover.
Logistics managers support inbound supply chains by informing company leaders about the effect of vendor non-compliance.
Auto aftermarket shippers use supplier ship direct programs and high-velocity DCs to meet demand.
Supply chain innovation requires motivation, shared leadership, and change management.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Demand-driven supply chains strive for synchronicity between functions and among partners to ensure optimal performance.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Ocean, Supply Chain Management
NRF’s Big Show unveils trends in the retail industry; Local couriers provide a solution to capacity constraints and empower same-day delivery; Ocean carrier industry beset by imbalances; Global RFID market primed for robust growth; Shippers plan for supply chain exceptions
Partnership, Risk Management, Transportation Management
Clear transportation management strategy and technologies allow companies to deliver superior service at lower cost.
Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management
The number of stockkeeping units has increased considerably. Doing an ABC analysis helps eliminate unneeded inventory.
Bar-coding Systems, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Shipment monitoring tools allow manufacturers and shippers to locate cargo, manage inventory and prevent theft.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
Shippers rely on 3PLs and refrigerated public warehouses to invest in technology, implement standards, and facilitate strategic business process change to drive greater efficiencies.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Security, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Shippers and logistics providers take extra precautions to protect high-value products from cargo theft.
Automotive Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Ocean, Ports, Partnership, Specialized Logistics
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 management (GTM) solutions help coordinate trade compliance, and allow trading partners to share data.
Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Global Logistics, Ports, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Companies make contingency plans to prepare for possible supply chain disruptions caused by port labor negotiations.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing
E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.
Cloud Computing, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Faced with long lead times and potential production delays, Badcock Furniture and More invested in a cloud-based tool.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses the merits of supply chain continuing education.
Education & Careers, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Jason Shefrin, executive vice president, global sourcing, at InterDesign Inc. streamlines global operations.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Packaging
Cosmetics companies face challenges such as time- and temperature-sensitive shipments and retailer packaging requirements.
3PL, Distribution, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Safety, Warehousing
Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.
Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
New books on supply chain, logistics, and transportation help logistics professionals stay sharp.
Automotive Logistics, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Lean, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Collaborative risk management helps automakers and their supply chain partners protect against disruptions.
Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.
3PL, Military Logistics, Manufacturing
The aerospace industry explores new strategies for producing planes quickly, efficiently, and profitably.
Air Cargo, Food Logistics, 3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Global Logistics, Packaging, Temperature Controlled
Air cargo shipments of perishable goods such as produce, flowers, and seafood require careful handling.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
Green Logistics, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Supply chains must develop strategies for reducing risk related to climate change, such as drought and extreme weather.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
Freight Forwarders, Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers and trucking brokers must understand the differences among the service levels carriers offer.
2014 may be a year of uncertainty, but inbound logistics best practices can help improve supply chain operations, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton shares highlights from the January 2014 issue.
Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking, Transportation
When choosing core carriers, evaluate customer service, on-time delivery, company stability, and workforce quality.
3PL, Middle East, Asia, Panama Canal, China, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Risk Management
Global dry-bulk commodity trade reveals rate growth, steadying inflation in China; Preparations for 2022 World Cup trigger DC explosion in Qatar; Supplier risk analysis will become more complex as companies expand into new global markets; Pakistani protests force U.S. military drawdown to consider $1 billion airfreight alternative; Asia truck bans taking toll on logistics industry; Africa’s piracy problem shifting to continent’s west coast; Trans-Pacific Partnership pact stalls, 2014 ratification expected; China’s Nicaraguan Canal stirs intrigue; Tesco acquires stake in “Asia’s Amazon”
Global Economy, Panama Canal, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The Panama Canal expansion, opening in 2015, may alter shippers' sourcing and routing decisions.
Green Logistics, Food Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Leading food manufacturers and producers make sustainability best practices part of their supply chains.
Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Positioning product packaging downstream in the supply chain offers food manufacturers varied selling opportunities.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
Energy companies have responded to the escalating cost of doing business by looking for savings in the indirect material supply chain. As a result, many are struggling to optimize maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) functions.
Air Cargo, Expedited Shipping, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Expedited shipping modes are a crucial part of shippers’ planned transportation strategies.
Event logistics planners coordinate details to ensure precise requirements and deadlines are met.
Mixing truckload, less-than-truckload, and rail options allows shippers to create efficient intermodal solutions.
Intermodal, Health Care Logistics, Automotive Logistics, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Regulatory compliance is top supply chain challenge for healthcare executives; Ohio’s transportation funding plan pays dividends with bridge repair program; GM saves $40 million a year by co-locating stamping and assembly facilities; Collaboration is the key to sustained procurement savings; U.S. domestic intermodal surpasses international as growth driver.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Planning for peak returns season can minimize processing costs and maximize recovery values of returned inventory.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Transportation
SmartWay data allows shippers and 3PLs to make business decisions that support their sustainability goals.
3PL, Labor Management, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
A large seasonal workforce complicates 3PL compliance with healthcare laws and could mean rate increases for shippers.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Incorporating business intelligence tools into logistics strategy gives companies access to efficiency-boosting data.
Freight management technology strengthens partnerships between third-party logistics (3PL) providers and carriers.
Automotive Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.
From retailers to OEMs, companies track parts and finished goods to drive supply chain visibility and flexibility.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
A look at the supply chain for manufacturers that supply materials or components to other manufacturers.
Sharpen your skills with these books covering supply chain and logistics topics.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Collaborating with a global logistics provider helps small and medium-sized businesses ensure regulatory compliance.
Trading partners share sales and inventory data to support mutual benefits such as optimized inventory and productivity.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Shippers’ needs dictate if a third party logistics provider or transportation management system is the best choice.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Collaborate with suppliers to manage supply chain risks with the highest potential to occur and risk of business impact.
A logistics and supply chain market research survey reveal trends and insights about the third-party logistics sector.
Inbound Logistics readers' choices for the best third party logistics providers.
Manufacturing, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The emergence of domestically sourced natural gas heralds significant changes in the North America energy market.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Temperature Controlled
Perishable shipments such as produce and pharmaceuticals require temperature monitoring and careful handling.
Shippers and 3PLs have applied lean principles to remove waste from their operations and improve performance.
For chemical logistics providers, safety on the truck and in the warehouse is of paramount importance.
3PL, Economic Development, Manufacturing, Warehousing
Minnesota's warehouse tax may push jobs out of state.
3PL, Economic Development, Intermodal, Site Selection, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure
Transporting goods via truck and rail services offers shippers economy and efficiency benefits. Site selection teams evaluating intermodal sites also consider factors such as labor, transportation infrastructure, and utility costs.
Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Asia, Manufacturing, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management, Latin America
Shifting manufacturing operations in Asia back to North America provides companies more control of their supply chains, says Steve Sensing of Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
Economic Development, Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Jacksonville, Florida’s transportation infrastructure, skilled workforce, and available land makes it an attractive site for businesses siting new locations for logistics services and manufacturing, writes Michael Breen of JAXUSA Partnership.
Ocean, Supply Chain Management
Lars Kloch of SBS Worldwide, looks at the impact of slow steaming containerships on supply chain reliability, speed, and transport costs.
Plan for seasonal peaks by securing efficient labor, sufficient warehouse space, and reliable carriers.
When negotiating logistics service provider contracts, shippers should ensure they are clear on payment terms and special conditions.
The transportation and logistics sector is in the midst of some of its biggest changes since deregulation, and 2013 will play a pivotal role in discerning which companies will rise to the top, writes Chad Eichelberger of Access America Transport.
Whether you want to casually brush up on your supply chain management techniques or drastically reorganize your purchasing processes, you’ll find the knowledge you need in the pages of these supply chain resources.
In a business world defined and dictated by change, supply chain management balances challenges and competitive advantage. Companies large and small are leveraging transportation and logistics best practices to act as great equalizers.
Adopting demand-driven logistics can increase visibility, drive supply chain efficiency, and offset any market advantage your competitors might have.
Developing an effective supplier compliance program requires planning and communication, writes Peter Wharton of IBM.
To preserve working capital and promote flexibility, many companies choose to leverage the capabilities of a third-party-logistics (3PL) provider for carrier spend, facility occupancy, and more, writes John Wagner Jr. of Wagner Logistics.
Shippers want 3PL partners that not only responsively evolve service networks and capabilities to flex with the market, but also can anticipate and be ready to meet future service requirements, writes Ray Greer of BNSF Logistics.
Shifting production and consumption patterns push inter-regional trade; Ford tinkers with polymers, finds hidden green; Motorola Mobility flexes its supply chain with outsourcing approach; American consumer electronics companies more transparent than Asian competitors; Smaller Florida ports bullish on Panama Canal-triggered growth potential; Retail supply chain sophistication makes overstock sales obsolete; Sustainability and CSR rank low in procurement priorities; Retailers fail to appreciate the true power of mobility
By providing end-to-end visibility, demand driven logistics practices deliver competitive advantage and solve supply chain challenges for businesses of all sizes, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Supply chain management makes a difference by empowering companies to do more with less, and project a stronger competitive force, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
In a true collaborative relationship between purchasing and logistics, order and routing pattern planning comprises a single, optimized decision process that yields measurable results, writes Bill Michalski of ArrowStream.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton sees the supply chain industry's true colors firsthand.
Shippers can create a "control tower" view within their own supply chains—a common platform for aggregating, cleansing, and communicating real-time data.
By identifying the value-adds that brand and retail shippers want, logistics providers can position their offerings to bring millions in benefits to their customers and make the relationship stick, writes Greg White of Blue Ridge.
Export, Supply Chain Management
To successfully manage export compliance, companies must fully understand export regulations and filing requirements, advises Scott Byrnes, Amber Road.
Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Greyhound partners with One Network to enhance parcel delivery business. Truck driver turnover increases,Urban Outfitters equips Nevada e-fulfillment center with state-of-the-art materials handling system. Shippers turn to spot market to find capacity and compare carrier rates. MSC Beatrice debut in Asia-U.S. trade signals new wave of larger containerships.
Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain visibility helps flag upcoming supply or demand problems, allowing a company either to take action to prevent disasters or to respond by activating backup plans, writes George W. Prest of Material Handling Industry of America.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba invests in logistics to support online shopping growth; Jamaica looks to transform economy with the development of a global logistics hub; Vietnam faces a dearth of logistics talent and expertise; China grants licenses to UPS and FedEx to provide parcel delivery services in select cities; China Airlines Cargo joins SkyTeam Cargo alliance; Germany debuts JadeWeserPort amid slack container volume growth
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain managers should work closely with compliance professionals and corporate tax specialists when making decisions about related-party transactions, writes J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
While many factors influence customer loyalty, a well-run returns process has proven to drive repeat orders and improve consumer satisfaction. Paul Galpin of P2P Mailing outlines three points companies should consider when designing their reverse logistics.
Lean concepts such as 5S, Visual Workplace, and Kanban help reduce motion waste to create safer, more efficient workplaces.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Supply chain managers must determine the best technology for their supply chain based on their specific organizational needs, says Krishna Rallabhandi of Four Soft.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
By managing supply chain interdependencies and adopting a full view of service and cost, supply chain executives can amplify their organizational scope and heighten their financial contribution to attain the C-designation they deserve, writes Terry Harris, Chicago Consulting.
Retail, Supply Chain Management
As retailers look to grow their business, the challenge of keeping up with the market becomes exponentially greater—especially as new channels emerge, writes Editor Felecia Stratton. Supply chain management can help create balance between supply and demand.
E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail
Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
New international supply chain optimization tools are capable of considering all appropriate shipment flows, modes, routes, and cargo to come up with an ideal workable plan – as often as needed and anytime things change.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Partnership
Brian Hancock, president, North America for Martin-Brower, discusses the unique supply chain and distribution operations supporting the McDonald’s restaurant chain.
Inbound Logistics' readers voted on the third-party logistics providers (3PLs) that give them the best service and deliver outstanding results. Here is the list of top-rated 3PLs.
New publications on supply chain and logistics topics such as warehousing, sustainability, and procurement help logistics professionals stay sharp. Here are some recent books on supply chain topics of interest.
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can inspire shipper confidence by using technology tools to control loads and properly insuring their loads.
Land O’Lakes focuses on workplace culture to improve supply chain yield; Fuel consumption major concern for management,less so for drivers; Gartner poses four supply chain predictions for 2016
Cloud-based business networks are the future of supply chain intelligence; Chemical supply scarcity threatens global auto production; Fuel costs eat into transportation revenues; Organizations should consider insurance options to mitigate supply chain risk and improve resiliency
With proper care and nurturing, you can create a supply chain that performs beautifully – even in the midst of today’s ever-changing business environment, writes Wendy Buxton, LynnCo Supply Chain Solutions.
Capturing and analyzing transportation spend data is the key to outstanding supply chain management, writes Steven Shoemaker, RateLinx.
China, Supply Chain Management
U.S. businesses operating in China face a number of challenges. Angela Yang of Penske Logistics Asia offers advice on supporting your business’ China operations.
Customer Service, Partnership, Transportation Management
Small companies face challenges in meeting the rules set out in vendor requirements manuals. Best practices help them comply with retailers’ supplier requirements successfully.
Insurance, Ocean, Supply Chain Management
Incoterms are an internationally accepted set of standard commercial terms used between buyers and sellers. J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road helps shippers understand these rules.
People are a vital component of marketing - the fifth P - supporting products and companies with advanced logistics and supply chain management skills, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Today's supply chain professionals are tough, practical, and undeterred by the specter of failure, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses supply chain integration, citing articles from the January 2012 Logistics Planner issue.
In strategic supply chain analysis, multiple groups of decision makers may have conflicting interests, since there can be an impact across departments and business units. Aaron Baker of Damco USA offers two global supply chain strategy examples that illustrate the decision makers and decision variables needed to ensure the chosen solution is optimal for the business.
Companies require a logistics technology platform and an integrated set of services that can adapt to the pressures of a changing market, writes Glenn Riggs of Odyssey Logistics & Technology.
Supply chain trends for 2012; update on transportation issues in California, Washington, Kentucky, and South Dakota; reverse logistics helps retailers generate customer goodwill and create demand; airport warehousing demand soars; FAA regulations limit pilot flight time; Coca-Cola extends its environmental stewardship; Trucking industry responds to Hours-of-Service legislation
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
With companies intent on optimizing the supply chain, purchasing managers have emerged as key players in the business plan. To be successful, they need to communicate, collaborate, and venture into new territory.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
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
Shippers can protect their supply chains against rising fuel costs by optimizing distribution networks, creating a flexible infrastructure, and managing shipping practices.
Health Care Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Organizations all along the healthcare supply chain are taking a dose of smarter procurement and logistics practices to cure high costs and treat ailments in other areas of the business.
The variety of cargoes that fly in and out of Alaska—ranging from time-sensitive medical supplies and oil field equipment to perishable seafood—means companies must identify specific shipment needs and align them with asset and service requirements.
Unpredictable consumer habits, the economic downturn, and limited ocean carrier capacity have transformed the traditional peak shipping season. Now shippers are preparing for a new reality: peak season variability.
Ellen Fontaine, VASCOR Ltd, offers advice for boosting supply chain efficiency.
There is more to India’s supply chain scene than its shortcomings. APL Logistics’ David Frentzel shares insights from a recent tour of his company’s Indian facilities and meetings with shippers.
Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
A new inbound/outbound logistics operations solution helps pizza chain Papa John's handle rapid expansion.
A combination of factors such as increased competition and global security threats have increased the pressure on companies to improve logistics efficiencies. Page Siplon, executive director, Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics, addresses these factors and offers strategies for handling them.
Viewing order management as an opportunity to add value ensures that 3PLs act as a partner that adds real revenue-side value, and not just another vendor, writes Clyde Mount, 3PL Worldwide.
Shippers that use only the transactional solutions offered by their 3PL partners are missing the opportunity to benefit from advanced logistics solutions and expertise they helped pay to initiate, implement, and build-out, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Editor Felecia Stratton describes the highlights of the July 2011 issue, which documents the many ways 3PLs of all shapes and sizes are moving the outsourcing needle in different directions.
Cross-border Trade, Security, Supply Chain Management
If your business plans include shipping to areas where civil unrest or natural disasters have occurred, be flexible and make strong connections, advises Larry Wenrich, Pilot Freight Services.
Capable third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help you manage rising logistics costs because they have highly developed processes and critical infrastructures in place, writes Brad Constantini, Comprehensive Logistics.
Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Vehicle glass manufacturer Safelite increased distribution efficiency, enhanced customer service, and lowered costs by transforming its supply chain.
Just when a shipper needs help most, in steps a partner with super powers. These three case studies show how third-party logistics providers can swoop in to solve problems for shippers.
Inbound Logistics' annual 3PL market research report reveals how the dynamic duo of shippers and 3PLs are responding to changing forces in the outsourcing industry.
Responding to our annual Readers' Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence survey, Inbound Logistics readers voted on the best third-party logistics providers and related the ways in which they count on their 3PLs.
3PLs, like shippers, come in many shapes and sizes. The "not-too-big and not-too-small" size of Tier II 3PLs makes them just right for many shippers.
John Rodeheffer of Zipline Logistics outlines how to find a 3PL that delivers "Golden Rule" customer service: who treat others as they want to be treated, with honest and transparent communication.
Steve Ford, CFO of TradeCard, outlines strategies for enlisting your chief financial officer’s support for supply chain initiatives.
Restaurant chains squeeze costs out of the supply chain; TMW Systems acquires Appian Logistics; CPG companies pushed to adopt extended producer responsibility programs
These elements of good supply chain management must come together to achieve exceptional execution, according to John Williford of Ryder Global Supply Chain Solutions.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are bringing transportation management systems (TMS) to market.
Finance, Supply Chain Management
Innovative supply chain management delivers financial benefits to your bottom line.
Global Economy, Supply Chain Management
Man-made disruptions and natural disasters have a radiating effect on global supply chains. Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses ways of coping.
Cross-Docking, Supply Chain Management
Companies can benchmark their way to crossdocking success by following these five steps recommended by Andre Thornton, President and CEO, ASW Global LLC.
Jerry Levy of Specialized Transportation Inc. explains how to get the best service from white-glove logistics providers.
Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo cites real-world cases of supply chain gains, including Del Monte Foods, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and National Starch.
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton reflects on the magazine's January 2011 coverage of supply chain gains.
Third-party logistics provider mergers can disrupt shippers' supply chain performance. Brad Constantini of Comprehensive Logistics Inc. suggests strategies for preventing these problems.
4PLs guide transportation operations, manage product flow, and sometimes help avert disaster.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
New technology solutions help improve inventory visibility, increase routing agility, manage labor more effectively, and capture valuable information from the field.
Green Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Sustainability efforts can help companies grow more efficient supply chains.
Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Strategic transportation management puts shippers on the road to increased fuel economy and improved asset utilization.
Freight Forwarders, Partnership
Effectively managing your freight forwarders helps improve supply chain compliance.
Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain Management
To roll out a supply chain overhaul, truck and engine manufacturer Navistar chose third-party logistics provider Menlo as its strategic partner. Ed Melching, director, Global Logistics, describes the project.
Logistics service providers are eligible for a range of certifications, such as C-TPAT, SmartWay, FAST, and IATA. But what they must do to qualify, and why should these certifications matter to shippers?
Ford revamped its service parts network, processes, and technologies to boost efficiency and set the stage for global service parts logistics management.
A look at supply chain stimuli that have left their mark on logistics over the past decade; cautious pessimism pervades NITL Conference; companies improve supply chain operations, signaling economic optimism among manufacturers; longtime cotton merchandiser Dunavant switches focus to providing logistics services; Ernst & Young reports growing demand for supplier sustainability efforts; Automotive Industry Action Group issues new communication guidelines to help ocean shippers prevent waste and errors
Inventory Management, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Natural pet food manufacturer WellPet partnered with Aspen Logistics and Kane is Able to improve its supply chain and warehousing operations.
Handling oversized cargo requires a special touch. Here's how to find a project logistics provider with the know-how to get the job done right.
Air Cargo, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management
U.S. Department of Transportation pursues ban on cell phone use while driving; Proposed air cargo screening legislation enhances security measures; U.S. retailers place increased emphasis on supply chain management
Nathan Pieri of Management Dynamics provides tips for reducing logistics costs through improved supply chain management.
Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
Transaction and shipment exceptions are common, so businesses must be able to account for these variables by enabling a proactive supply chain.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Distribution
The key to successful shipping in Alaska is to partner with a transportation provider that knows how to manage Alaska’s many obstacles.
3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Temperature Controlled, Warehousing
Dannon's network design provides flexibility and speed to serve customers quickly, reduces transport time and costs, and delivers on the company's sustainability initiatives, while ensuring product freshness.
Ocean, Logistics I.T., Ports, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
David Bennett of Schneider Logistics addresses how shippers, ocean carriers, and trucking companies are struggling with responsibility for providing chassis for cargo container units at ports; Boeing appoints new VP to handle 787 Dreamliner delays; companies restructure outsourced technology contracts.
Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
Leo Espinoza of Korn/Ferry International discusses qualities companies look for in supply chain executives.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Andrea Robinson of CargoWise provides tips on handling global supply chain management challenges.
Air Cargo, Ocean, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
U.S. transportation spending lags, according to Transportation Performance Indexes; International air cargo traffic increases; Ocean volumes rise; Large corporations band together to help smaller suppliers sell goods and services to global companies.
3PL, Global Economy, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Latin America
Jose Fernando Nava, president, DHL Supply Chain, Latin America shows shippers how to capitalize on Mexico's attraction as a growing consumer market.
3PL, Global Economy, Import, Export, Global Logistics
10 tips for what companies should consider when locating and choosing a global distribution hub.
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.
Distribution, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.
Education & Careers, Forklifts, Ocean, Materials Handling, Ports, Supply Chain Management
Gulf ports maintain container volumes despite Deepwater Horizon oil spill; Supply chain leaders climb the corporate ladder; Toyota Material Handling engineers work with MIT scientists and the U.S. Army to develop a remote-operated fork lift
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing
Here's the story of one consumer product, starting with its origin as a variety of inbound ingredients and following its progress from plant to warehouse to retail store.
Ike Ortiz-Luis of DGX-Dependable Global Express explains how to navigate oversized cargo's specialized needs, from transportation requirements to project financing.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
ProFlowers' time- and temperature-sensitive shipments create plenty of challenges for John Kuehn, senior vice president of supply chain operations. Here's how he nips problems in the bud.
A new wave of demand for value-added services requires more capabilities of retail vendors and their logistics providers.
Inbound Logistics readers select the top third-party logistics (3PL) providers.
Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics, Distribution, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.
Recent books shed light on various aspects of supply chain, logistics, and transportation management.
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Labor management tools can help you determine if your workforce is performing at the level necessary to deliver cost-effective service to customers.
Global Economy, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics I.T., Security, Supply Chain Management
Global supply chain visibility and detail can only be achieved by modern electronic data transmissions that are already available and can reduce the costs of international cargo movement.
To move your business along the road to supply chain improvement, take a journey down these 10 paths to innovation.
China, Supply Chain Management
Learn five strategies for keeping your Far East concerns running smoothly.
3PL, Forklifts, Safety, Warehousing
Warehousing risks can spring out at any moment. Some are meant to be shared, others avoided. Successful warehousing operations strike a balance.
A lean manufacturing value chain sometimes carries the risk of falling behind demand, as John Deere discovered, but the alternative can be worse, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
A combined truck-and-rail transport approach cuts costs and offers environmental benefits, writes John Patton of Trinity Transport Inc.
LeanLogistics' Chris Timmer explains how collaborating with trading partners, aided by an on-demand transportation management system, helps increase supply chain efficiencies.
Sharing key information with all parties can lead to decreased waste, increased orders, and new business, writes J. Kenneth Hazen, CTSI-Global.
Shared space environments, secondary packaging services, and reimagined cross-docking functions are helping manufacturers get more value from warehousing providers. Cliff Otto, president of Saddle Creek, outlines the benefits.
Tim Richards of States Logistics Services offers advice on using Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social networking sites to enhance your supply chain.
A logistician's resilience is valuable when opportunities are ripe, but it's invaluable when problems persist, writes Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton.
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly's supply chain travelogue details a year spent visiting logistics and transportation sites and businesses around the country.
Green Logistics, 3PL, Reverse Logistics
Companies that combine the reduce, reuse, recycle mantra with the supply chain wisdom of managing costs and stamping out inefficiencies are developing reverse supply chains that help the Earth, the customer, and the bottom line.
Industry experts explain the source of some common misperceptions regarding supply chain and logistics lexicon.
As truckload prices starting to rise, more shippers are choosing stability over short-term cost advantages, writes Jerry DeMeuse of Schneider Logistics.
Smart companies are using the recession to address supply chain inefficiencies so they will be ready for the economic rebound, writes Kurt Cavano of TradeCard.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Profile of Megan Davidson, chief people officer, Crowley
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
This past year presented extreme challenges for the supply chain. By providing the industry's leading supply chain solutions for more than 50 years, Hub Group supported its customers by leveraging experience in strategic planning across the supply chain, tailored solutions, dependable capacity, and advanced visibility.
3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Connections 2022 is your expert resource for networking, gathering insights and helping your business be more successful. This industry-leading, supply chain-focused event will help you take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2022.
Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management
Readers offer insight on the difference between supply chain traceability and transparency. Guess which one you can have without the other?
Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Experts provide advice on changes companies can make to reboot their supply chains for the COVID era.
Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Daniel Politowicz, logistics and transportation manager with Tubelite Inc
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain disruptions increased 88% year over year in 2021, says data released by risk management platform Resilinc, with disruptions related to supply shortages increasing 452%, the largest increase across all event types.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
During a period of rapid growth, online grill retailer BBQGrills.com reduced damaged freight claims by more than 75% and lowered shipping costs by working with a logistics services provider for country-wide less-than-truckload services.
Finance, Supply Chain Management
Using supply chain finance to successfully manage cash flows enables companies to cut debt and boost profitability.
As the pandemic continues to impact supply chains, retailers go shopping for third-party logistics providers to gain end-to-end control.
Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Partnership
While expedited shipping options are typically more expensive than standard freight services, they offer numerous benefits to organizations when sending and picking up cargo. Here are some of the major advantages.
3PL, Inventory Management, Technology
New forecasting tools, added 3PL services, and increased collaboration are among the strategies companies rely on to inform inventory management.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
RedStone understands that cost savings are just a part of each client relationship; a 3PL must provide more if the relationship is to withstand the demands of an ever-changing supply chain.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Holman Logistics provided its client with Extraordinary Service resulting in seamless execution for a warehouse move done in record time.
Food Logistics, Retail, Partnership
16 sound procurement lessons you can tune into moving forward.
Distribution, Partnership, Warehousing
Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS), a leading provider of water management solutions products, needed to expand its distribution footprint to meet demand. Here’s how DHL Supply Chain helped ADS amid a building boom.
Big Data, Partnership, Transportation
Analytics from DAT iQ take the uncertainty out of every step of the RFP process.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
By taking the right steps, you can position your company for success despite the many challenges. Watch these four trends in 2022, each of which offers opportunities for greater productivity and efficiency.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
With the pandemic still taking hold, it’s more important than ever that businesses maintain a consistent flow of goods. To ensure supply chain agility and avoid further disruption, many companies are adopting processes to help manage new labeling and supply chain complexities.
Supply chain leaders share their insight on the secret to a successful shipper/3PL partnership.
Labor Management, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
A supply chain resilience stress test is a key first step in assessing risk. A comprehensive stress test assesses resilience across these five factors.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Site Selection, Partnership
Tax, energy, and land incentives can turn a good location into a great one. Here's what companies and the logistics providers who serve them need to consider as they explore locating, relocating, or expanding their businesses.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Whether you're pushed over the edge by the pandemic, labor shortages, supply scarcity, or the surprise consumption explosion, the question is the same: Who has your back?
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Shippers trust their third-party logistics partners to be there through thick and thin.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
These third-party logistics providers have your back, earning shippers’ votes with their consistency and customer service.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Our 16th annual 3PL market research report reveals the current state of the union between shippers and their logistics service partners.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
When your enterprise faces supply chain and logistics challenges, these partners won't let you fall. In alphabetical order, here are the 100 third-party logistics providers deemed best of the best by Inbound Logistics editors.
Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Taylored Services' unique approach allows the company to develop independent processes designed to drive the success of customers through increased operational transparency and strategy.
3PL, Agriculture Logistics, Partnership
From LTL and dedicated route service to seasonal and year-round storage, 3PLs need to be well-versed in the space to meet the specialized needs of agricultural companies.
3PL, Partnership, Risk Management
Ruan’s approach to effective continuous improvement (CI) is centered around creating value within its partners’ businesses. CI begins with a clear understanding of each unique supply chain and baseline performance measures.
Big Data, Finance, Partnership
Pre-rating inbound shipments based upon purchase order information leads to too many required corrections and an improper month-end accrual. Here's how you can lower your inbound freight costs and improve your accounting.
A look at the latest supply chain technologies, products, services, and transportation solutions.
Partnership, Trucking, Technology
Yard management systems (YMS) streamline operations by managing shipments from the yard gate to the dock. Find out how to transform your yard into a source of efficiency and use this short list of leading providers to start your search for the right solution.
From providing seamless technology integrations to tailoring transportation networks, 3PLs reinforce supply chains of all shapes and sizes.
Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
As many companies close their doors and others struggle to stay afloat, process improvement has become more important than ever to save money and attain greater efficiency.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain leaders discuss whether they expect a resurgence in reshoring to the United States.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Technology
To move goods to customers’ doorsteps efficiently, safely, and quickly, many companies need to overcome strained distribution networks, time-consuming manual processes, driver shortages, and urban congestion. Here are the latest last-mile innovations.
By working as partners, third-party logistics providers and shippers take on today's warehousing challenges.
Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management
"Inbound logistics" doesn't sound odd now. But in 1980, it was counterculture. Today, many call this approach supply chain management or the demand-driven enterprise. No matter what you call it, the benefits and value are clear.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
The effectiveness of a transition, from switching 3PLs to moving facilities, depends on how well the change is managed. It is essential to have a documented project plan and a dedicated project manager with experience across multiple disciplines.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
The ultimate list of tips for charging up your supply chain to full power in 2021 and beyond.
By leveraging DDC FPO's expansive range of programming languages and skill levels, carriers can offer a consistent experience regardless of each shipper’s individual IT investment.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
Modernizing the ecosystems while keeping up the ongoing business operations is the reality of every business. The current ecosystem, future solution expectations, and resource models are the drivers that determine the program's pace.
Technology , Supply Chain Management, Visibility
From manual processes that eat up capital and waste time to a general lack of collaboration between suppliers and retailers, blind spots persist in today's supply chains. All of these issues need to be addressed to make supply chains as resilient and financially sustainable as possible.
Food Logistics, Partnership, Technology
Buddha Brands partners with TrueCommerce to achieve full integration between its EDI and ERP solutions.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
Blockchain delivers the visibility, provenance, and data accuracy to allow for contractual flexibility and facilitate frictionless transactions, which are key as global logistics goes touchless.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
With the pandemic forcing companies to embrace a new normal, many are reimagining their supply chains and turning to third-party logistics (3PL) providers for guidance. Here’s how to get the most out of your 3PL relationship.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
The acquisition triples Taylored’s footprint in key areas, totaling more than 4.1 million square feet of distribution space.
Customer Service, Partnership, Technology
C3 Solutions prepared to shift all users from their Adobe Flash product version to a brand new HTML5 platform, a comprehensive project with a firm and non-negotiable deadline
Customer Service, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Ruan believes in developing strong partnerships by understanding our customers’ stories and continuing to improve our service as their needs evolve. And the best way to know if we are achieving that goal is to ask them.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
After COVID-19 disrupted Chinese-made supplies of personal protective equipment, reliance on Chinese suppliers was portrayed as a weakness. It's time for companies with suppliers in China to evaluate whether to reshore or nearshore parts of their supply chains. Here are four key points to consider.
3PL, Food Logistics, Partnership
West Pak Avocado distributes avocados to hundreds of customers around the globe. To maintain efficient transportation through seasonal peaks, West Pak partnered with a third-party logistics provider to move produce as quickly as possible.
3PL, Customer Service, Partnership
Thomas Griffin, president at DLS Worldwide, discusses how partnering with a large, experienced logistics company can offer technology, agility, and customer service benefits.
In a post-COVID supply environment, now is the time to revolutionize by taking the best of both worlds and consolidating them into a new approach moving forward: partner-centric procurement.
Technology , Supply Chain Management
Global disruption has failed to halt shippers' digitization: 52% of companies say they will increase their spending on digital transformation, and those concerned with economic disruption are 20% more likely to invest. However, these numbers aren't consistent across all industry verticals.
Global Economy, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
Before COVID-19 struck, supply chains were praised for their just-in-time capabilities. Now entirely new levels of supply chain resilience are needed, according to the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals' 2020 report.
Risk Management, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chain disruptions may be a reality the world will continue to contend with. How can shippers weather the COVID-19 storm and maintain a semblance of business continuity during periods of such uncertainty? While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, shipping organizations must take more control of their own destinies. These key business strategies will help shippers secure their supply chain resiliency well into the future.
Project Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The professionals behind special logistics projects need to attend to details, focus on the big picture and always prepare for problems.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Visibility
Shippers can track inbound shipments until delivered and know if they may be delayed or delivered with damages or shortages by enlisting the assistance of a 3PL.
Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Profile of Mark Wiese, who works at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida as manager of the deep space logistics of the Gateway program.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Can third-party logistics (3PL) providers bring chaos to order? Or order to chaos? For starters, they can help you wrangle and bring some order to the current COVID-caused confusion in your logistics process.
When supply chain and logistics trouble brews, shippers summon third-party logistics (3PL) providers for their expertise, technology, and dedication to customer service.
Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Matt Tiedens, director of logistics solutions with Ruan Transportation Management Systems, discusses how to manage the RFP process and attract the best results.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation
Thomas Griffin, president with DLS Worldwide, discusses how finding the right 3PL partner is more important than ever in the transportation sector as companies recover from COVID-19.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
When shippers send out distress signals, 3PLs answer the call. The providers that earned a 2020 Readers' Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence Award are among the most responsive and respected in the industry.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
Inbound Logistics' newest exclusive 3PL market research provides a snapshot of how the world appears to shippers and their logistics service providers.
3PL, Freight Forwarders, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Learn how 3PL Central's warehouse management solutions helped Woodland Group become an "invisible" partner for its customers while growing their businesses.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
TA Services' transportation management solutions helped MRC Global, a distributor of pipe, infrastructure products, and valves and fittings, improve visibility and enhance service levels.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
As the coronavirus continues to disrupt global supply chains, Gartner developed three scenarios to help chief supply chain officers (CSCOs) prepare for recovery and make preemptive decisions to set up their organizations for success.
While the human and financial tolls wrought by COVID-19 are horrific, the pandemic has also brought out the best in many people and the logistics and supply chain organizations with which they work.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
You've failed at logistics. So says David Segal in his recent article entitled "What Happened to the Great American Logistics Machine?" in The New York Times. So what happened to the Great American Logistics Machine?
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Good Question: We asked and you answered—this is the most unexpected supply chain advice our readers have ever received.
Risk Management, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chain leaders share the latest innovations, solutions, e-commerce strategies, and IT operations
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
While the speed with which the supply chain was disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic put supply chain weaknesses on display, it has also shined a light on where we need to strengthen our capabilities to mitigate future disruptions. Here are some areas the supply chain must address moving forward:
Labor Management, Supply Chain Management
These 10 tips for clear and effective supply chain leadership can help set your company's culture and motivate employees to work together toward a common goal.
Global Trade Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Looking at what you could have done differently to be better prepared for the supply chain disruption caused by COVID-19? Companies that have fared the best to date did the following 6 things well in advance of the pandemic.
Risk Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
It's more important than ever for transportation and logistics companies to have an effective mobility strategy in place. Shippers can adjust their existing protocols with COVID-19-related policies by implementing these technologies and practices.
Finance, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
As the supply chain faces factory closures and limited access to employees and logistics to move goods amid the COVID-19 outbreak, leaders can help ease disruption by focusing on their workforce, products, and costs, according to Gartner.
Demand Planning, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
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?
Finance, Supply Chain Management
Lean accounting coupled with a lean supply chain can ensure everyone is rowing in the same direction to reach the maximum, long-range goals and benefits of Lean thinking.
Global Economy, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
This is how manufacturers and retailers can map dependencies and minimize risk when facing supply chain disruptions like the new coronavirus pandemic.
3PL, Distribution, Supply Chain
We asked and you answered—these are the supply chain terms and phrases that you think people often confuse.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Building high-performing alliances between supply chain and commercial teams is a key driver to success.
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.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Amazon's launching of a full-service freight brokerage has a number of implications for supply chain professionals—some obvious and some not so clear.
Customer Service, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Here are the top three ways data analytics and AI can transform your supply chain.
Logistics Solutions Providers, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Inbound Logistics editor Felecia Stratton checks in with readers and reviews the practical information in the January 2020 issue that shippers can put to use right away.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Logistics leaders face pressure from their stakeholders to optimize logistics costs while maintaining service and performance levels. Gartner Inc. identifies the following five actions to help you optimize costs from within your organization.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
That's right, if you work in the supply chain management field, and have a decade or so until you retire, it's time to dust off your resume and consider other career paths. That's according to a Harvard Business Review article. Let's do an autopsy.
Food Logistics, Demand Planning, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers weigh in on the Popeyes chicken sandwich shortage: Was it a supply chain miss or a marketing ploy?
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.
Readers share what you should look for to find an optimal logistics partner.
3PL, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
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.
3PL, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Javelin Logistics removed their reliance on manual labor and now thrive in the e-commerce marketplace by partnering with 3PL Central.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Choosing the right third-party logistics provider (3PL) can make or break your goal of achieving supply chain excellence. Here’s how to select the right 3PL.
Economic Development, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
Providing innovative and reliable supply chain solutions, these third-party logistics providers drive home the goods. Presented in alphabetical order, these are the 100 3PLs Inbound Logistics editors selected as the best of the best.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Nexus is a third-party logistics provider offering customized warehousing solutions and multi-modal transportation services.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Regardless of the method a shipper or consignee chooses to take, consolidation is an easy way to get quick wins for your supply chain.
Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
In an effort to stay ahead of industry trends, Ocean Spray jumped at the chance to partner with Uber Freight for more efficient transportation.
3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
Harnessing Hub Group’s optimization and management expertise, a CPG company received a dynamic and responsive solution that ensured every PO met cost-effective precision service.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Why supply chain managers need to stop using the word backhaul and simply refer to them as loads.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers reveal the parts of the supply chain that should gain more notice.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
If a transportation route, supplier, customer, or other essential supply chain partner is located in an area at high risk for hurricanes, then your business could risk a major disruption.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Growth presents some new and sometimes unique challenges to overcome, regardless of your industry. Here’s how to optimize your supply chain during a growth period.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Today’s Tier 1 TMSs can help you get work done faster, cut the need for calls and emails, reduce the number of screens and clicks, and increase your profitability.
3PL executives charged with making their company’s operations more efficient and cost-effective to the associates on the floor who pick the orders, all are singing the praises of the ‘bot revolution.’
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Better manage your yard operations with this comprehensive guide. We showcase the providers and systems leading the market.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Today, many 3PLs provide the technology solutions and expertise shippers need to manage increasingly complicated customer relationships.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Successfully tapping into Alaska’s growth depends on the perseverance, innovation, efficiency, and resources of logistics providers whose experience has withstood the test of time and travel in this most extraordinary state.
Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The latest news and trends impacting the steel supply chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
This article profiles Bernice Cannon, supply chain manager with Nouryon Pulp and Performance Chemicals, LLC, a global leader in specialty chemicals and formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New and noteworthy in the supply chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
10 tips to help shippers become a “shipper of choice” in today’s logistics marketplace.
Supply Chain, Security, Supply Chain Management
One of the biggest issues that will quickly come to the forefront in 2019 is cybersecurity for the supply chain.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Readers weigh in on whether the USPS should go private.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Logistics and supply chain jobs, by the numbers.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
SMC³, the transportation industry’s leading authority for LTL data, technology and supply chain education, is developing the industry’s only LTL certification program.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
A profile of Jennifer Daniel, head of global logistics for Redbubble, an online marketplace that connects independent artists of graphic design, fine art, or photography with customers.
Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
Economic performance is the top-ranking corporate sustainability priority for the majority of organizations, reveals a global survey of supply chain decision makers. When directly asked whether profitability or sustainability is more important, however, 60 percent give equal priority to these objectives, with another 25 percent leaning towards sustainability.
Automotive Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
It is helpful to understand consumer behavior when crafting efficient supply chains. Ford's 7th annual Trends Report, which analyzes consumer behavior based on interviews with more than 13,000 people across 14 countries, provides some insight.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The current emphasis on supply chain performance is not going to go away once the back-and-forth sparring of tariffs and retributions have been resolved. Supply chain management will continue to play an important role in obtaining raw resources in a timely, efficient manner. A non-interrupted flow of materials is a necessity to meet customer expectations and remain competitive.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
When first engaging in a partnership, shippers and their logistics providers identify a desired outcome and work collaboratively to deliver on those promises. In order to achieve the desired ROI and deliver on the promises made during the sales process, both parties need daily activities to align with that objective.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A profile of Denise Kopko, vice president of operations—commercial, supply chain and logistics, with Veolia North America, an environmental services company focused on designing and providing water, waste and energy management solutions for commercial, municipal and industrial customers.
Labor Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Health Care Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Leadership profile of Chris Cassidy, president of global healthcare logistics strategy, UPS.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Supply Chain
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There’s a lot of interest in the industry right now regarding advanced technologies like blockchain and AI and the benefits they could bring to logistics operations – and with good reason. But, for all the promise these appear to hold, there are proven enhancement-focused tools already available – in particular, scorecards – that supply chain managers should take full advantage right now to ensure optimized performance across all supply chain functions.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
An M&A creates an opportunity to derive significant supply chain value. It requires logistics managers to establish partnerships and develop organizational processes that increase operational excellence. Here are 6 supply chain optimization strategies for success.
3PL, Customer Service, Fulfillment, Supply Chain
Is outsourcing your fulfillment the best option for your business? Here are 15 important questions to ask a potential partner.
Customer Service, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Here’s how to navigate disruptions in the supply chain and turn them into new opportunities.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
These can't-events dive into the latest innovations and top-of-mind challenges facing supply chain professionals. Come for the insightful perspectives and stay for the thought-provoking discussions.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The current U.S. administration is not averse to disruption, and risk professionals in the supply chain and logistics sector need to be prepared to manage political and regulatory unknowns. Here's how.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chain collaboration (SCC) is vital for companies to make critical decisions quickly and outpace the competition. But, are the key concepts of collaboration a current reality or a myth? This article breaks them down.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The inaugural 2018 CSCMP/Penske Young Professionals Survey sheds light on what young professionals are looking for in a career. Understanding their motivators is key to solving the supply chain talent gap.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Finance, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply chain managers face many types of risk on a daily basis—cargo theft, natural disasters, long lead times, and unpredictable demand. But none is currently at an inflection point quite like debt.
Logistics, Partnership, Pallets, Supply Chain
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.
Lean Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
It’s worthwhile to consider the push/pull boundaries already in place at your company and where they should be to best serve your customers–and shareholders–in the future.
Careers, Education, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
IL Editor Felecia Stratton was lucky to get an annual glimpse into the future of the logistics workforce—and can say with confidence that we’ll be just fine.
Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions
Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Yone Dewberry, chief supply chain officer, Land O’Lakes
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.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
An experienced and knowledgeable 3PL provider can help life sciences and pharmaceutical customers adopt VMI as a supply chain management practice.
Lean Logistics, Inventory Management, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
With a pull instead of a push replenishment strategy, golf ball maker Acushnet increased supply chain efficiency.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Most companies rely on static models of the supply chain and wait until a problem occurs. Try predictive planning instead, an AI-based approach designed to avoid surprises in delivery performance and last-minute orders.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Here’s a list of books that will help keep your logistics and supply chain skills sharp.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
What do supply chain professionals consider their top three priorities in 2017? According to a recent APQC survey, it’s a mix of the old and the new.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Pharmaceutical companies face many challenges. To operate more efficiently manufacturers are turning to labeling to provide an edge in the face of these challenges.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The cosmetics industry’s supply chain challenges include an above average number of SKUs, color changes linked to seasons and seasonal collections, products and ingredients requiring a temperature-controlled environment, multiple retail channels, and product trends influenced by celebrities and other taste-makers.
E-commerce, Logistics, Partnership, Packaging, Supply Chain
UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
This feature provides examines the supply chain challenges arising from some recent trends in the fashion industry, and looks at how brand owners and retailers are meeting those challenges.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
North America’s manufacturing sector is on an upward trajectory. However, a shortage of young talent, compounded by Baby Boomers’ negative perceptions about Millennials, could impact its continued expansion, according to ThomasNet’s latest Industry Market Barometer® (IMB) research.
Capable third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help you manage rising logistics costs because they have highly developed processes and critical infrastructures in place, writes Brad Constantini, Comprehensive Logistics.
Expedited Shipping, Humanitarian Logistics, Supply Chain Management
When bad things happen, the first people we think of as being essential are doctors...and nurses, firefighters, or other types of first responders. And yet, the list is not complete. Consider the capabilities and assets that logistics professionals bring to the table, especially during times like hurricane season.
Loading Dock, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
Hub Group’s customer-focused approach led by dedicated, problem-solving freight engineers provides exactly what shippers need when faced with even the most challenging conditions.
Global Economy, Global Trade Management, Ocean, Ports, Supply Chain Management
Global ports lost more than one-third of their expected capacity to ship containers in 2021, causing economic trouble for some smaller developing nations, among others, finds research commissioned by the Global Shippers Forum (GSF). The study, which was conducted by MDS Transmodal, identifies the extent of capacity restriction in 2021 that resulted from scheduled port calls being skipped by shipping lines.
Big Data, Demand Planning, Fulfillment, Logistics I.T., Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Investing time and money in making products available is more important today than ever before, thanks to the ripple effects of COVID-19. Capacity constraints and delivery agents have been upended, and product availability is at risk. Rising digital trends and changing consumer behavior and spending habits have also led to an urgency to respond to market conditions quickly.
Supply Chain, Trucking, Technology , Supply Chain Management
From its humble origins to its status today as the largest privately held LTL carrier in Canada, Polaris has embraced a customer-centric approach, working tirelessly to build loyalty and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Connections 2022 is your expert resource for networking, gathering insights and helping your business be more successful. This industry-leading, supply chain-focused event will help you take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2022.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Your 3PL should be a catalyst for producing unmatched retail logistics performance levels and total supply chain optimization. Here are 10 tips for choosing the right partner.
Global Trade Management, Partnership, Technology
From resource planning and transportation management to analytics, these top GTM companies can help take some of the stress out of managing your global supply chain.
Partnership, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation
OVOL USA’s needed a transportation management system (TMS) that would meet the unique needs of all the company’s divisions and was relatively straightforward to implement and use. By partnering with ShippersEdge, he found a system that met both goals.
Partnership, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Holman Logistics provided its client with Extraordinary Service resulting in seamless execution for a warehouse move done in record time.
Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Transportation
The expedited sector of the transportation realm brings value, capacity, service and yes, can reduce your transportation cost when used effectively.
3PL, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
A warehouse management system should be adaptable, fast, affordable, and scalable to offer a low entry point into the warehouse, while providing a platform that expands exponentially according to the client's requirements, Mantis recommends.
Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Sustainability
Companies that had robust sustainability programs in place before 2020 learned that supply chain resiliency was an inevitable side effect of those initiatives. Here’s how sustainability supports resiliency.
Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Companies can minimize disruption by implementing specific tools and best practices that will enable clearing logistical, transportation, and technological hurdles. Those include modernizing your business’ supply chain management processes—adopting artificial intelligence, for instance—enhancing visibility within the logistics network, applying analytics, and expanding your carrier networks.
Manufacturing Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management
Not only do advanced analytics reduce the supply of materials needed for a factory, but also help to find alternative vendors for materials that are in short supply. Here's how industry 4.0 technologies can ease the burden on the global supply chain.
Humanitarian Logistics, Partnership, Sustainability
The latest supply chain sustainability efforts, good works, mergers and acquisitions, new hires, and more.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Partnership
Partnering with Elenteny Imports enabled BREA Wine Co. to become “super-efficient” on the compliance side, accelerating distribution.
Partnership, Security, Technology
Proper logistics management can be one of the most critical aspects of a successful IT asset disposition (ITAD) program.
Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Strengthening and improving a transportation program helps companies proactively manage a large cost service center with a best-in-class strategy.
Humanitarian Logistics, Partnership, Sustainability
The latest supply chain sustainability efforts, good works, mergers and acquisitions, new hires, and more.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
Inbound Logistics' annual report on the state of the trucking market, based on surveys of motor carriers and shippers.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
Selected by Inbound Logistics’ editors, the 2021 Top 100 Truckers list honors reliable carriers that steer shippers in the right direction. The list serves as a comprehensive guide for shippers seeking reliable and cost-effective solutions.
Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Both physical and online retailers who maintain their own supply chain channels need to recognize their ability to control inventory levels by manipulating price.
Big Data, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Fundamentally, managing supply risk is all about having access to the right insights at the right time. These 7 questions can help you gain them.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Partnership
When yogurt maker Noosa needed to sleeve bottles of drinkable yogurt while maintaining their temperatures, Verst provided solutions to make sure processes went smoothly.
3PL, Agriculture Logistics, Partnership
From LTL and dedicated route service to seasonal and year-round storage, 3PLs need to be well-versed in the space to meet the specialized needs of agricultural companies.
Big Data, Partnership, Technology
Now’s the time to find ways to increase interoperability between business partners, control and make sense of your data, and uplevel traditional, manual processes for faster and more intentional outcomes.
Chemical Logistics, Partnership, Security
Add capacity constraints, severe weather, and cyberattacks into the already complex equation of moving chemicals. These logistics providers are combining expertise and dedication and coming up with the winning formula.
Security, Technology , Supply Chain Management
From smart devices that support supply chain visibility to bar seals that secure shipping containers, these products keep your cargo safe.
3PL, Technology , Transportation
Optimizing a transportation network equires an ideal combination of personnel, tools, and strategic alignment.
Risk Management, Technology , Supply Chain Management
As more companies involved in supply chain adopt technology out of necessity, it is hard to see them ever turning back. Technology continues to be viewed as beneficial, driving the industry to evolve and flourish.
Partnership, Sustainability, Warehousing
From switching to energy-efficient lighting to installing solar panels, here are some tips to help you build a greener warehouse.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Instead of relying on fine-tuning forecasting models, CPGs would be far better equipped to manage supply chain disruptions by embracing operational agility. Here's how.
Lean Logistics, Lean, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Automation and intelligence will be key tools in developing supply chain resilience. Companies can start by implementing these three key enablers.
As e-commerce continues to dominate the retail landscape, many logistics services providers are evolving their solutions to meet this new demand. One example is LEGACY Supply Chain, a third-party logistics provider focused on e-commerce fulfillment in the United States and Canada.
Customer Service, Partnership, Technology
Your customer experience represents the primary touchpoint between your revenue and customers, so the experience you offer can make all the difference between short-lived success and true market longevity.
Partnership, Security, Technology
Artificial intelligence spending shows no signs of slowing. Decision-makers should consider the following factors in their digitization strategy.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Technology
Inbound Logistics’ 2021 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers guide shines a light on the brightest and most innovative logistics technology providers.
Global Trade Management, Partnership, Technology
Global trade management solutions became even more important when supply chains were disrupted with the pandemic. By connecting sourcing and logistics, GTM systems help make global trade transparent, efficient, and cost-effective.
Green Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics, Partnership
Read the latest good works, sustainability efforts, mergers and acquisitions, new hires, and sealed deals happening in the supply chain.
3PL, Food Logistics, Technology
These agile small and mid-sized businesses have picked up the pace to vault over supply chain challenges, including the pandemic.
Understanding these seven key differences between shipping full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) allows shippers to achieve the best possible results and support planning.
Air Cargo, Careers, Supply Chain Management
Jessica Tyler learned in her early career as a teacher that the best way to help people reach their potential is to have a relationship with them, which shaped her open-book leadership style as president of cargo at American Airlines.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
The pandemic is testing shipper-carrier partnerships in new and different ways. Here’s what transportation partners are doing to reconnect and keep their relationships healthy for the long haul.
By working as partners, third-party logistics providers and shippers take on today's warehousing challenges.
E-commerce, 3PL, Food Logistics
A niche pet food company thrives during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to a long-standing partnership with its third-party logistics provider.
Demand Planning, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When we started Inbound Logistics in 1981, the latest technology was using fax machines to distribute routing guides to vendors. Forty years later, we've advanced to using technology in a pivotal year, empowering the demand-driven enterprise.
E-commerce, Retail, Partnership
Retailer Shein streamlined supply chain operations by leveraging a partnership with Air-City and SEKO, which enables shippers to move express e-commerce orders quickly across international borders..
Labor Management, Logistics I.T., Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply chains are undergoing unprecedented restructuring driven by competition, demand shifts, and trade wars—circumstances further accelerated by COVID-19. Here are five ways to support the digital transformation of logistics by connecting deskless workers:
Customer Service, Partnership, Technology
If you deliver poor customer service, you’ll lose business. But you can turn things around with a serious commitment to meaningful change and work across your entire enterprise.
Sustainability, Technology , Supply Chain Management
It's time to look beyond the usual IT enhancements and optimize the supply chain with smart energy management, which offers a triple threat: saving money, adding new revenue streams, and reducing impact on the environment.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Partnership
Gaining command over their inventory as well as every order, return, and exchange, bag maker Baboon to the Moon is over the moon about its logistics partner.
Big Data, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Control tower capabilities help companies make better supply chain decisions across all industries. Any business that experiences supply chain disruption and wants fast and accurate resolutions to benefit all parties stands to benefit, says Lori Harner of E2open.
Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Wallaroo Hat Company co-founder Stephanie Carter applies her entrepreneurial spirit to tackling outsourcing, tariffs, and pandemic challenges, and to pursuing new ventures, such as a nonprofit that assists women and girls in Cameroon.
Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Read the latest supply chain updates in technology, transportation, products, and services in October 2020.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
Shippers look for truckers and partners that can shift gears quickly and provide dependable performance. Here are the strategies the best trucking companies use to meet—and even exceed—shippers’ expectations.
Partnership, Supply Chain, Sustainability
Read the latest good works, sustainability efforts, mergers and acquisitions, new hires, and sealed deals happening in the supply chain.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
Selected by Inbound Logistics’ editors, the annual Top 100 Truckers directory is a comprehensive guide that matches you with carriers that will drive your company in the right direction.
E-commerce, Technology , Supply Chain Management
COVID-19 radically changed the workplace and how supply chains operate. Shippers that scale their technical infrastructure, put the customer first, and improve the remote working environment will thrive.
Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Read the latest supply chain updates in technology, transportation, products, and services in August 2020.
3PL, Finance, Supply Chain Management
The three M’s are key areas to explore and break down to realize the full potential of your company and help you to get the biggest, fastest savings in your supply chain, today.
The return-to-school shopping period is an important dress rehearsal for the upcoming peak season.
3PL, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
Although shippers should be prepared to see varying results compared to their original 2020 goals, a recovery in consumer demand is not too far away.
3PL, Risk Management, Security
Without proper identity access and management procedures for third-party users in place, entire supply chains are vulnerable to attacks.
Freight Forwarders, Partnership, Risk Management
Staying engaged with your customers, providing solutions to their new demands, and not losing sight of your business goals can help improve your business during uncertain times.
Cross-border Trade, Canada, Partnership
Bolstered by a new trade deal, the longstanding partnership between Canada and the United States thrives during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing ample opportunity for companies that offer cross-border solutions.
3PL, Partnership, Transportation
Thomas Griffin, president with DLS Worldwide, discusses how finding the right 3PL partner is more important than ever in the transportation sector as companies recover from COVID-19.
3PL, Customer Service, Demand Planning
Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.
3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership
The top 100 third-party logistics providers of 2020 as chosen by Inbound Logistics' editors.
Risk Management, Technology , Supply Chain Management
While there aren’t many quick fixes when it comes to mitigating global disruption, leaders can use solutions that directly address the biggest weaknesses in the supply chain that were highlighted as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak: demand, labor, and energy.
Big Data, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
An uptick of 24% more companies are asking their suppliers to report environmental data in 2020 through nonprofit CDP Global, with a 34% surge of growth in North America. Companies then use the data to inform procurement decisions and supplier engagement strategies.
Risk Management, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Organizations that have incorporated scenario planning into their process may be better prepared to cope with disruption and uncertainty. For those who have not advanced their planning capabilities, weathering the next disruption may not be as easy.
Health Care Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Shippers around the globe pivoted their business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic—these are the innovative pivots that impressed supply chain leaders the most.
Labor Management, Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Lyndsi Lee, vice president of supply chain with hardware and home improvement wholesaler True Value, who drives end-to-end supply chain optimization, develop integrated planning and logistics strategies, and build best-in-class sourcing programs.
Technology , Supply Chain Management, Visibility
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed holes in traditional linear methods of supply chain reporting, especially when shipments involve multi-tiered transportation models. To make real-time decisions, shippers need reliable, real-time intelligence, such as Mobile IoT.
Global Trade Management, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
With the daunting task of navigating the rapidly changing global trade landscape, where should shippers begin? Actionable global trade data is your lifeline for supply chain resilience. Global trade intelligence solutions can help businesses swiftly find alternative suppliers in a concise three-step process: Identify potential sources, analyze costs, and vet potential trading partners.
When shippers work with a 3PL that is consistently investing in technology and new distribution centers, they can increase service consistency and offer their customers unexpectedly fast fulfillment.
Careers, Labor Management, Partnership
Leadership profile of Juliann Larimer, CEO of Peak-Ryzex
3PL, Freight Forwarders, Technology
Inbound freight can be a challenge to analyze or control, but it significantly impacts operational and cost results. Traverse this ‘final frontier’ of supply chain management by collaborating on these strategies, across departments.
Technology , Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Don’t delay. Create an agile, real-time approach. Have an effective communication strategy, one that includes internal users, vendors, and carrier partners. This will have a critical impact on your success.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
Shippers can take these five operations-focused actions to build resilience and pave the way for success as they shift into the "operate" phase of the COVID-19 crisis—not only to efficiently operate in this new business environment, but also to prepare for the next phases of the crisis.
Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
FMCG retailers need to be aware of four key areas as they build their future omnichannel supply chains, finds RSR Research's Supply Chain Management 2018 report.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Supply Chain Management
Logistics leaders meet or exceed their end-to-end supply chain goals with the help of logistics outsourcing, such as third-party logistics providers.
Global Trade Management, Partnership, Supply Chain
Supply chain professionals working in small and mid-sized businesses often operate with little margin for error. Taking calculated, thoughtful risks can pay off.
Safety, Security, Supply Chain Management
Your company can be exposed to unpredictable theft at any time, which can negatively impact your revenues and your reputation. Here are some simple tips to help protect your shipments, customers, and industry stature.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
This story examines three big paradigm shifts that are likely to occur in supply chains in the coming years: technologies to promote greater transformation efficiency; supply chains optimized for sustainability; and the digitized supply chain.
Careers, Education & Careers, Supply Chain Management
Competition has never been tougher to obtain supply chain talent, forcing companies to rethink recruitment strategies. Here are some best practices for companies to integrate into supply chain talent recruitment.
Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, 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.
Careers, 3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain
Profile of Phil Yeager, president and COO, Hub Group
Big Data, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Many industries use supply chain analytics to drive insight, make better business decisions and verify or disprove existing models or theories.
Food Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Ashley Tyrner sources fresh organic and natural produce, forms partnerships with farmers, works with shipping companies, and designs produce boxes that customers receive.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Technology , Supply Chain Management
A quick rundown of notable events, from sealed deals to green initiatives, in the supply chain
The modern supply chain is complex, and in order for the world's leading companies to deliver their goods and services in an expedient, cost-conscious, and environmentally friendly fashion, they are increasingly turning to third-party logistics (3PL) companies to achieve these goals. These are among the themes of the 2020 Third-Party Logistics Study.
3PL, Logistics I.T., Technology
LANXESS, a global specialty chemicals supplier, selected Odyssey Logistics & Technology to track multiple assets for four business units that provide products across 33 countries.
Partnership, Trucking, Transportation
What do you do when trucking capacity shifts? Keep your spend in check and your partnerships tight.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As the supply chain exercises more influence over business outcomes, its managers are rising to top leadership positions. Supply chain pros with sights set on a corner office would do well to expand their skill sets and seek job experiences that prepare them for complexity.
Manufacturing, Partnership, Transportation Management
The world’s leading provider of receipt and innovative label solutions turned to GlobalTranz to create visibility, enhance communications, and fully merge acquired businesses.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics
Nature's Bakery turns to a third-party logistics provider, ITS Logistics, to launch a direct-to-consumer e-commerce channel for its snack bars.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Strategic technology trends have the potential to drive significant disruption and deliver significant opportunity. Enterprise architecture and technology innovation leaders must evaluate these trends to identify opportunities, counter threats, and create competitive advantage
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
From Point A to Point Z, the supply chain provides fertile ground for persistent myths. Whether they concern job qualifications or day-to-day business practices, they merit some serious scrutiny.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
For sellers looking for a new logistics provider, knowing what to look for in a 3PL or ISP — and what to avoid — is difficult, especially for businesses that are trying to make their way in the e-commerce economy.
Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Packaging is a significant element of the supply chain. Optimizing packaging strategy and processes can significantly impact your ability to maintain a smooth and efficient supply chain.
Pallets, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Regardless of the type of pallet—wood, plastic, composite, or metal—shippers are looking for some essential characteristics to move their goods safely and efficiently.
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Sectors such as food and beverage, industrial, and cold storage emphasize using data and metrics to improve efficiency, and loading dock control systems such as Serco Digital Master Control Panels can play a crucial role in that pursuit.
Logistics I.T., Partnership, Supply Chain Management
Kingston Technology’s HyperX division partnered with Logility to improve its supply chain visibility and demand, inventory and replenishment planning practices.
3PL, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Supply Chain Management
Today’s Tier 1 TMSs can help you get work done faster, cut the need for calls and emails, reduce the number of screens and clicks, and increase your profitability.
Manufacturing Logistics, Manufacturing, Partnership
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.
Retail Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The latest news and trends impacting the beauty products supply chain
3PL, Transportation Management, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
The variety of transportation management systems available can make it difficult for shippers to target the solution that is the best fit for their organization. Experts say companies should strive to identify the features that will support their unique operation rather than falling into the trap of chasing options that will not provide a useful impact. The process for selecting a TMS should be marked by disciplined decision-making and a focus on the business case.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Readers reveal the first action they would take to address the supply chain talent gap.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Four recent independent Artificial Intelligence (AI) advances indicate that self-aware supply chains, or what some are calling cognitive supply chains, may be closer than we think.
Careers, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
To address today’s logistics talent gap, we need to rethink how we rethink the pipeline for talent in our own companies.
Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Track & trace data allows for the shipping process to move smoothly and expectedly and provides opportunities for remedies when things don’t go smoothly.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The longer the trade tensions between the United States and other countries persist, the more the U.S. agricultural industry needs to rally around containerized soybean shipping to overseas markets.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
New supply chain services and solutions
Packaging, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Profile of Victor Finnegan, president and CEO, American Expediting
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Women in logistics need support from their companies to succeed in their careers.
Education, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
We asked faculty at four academic supply chain management programs to describe elements of a curriculum to prepare students for the supply chain challenges found in businesses today.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
DHL Express has launched DHL Medical Express Service (WMX) between Brazil and the United States for pharmaceutical and clinical research sector shippers.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Industry professionals share their best supply chain tips.
Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
The four trends that will have the greatest impact on operations in North America in the coming year, according to DHL Supply Chain.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
How the growing millennial market will transform the supply chain sector.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Companies have struggled for many years to manage the growing complexities of their supply chains and go-to-market packaging content. Labeling has become more complicated, and Artwork Management has been challenged to meet an increasing number of demands on a global basis.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Symphony RetailAI, and CPG manufacturers, announced the findings of a benchmark report. The fourth annual study, conducted by Retail Systems Research (RSR) and sponsored by Symphony RetailAI, shows enhanced efficiencies from previous years, but clear room for improvement in fulfillment strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory accuracy and visibility.
Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
A retailer or manufacturer who has a clear monitoring program in place will have peace of mind going through this holiday season. When everyone in the supply chain knows exactly what is going to happen if products are damaged, then the groups can work better together to ensure products arrive safely and consumers are happy.
3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Supply Chain
New and noteworthy in the supply chain.
3PL, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
With so much at stake this holiday shipping season, retailer suppliers and 3PL partners must have a plan to deal with the inevitable disasters and near disasters.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Home Depot will spend $1.2 billion to overhaul its supply chain to offer faster delivery for consumers and businesses. Walker Sands' 2018 Future of Retail report offers the home improvement retailer some advice:
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Logistics service providers reveal how they treat their customers like VIPs.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Retailers may face significant challenges when expanding further into the online/e-commerce business. Some challenges may involve supply chain management issues.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
It’s a boon year for third-party logistics providers offering innovative, flexible, and reliable solutions to meet shipper demands. Presented alphabetically, these are the 100 3PLs Inbound Logistics editors chose as the best of the best. Search the 3PL Decision Support Tool for an even deeper dive.
While technology is helpful in executing specific tasks, it cannot alone replace quality human interaction. Shippers should make sure their 3PL provider is working with them in an efficient, friendly, and attentive manner.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Consumer expectations are becoming increasingly demanding, and matching supply to demand is crucial for any successful supply chain.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Each year, the Inbound Logistics Readers’ Choice Top 10 3PL Excellence survey gives shippers the chance to give a shout-out to providers that have taken on so much of their load. Here are the best of the best.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Consolidating three independent operating companies into one at Smithfield Foods is triggering significant changes in the three organizations’ supply chains. Reducing complexity and improving visibility are not only making supply chain processes more efficient, they’re also saving money and helping the corporation achieve its sustainability goals.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
When an electronics store was faced with consistent freight forwarding damage claims they turned to Seko Logistics for a solution.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Transplace helped a frozen pizza business expand its transportation network to increase operational efficiency and maximize financial savings.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
When an industrial manufacturer needed to reduce supply chain costs they teamed up with Crane Worldwide Logistics for an innovative solution.
Global Logistics, Global Trade Management, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
The aftermath of the overhaul of U.S. customs admissibility program – Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) – has created a heavier administrative burden on importers, not a lighter one. Find out how it misses the mark in this key area.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
This second-annual report is designed to help warehouses increase both their market share and profitability by addressing the most dramatic change of all—The Rising Demand for a Superior Customer Experience.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
A 3PL's cold call leads to a cool technology solution that streamlines processes and minimizes service disruptions
3PL, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
As technology and innovation continue to enable new options, supply chains will be sure to keep pace and take us to new heights.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
Partnering with a 3PL could be the best solution to improved visibility and lower costs over the long haul.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Supply chain professionals need more accurate and effective cost information to help their decision-making.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouses who use this philosophy to create disciplined, rigorous strategies were able to achieve superior results.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A provider with these 10 qualities will put your logistics outsourcing on the path for success.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Shipper demands, customer expectations and 3PL capabilities increase, putting supply chain at the forefront.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) drive continuous improvement for the shippers they serve through innovative solutions, up-to-date technology, and sheer effort.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There is a great opportunity for growth in many business sectors, and the role of supply chain excellence is fundamentally important in that economic environment.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
For the supply chain and warehousing sector, the burgeoning millennial workforce means an increased need for providing more sophisticated and functional mobile solutions.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Use this advice to implement a leadership training program.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
Achieving end-to-end real-time visibility across the supply chain can’t be an aspirational goal any more, it’s becoming a requirement to stay competitive and deliver the level of service customers want today.
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Visibility
While the idea of tracking inventory in transit isn’t new, expanding cellular networks, improved battery technology, and advances in cloud computing are enabling low-cost, long-lasting, globally connected trackers that make real-time supply chain visibility possible. Peek into the future.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
Cloud Computing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Shippers share the most probing and effective questions to ask potential 3PL partners.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Year after year, the IL 3PL survey reveals the importance of great customer service to shippers.
Organizations have already begun to transition the delivery of supply chain and logistics services from an internal model to an external one, says a recent market study by KPMG and HfS Research. Here's how companies should leverage future trends revealed by the study to create intelligent supply chains.
Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
These key elements can significantly improve your foodservice supply chain, and ensure your brand is in the best position for success.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Technology , Supply Chain Management
Gelnius’ new technology platform has the ability to save money based on customers achieving reduced transportation cost and better management of administration overhead, as well as cost savings linked to visibility of all freight transactions on a single platform.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Slotting – determining the locations of your SKUs in your warehouse – used to be an easy concept. But in the new world of warehousing focusing exclusively to a large degree on e-commerce sales, this is no longer simple.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
When a paper-based order management system slowed a baseball bat manufacturer’s growth, the company digitized for out-of-the-park growth.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
This story looks at several ways in which companies are applying Internet of Things (IoT) technology to supply chain management.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Organizations are turning to third party logistics providers and enhanced transportation management technology to deliver the velocity, visibility, predictability, and control they need.
Lean Logistics, Demand Planning, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Back in 2014, I wrote a column extolling the benefits of a lean and agile supply chain, also known as a hybrid strategy. Depending on your product or service, your supply chain may tilt more one way or the other, or it might be segmented but still exhibit characteristics of both. For example, if you sell commodities, you would focus more on efficiency. If you were in fashion, you’d tend to be more responsive.
Demand Planning, Global Trade Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Investment in logistics technology—$26 billion in the past seven years—is white hot right now. Here’s a small sampling of the types of solutions that venture capitalists are financing.
Big Data, 3PL, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management
From establishing secondary suppliers to setting up alternative routes, here’s a look at how Plan B strategies can keep you up and running even during extreme weather events.
Education & Careers, Education, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
The optimal way to understand the intricacies of today's supply chain environment is to participate in an educationally focused transportation conference.
Big Data, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
The age of the digital supply chain is here. And yet, even with technology investments on the upswing, not every company is moving along the digital path at the same pace. Are you up to speed?
Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management, Transportation
New supply chain services and solutions
Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management
AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.
Education & Careers, Education, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There are a multitude of resources available to help even the busiest logistics professionals hone their skillsets.
Global Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
2018 has been marked by tariffs, trade deals, and technological advancements. Here are the highlights.
Education & Careers, Education, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
No matter how skilled or credentialed, today’s supply chain managers have a lot to learn–and a lot of ways to do so. With the marketplace growing more complex, continuing education professionals are introducing new programs and revising old standbys.
Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
The New NAFTA winners and losers; shippers need larger customs bonds; Panama Canal sets record annual cargo tonnage in fiscal year 2018; South Korea trade growth remains positive in Q4 2018; the EU countries importing the most coffee; Feelunique partners with SEKO Logistics for cross-border growth into China; first global network of ocean-bound plastics supply chains
Lean Logistics, Lean, Sourcing/Negotiations, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
This article defines strategic sourcing and how to implement it.
E-commerce, 3PL, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
There’s a lot of interest in the industry right now regarding advanced technologies like blockchain and AI and the benefits they could bring to logistics operations – and with good reason. But, for all the promise these appear to hold, there are proven enhancement-focused tools already available – in particular, scorecards – that supply chain managers should take full advantage right now to ensure optimized performance across all supply chain functions.
Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Workforce and career development are on the national radar and many companies are stepping up with financial, time and expertise commitments to accomplish the goals of developing the U.S. workforce for tomorrow.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Metrolina Greenhouses integrates ERP and customized, industry-specific tools to improve order, shipping and billing management.
Global Logistics, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Ritrama, an Italian multinational self-adhesive materials producer, chose Ferretto Group's technological solutions for its new automated warehouse located in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Clearly, increased trucking costs are the new normal. Also as clear is the other dynamic, which is emphasized a little less these days but all the more important to offset cost increases in other areas: Use your logistics partner strategically and offset rising transport costs.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Still struggling to get your logistics technology up to speed? You're not alone. See why companies are increasingly outsourcing IT to their third-party logistics providers.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Every two years, the Olympics bring together some of the best athletes in the world. But in between the games, supply chain professionals, logistics experts, and manufacturers work to bring the event itself together.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Providers that specialize and target a specific industry, geographical market, or will limit their service offering are referred to as niche 3PL’s. Here are some of the advantages to using a niche 3PL over a traditional provider.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
To ensure brands are managing the most efficient, optimized supply chain, they need to assess their supply chain partner’s commitment across the following key areas.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
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.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
Transplace established an LTL consolidation program to increase load capacity and reduce freight costs for a Canadian hardware wholesaler.
Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Maturing systems, implementation expertise, and newly enacted tax incentives bode well for significant leaps in supply chain efficiency. Here’s why 2018 will be the year for technology ROI.
Big Data, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Cloud technologies support innovative supply chain solutions that deliver the right goods to the right place at the right time—as quickly and cost effectively as possible. Here’s why supply chain managers should look to the cloud now.
Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
This case study tells how Weatherford Farms increased efficiency in its delivery network by switching from manual routing to an automated routing system.
3PL, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
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.
Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Readers share the logistics mementos and paraphernalia they would preserve in a time capsule for people to open in the year 2067.
3PL, Health Care Logistics, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
Now more than ever healthcare supply chains are key differentiators for best-in-class manufacturers.
3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Visibility is a key issue in the management of supply chains. Introducing transparency throughout all aspects of your business will bring about remarkable results. Here's how.
Military Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
As professional logisticians and supply chain managers, we are in a unique position to assist military service members transition into jobs in the supply chain sector. Here's why it's critical to help them and how to do it.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Lean, Supply Chain Management
Readers share how they keep their smaller retail businesses competitive against massive-commerce companies.
Humanitarian Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Sustainability, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management
From recent mergers and acquisitions to the largest heavy-duty electric truck deployment to date, here’s what’s new and notable in the supply chain.
Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Technology
Technology is the backbone of today's logistics systems, and shippers want to make the right choices for mission-critical systems.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Despite its criticality, most companies are very poor at supply chain planning. Here’s a recipe for dealing with complexity and deploying a set of world-class supply chain planning capabilities.
Big Data, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Cloud-based deployments can remove IT obstacles and accelerate the launch of supply chain initiatives. However, are the advantages of cloud deployments for supply chain solutions real and worthwhile?
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
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.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Whether online or in-store, customers expect an immediate and frictionless shopping experience, thanks to Amazon. To compete, you must level the playing field with experiences that keep customers coming back to your branded e-commerce site.
Big Data, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
New supply chain services and solutions
Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.
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