Related Articles
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Real Estate, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—October 2016
Rise of e-commerce changing logistics real estate landscape; Companies who don’t sell globally may be sacrificing profits; Many smaller fleets non-compliant with upcoming ELD mandate
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Balancing Inventory for a Better Customer Experience
With the growth of e-commerce, retailers have identified a potential opportunity to reduce working capital by thinning inventory at brick-and-mortar stores—opting instead to maintain major portions of inventory at distribution centers upstream.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Optimizing Inbound for Improved E-Commerce Fulfillment
A more comprehensive approach to supply chain management can help provide a great omni-channel experience that encourages customer loyalty and optimizes profitability.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
Girl Scout Cookie Sales Go Digital and Milk E-Commerce Innovation
The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) created and implemented a new way of taking and filling orders for its annual cookie drive. Here’s how it made sure cookie sales didn’t crumble.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Why Parcel Sorting Automation Can't Wait
As e-commerce continues to surge, the case for automation is now too compelling to ignore. One good way to start can be to automate parcel sorting at local and regional distribution centers.
E-commerce, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
CPG Market Demanding More Flexible Logistics Solutions
E-commerce and omni-channel retailing have a major impact on supply chain and logistics needs, and customers have to make sure their supply chain is equipped to offer maximum flexibility.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The Mechanics of 3PL Partnerships
Partnerships between four shippers and their 3PLs demonstrate logistics outsourcing strategies.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Site Selection, Warehousing
E-Commerce DC Site Selection: Connecting the Dots
E-commerce retailers choose specialized distribution centers near parcel carrier hubs and transportation infrastructure.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Packaging
Cosmetics Logistics: The Beauty of an Optimized Supply Chain
Cosmetics companies face challenges such as time- and temperature-sensitive shipments and retailer packaging requirements.
E-commerce, Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
DSW Tries On New SKUs and Stocks
Retailer DSW's new replenishment materials handling solution improves inventory control and reduces in-store markdowns.
E-commerce, 3PL, Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management
E-Fulfillment Strategies That Deliver the Goods
This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Enabling a Faster-to-Market Solution
Cath Kidston partnered with SEKO to expand the company’s inbound business from Asia to the UK and its distribution centers in Hong Kong and Shanghai supplying its international franchises.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
How 3PL Warehouses Can Capitalize on the Escalating Demands of Prospects and Customers
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Walmart’s ShippingPass Has Ended. What Retailers Should Do Next.
The e-commerce race is only heating up. Here's what small to mid-size retailers should do to stay in the game.
E-commerce, 3PL, Education, Retail, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation
Download the Inbound Logistics Planner App Today
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Omni-Channel Retail: Roadmap To Profit
Omni-channel retail supply chains are forging new paths to profitability. Here's what they look like.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Risk Management, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | What’s your supply chain resolution for 2017?
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Shaking Up the Brown Box: Big Winners in Supply Chain Evolution
Business to consumer demand is set to outpace supply in the marketplace. Those who can solve that problem will be the big winners in the next phase of supply chain management.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Solving the E-Commerce Puzzle
To overcome the challenges that e-commerce presents to the supply chain, shippers need to succeed at omni-channel fulfillment. From leveraging brick-and-mortar stores to deploying an order management system, here’s how they can compete in an e-commerce world.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Rethinking Reverse Logistics for Online Apparel Returns
As physical shopping bags are being replaced by virtual ones, it’s important for retailers to update their policies and logistics strategies to align with consumer behavior and expectations.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Tackling Retail Logistics: Build Your Team First
The flexible supply chain of the future is full of opportunities and challenges. With the right team and talent on your side, you’ll be well positioned for success. Here’s how to get the right people.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain
Getting Distribution Centers in Peak Season Shape
Distribution centers (DCs) play a key role in the overall success of each peak season, as supply chain professionals must meet the surge in consumer demand and fulfill orders efficiently. Here are 10 ways to help you identify and fill seasonal needs of distribution centers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics I.T.
How to Beat Amazon at the Retail and Supply Chain Game in 2017
With heavy competition from Amazon in both retail and supply chain logistics, retailers that don’t begin making changes and investments in omni-channel in 2017 will see serious repercussions by 2020. For starters, they must invest in distributed order management and enterprise wide inventory visibility.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing, Visibility
Getting the Goods on Logistics this Holiday Season
In time for the holiday season and other peak periods, retailers are stepping up their game in delivery, fulfillment, and warehousing technology to improve the effectiveness of existing resources.
E-commerce, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
How Supply Chain Strategies Impact
E-commerce Success
The emergence of e-commerce as part of a company’s omni-channel marketing program requires not only an agile, lean supply chain but also a strategy to get there.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Accurate Product Data Drives Supply Chain Systems
Supply chain applications stumble when the product data they’re using is inaccurate. Here's how to make sure data is consistent and comes from well-crafted and executed processes.
E-commerce, Bar-coding Systems, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Using Tunnel Scanning to Meet
E-commerce Challenges
Consolidation warehouses typically contend with labeling inconsistency in e-commerce orders. Here's how to boost read rates for packages and avoid manual handling.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Retail Logistics: When Fast Isn't Fast Enough
This story looks at some recent trends affecting retail supply chains, including demand for speed and flexibility, ongoing emphasis on omnichannel marketing, and globalization.
E-commerce, 3PL, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Become an Extension of Your Client’s Brand
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse Makeover: Blueprint For Change
The warehouse design of tomorrow is flexing to meet the physical needs of basic warehouse operators as well as more highly automated e-commerce fulfillment centers.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Analyzing Freight & Logistics Operations
Disruption is coming to the freight and logistics industry. By seeing and understanding the full spectrum of operations, transport-oriented firms can survive and succeed in a dramatically changed environment.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics I.T., Technology , Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Two Key Factors Drive WMS Adoption Today
The warehouse management system (WMS) has emerged as a valuable tool for tracking and streamlining tasks, the workforce, and material/equipment flows. Here are two factors driving its adoption today.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Risk Management
Accelerating Enterprise Logistics With Top-Tier Multi-Modal Solutions
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.
SWISH! Shippers Score with Small Box Deliveries
Companies are shipping ever-increasing volumes of small parcels as e-commerce grows. Read about the strategies that shippers and providers are using to offset the higher cost of small parcel delivery.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Naughty or Nice—Which Retailers and Delivery Services Will Make the Grade this Holiday Season?
The holiday season is well underway, increasing the pressure on companies to address transportation problems and change the outcome before they turn into costly errors.
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
RFID: More Than Just a Better Barcode
Radio Frequency Identification Technology has a multitude of benefits that can have a significant impact on reducing and eliminating waste in the extended supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Optimizing the Holiday Supply Chain With Reliable ETA
Timeliness is top of mind during the holiday season. Here's how analytics can help shippers meet delivery spikes and prepare their supply chains.
E-commerce, Asia, China, Global Logistics, Retail
How to Implement a Successful Retail Omni-Channel Logistics Operation in Asia Pacific
For any United States-based company interested in expanding its retail logistics operations outside of the country, Asia Pacific may be the most ideal location.
E-commerce, Export, Import, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
The Beauty of Global Logistics
EM Cosmetics brings its products to the global market through the use of international shipping and package consolidator MyUS.com.
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Technology
Trends—October 2015
Amazon’s Dash Replenishment Service gives industrial buyers a preview of how IoT may impact procurement; Private label sourcing faces new headwinds; Cloud Logistics debuts the latest twist in TMS deployments; CMA CGM launches first smart connected container ship; Automotive parts buyers are leveraging omni-channel options
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Reader Profile | Jeff Larson: A Gem of a Job
Jeff Larson, director of distribution engineering analysis at Tiffany & Co., works with the jewelry company’s international locations to help improve their operations.
E-commerce, China, Food Logistics, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Specialized Logistics, Transportation
Trends—September 2015
New York State minimum wage directive may be a tipping point for automation in the fast food industry; Organic food recalls are on the rise; Alix Partners reports that nearshoring trend continues to grow; Pro truck interests take weight restriction fight in new direction; 2015 holiday shoppers are looking for options; The cash handling supply chain is poised to move from manual processing to scanning technology, thanks to the new GS1 US Cash Visibility Discussion Group.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology , Warehousing
Just Another Brick in the Mall
E-commerce is leaving a trail of brick-and-mortar debris in its wake.
E-commerce, 3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Reverse Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Channeling the Brick and Click Dilemma
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, Distribution, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Retail Collaboration: It’s All in the Jeans
Work with a team of service providers to get a new retail distribution center up and running in only six months? We should all be so lucky.
What Customers Expect in the E-Commerce Age
Online shopping has vastly changed the competitive nature of the retail market.
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Manufacturing, Logistics, Retail, Transportation, Supply Chain Management
Trends—March 2015
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
How Omni-Channel Commerce Is Changing Traditional Supply Chains
Online and mobile commerce has shifted consumer behavior, as well as how products flow through the supply chain to the end user.
E-commerce, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Site Selection & E-Commerce: Tapping Regional Excellence
E-commerce excellence and proximity to large population areas are the new drivers behind site selection for fulfillment centers.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Searching For the New Perfect Order
Retailers need new technologies and capabilities to operate in a new omni-channel world.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Supply Chain Management
The Luxury of Logistics Excellence
To expand its footprint in the luxury accessories market, Royce Leather indulged in a solution that connects it to new customers and streamlines fulfillment. That’s how Royce rolls.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Service With A Demand-driven Smile
As e-commerce and ominchannel raise expectations, and consumers become more impatient, supply chain practitioners turn to technology to help them perform.
E-commerce, Air Cargo, Economic Development, Customer Service, Retail, Ocean, Ports, Logistics I.T., Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—October 2014
UPS makes major improvements to save Christmas; PANYNJ invests $5.5 billion to streamline port operations
E-commerce, Asia, China, Customer Service, Canada, Global Logistics, Retail, Partnership
Global Logistics—October 2014
Pilot program uses drones to deliver time-sensitive goods; Canadian government lines up two new bilateral trade agreements; Labor rights causing supply chain disruption; Using social media to understand carrier usage.
Customer Service, Distribution, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Supply Chain Management
From the Outside In: Supply Chain as Strategic Advantage
Executives at two leading companies weigh in on supply chain’s value to their organizations.
3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Retail, Ocean, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Star Search: Discovering the Best Site for Your Business
Determining the best location for a new or expanding business in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace is challenging. These locations offer a number of advantages when it comes to meeting today’s logistics and supply chain needs.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Automation That’s Worth the Weight
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.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
The New Retail: Three Legs to Stand On
Retail operations need support from e-commerce, IT, and logistics execution.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
New Retail Strategies: It’s a Store! It’s a Site! It’s a Warehouse!
Retailers are modifying their supply chain strategies in response to recent industry trends.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Diving Into Multi-Channel Fulfillment
Kaikini Bikini manages growth with integrated inventory control and shipping.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
3PL e-Volution Continues
Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay are expanding their offerings to provide their vendors with logistics support.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Education & Careers, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Bruce Kulp Scores Big
When it comes to keeping up with demand, Game Stop's Bruce Kulp doesn’t play around.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Rolling Back the Walmart Way
Kevin X. Jones, vice president of inbound transportation at Walmart, focuses on building transportation synergies.
Distribution, Retail, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Forecasting the Unexpected: Home Improvement Retailers and Emergency Response
When a natural disaster hits, consumers rely on home improvement stores for the products they need to repair or rebuild.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Optimizing the Fashion Supply Chain
Fashion businesses must react instantly to fashion shifts and focus on getting goods to consumers quickly.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Setting the E-Commerce Gold Standard
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Minimizing the Financial Impact of Peak Season Returns
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
E-commerce, Customer Service, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Customer Service: Delivering the Royal Treatment
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Visions of Customer Service
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail, Supply Chain Management
8 Ways to Strengthen Online Retailer Supply Chains
Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.
Trends—April 2013
E-commerce presents retailers with challenges and opportunities; Food regulation top of mind for 3PLs and shippers; Daktronics’ lean machine keeps production at home; Nike partners with Bluesign Technologies to facilitate sustainable sourcing program among supply chain partners.
E-commerce, Distribution, Site Selection
e-Commerce: Finding the Sweet Spot
Online retailers seeking new sites for DCs and warehouses need the transportation infrastructure to support a constant, rapid-fire flow of shipments – plus a capable workforce, affordable utilities, and business incentives to help them get the most from their investment.
Distribution, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Inventory Replenishment: A Push in the Right Direction
Close-out retailer Tuesday Morning implemented Interlink’s WHSe-LINK warehouse management system to receive, store, and allocate its daily inbound shipments of unique SKUs.
Retailers Rebalance Time vs. Cost?
Velocity is more important than price for some consumers, perhaps giving some retailers another component to consider as they compete, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
Holiday Stocking: Preparing for the Seasonal Retail Rush
Strong forecasting, careful vendor management, solid partnerships with carriers and optimized use of labor and equipment all help retailers manage the year-end holiday rush.
E-commerce, 3PL, Inventory Management, Retail
You Are Everywhere: Mapping the New Retail Supply Chain
Multi-channel apparel retailers such as Nordstrom use strategic inventory management, order fulfillment, transportation management, and reverse logistics to meet customer demand.
Dealing With Daily-Deal Sites
New e-commerce sites like Groupon and LivingSocial can bring huge sales volume in a very short period of time by reaching a targeted audience with appealing offers. Tod Yazdi of TAGGlogistics explains how shippers can work with fulfillment partners to make the most of this new opportunity.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Warehousing
Superstar Service: Supply Chain Strategies Win Satisfied Customers
Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.
Trends—March 2011
Amazon closes Texas distribution facility over sales tax dispute; Robert Guenther of United Fresh Produce Association comments on FDA Food Safety Modernization Act; U.S. General Services Administration rolls out green guidelines for government suppliers; Crossdocking use is on the rise
Distribution, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
How to Drive Collaborative Distribution
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Retail
How to Develop a Direct-to-Store Delivery Model
A Direct-to-Store Delivery (DSD) delivery model helps consumer goods manufacturers gain speed and increase inventory turns.
3PL, Distribution, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Integrate Contract Packaging Into Distribution Operations to Cut Costs by 30%
By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.
Distribution, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Inbound 3.0 at Walmart
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Flower Power: John Kuehn
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.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
White Glove Services: When It's Time to Call In a Specialist
Julie Colona, Director, Forwarding Solutions and NVOCC at UniGroup, discusses why shippers might need a special commodities carrier, what to look for in a carrier, and how the business is evolving.
Food Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail
Americans Take the Bait
As recreational fishing casts a wider net, equipment makers reel in new approaches to tackle supply chain challenges.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
How can brick-and-mortar retail make a comeback?
Supply chain leaders answer this month's Good Question, discussing whether brick-and-mortar retail can make a comeback.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Supply Chain Predictions for 2021
The continued proliferation of third-party fulfillment options means Amazon and its shipping partners—FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL, and regional couriers—will have a hard time keeping up with the volume. Will the trend continue? Here are some predictions for 2021.
E-commerce, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure
Creating a Business-Friendly Environment
Here are four ways to create a logistics-friendly business climate that is a win-win for municipalities and developers alike.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
It's Time for All Retailers to Go Hybrid
An emerging hybrid model of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail brings together the best of both worlds, while automation and software remove challenges and empower this otherwise complex fulfillment model.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Handle with White Gloves
As consumers become increasingly comfortable buying over-sized goods online, manufacturers and retailers partner with white-glove, last-mile delivery services to make in-home set-up and assembly a first-class experience.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Fresh Strategies for Rebuilding Retail
As e-commerce demand builds, online-only and omnichannel retailers alike lay the foundation for new partnerships and processes to keep pace, brick by brick.
Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
3 Ways Dynamic Pricing Helps Retailers
Both physical and online retailers who maintain their own supply chain channels need to recognize their ability to control inventory levels by manipulating price.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
How to Import Duty-Free with Section 321
Navigating global logistics and setting up successful sales channels are huge problems for e-commerce retailers. Leveraging Section 321 can be a great way to reduce tax liability and help improve margins and customer satisfaction.
Retail, Technology , Warehousing
Light Through the Cloud
When lifestyle brand Regina Andrew outgrew its ERP and CRM system five years ago, it turned to Oracle NetSuite for solutions. The decision helped the company weather the pandemic with aplomb.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
Streamlining Retail Logistics
What companies need to do to streamline logistics operations and implement best practices so they will have the right inventory at the right location.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
E-Commerce Innovation: Leaders of the Pack
E-commerce brands looking to protect merchandise and reduce their carbon footprint are exploring surprising new packaging materials, designs, uses, and re-uses.
Last Mile Delivery, Distribution, Retail
Pool Distribution Increases the Speed to Market for Fast-Fashion Giant
From line haul to the last mile distribution center, from intake to proof-of-delivery processes, SEKO Logistics streamlined workflows for a fast fashion giant.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
5 Ways to Keep Your Supply Chain on Track in 2021's Unprecedented Peak Season
Peak season 2021 is gearing up to be one of the most active in recent history. If your business feels like it is often unprepared for a surge in shipping, this year will likely not pull any punches.
Retail, Technology , Warehousing
Smart Clothes Hit the Rack
Will warehouse workers suit up in electronic clothing? Possibly. "Smart clothes" can now track physical movement and produce visual displays. This is all happening as wearable devices continue to streamline supply chain operations.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment
Check This Out: E-Commerce Grocers
The shift to grocery e-commerce has retailers hungry for fulfillment improvements and supply chain efficiency gains.
E-commerce, Retail, Visibility
5 Ways to Position Your Supply Chain for Retail Compliance Success
These five actions will help you meet retailers’ expectations and standards, from packaging and appointment scheduling to advanced ship notifications.
Retail, Sustainability, Technology
Vertical Focus | Textiles
Take a look at the latest supply chain trends in textiles.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment
E-Commerce Fulfillment: DC Strategies for Riding the Surge
How the COVID-19 pandemic changed demand in five product categories, the challenges those changes created for e-commerce fulfillment, and the strategies that merchants and their service providers deployed to meet the need.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Fulfillment and Logistics Drive Retail Customer Loyalty
Businesses have to innovate and leverage their store networks, dark stores, pop-up warehouses, micro-fulfillment centers, and gig delivery platforms to consistently accomplish guaranteed, on-time last-mile delivery.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Materials Handling
Bulk Materials Handling: Conveying the Non-Conveyable
The supply chain shift to dynamic, difficult-to-forecast e-commerce fulfillment channels is even more challenging for a particular type of product: the bulky and oversized. Any item that's too big or otherwise out of spec to properly run on automated infrastructure like conveyors or sorters presents a cumbersome materials handling problem, and this article conveys the solutions.
Overseeing the Shift to E-Commerce
Profile of Mike Honious, president and CEO, GEODIS in Americas
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
E-Commerce Enters a New Dimension
Retailers turn to augmented reality solutions to provide consumers with rich product information, personalization options, and a seamless omnichannel experience.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
How E-Commerce Is Changing Retail; Ways to Optimize Fulfillment
Hub Group Vice President of Supply Chain Operations Nathan Schmies discusses the future of retail and implementing a strategic e-commerce fulfillment strategy for optimal success.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Optimization Through a Revamped Network
With an expanding customer base and recent surge in volume, a CPG company turned to Hub Group to construct a dynamic solution. The 3PL streamlined the company’s handling process while increasing service levels.
Georgia: Where Logistics Fuels Growth
Georgia’s solid logistics infrastructure provided the firm foundation needed to keep cargo moving efficiently and safely regardless of a pandemic and national economic stress. These providers and trade partners led the way.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
E-Commerce Enabled
To survive—and thrive—in today’s accelerated e-commerce environment, companies are reworking fulfillment strategies and supply chain networks. These providers offer scalability and solutions.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Omnichannel Delivers, But at What Cost?
The real winners in e-commerce and omnichannel retail will be the ones who master managing their fulfillment and last-mile operations and costs.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Overcoming the Returns Challenge
Returns have become an integral part of online shopping. In order to ensure no delays in the return supply chain and give customers a first-class experience, retailers need a robust returns platform.
4 New Rules for Retail
While the grocery and home improvement sectors benefited from changes in consumer behavior during the pandemic, apparel and department stores struggled. Consequently, the following new rules will come into play for retailers in 2021.
It's Time to Upgrade Your Tech Capability
It’s becoming imperative for manufacturers to adopt e-commerce. Here are some considerations as you contemplate the transition.
Vertical Focus: Personal Care Products & Cosmetics
Take a look at what's trending in the personal care products and cosmetics supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
Achieving a Sustainable Returns Program
Reverse logistics can be an opportunity for retailers and CPGs with the right approach.
Revisiting Brand Management Policies
The pandemic accelerated the trend of consumers buying more and different products online. Manufacturers concerned about their brand reputations will impose new, or adjust current, brand management policies to account for this new reality.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Reverse Logistics: It's All Coming Back to Me Now
Using reverse logistics strategies, shippers can recoup maximum value on a product when the first sale doesn't work out.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Legend Valve Opens Fulfillment Spigot
The integration between 6 River Systems collaborative mobile robots called Chucks, Packsize, and JD Edwards’ ERP systems doubled Legend Valves’ pick rates and increased its order management and shipping accuracy.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Technology
E-Commerce Trends Drive Automation Initiatives
Automation is the answer when it comes to adjusting supply chain operations to support increasing e-commerce fulfillment. It’s a tool set to make your employees more productive, and more effective. Instead of bringing on more people, you increase the value of the people you have.
The Three Trends Driving Supply Chain Efficacy in 2021
An advanced solution that marries both technology and people through business intelligence reporting and automation is the only way forward for today's supply chains.
E-commerce, Retail, Partnership
SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers
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..
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Technology
Speed, Reach & Flexibility Are Critical to Supply Chain Success in COVID Era
The growth of digital commerce is relentless, and the only way 3PLs can stay ahead is to adapt to market-driven needs to strengthen customers’ supply chains.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution
Are We Ready to Deliver the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Is the supply chain ready to deliver COVID-19 vaccines? The supporting technology exists and the resources are in place, but now that the vaccine is available, it's up to the logisticians to connect those dots from end to end.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Fulfillment
Revisiting 2020
This was a year like no other for supply chain and logistics management. here's what we'll remember about 2020.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
DHL Shares Strategy for Peak Season and Beyond
E-commerce is up 65% year over year, and expected to surge more than 50% during the busiest peak week, according to Chet Paul, senior vice president at DHL Express; Kraig Foreman, president at DHL Supply Chain; and Craig Morris, chief information officer at DHL eCommerce Solutions.
Careers, Distribution, Manufacturing
Tonya Jackson: Signed, Sealed, Delivered
A profile of Tonya Jackson, senior vice president and chief supply chain officer with Lexmark, a creator of imaging solutions and technologies.
E-commerce, Logistics, Technology
Think Big, Act Small
Do small to mid-sized logistics solutions providers have the upper hand in this COVID-created business environment? Or are huge multi-nationals doing just fine, or at least as good as everyone else?
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Partnership
What Makes a Go-To Ecommerce Partner? Ask Baboon To The Moon
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.
Home Improvement on a Winning Streak
The pandemic continues to boost sales for home improvement retailers as consumers spend much of their time at home. Total retail sales in the category were up 11% in July 2020 year over year according to the Department of Commerce.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology
Easing E-Commerce Pain Points
Although key logistics capabilities are needed to build and maintain successful e-commerce operations, few brands excel at them, according to a study from Geodis and Accenture Interactive.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment
E-Fulfillment Picks Up Speed
A look at strategies used by shippers and their transportation partners to deliver e-commerce orders with the speed that consumers require.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Omnichannel and Supply Chain Work Together for Competitive Advantage
Accomplishing omnichannel service with high levels of service, while remaining profitable, requires real-time visibility of inventory across the supply chain and a single view of the consumer as they move from one channel to another.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
What's the Holiday Sales Scenario?
The holiday retail season will play out in one of two ways sales-wise, both of which are lower than prior years. The gift that keeps on giving? E-commerce sales.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
5 Must-Take Actions to Prepare for the 2020 Holiday Season
Given this new normal, what are global supply chains to do? How are they supposed to keep inbound goods flowing, deliver products, and reduce bottom-line risk? Now that your expectations are realistic, let’s dive into a few actions you should take this holiday season.
Manufacturing, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Top Hat and Tales
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.
Solving Distributor Liquidity Shortages
Distributors face liquidity shortages brought on by the pandemic. Pressed between both struggling ends of the supply chain, they can only negotiate so far. What are they to do? The answer may lie in their receivables.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Vertical Focus | Retail
From mall grocery stores and athleisure sales to data-sharing with blockchain, this is what's trending in the retail supply chain.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Stirring Up Solutions
These companies are concocting innovative e-commerce solutions as alcohol sales flow online.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
12 Ways of Christmas
From new hires to customer expectations, here's what's in store for shippers this holiday season.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Fulfillment
Shopping for E-Fulfillment Efficiencies
Online grocery shopping has morphed from a temporary necessity to a new way of life. Retailers with the best order fulfillment process and the highest-quality customer service will gain the upper hand.
E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
A Storehouse of Innovation—WMS for E-Commerce
Ramco Systems helps an e-commerce solution provider realize its vision of a robotic fulfillment center.
Distribution, Technology , Warehousing
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | Order Picking Solutions
Take a look at the latest order picking solutions taking distribution and fulfillment to the next level.
Demand Planning, Retail, Supply Chain
Cycling at Full Speed
Bicycle manufacturers and retailers race to catch up to surging demand as consumer behaviors shift gears.
Distribution, Demand Planning, Labor Management
Reading the Room
With great adversity comes great creativity—that’s how Annette Danek-Akey, EVP of supply chain at Penguin Random House, helped quickly convert a new facility into a picking and shipping point to meet the fluctuating demand for books.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Reshaping Retail
Agile and innovative retailers transformed their operations during COVID-19. Will their new fulfillment options and increased digitization go out of style as stores reopen, or will they become retail staples?
Return-to-School Period Will Test Retailers and 3PLs
The return-to-school shopping period is an important dress rehearsal for the upcoming peak season.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Shaking Up Subscription Services
During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Responds
To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Last Mile Delivery
Postal Operators Deliver on E-Commerce
Parcels and cross-border e-commerce are taking precedence over traditional services for postal operators, who continuously manage growing postal e-commerce traffic.
Expedited Shipping, Retail, Logistics
DHL Debuts Retail Store
DHL Express opened a new 1,500-square-foot ServicePoint retail store in Southern Florida, the first exclusive DHL-branded retail store in the United States.
E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail
Vertical Files
This story examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on five vertical markets and describes some of the strategies used in those markets to meet the challenge.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Robotics-as-a-Service Automates Order Fulfillment
Ecentria deploys inVia Robotics’ Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) system to automate order fulfillment in its Aurora, Illinois, distribution center.
Distribution, Demand Planning, Retail
Home for the Holidays
Consumers are planning to do their holiday shopping mostly from home and earlier this year, presenting big challenges for distribution centers.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
5 Actions to Navigate Through the Retail Landscape
To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Home Goods
Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology
How Small to Mid-Sized Businesses Can Recover Faster
On top of surging e-commerce demand, small and mid-sized businesses are facing increased shipping costs, logistical challenges, and extended shipping times. Here are a few things you can do to recover.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Demand Planning
Building a Supply Chain in One Week
When their client pivoted to make a low-cost, readily available bed to quickly serve those on the front lines, SEKO Logistics rapidly set up distribution operations to meet urgent demand.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
3 Ways Retailers Can Get on the Fast Track to Digital Transformation
Retailers can use these three practical tips to successfully execute their digital transformation: Make digital moves your strategy centerpiece, connect systems to please customers, and enable a touchless experience.
Health Care Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
What COVID-19 supply chain pivot impressed you the most? Why?
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.
Retail Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail
Tailoring Apparel Supply Chains for the Future
Apparel brands and retailers can use the COVID-19 crisis to take stock of existing business models and create more stable and sustainable supply chains for the future.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Retailers: It's Time to Act
While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Pet Industry
Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.
Creating Differentiation Through Innovative E-Commerce Fulfillment
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.
Fortune 500 Retailer Finds Cost Savings, Improves Performance with Data Solution
With RateLinx’s TracLinx module, an electronics retailer gained accurate tracking data and corrected sequential issues in real-time, allowing the company to make better logistics decisions and drive other initiatives.
Retail Logistics, Demand Planning, Retail
Providing Solutions Through Unprecedented Times
With the increased demand for essential supplies across the country, Hub Group’s collaboration with multiple retailers has helped suppliers deliver critical loads quickly and safely.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Technology
Efficiencies and Revenues Skyrocket for Distributor with Digital Order and Logistics Management
MPO’s cloud platform for order and logistics management allowed an agricultural spare parts distributor to streamline fulfillment, obtain full order visibility, and reduce shipping costs for customers.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Agility On Demand
When you combine consumer demand for deliveries at a breakneck pace, the historically tight labor market, and the unpredictability of the global trade landscape, e-commerce businesses must be just as fast as they are flexible to succeed today’s market.
E-commerce, Finance, Risk Management
Labeling Is Key in Keeping Up with Today’s Supply Chain
COVID-19 has created unprecedented challenges for supply chain and logistics management, and the pressure is on to deliver essential supplies, such as toilet paper and food, to consumers on time. Successfully delivering a product on time involves many factors, and labeling shipments correctly is one of them.
Battling Through Crisis Together
With retail stores being one of the few businesses that remain open to the general public, supply chains operations have had to embrace creativity to deliver effectively.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
Amazon Shoppers Won't Abandon Ship
Many U.S. consumers have negative feelings toward Amazon's impact on the retail industry and the environment, but that doesn't translate to lost sales.
Customer Service, Retail, Technology
There's No Business Like Shoe Business
Shoe retailer Shoe Station relies on Retail Pro 9 and other technology solutions to help employees provide top-of-the-line service and ensure customer satisfaction.
E-Commerce Engine Technology Revs Up Efficiency
E-commerce has remapped supply chains. Across both business-to-business and business-to-consumer transactions, technology is taking on the complexity caused by this shift and driving efficiency.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
The Need for Speed: Overcoming the Final Hurdles to Faster E-Commerce Deliveries
Retailers need to address new challenges, from bolstering distribution networks to managing complexity, to continue to expand their e-commerce operations.
State of Retail Tech
Equity funding to retail tech companies slowed globally in 2019, largely due to a slide in funding to e-commerce platforms. This is what retailers should watch for in 2020.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Fulfillment
Streamlining E-Commerce Fulfillment
Ten tips every digital retailer needs to know to streamline their e-commerce fulfillment process.
Freight Forwarders, Retail, Technology
I Like Big-Box and I Cannot Lie
Almost half of all small to mid-sized businesses decision-makers estimate an increase in shipping spend, and big-box retailers are influencing their strategy.
Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
VERTICAL FOCUS | Fast-Moving Consumer Goods
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.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
How Is Coronavirus Impacting E-Commerce?
As coronavirus continues to spread globally, new ramifications are revealed daily. How is the virus impacting e-commerce operations and the supply chain, and how can retailers respond?
Green Logistics, E-commerce, Packaging
How Green Was My Tally?
One-third of online shoppers buying health and beauty products are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly packaging.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
What if General George Patton was Walmart’s CEO?
General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Mitigating the Flood of Post-Holiday Returns
Fearing the flood of post-holiday returns? An optimized reverse logistics strategy may be the answer.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Need Speed Across the Supply Chain? It's All About the Barcode
Barcode labels are a smart and cost-effective way to make productivity gains in your warehouse.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
That's a Wrap: Holiday Shipping Tied Up in Knots
During the holiday shopping season, all eyes are on shipping, with more than half of consumers (60%), and nearly three-quarters of millennials (74%) claiming they were disappointed with holiday shopping services in the past.
Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
How Retailers Can Use this Holiday Season to Inform Future Supply Chain Strategies
As retailers and their supply chains face increasing pressures from rising consumer expectations, they must better leverage software solutions and the data it captures to achieve an integrated network and true smart warehouse ecosystem.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Parts & Parcel
Driven by an increase in e-commerce, global parcel volume grew from 74.4 billion shipments in 2017 to 87 billion last year. On average, 23 parcels per person were shipped globally, and 2,760 parcels were shipped every second, according to the Pitney Bowes Parcel Shipping Index.
E-commerce, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
E-Commerce Fulfillment: No Pain, No Gain
Escalade Sports transforms supply chain to capture e-commerce growth, improve customer service levels, and better manage inventory and demand planning.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Halloween: A Scary Supply Chain
A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Furniture
What is the outlook for the U.S. furniture market moving forward? Here's what to expect.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
Tackling E-Commerce Shipping
E-commerce is quickly becoming a part of our everyday lives – putting pressure on retailers. Here are tips to help e-commerce shippers keep costs down and customers happy.
CPG Brands Find Their Place Online
Established CPG brands accustomed to a pallet to pallet fulfillment model need to accommodate a pallet to piece approach in a growing direct-to-consumer marketplace. At the same time, these brands face competition from agile, online-only start-ups that begin with a direct-to-consumer fulfillment model.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Supply Chain
SMBs and E-Commerce
Here's a look at the strategies that small- and medium-sized retailers use to help them thrive despite competiton from much larger companies.
Distribution, Supply Chain, Transportation
Optimizing Coca-Cola Consolidated’s Post-Expansion Distribution Network
Red Classic created a complex regional transportation solution to optimize Coca-Cola Consolidated’s distribution network following a multi-year expansion effort.
VERTICAL FOCUS | Apparel
Take a look at some of the latest developments in the apparel industry.
Aftermarket Auto Parts Supply Chain: No Time To Spare
As in many other industries, technology is changing the aftermarket auto parts sector. Not only is e-commerce upending traditional distribution channels, but advances in technology are changing cars themselves, and these shifts are reverberating to the auto parts market.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics
E-Commerce Raises the Snack Bar
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.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Sneaker Supply Chain: Big Shoes to Fill
In the sneaker supply chain, manufacturers and retailers need to know where the product is in every stage of design, production, and shipping.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology
X Marks the Spot: Geocoding is Here and the Supply Chain Must Get Onboard
Geocoding and mobile solutions are two examples of innovative technology with the potential to shape the future of supply chain logistics for the better, by improving efficiency and the customer experience. Enterprises are wise to prepare for this shift in order to remain competitive within the market.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Subcoms Focused on the Future
In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Warehousing
Meeting Your Retailer's Expectations
A leading CPG company uses Hub Group’s consolidation expertise to eliminate cost and improve service.
Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
Your Next Walmart Run: Don't Forget the AI
A Walmart Neighborhood Market in Levittown, New York, featuring artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, interactive displays, and a massive data center is the retailer's new Intelligent Retail Lab (IRL).
Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail
Germany, Austria Retailers Go for BOPIS
Germany and Austria retailers display a balanced market of omnichannel practices.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Supply Chain
Solving the Three Toughest Challenges In E-Commerce Fulfillment - DHL Supply Chain
E-commerce is continuing to create opportunity for a range of businesses, but supply chain challenges can limit growth and compromise customer relationships.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Time to Stop Hating the 'A' Word
The Amazons of the world are changing the way small and mid-sized business owners sell and distribute their products, which businesses can use to their advantage.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Bridal Wear Supply Chain
A harmonious marriage of brick-and-mortar services and online offerings is the path to fulfillment in the bridal wear supply chain.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Choose Your Own E-Venture
As the demand for faster shipping and better e-commerce availability increases, retailers will need to adopt new order fulfillment and shipping strategies to stay in prime shape.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Advanced Optimization Techniques For Enhanced Solutions - Hub Group
A leading retailer engaged Hub Group to develop an optimized solution that maximized the limited capacity in markets throughout its supply chain.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
The Leader of the Pack
Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Getting Up on the Right Side of the Bedding
E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.
Distribution, Supply Chain, Technology
Today's Distribution Center: You Say You Want an Evolution?
Distribution centers used for short-term storage and cross-docking are changing to accommodate the growth in online ordering and rising expectation for rapid delivery.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Retail
The latest news and trends impacting the retail supply chain
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
News & Trends Impacting the Luxury Goods Supply Chain
Top trends impacting the travel and hospitality supply chain
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution
A New Argument for Pool Distribution as More Specialty E-Retailers Set Up Shop
Pool distribution is one strategy that’s getting a second wind in the face of intensifying e-commerce pressure and the changing face of America’s malls.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon Primed for New Regional Hub
In the first airport project of its kind in the Amazon Air network, the etailer has announced plans to open a regional air hub at the Fort Worth Alliance Airport in Texas.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment
Solving the Three Toughest Challenges in
E-commerce Fulfillment - DHL Supply Chain North America
E-commerce is continuing to create opportunity for a range of businesses, but supply chain challenges can limit growth and compromise customer relationships.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Real Estate, Warehousing
How the E-commerce Warehouse Is Adapting to Life in the Big City
The goalposts in e-commerce fulfillment continue to move. Consumers routinely expect two-day or even next-day delivery, and same-day delivery is on the horizon.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Not So Fast: Rethinking Multi-Item Orders
Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.
Food Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
The Changing Logistics of Grocery Delivery: It’s In The Bag
Grocers are working to satisfy consumers’ growing demand for rapid delivery of everything from apples to watermelon. To accomplish this, they’re educating personal shoppers, developing new technologies to handle the last mile of delivery, rethinking their distribution networks and inventory planning, and partnering with technology companies.
Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail
How Retailers Earn 5-Star Reviews
This story explores some of the ways retailers use customer service to build customer loyalty, both in stores and in the e-commerce channel.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What Will Retailers Find Under The Tree?
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Click & Collect Not Clicking Yet
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
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Things are Looking Up for Multistory Warehouses
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, Logistics, Supply Chain
Post Office Dings E-Commerce?
Two important developments–the US Postal Service’s relationship with Amazon and the U.S.withdrawal from the Universal Postal Union (UPU)–will impact domestic and international e-commerce shipments.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Growth in the Line of Beauty
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
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Shipment Costs to Rise
Two recent and important developments will impact domestic and international e-commerce shipments. The first one concerns the U.S. Postal Service's relationship with Amazon. Let me set the stage.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What's Ahead for Retail Technology? Ask the Crystal Ball
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Black Friday Delivery Data
Consumer data is rolling in from Black Friday. Convey published data insights that show how deliveries are performing across various categories compared to year-over-year data from 2017.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics
New DHL Survey Reveals Expected Cyber Monday Growth for Businesses & More
A DHL distributed a poll to U.S. e-commerce businesses, reveals major challenges, priorities and more for e-comm businesses this Cyber Monday.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Essentials of a Healthy Supply Chain Partnership
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary: Satisfying Customer Demand in a 365 E-Commerce Market
Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.
E-commerce, Sourcing/Negotiations, Logistics, Supply Chain
Simplifying Trade Complexity
Business continuity remains essential in building supply chain resilience; an Amber Road/AAEI survey on sourcing, trade and e-commerce highlights identifies challenges and strategies to help global supply chain managers proactively prepare for trade complexities; more temperature-sensitive medicines are moving by ocean freight despite market shake-up
Global Economy, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Get Your Supply Chain Up to E-Commerce Speed
Supply chains face a conundrum when it comes to speed: no matter how automated your processes are internally, you’re only as fast as the next guy in the chain. Here’s what it takes to be e-commerce fast.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail
How E-Tailers Can Reduce Return Rates for Large Items
By following these steps, e-tailers can lower return rates, increasing profits and creating happier customers.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Addressing Expedited Delivery Expectations
Amazon and other large retailers set customer expectations by offering expedited delivery at low or no cost. Retailers of all sizes must compete on the same turf, yet lack the negotiating power that could net meaningful discounts with commercial carriers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands
The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace
Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
H.O.W. | How to Transform the Supply Chain for Omnichannel Retailing
Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Reaching a Point of No Returns
Retailers around the world are slacking in the returns department.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever
With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker - Crane Worldwide Logistics
Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
E-commerce Retailers Target Germany
Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.
Global Logistics, Sourcing/Negotiations, Retail
Fashion Supply Chain: What to Where
Executives from leading fashion and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers reveal the supply chain challenges topping their list.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Engaging Customers Through AI
Retailers turn to artificial intelligence to boost customer service.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Best Practices for the Gift of Successful Holiday Sales
For some retailers, holiday sales can represent up to 27.4 percent of annual sales. Having a clear understanding of your historical trends for seasonal goods is critical for forecasting seasonal categories this upcoming season.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction
Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Third-Party Refurbishers Help Get
First-Quality Goods to Market
What if your shipment of apparel from overseas gets soaked with saltwater on its way to the distribution center? This supply chain solution can return merchandise to first-quality condition.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick
Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce
Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What Retail Apocalypse?
Retailers Open 4,000+ Stores in 2017
Store closings have grabbed headlines, but they're not telling the whole story. Find out what a new report says about the state of retail.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers
To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
Distribution, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Keeping Your DC in Peak Shape:
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas
Getting a distribution center in shape for a high-volume holiday or seasonal period requires advance planning to make sure all systems work, the facility is properly staffed, and temporary workers are properly trained. Inbound Logistics asked the experts for their holiday preparation advice; they provided these seven commandments that will light the way.
E-commerce, Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
5 Ways Automated Dimensioning Helps Optimize First Mile Logistics
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary: How Amazon's Acquisition of Whole Foods Will Disrupt Industrial Real Estate
Whole Foods’ 460+ centrally located stores will augment Amazon’s physical infrastructure and allow it to use the stores as distribution centers. In return, Amazon’s targeted transaction data, technological expertise, and logistical prowess catapult Whole Foods into the online realm and suggest a new level of convenience.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Sweep the Dock for E-Commerce Insight - Transportation Insight
By tapping collective, multi-modal intellectual capital of leading industry pioneers, shippers can transform the supply chain with a sweep of the dock.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Direct Hit
E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop. Now businesses of all sizes must reassess their supply chains to go direct to the consumer with faster-than-fast delivery and free shipping.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Distributors Step Up Their Game
Distributors continue to play a valuable role within many supply chains. At the same time, changing business models, and especially the rise of e-commerce, are prompting many to enhance the services they offer.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Solved: Kane Thinks Outside the Box for Distribution of Insulation Products
Dow Building Solutions gained faster, more reliable distribution to customers at a reduced cost with help from KANE.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Customized Solution Helps Retailer Find Savings and Visibility - Unyson
A home goods retailer partnered with Unyson to increase efficiency and enhance visibility.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Sofa So Good: Software Upgrade Bolsters Furniture Company’s Growth
Furniture retailer upgrades its warehouse management system to furnish growth.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line
Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon’s Prime Day: Primetime for Online Retailers to Get Logistics Lessons
Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Report: New Data Shows Extent of E-Commerce's Differing Impact on Retail Categories
E-Commerce has generated significant volumes of sales in the U.S. electronics and clothing industries but has yet to gain traction in other retail sectors, according to a CBRE Group, Inc. analysis of recently released government data.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Online Shoppers Turning To International Retailers
Nearly half of avid U.S. online shoppers bought items from international retailers, demonstrating the need for retailers to offer more personalized services as a way to compete against lower prices, according to the sixth annual UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper study.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion
The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect
Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold
Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers
The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend - Unyson
A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns
In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants
To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.
Lean, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Predictive Analytics Takes Forecasting to a New Level
Predictive analytics utilizes various statistical techniques and models that analyze current and historical facts to make predictions about future.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Retail Logistics Bets on E-Commerce
E-commerce impacts not only consumer supply chains, but business to business supply chains as well.
Distribution, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Jonathan Parks: Planning is Key, to Say the Leased
Profile of Jonathan Parks, VP, global logistics and distribution, with Rent-A-Center
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Aaron Leach: A Bird’s Eye View of the Supply Chain
Aaron Leach is senior director of supply chain with Wayne Farms, LLC, in Oakwood, Ga. He has held this position since 2013. Wayne Farms is the sixth largest vertically integrated producer and processor of poultry in the United States.
E-commerce, 3PL, Third-Party Logistics, Warehousing
3PLs Up The Ante
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Picking Solutions, Technology
The Who, What, When, and Why of Warehouse Wearables
As wearable technologies, such as smart glasses and augmented reality, grow less expensive and more accessible, an increasing number of companies are exploring whether wearables could benefit their warehouse operation.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hardware Upgrade Unwraps DC Improvements
Kelli’s Gift Shop Suppliers deployed Janam’s mobile computers and transformed its distribution center operations. From improving efficiency and productivity, find out how the handheld devices boosted inventory control and customer satisfaction for the wholesale distributor.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Supply Chain Management
Optimizing the Product Portfolio
The overall complexity of running the supply chain will drop as the product portfolio becomes more streamlined. Here's how to do just that.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | What logistics concerns keep you up at night?
Readers reveal the issues that could disrupt the supply chain…as well as their sleep.
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
How Precise Forecasting Tames Item Proliferation
More accurate forecasts enable better planning, lower inventory and manufacturing costs, and improved service levels.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
3PLs & Carriers: At Your Service
A look at the metrics that shippers and their service providers use to evaluate the quality of customer service.
Distribution, Logistics, Materials Handling, Supply Chain
Using a Systems Integrator for DC Automation
Implementing material handling automation within a distribution center requires an experienced systems integration, which acts as a matchmaker to ensure the software communicates fully and freely with the facility’s equipment.
Education & Careers, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Bert De Winter: Springing Forward with Innovation
Profile of Bert De Winter, director of EMEA logistics with HP Inc.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Trends—November 2016
Damaged holiday packages negatively impact brands; Robot cargo pilots successfully tested; Not having procurement department negatively affects bottom line
Air Cargo, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Latin America
What’s Driving the Air Freight Industry Today?
These developments are helping the transportation industry to continually evolve.
Air Cargo, E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Visibility
Airfreight Forwarders Ride Headwinds and Tailwinds
Airfreight forwarders face headwinds — from shippers shifting to ocean freight and fewer routes for air cargo shipments — and must learn to leverage opportunities.
Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
How to Optimize Demand Chain Management
The demand chain model drastically reduces a distribution center’s footprint and associated costs by replacing safety stock with information.
Economic Development, Asia, Global Logistics, Retail
Why Retailers Need the TPP
Retailers need to come together in support of the trade agreement that will ultimately improve the industry for all. Here are three reasons why they should stand behind the passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation, Warehousing
Alan Sargent: A Sweet Confection Connection
Profile of Alan Sargent, supply chain and logistics director, Just Born Candy
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Three Returns Strategies for Improving Omni-channel Retail
To cost-effectively leverage an omni-channel strategy, it is vital to proactively plan for returns and align your operations accordingly.
High-Value/High-Risk Cargo, Distribution, Intermodal, Rail, Transportation Infrastructure
An Intermodal Resurgence
The winter of 2013-14 disrupted the intermodal shipping industry in North America, causing service problems and impeding growth. However, intermodal now offers a number of attractive advantages for shippers, particularly as rail operations pour resources into their intermodal efforts to strengthen service and compete with trucking. Sites that specialize in intermodal utilize innovations to streamline the process and apply new resources to make for an increasingly efficient and effective distribution process.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Chainsaw Maker Massacres Supply Chain Inefficiencies
Oregon-based manufacturer Blount International was bleeding money from leaks all across its supply chain. It found that the correct application of the right data management technology provided and maintained by the right partner was the solution to the problem.
Global Economy, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Global Logistics—September 2016
India-based textile manufacturer accused of providing fraudulent products; Iran seeks to strengthen trade relationships in Latin America; British manufacturers get small boost in wake of Brexit referendum
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Working at People Speed
Instantaneous, insatiable customer need runs the risk of forcing people out of the equation. But some logistics challenges can only be met by people working at ‘people speed.’
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Readers weigh in on the August question: Has supply chain impatience gotten out of hand?
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Prepping Your DC for Peak Season
Use this advice to get your distribution center prepared before holiday orders come rolling in.
Education & Careers, Distribution, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Peter Schuele: Injecting Life Into Supply Chains
Profile of Peter Schuele, head of global supply chain and distribution at the life science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Multiple Channels Are Making Supply Chains More Complex
It’s all about flexibility and speed in today’s changing retail and e-commerce markets.
Customer Service, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Global Retail Expansion: The Convergence of Marketing, Customer Service, and Supply Chain Strategies
Brands who never anticipated going global are finding that they all of a sudden are, thanks to the progression of e-commerce and increasing customer expectations.
Food Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Meal Delivery Services: You’ve Got to be Kitting Me!
The popularity of meal and meal kit delivery services makes for some very complicated supply chain management.
Retail Logistics, Distribution, Labor Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
Is Your Warehouse Ready for Black Friday? Start Preparing This Summer
Rising consumer expectations are driving change throughout the supply chain. And there’s no tougher test for meeting increased expectations than Black Friday. The time is now for warehouse managers to examine the three critical success factors in warehouse labor management.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
B2B Commerce Technology Improves Fulfillment Times and Supply Management
With demand for speed and convenience at an all-time high, companies must streamline and speed up order fulfillment. Technology that allows sales reps and customers to rapidly write orders and submit them almost instantaneously for fulfillment is a major competitive advantage.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Sustainability
How to Be Fashionably Green
Going green is in style for retailers. Here’s how adopting a multi-faceted sustainability strategy can lower costs as well as boost brand loyalty.
Distribution, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Technology
Delivery App Perks Up Coffee Sales
A new app helped a coffee merchant digitally transformed its retail sales and distribution processes.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Dave Christensen: A Spirited Approach to Supply Chain Management
Dave Christensen, vice president, supply chain with Glazer’s, Inc., oversees demand planning, replenishment, logistics, and master data management.
Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Retailers Get Help With New DOT “Reverse Logistics” Rules
The reverse logistics hazmat rule became effective immediately upon publication on March 31, 2016, making it critical that retail store owners and distribution managers get up to speed quickly. Here's how.
Air Cargo, Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Packaging, Rail, Pallets, Supply Chain, Trucking, Sustainability, Transportation, Warehousing
Creating a Lean and Green Culture
Launching a cost cutting, productivity-enhancing, or sustainability initiative creates efficiencies with environmental benefits and cost reductions.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
The “Direct-to-Consumer” Trend: Retail Shift Affects Logistics Operations
Direct-to-consumer selling is where the omni-channel strategy becomes truly powerful.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Hospitality Supplier Reserves Room to Grow With WMS
Through automated, rules-based wave management and replenishment, American Hotel Register Company was able to eliminate manual sortation and create multiple, tailored options to proactively release orders by type.
Intermodal, Distribution, Rail, Supply Chain
How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Can Improve Distribution for Rail Networks
There's no derailing hub-and-spoke networks. Find out why their adoption is arguably as significant an event in shipping efficiency as containerization itself.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Trends—March 2016
A predicted freight slowdown stalls driver wage increases for 2016; President Obama proposes oil tax to fund infrastructure; Logistics trends of 2016
3PL, Asia, Global Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
Crossborder E-commerce Into the U.S. Just Got A Lot Easier – U.S. Retailers Should Take Note and Plan Accordingly
The new de minimis rate allows e-commerce retailers to see faster customs procedures and border clearance, which will accelerate delivery speed.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
They Might Be Giants
This story provides a look at how e-commerce and logistics information technology help small and medium-sized businesses gain advantages that allow them to compete as though they were larger companies.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Whiskey, Bartender—and Make it Quick!
If there’s one lesson that we’ve learned from fine bourbon or whiskey, it’s that good things come to those who wait. Distilleries know this better than anyone. But when it’s time to get that product out the door and in the hands of distributors, the last thing a distiller wants to do is wait.
Distribution, Partnership, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitude
When an outdated warehouse management system was putting a dent in a distributor’s workflow, it turned to a technology partner to grow its e-commerce business.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Warehousing
Fine-tuning the Modern Distribution Center
Sound strategies for maintaining, optimizing, and modernizing materials handling systems can mitigate risk in today’s DC and go a long way toward ensuring a smooth ride in the supply chain.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shedding Light on DIM Weight Returns
Customer returns are inevitable, and without a clear understanding and plan for managing returns, DIM weight expenses can easily challenge budgets and profitability.
Distribution, Picking Solutions, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse Automation: The Next Generation
Investments in pick/put-to-light technology, wearables, robotic AGVs, high-speed conveyors, voice-directed picking, and a warehouse control system equate to an automated, smart, and efficient distribution center.
Customer Service, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Whatever It Takes
The true measure of customer service is what team members, carriers, and supply chain partners do when something goes wrong.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Transportation, Warehousing
Trends—December 2015
Transportation and logistics deal value continues to rise; distribution centers prepare to reduce picking errors; mobile-based freight brokerage; predictive analytics and Internet of Things revolutionize procurement
Retail, Logistics, Ocean, Partnership, Supply Chain, Transportation
Global Logistics—October 2015
The Trans-Pacific Partnership is one step closer to ratification; harnessing the power of supply chain collaboration; FMC approves new regulations for OTIs; SAP releases inaugural Retail Index
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Transportation
The Dairy Supply Chain: From Farm to Fridge
How milk and other dairy products moo-ve from tens of thousands of cows to store shelves across the country - with udder efficiency.
Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Azteca Foods Craves Inventory Management System
When Azteca Foods outgrew its manual pallet tracking system in its production facility, Barcoding Inc. delivered a solution.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Security
What Trends are Shaping the Global Air Freight Market?
Keep these trends in mind when selecting an air logistics supplier to find the best solution to suits your needs
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Don't Just Liquidate, Seek Scalable Solutions
Reassessing your reverse logistics plan for customer returns and excess inventory is a must in today’s retail environment. Look beyond traditional methods and approach this obsolete merchandise as an opportunity (versus a headache) to positively impact your business margin.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
The Sweet Smell of Success
A system developed by The Smart Cube pulls and aggregates information from all Elizabeth Arden’s contract manufacturers, providing a consolidated, accurate view of data across the company’s supply chain. The cosmetics giant now can see, in real time, the purchases its network of manufacturers makes on its behalf.
E-commerce, Cross-Docking, Logistics, Packaging
Shipping for the Digital Age
In order to create a consistent end-to-end logistics system, shippers need to connect the technological dots. Find out how.
China, Distribution, Global Logistics, Manufacturing, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
Doing Business in China
While doing business with China, many companies face a wide range of challenges trying to navigate the country’s complex trade programs.
Distribution, Logistics, Site Selection, Ports, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation
Great Logistics Sites: Prime Destinations, Unmistakable Results
The pursuit of perfection may seem an impossible goal. But, with the right combination of key elements, four regions in the United States have achieved logistics greatness.
Distribution, Loading Dock, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
What’s in Your Warehouse?
Warehouse operations no longer allow for “business as usual” practices. New initiatives and strategic investments in capital improvements will lead to greater returns in productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Investing in the latest materials handling equipment, WMS technology, and physical building improvements will result in a fully integrated distribution center.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Global Economy, China, Canada, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Global Logistics—August 2015
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.
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Growing Efficiency and Weeding Out Waste
With $20 million in plant products left for dead each year, Bell Nursery had to nourish and grow some better inventory management practices.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Third-Party Logistics, Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Turning Back the Pages: 20 Years of Top 100 3PLs
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.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Chemical Logistics, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Trends—July 2015
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
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics
3PLs Can Deliver Big Benefits to Small Companies
The right 3PL partner can help to even the playing field between SMBs and their larger big box competitors.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics Solutions Providers, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Technology
2015 3PL Perspectives
Inbound Logistics’ exclusive market research survey on the third-party logistics (3PL) sector reveals new trends and opportunities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
BaubleBar Makes International Shipping Sparkle
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
Inventory Replenishment: Why Push When You Can Pull?
Retailers are implementing technology to more accurately forecast demand.
E-commerce, Big Data, 3PL, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Building a Smarter Warehouse
Cloud computing, omnichannel management, and big data are the questions. Can your warehouse supply the answers?
Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain Management
Awake at the Wheel: Delivering Customer Satisfaction
When Sleepy's customers got tired of short notice and missed deliveries, the specialty mattress retailer brought in a technology partner and dreamed up a solution that put those problems to bed.
Manufacturing, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Improving Customer Satisfaction with Consumer Engagement Apps
Offering apps with products helps manufacturers improve customer satisfaction and lower complaints and returns.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Logistics, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Judi Griffin: Sinks Her Teeth Into Her Work
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
Trends—April 2015
Supply chain ‘modeling’ replicates real-world events; Retailers and manufacturers make the jump to RFID; U.S. trucking industry sees better utilization and financial results; Data analytics is a big growth market.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Collaborative Distribution: Taking Off the Training Wheels
To break the cycle of needless, duplicative logistics costs, many competitors are choosing to work in tandem.
E-commerce, China, Global Economy, Mexico, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Rethinking the Global Supply Chain
Shifting global dynamics and internal business process changes are compelling manufacturers and retailers to challenge the status quo and reinvent their supply chains.
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Designing a New Strategy for a New Year
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Retail, Logistics, Rail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—January 2015
Texas places three locations among ATRI’s top-10 congested roadways; Truck size and weight debate is a divisive topic for the transportation and logistics industry; Truck driver shortage raises new concerns and costs for shippers and carriers; Electronics supply chain poses new challenges; Demand planning is still a pain point for shippers
E-commerce, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management
Clothes Encounters: The Logistics of a Revolving Closet
With its subscription-based clothing rental model, Gwynnie Bee is tailoring the rules of e-commerce to make fashion fulfillment a perfect fit.
Distribution, Lean, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Supply Chain Excellence: A Manufacturing Firestarter
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
VMI 2.0: A Whole New Game
Vendor Managed Inventory is shaking off its old-school image and regaining popularity thanks to improved technology, robust communication, tighter demand signal linkage, and a new openness to collaboration that has turbo-charged enterprise benefits.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Mexico, Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Medical Devices: A Tale of Two Countries
It was the worst of times for U.S./Mexico healthcare. Can demand-driven logistics make it the best of times?
Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Supply Chain Integration + Collaboration = Time Travel?
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
Four Reasons Retailers Should Pay Attention to Reverse Logistics
A good reverse logistics program saves retailers money, makes customers happy, and serves as a competitive advantage.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail, Rail, Trucking, Transportation
Trends—November 2014
Reciprocal switching debate casts a cloud over railroad industry collaboration; Procurement execution gap costs U.S. businesses $1.5 billion per year; Holiday consumers plan to shop sooner to avoid last-minute parcel problems; Trucking costs continue to soar as driver shortage worsens; Amazon Supreme Court case will set a precedent for how companies secure facilities and compensate workers.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Why Retailers Put Their Sleighbells on in May
Retailers try to head off peak season surprises by beginning their Christmas lists in the spring.
E-commerce, Asia, Global Logistics, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Global Logistics—September 2014
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.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Product Returns: 5 Myths Busted
Debunking these five myths helps retailers and manufacturers see the real value of dedicated returns management.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
3PL Partnership Provides The Total Package
Intertape Polymer Group outsourced transportation to gain control of its diverse product line and protect profit margins.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Partnership, Risk Management, Trucking
Trends—August 2014
Google and Barnes & Noble partner to provide same-day book delivery; Shippers prioritize day-to-day problem-solving over contingency planning; APICS and SCC merge; Transplace identifies four areas key to preferred shipper status
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Global Logistics, Ocean, Ports, Rail
Global Logistics—August 2014
DB Schenker tests silent brake blocks; India changes policy for e-commerce foreign investment; Canada opens Customs Self Assessment preferences to U.S. shippers; Global steamship lines raise rates; European ports struggle with congestion and larger ships
E-commerce, Asia, Canada, Global Logistics, Materials Handling, Latin America
Global Logistics—July 2014
CeMAT 2014 showcases the latest materials handling innovations; Alibaba buys stake in Singapore Post; Paris looks to reduce city speed limits; Canadian rail industry begins phasing out DOT-111 tankers amid crude-by-rail boom; EU and China sign Customs agreement; Chinese food imports continue to grow; Nigeria looks to resurrect defunct national steamship line; Latin America is the world’s fastest growing market for software; Maersk Line voice support for Nicaragua Canal proposal.
Green Logistics, Retail, Risk Management
Retailers, Watch Your Waste Lines
Partnering with an expert can help retailers ensure they comply with hazardous waste regulations.
Demand Planning, Retail, Logistics I.T., Transportation Management, Supply Chain Management
Forecasting Seasonal Surges Keeps Products on the Shelf
Transportation forecasting lets shippers collaborate with carriers to identify capacity gaps and reallocate assets.
Reverse Logistics, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
Why Every Manufacturer Needs a Reverse Logistics Solution
Reverse logistics solutions can improve the bottom line, and reduce potential regulatory liabilities.
Distribution, Trucking, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Transportation, Warehousing
TMS: Getting in on the Ground Floor
TAJ Flooring used a transportation management system to improve shipment and freight spend visibility.
Retail, Trucking, Transportation
Innovation in Business Processes from Northwest Arkansas
Business process innovations have made great leaps thanks to two Northwest Arkansas companies: JB Hunt and Walmart.
Lean Retail: It’s About Time – and Money
Retailers can identify and eliminate waste from their retail strategy, merchandise management, and store operations.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Dispelling Five Common Myths about Voice-Directed Work
Voice-directed technology can help improve worker safety and reduce employee-training time, yet some companies avoid them because of these five common misconceptions.
Green Logistics, Retail, Trucking, Supply Chain Management
Trends—May 2014
TOTO’s sustainability commitment covers its entire supply chain; Congestion on U.S. roadways costs the trucking industry $9.2 billion, 141 million hours of lost productivity; US tabbed “rising star,” ranks second to China for manufacturing competitiveness; Supply chain strategy and business strategy integration is key to cost reduction and customer service; Amazon explores last-mile delivery network
Distribution, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Refreshing Your Logistics Network: 6 Steps to Success
This article provides a step-by-step guide to logistics network optimization.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Materials Handling Equipment: Sorting Through the Options
Companies planning new distribution centers or warehouses weigh process data to choose materials handling equipment.
How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Transformed the Transportation Industry
Hub-and-spoke transportation models maximize cargo shipping efficiency, delivering better visibility and cost savings.
Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Ocean, Supply Chain Management
Trends—April 2014
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
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
How to Profit from Outsourcing
Outsourcing reverse logistics to a third-party logistics provider offers shippers flexibility and cost savings.
Cross-border Trade, China, Canada, Economic Development, Asia, Reverse Logistics, Global Logistics, Labor Management, Manufacturing, Retail, Ports, Transportation Infrastructure, Latin America
Global—February 2014
China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Managing Retail Returns: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
Same Day Delivery: The Amazing Race
Garrick Pohl of Zipments discusses how the company facilitates same-day delivery.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership, Transportation, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
The New 3PL Partnership: More Bang for Your Buck
Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.
3PL, Distribution, Labor Management, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T., Safety, Warehousing
Materials Handling Meets Big Data
Big data gathered by materials handling equipment helps warehouse managers improve productivity and safety.
Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Specialized Logistics, Supply Chain Management
The Direct Sales Supply Chain: Where There’s a Will There’s Amway
George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.
China, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Logistics I.T.
Putting Stock in Retail Analytics Tools
Kimberly-Clark China uses retail analytics tools to manage inventory and avoid stockouts at stores like Walmart.
Automotive Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
The Nuts & Bolts of the Automotive Aftermarket Supply Chain
The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.
Optimizing Your DC Network
Establishing an efficient distribution center network require careful planning and frequent updates.
The Five New Rules of E-commerce and the Path to Successful B2B Online Sales
Business to business (B2B) e-commerce sites must be well planned to increase revenue and support a growing client base.
Retailers Try I.T. On for Size
As the retail supply chain adapts to e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, technology keeps pace.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T.
Cintron Quenches Thirst For Order Management System
An order management system from DF Young and Superior Technology helps Cintron Beverage Company boost inventory accuracy, fulfill orders easily and quickly, and track products throughout the supply chain.
Bringing Supply Chain Visibility to the Last Frontier
A Web-based shipping tool helped an Alaskan outfitter develop multichannel fulfillment operations.
Discount Apparel Logistics: Outfitting the Outlets
As consumers embrace bargain hunting, off-price apparel retailers reinvent their supply chains to meet demand.
Green Logistics The Walmart Way
Sustainability best practices are integral to Walmart's supply chain operations.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Inventory Optimization: A Natural Fit
A new inventory management system by Manhattan Associates nurses Nature's Best's fulfillment operations back to health.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Warehousing
DC Automation: Sorting It Out
Changing consumer expectations and demand for greater efficiency, economy, and productivity present new twists and turns in warehouse automation.
Sporting Goods Logistics: Keeping the Ball Rolling
Sporting goods manufacturers and retailers must manage seasonal peaks to avoid stockouts and meet online customers’ demand for prompt delivery. Supply chain technology helps provide visibility and track items during product recalls.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Latin America
Cloud-Based WMS Fires Up Supermercados Supply Chain
Peruvian supermarket chain drives DC network realignment with a new cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) warehouse management system (WMS).
E-commerce, Picking Solutions, Warehousing
Improved Warehouse Operations: Cause to Celebrate
A warehouse control system that integrates voice-directed picking technology, a high-speed sortation system, and scanning technology streamlined party goods supplier Oriental Trading Company’s picking, packing, and shipping operations.
Distribution, Transportation Management
Transportation & Distribution: Geared to Demand
Schwan’s Home Services optimized its distribution network by using a hybrid insourced/outsourced model; and Sun-Maid Growers of California used collaborative distribution to create better economies of scale in its transportation operations.
Surveying the Home Delivery Landscape
Retailers and shippers need to find ways to meet consumers’ changing demand for home delivery services, while maintaining adequate margins and finding new avenues for continued growth, writes Foster Finley of AlixPartners.
Maximizing Productivity in E-commerce Warehousing and Distribution Operations
Continuous e-commerce growth has prompted an increasing number of retailers to use third-party logistics (3PL) providers for handling their direct-to-consumer fulfillment. Jeffrey B. Graves of Sedlak Management Consultants explains that for retail logistics executives, assessing 3PL capabilities that best fit their company’s requirements can be a challenge, yet critical for optimum return on investment (ROI)
Distribution, Temperature Controlled
An Appetite for Refrigerated Warehousing Improvement
Food company Bob Evans entrusted Millard Refrigerated Services with its warehousing and distribution operations. The two businesses worked together to expand both their supply chain capabilities.
E-commerce, Materials Handling
Sorting Out Savings Opportunities in Your E-Commerce Warehouse
Savvy distribution and supply chain managers should be looking at sortation and its related disciplines as a means of addressing problems and achieving savings, writes Jay Moris of Invata Intralogistics.
“Sell By” Dates Cost Shippers Billions in Wasted Perishable Goods
Shippers and business logistics professionals can easily use bar codes rather than ink stamps to ensure fresh food items are delivered to customers, writes Mark Croxton of Aldata.
Retail, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Therapy Strikes a Balance
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.
Food Logistics, Distribution, Partnership
Failure is Not an Option: Questions and Answers with Brian Hancock
Brian Hancock, president, North America for Martin-Brower, discusses the unique supply chain and distribution operations supporting the McDonald’s restaurant chain.
Green Leadership for Lean Times
Walmart's green initiatives keep the retailer's supply chain lean and efficient, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Distribution, Inventory Management, Transportation Management
Integration: The Dawning of a New Era
When baseball cap maker New Era’s business growth hit critical mass, it realigned its distribution operations, fusing Menlo Worldwide Logistics’ outsourced solutions with its global supply chain.
E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Integration: Making e-Fulfillment a Pet Project
Deploying a warehouse management system (WMS) on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis allowed online retailer PetFlow.com to manage its own fulfillment operations without a large capital investment.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping
@Home With Demand-Driven Logistics
UPS My Choice, a new direct-to-home delivery service, turns consumers into inbound logistics practitioners.
Inventory Intelligence: The Key to Unlocking Omni-channel Retailing
Retailers who succeed at integrating their inventory intelligence can cut costs, accelerate turns, and build revenue by driving high-fidelity information back into the supply chain, aligning it with shopper demand, write Tyco Retail Solutions’ Karen Bomber and Jim Caudill.
Enjoying the Perks of 3PL Order Management
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.
Distribution, Transportation Management
Colgate Logistics Delivers Smiles
Colgate took more than four million miles out of its network while handling five percent more cases of product – and even managed to cut logistics costs, sharing the savings with customers and suppliers.
Retail, Transportation Management
PETCO’s Pet Project
For pet supply retailer PETCO, honoring its commitment to superior customer service meant finding a loyal logistics partner.
Customer Service, Distribution
Nexus Distribution: A Fresh Sheet of Customer Service
When Boise Paper wanted to consolidate five Northeast region facilities into just one, it turned to Nexus Distribution for customer service excellence built on a sound implementation process.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Distribution
How to Ship to Alaska
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
Logistics Outsourcing: An Active Culture at Dannon
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.
Air Cargo, Intermodal, 3PL, Economic Development, Distribution, Utilities, Ocean, Ports, Site Selection, Rail, Trucking, Transportation Infrastructure, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
3PL, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Gemma Fillmore: Supply Chain Advocate
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
Collaborative Distribution Eases the Capacity Crunch
Small and mid-sized manufacturers lack the scale to ship in full truckloads, creating thousands of separate, inefficient lines of supply—all moving to the same mass retailers. Collaborative distribution reduces the number of trucks on the road and cuts distribution costs.
3PL, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Retail, Warehousing
Consumer Packaged Goods: Lightening the Load
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.
Economic Development, Distribution, Utilities, Site Selection, Warehousing
Energy Security for the Future
When selecting a site for a new warehouse or distribution center, there's a second infrastructure that demands attention: the power generation and delivery system.
Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics, Distribution, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Humanitarian Aid: The Logistics of Doing Good
Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.
Distribution, Materials Handling, Logistics I.T.
ALDO Boots Up a New System
Global shoe retailer ALDO implements a high-stepping, end-to-end inventory and distribution system.
Inventory Management, Retail, Materials Handling, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
E-fulfillment: Finding the Perfect Fit
Online haberdasher Bonobos relies on its third-party fulfillment partner, Quiet Logistics, which operates warehousing facilities with Kiva's robotics materials handling solution.
On the Road | Nashua, New Hampshire: The King of Beer Distribution
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly visits Bellavance Beverage Company, a Nashua, N.H. beer distributor.
Demand Planning, Retail, Risk Management
How to Avoid Fragile Supply Chains
Supply chains breakdown in different ways, and each type of risk needs its own mitigation strategy.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
How can brick-and-mortar retail make a comeback?
Supply chain leaders answer this month's Good Question, discussing whether brick-and-mortar retail can make a comeback.
Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail
Supply Chain Boot Camp
Undercover Boots, based in Panama, has been designing and selling its colorful rain boots and shoes since 2014. In the past seven years, it has expanded sales to 72 countries with only eight employees.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Supply Chain Predictions for 2021
The continued proliferation of third-party fulfillment options means Amazon and its shipping partners—FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL, and regional couriers—will have a hard time keeping up with the volume. Will the trend continue? Here are some predictions for 2021.
Food Logistics, Retail, Technology
Vertical Focus | Electronics
From food delivery robots to recyclable hard drives, here's what's trending in the electronics supply chain.
Food Logistics, Retail, Risk Management
For Beyond Meat and QSR Brands, Asking “What if?” Will Prevent “What Now?”
With major disruptions in the meat supply chain raising costs for restaurants and supermarkets, Beyond Meat pursues new partnerships with quick-service restaurant companies such as Taco Bell and McDonald’s.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
It's Time for All Retailers to Go Hybrid
An emerging hybrid model of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail brings together the best of both worlds, while automation and software remove challenges and empower this otherwise complex fulfillment model.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Handle with White Gloves
As consumers become increasingly comfortable buying over-sized goods online, manufacturers and retailers partner with white-glove, last-mile delivery services to make in-home set-up and assembly a first-class experience.
Food Logistics, Demand Planning, Retail
Finding a Caffeine Fix
With coffee consumption outstripping production, coffee purveyors blend sourcing creativity with more delivery options to match percolating demand.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Fresh Strategies for Rebuilding Retail
As e-commerce demand builds, online-only and omnichannel retailers alike lay the foundation for new partnerships and processes to keep pace, brick by brick.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
How to Import Duty-Free with Section 321
Navigating global logistics and setting up successful sales channels are huge problems for e-commerce retailers. Leveraging Section 321 can be a great way to reduce tax liability and help improve margins and customer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
Streamlining Retail Logistics
What companies need to do to streamline logistics operations and implement best practices so they will have the right inventory at the right location.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail
Tech Support
The need for supply chain resilience, visibility, agility, and control drives technology across multiple sectors.
Food Logistics, Robotics, Retail
2021 Summer Reading Guide
When it's time to absorb your next audiobook or crack open a book this summer, take a dip into this collection of fresh research, actionable advice, and best practices to refresh your supply chain knowledge.
From Robots to Running Shoes
DHL Supply Chain and Locus Robotics helped Brooks Running meet consumer demand during the pandemic.
Distribution, Trucking, Transportation
Echo's Managed Transportation Solution Supports Resin Distributor's Rapid Growth
Echo’s proprietary technology enables M. Holland to meet national business needs with a more strategic routing process.
Last Mile Delivery, Distribution, Retail
Pool Distribution Increases the Speed to Market for Fast-Fashion Giant
From line haul to the last mile distribution center, from intake to proof-of-delivery processes, SEKO Logistics streamlined workflows for a fast fashion giant.
Food Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail
BBQ Supply Chain Sizzles
With consumers fired up to grill, manufacturers and retailers turn up their range of strategies to smoke the competition.
Green Logistics, Retail, Sustainability
Designers Cultivate Plant-Based Leather
Fashion designers branch out to plant-based textiles in response to growing demand for sustainable and cruelty-free apparel, and as supply chains seek to lower their carbon footprint.
E-commerce, Retail, Visibility
5 Ways to Position Your Supply Chain for Retail Compliance Success
These five actions will help you meet retailers’ expectations and standards, from packaging and appointment scheduling to advanced ship notifications.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Target Practices Faster Fulfillment
Instead of using carriers to ship all its online orders, Target is building its own team of dedicated delivery personnel to get packages to customers' doors even faster
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Amazon Delivery Drivers, Assemble!
Amazon is testing a premium service where shoppers can have their orders assembled upon arrival, as online furniture and houseware sales soar and shoppers make more big-ticket purchases online.
Health Care Logistics, Distribution, Technology
What fictional character or historical figure would you put in charge of global vaccine logistics and distribution?
From superheroes to strategists, here are the fictional figures and real-life people that IL readers would put in charge of global vaccine logistics and distribution.
LEGACY at the Crossroads of America
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.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
E-Commerce Enters a New Dimension
Retailers turn to augmented reality solutions to provide consumers with rich product information, personalization options, and a seamless omnichannel experience.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
How E-Commerce Is Changing Retail; Ways to Optimize Fulfillment
Hub Group Vice President of Supply Chain Operations Nathan Schmies discusses the future of retail and implementing a strategic e-commerce fulfillment strategy for optimal success.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Stord Closes $65 Million Funding Round, Expanding Its Cloud Supply Chain
Stord, a cloud supply chain services provider for retail and e-commerce brands, raised a $65 million Series C round led by venture capital firm Bond, bringing its total capital raised in the past six months to $100 million.
Neiman Marcus Splurges on Digitization
Luxury department store Neiman Marcus is banking on a digital future, investing $85 million to make immediate changes to its supply chain and technology operations.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Overcoming the Returns Challenge
Returns have become an integral part of online shopping. In order to ensure no delays in the return supply chain and give customers a first-class experience, retailers need a robust returns platform.
4 New Rules for Retail
While the grocery and home improvement sectors benefited from changes in consumer behavior during the pandemic, apparel and department stores struggled. Consequently, the following new rules will come into play for retailers in 2021.
Fulfillment, Retail, Partnership
Cross Dock Delivers New Level of Efficiency for Leading Retailer
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.
Vertical Focus: Personal Care Products & Cosmetics
Take a look at what's trending in the personal care products and cosmetics supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Sustainability
Achieving a Sustainable Returns Program
Reverse logistics can be an opportunity for retailers and CPGs with the right approach.
Careers, Customer Service, Distribution
Sylvia Wilks: Kicking the Tires
In her previous role managing supplier relationships at Starbucks, Sylvia Wilks learned what good customer service really looks like. Now that she supplies customers at TireHub, she knows how to meet their expectations and build the national tire distributor’s customer-centric culture.
Retail, Sustainability, Technology
2021 Winter Reading Guide
Delve into these logistics reads to learn about revitalizing retail, the inner workings of supermarkets, and a playbook for competing in a digital-first environment.
Revisiting Brand Management Policies
The pandemic accelerated the trend of consumers buying more and different products online. Manufacturers concerned about their brand reputations will impose new, or adjust current, brand management policies to account for this new reality.
Agriculture Logistics, Demand Planning, Retail
Everything's Coming Up Roses
As soon as a flower is picked at the farm, floral logistics blooms into a complex arrangement of proper packaging, refrigeration, and speed—especially during the holidays.
E-commerce, 3PL, Food Logistics
Working Like a Dog to Fill Pet Food Surge Orders
A niche pet food company thrives during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to a long-standing partnership with its third-party logistics provider.
E-commerce, Retail, Partnership
SEKO Partnership Provides Ecommerce Efficiencies for Retailers
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..
Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges
These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Technology
Speed, Reach & Flexibility Are Critical to Supply Chain Success in COVID Era
The growth of digital commerce is relentless, and the only way 3PLs can stay ahead is to adapt to market-driven needs to strengthen customers’ supply chains.
Home Improvement on a Winning Streak
The pandemic continues to boost sales for home improvement retailers as consumers spend much of their time at home. Total retail sales in the category were up 11% in July 2020 year over year according to the Department of Commerce.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Macy's Parades Digital Lead
Digitally mature retailers better reacted to COVID-19 disruptions, finds a study by technology company Incisiv. Based on performance along the customer journey, the study names the top North American apparel retailers in digital maturity.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping
The Need for Shipping Speed
Consumers now make 58% of their purchases online since COVID-19 began compared to just 32% before the pandemic, and many will spend more for expedited shipping, a new survey says.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Omnichannel and Supply Chain Work Together for Competitive Advantage
Accomplishing omnichannel service with high levels of service, while remaining profitable, requires real-time visibility of inventory across the supply chain and a single view of the consumer as they move from one channel to another.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Consumers Set Their Sights on Visibility
With more consumers expecting to find, buy, and receive products wherever and however they desire, the need for retailers to optimize and elevate their supply chain capabilities is imperative for maintaining sales and brand loyalty.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
5 Must-Take Actions to Prepare for the 2020 Holiday Season
Given this new normal, what are global supply chains to do? How are they supposed to keep inbound goods flowing, deliver products, and reduce bottom-line risk? Now that your expectations are realistic, let’s dive into a few actions you should take this holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Vertical Focus | Retail
From mall grocery stores and athleisure sales to data-sharing with blockchain, this is what's trending in the retail supply chain.
E-commerce, Packaging, Sustainability
Top Packaging Innovations Enable E-Commerce Growth and Sustainability
Packaging is one of the important processes within e-commerce fulfillment. Working with a 3PL such as DHL Supply Chain can help you develop packaging that improves sustainability, lowers costs, and delivers the desired customer experience.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
12 Ways of Christmas
From new hires to customer expectations, here's what's in store for shippers this holiday season.
Distribution, Technology , Warehousing
GE Appliances Flips Its Smart Switch
GE recently launched its in-house SmartHQ Solutions suite. The SmartHQ Distribution module uses big data and smart warehouse technology to track real-time traffic, reduce product handling, and improve on-time delivery.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
3 Ways Retailers Can Fully Prepare for the Holiday Season
COVID-19 created a whole new world of retail, with more online orders, increased transparency, and a focus on scalable redundancy. Retailers that meet these three goals may have a joyful holiday season after all.
3PLs Play Pivotal Role
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.
E-commerce, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Getting Out of the Woods
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.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics, Retail
Food Fights
With restaurants providing only delivery or takeout during the pandemic, consumers turn to retailers and grocers to fill the gap. The impact on the food industry varies both by state and by sales channel. New trends touch on food retail, delivery, service, distribution, and more.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Shaking Up Subscription Services
During the lockdown, some subscription services unboxed a demand surge while others were forced to close the flaps. Here's how successful services deliver the goods.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
We Scream for Ice Cream
Consumers are screaming for ice cream, and retailers are refining their e-commerce tactics for this frozen treat. Take a look at some ice cream supply chain trends.
Last Mile Delivery, Distribution, Logistics
Traffic Control
To prepare for the return of crowded streets in urban areas, cities and shippers explore alternative vehicles, apps, pricing solutions, and distribution centers to address last-mile gridlock.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution
Becoming the Next Leading Logistics Hub
Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.
E-commerce, Health Care Logistics, Retail
Vertical Files
This story examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on five vertical markets and describes some of the strategies used in those markets to meet the challenge.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
Flexibility for the Win
The majority of retailers say that artificial intelligence and machine learning can add significant value to their demand forecasting processes, and more than half say it will improve other critical supply chain capabilities.
E-commerce, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Food Logistics
Cold Storage Heats Up
Booming e-commerce and online grocery sales during the pandemic increased the demand for cold storage warehousing space in North America, but developers are not building fast enough to meet demand.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Online Grocery Shifts into Hyperspeed
Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
5 Actions to Navigate Through the Retail Landscape
To better prepare your company for the journey ahead, here are five actions to position your supply chain for the impact of market volatility.
Distribution, Fulfillment, Risk Management
Reopening Fulfillment and Distribution Centers in the Wake of COVID-19
As businesses slowly recover following COVID-19 fulfillment and distribution centers can't simply flip a switch and return to normal operations. Reopening will require a rigorous methodology backed by data and analytics, and creative thinking about how to leverage existing technology in the workplace.
Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Technology
Formulating Solutions for Chemical Shippers
With exacting specifications and transportation challenges heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic, shippers are turning to these partners to move chemicals safely and optimize supply chains.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19
Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Retailers: It's Time to Act
While 43% of retailers say they're taking aggressive action to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, 38% are taking only some action, and 19% are taking a wait-and-see approach. Retailers should take aggressive action to address these five issues to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Pet Industry
Read about the latest supply chain updates in the pet industry as COVID-19 continues to affect the way consumers shop online, people choosing to foster cats and dogs, and what they're buying for their pets.
U.S. States Reopen During COVID-19 Pandemic
Take a look at each state's perspectives, guidelines, and deadlines as they make plans to reopen their local businesses and facilities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
Amazon Shoppers Won't Abandon Ship
Many U.S. consumers have negative feelings toward Amazon's impact on the retail industry and the environment, but that doesn't translate to lost sales.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management
5 Operational Actions Shippers Can Take to Build Resilience
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.
E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics
Supply Chain Labeling and Logistics: How to Deal with Customer and Regulatory Requirements
When it comes to logistics, the speed and convenience of e-commerce has led to changing expectations in the business-to-consumer sector. Meeting these expectations requires hitting an exact sequence of strict targets.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Last Mile Delivery
True Next Day—Why It Matters
As retailers compete for the perfect delivery experience and consumers continue to pay premiums for speed and reliability, last-mile delivery is key for growth and profitability.
E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing
Warehouse 2020
E-commerce growth and warehouse labor shortages create the perfect storm for online retailers. Undaunted, companies face these challenges with ongoing technology, equipment, and warehouse space innovations.
3PL Market Revenue to Cross $1.8 Trillion by 2026
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.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Map Mishaps Throw Last-Mile Drivers Off Course
Almost all last-mile delivery drivers say they would be more effective if their maps were more accurate—this includes better meeting delivery windows and fewer parking tickets.
E-commerce, Global Trade Management, Supply Chain
Gearing Up for a Bright Supply Chain Future
Logistics providers, retailers, and other global movers are using technologies and innovative business models to drive the supply chain efficiency and meet tomorrow's package volume demand, according to Deloitte. These are the three key pillars that will likely underpin the next-generation supply chain.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Demand Planning
Last Mile Delivery Strategies During COVID-19 and Other Supply Chain Disruptions
How do supply chain disruptions like COVID-19 impact the final mile, and how can retailers adjust their strategy? Some solutions include contactless delivery, offering accessible pickup points, and easing capacity constraints.
How Does Coronavirus Impact the Supply Chain, and How Can Retailers Minimize Disruption?
The new coronavirus, or COVID-19, has impacted the supply chain by limiting access to employees, closing factories or slowing down manufacturers, and limiting access to logistics to move goods. Here are three ways in which retailers can minimize supply chain disruption as the virus progresses.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Crossing the Final-Mile Finish Line
E-commerce revenue in 2020 will reach $3.52 trillion—this explosion is forcing retailers to find faster and more convenient modes to reach the final mile.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
How Is Coronavirus Impacting E-Commerce?
As coronavirus continues to spread globally, new ramifications are revealed daily. How is the virus impacting e-commerce operations and the supply chain, and how can retailers respond?
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Technology
Technology Can Cure the Parcel Crisis at the Border
As eCommerce continues to increase globally, shippers have to navigate customs to support their omnichannel strategy.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Trucking, Technology
Most Read Articles of 2019
Take a look at the top ten Inbound Logistics articles that got readers buzzing in 2019.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Technology
The CX Files
This story looks at elements that produce excellent customer service and at some of the technology tools companies use to help them deliver excellent service to their customers.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
That's a Wrap: Holiday Shipping Tied Up in Knots
During the holiday shopping season, all eyes are on shipping, with more than half of consumers (60%), and nearly three-quarters of millennials (74%) claiming they were disappointed with holiday shopping services in the past.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain
The Logistics of Liquidation
This story looks at the logistics of managing good through the reverse logistics and liquidation process. The goal is to recover as much value as possible from returned or unsold goods, and to keep product out of landfills.
E-commerce, Technology , Visibility
GOOD QUESTION | What's the 2020 supply chain buzzword or phrase?
Readers reveal the words and phrases that will have supply chain managers talking in 2020.
DHL Gives Mio Better Inbound Logistics Control
DHL provides Mio with more control over inbound orders from eight countries to reduce detention and demurrage costs while improving intake planning for distribution centers.
Fostering a Data-Centric Culture in Fulfillment Operations
Investing in data management can help your DC run smoother. However, you shouldn’t quit once you’ve rearranged a few aisles. Take your learnings from fulfillment and use them to encourage greater data investment in all aspects of your operation.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
The Impact of E-Commerce Growth on Logistics Companies
Consumers have become accustomed to extremely quick delivery and, as more retailers offer fast, free shipping options, logistics companies will need to adapt to the ever-increasing delivery pressures that align to evolving consumer expectations and preferences.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | How Can Brick-and-Mortar Retailers Compete with Amazon?
Readers reveal the supply chain moves that can let brick-and-mortar retailers compete with Amazon.
E-commerce, Distribution, Technology
Best Buy's Shiny, New Supply Chain Strategy for the Holiday Season
Best Buy made its list and checked it twice, and it's ready to take on the holiday season with a new and improved supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Subcoms Focused on the Future
In a retail environment focused on customer experience and convenience, subscription commerce (subcom) companies are maintaining a foothold.
Retail, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
Feeding the Baby Products Supply Chain
The baby products category is one of the most highly regulated in the world. Rigorous testing and certification are designed to protect the smallest humans from injury and illness caused by everything from loose parts that could cause choking to flammable fabrics or toxic materials. In addition to intense regulation, manufacturers must deal with consumer preferences that change almost as quickly as a parent can diaper a baby.
Who’s Paying for Free Shipping?
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.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Supply Chain
What to Look For When Taking Stock of an Inventory Management System
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain
Last-Mile Logistics: How Sellers Can Make It a Strength and Not a Setback
The last mile is often the most challenging, costly, and technologically deficient portion of the delivery process. But as more and more consumers use e-commerce to order and ship everything from medicine to artwork, the shipping and logistics sector has to move to making last mile a strength and not a setback.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Transportation
New Freight Train Could Boost Cross-Border E-Commerce in China
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Getting Up on the Right Side of the Bedding
E-commerce retailer Buffy Inc. scales operations with Boxzooka as its 3PL fulfillment and warehouse management systems provider.
Lean Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Omnichannel Retail: 4 Rules for Success
It is possible to anticipate and plan for future omnichannel retail challenges by following these four rules.
Retail Logistics, Global Logistics, Retail
Canada Bupkus on BOPIS
Canada is still ahead of the United States when it comes to Buy Online Pickup In-Store (BOPIS) options.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Supply Chain
Super-sizing E-commerce Deliveries
Companies that manufacture, sell, and deliver an increasing number of e-commerce oversize goods face a unique set of challenges when delivering to homes. Delivery teams not only need access to home interiors for set-up, they must also communicate in real-time with recipients so they’re home when orders are delivered. What’s more, they need far more customer service skills than the typical delivery driver.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology
Take Two Tablets
Two-thirds (66 percent) of retail store associates believe that if they are equipped with tablets, they could provide better customer service and improve the shopping experience, according to the results of Zebra Technologies Corporation's 11th annual Global Shopper Study, which analyzes the attitudes, opinions, and expectations of shoppers, retail associates, and retail decision makers.
Distribution, Logistics, Safety, Trucking
The Secret to Combatting the Hidden Costs of Detention Time
Dock appointment scheduling solutions enable shippers, carriers and consignees to avoid decreases in annual earnings and improve driver safety.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers
A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Not So Fast: Rethinking Multi-Item Orders
Delighting convenience-seeking shoppers while still guaranteeing logistics efficiency starts with assessing retail shipments to orders ratio, or RSO.
Cloud Computing, Distribution, Supply Chain, Technology
How the Cloud Creates Cost Savings—and Tax Benefits
Modernizing your distribution business isn’t just about adopting the latest and greatest technology. From seamless scalability to cost-efficiency to tax benefits, the right solutions can pave the way to significant results.
Distribution, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
Holiday Cargo Theft Q&A with Scott Cornell of Travelers
A Q&A with Scott Cornell, transportation business lead and crime and theft specialist at Travelers, on how to avoid theft during the holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What Will Retailers Find Under The Tree?
3PLs and tech providers can empower ethical supply chains, winter warehouse tips, what is most important to carriers when working with shippers, Fleet Advantage 2018 benchmarking survey reveals fleet operators pulse about rising fuel and maintenance and electric trucks, female high school students, findings from 2019 Third-Party Logistics Study, Forrester forecasts that companies will spend $434.9 billion to run IoT solutions by 2023, startup aims to make robots safe around factory workers, conditions ripe for multistory warehouses, automated material handling equipment market to exhibit significant growth during 2018–2024
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Click & Collect Not Clicking Yet
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
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cold Comfort: Finding the Right Winter Warehouse
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, Expedited Shipping, Distribution, Logistics
New DHL Survey Reveals Expected Cyber Monday Growth for Businesses & More
A DHL distributed a poll to U.S. e-commerce businesses, reveals major challenges, priorities and more for e-comm businesses this Cyber Monday.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Do Buy, Says Dubai
E-commerce is booming and everyone wants a piece of the pie, including Dubai .
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Site Selection, Supply Chain
Primed for Amazon
In September 2017, Amazon announced plans to open another headquarters in North America. Called "HQ2," the facility will cost at least $5 billion to construct. Locations are going the extra mile to win the bid for HQ2.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Amazon Effect: No Longer a Phantom Menace
Retailers strike back at the Amazon empire by providing e-commerce customers with same-day and faster delivery.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Collaborative Supplier Management: The Key to Beating Holiday Fever
With holiday celebrations in at least eighth months each year and nearly no product category left untouched—from candy to clothing and home furnishings—retailers need to make sure their e-commerce strategy is letting them capitalize on consumers’ growing appetite for seasonal items.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Solved: Creating an Omnichannel Approach for a Sporting Goods Maker - Crane Worldwide Logistics
Crane Worldwide Logistics helps its client, a sporting goods manufacturer, develop the automated and physical logistics infrastructure required to seamlessly distribute its products to e-commerce, retail, and wholesale customers.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail
E-commerce Retailers Target Germany
Approximately one-third of leading U.S. e-commerce retailers are planning to enter the German market in the next four years, according to a recent study.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Be Nimble,
Supply Chain Be Quick
Use these tips to identify and respond quickly to changing variables in an omni-channel supply network.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Supply Chain
U.S. Manufacturers Respond to Regulatory Plans
Manufacturers and wholesale distributors are optimistic about the perceived impact of the Trump administration’s plans for trade deregulation on their businesses, according to new research commissioned by business software provider Exact.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Developing Innovative Delivery Services That Delight Customers
To compete in today’s evolving retail landscape, companies must differentiate themselves to meet consumer demands and drive brand loyalty.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Upgrade: Of Boxes and Briefs
To prepare for the holiday rush, apparel retailer MeUndies is adopting a more automated, efficient system to provide better tracking, quality control, and more efficient labor usage.
Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Technology
Supply Chain Commentary: Grocery Retailers Need to Embrace Digitization Now
Grocers will have to transform aggressively and adapt swiftly if they want to avoid the fate of retailers in other segments. They will need to digitize their stores and consumer experiences. Here's how they should optimize their supply chain.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Direct Hit
E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop. Now businesses of all sizes must reassess their supply chains to go direct to the consumer with faster-than-fast delivery and free shipping.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Green E-tailer Fertilizes the Bottom Line
Sustainable products company Grove Collaborative grows its bottom line by using a data analytics platform to cut shipping costs and optimize fulfillment.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Report: Retailers are Hemorrhaging Costs from Premium Delivery Services
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains
Retail, Logistics, Real Estate, Supply Chain, Transportation Infrastructure, Warehousing
Reconstructing Supply Chains
Supply chain infrastructure is rebuilding itself, below the surface where only logisticians can see it.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Thinking Inside the Unbox
Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds U.S. Retailers Lead the Way in International Expansion
The retail industry's international expansion slowed a bit in 2016 from its strong pace of a year earlier as retailers adjusted to e-commerce and shifting exchange rates, according to CBRE Group Inc.’s international retail expansion study.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Study Finds Growing Demand for Retail Click and Collect
Click and collect has become a key component of retailers' overall e-commerce strategy. Nearly one third of shoppers purchased products online and subsequently picked them up at a store during the 2016 holiday season.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Commentary: How to Compete with Amazon’s Lower Free Shipping Threshold
Amazon recently announced another slash to its free shipping requirements and is now down to $25. Here's how retailers can compete.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing
E-commerce Logistics: Warehouse Slotting and Space Utilization
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.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Specialized Logistics
Same-Day Delivery Powers Grocery
E-commerce Revolution
E-commerce grocery delivery is seeing massive growth, and is expected to continue to shake up the traditional grocery industry as online grocery sales are forecasted to account for as much as 20% of all grocery sales by 2025.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Insights: Three Key Logistics Movers and Shakers
The growth of e-commerce, technology change, and other cyclical and structural factors are reshaping supply chains according to a new research from Colliers International. The report also found the three key movers and shakers.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Finding Untapped Value in Product Returns
In today’s returns economy, retailers need to be able to separate the “good” return from the preventable one. To get better data on returns, here are three steps they can take.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Warehouse Management & DC Optimization: Measuring What Matters
Selecting the best metrics at your company’s distribution centers requires the right tools, careful study, and constant collaboration.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
How Small Retailers Can Compete with Retail Giants
To compete in today’s environment, small to medium players need to offer competitive supply chain and delivery services.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Customized App Puts Bat Distributor in the Big Leagues
When a paper-based order management system slowed a baseball bat manufacturer’s growth, the company digitized for out-of-the-park growth.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Achieving Greater Visibility and Agility
Leaders are exploring supply chain efficiencies with tools that enable stability, cost reduction, supply chain agility, product innovation, speed and visibility.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
White Glove Services: When It's Time to Call In a Specialist
Julie Colona, Director, Forwarding Solutions and NVOCC at UniGroup, discusses why shippers might need a special commodities carrier, what to look for in a carrier, and how the business is evolving.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Transportation
Other Reasons Why Supply Chain Stress Won't End Soon
Our "new normal" global consumption reality won't be ending soon. It's not just e-commerce—other factors augment long-term stress on your ability to marshal supplies and source transport to serve customers.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
E-Commerce Innovation: Leaders of the Pack
E-commerce brands looking to protect merchandise and reduce their carbon footprint are exploring surprising new packaging materials, designs, uses, and re-uses.
E-commerce, Technology , Transportation
Big Ideas for Small Companies
Small companies take big steps to navigate supply chain challenges.
Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management
Reducing Customer Costs Through Strategic Inventory Movements
Taylored Services' unique approach allows the company to develop independent processes designed to drive the success of customers through increased operational transparency and strategy.
From Robots to Running Shoes
DHL Supply Chain and Locus Robotics helped Brooks Running meet consumer demand during the pandemic.
Bar-coding Systems, Distribution, Warehousing
Need Speed Across the Supply Chain? It's All About the Barcode.
Warehouse and DC managers are following the lead of their e-commerce peers and looking at ways to streamline their receiving and warehouse processes. One of the smartest places to start is also one of the simplest—barcode label printing.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Technology
Fixing Manufacturers' Broken Traditional Selling Processes
Manufacturing's traditional selling processes are broken. Our next chapter requires a savvy digital approach backed by a deep understanding of buyer expectations.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Target Practices Faster Fulfillment
Instead of using carriers to ship all its online orders, Target is building its own team of dedicated delivery personnel to get packages to customers' doors even faster
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Amazon Delivery Drivers, Assemble!
Amazon is testing a premium service where shoppers can have their orders assembled upon arrival, as online furniture and houseware sales soar and shoppers make more big-ticket purchases online.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment
E-Commerce Fulfillment: DC Strategies for Riding the Surge
How the COVID-19 pandemic changed demand in five product categories, the challenges those changes created for e-commerce fulfillment, and the strategies that merchants and their service providers deployed to meet the need.
E-commerce, Labor Management, Warehousing
The Future of Warehouse Workers
Warehouse employment has reached new highs as e-commerce sales are higher than any previous point in time. Businesses may need to increase salaries by as much as 3.5% to compete for talent for such high-demand roles.
E-commerce, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Supply Chain Technology: The Age of Acceleration
Technology innovations help supply chain professionals access the qualities that can help them compete in a changed world: safety, visibility, flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Optimization Through a Revamped Network
With an expanding customer base and recent surge in volume, a CPG company turned to Hub Group to construct a dynamic solution. The 3PL streamlined the company’s handling process while increasing service levels.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Stord Closes $65 Million Funding Round, Expanding Its Cloud Supply Chain
Stord, a cloud supply chain services provider for retail and e-commerce brands, raised a $65 million Series C round led by venture capital firm Bond, bringing its total capital raised in the past six months to $100 million.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Omnichannel Delivers, But at What Cost?
The real winners in e-commerce and omnichannel retail will be the ones who master managing their fulfillment and last-mile operations and costs.
E-commerce, Technology , Visibility
Boosting Supply Chain Visibility
With the explosion of e-commerce delivery demands and shifts in supply chain practices, visibility is more important than ever. Here are 10 tips to help you optimize your business.
Food Logistics, Retail, Technology
IoT, AI, ML: Keeping Innovation in Sight
Leaders set their sights on the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to enhance visibility, cut costs, and power growth.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Retail
Reverse Logistics: It's All Coming Back to Me Now
Using reverse logistics strategies, shippers can recoup maximum value on a product when the first sale doesn't work out.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Health Care Logistics, Distribution
Is the Logistics Sector Ready for the COVID-19 Vaccine?
The last mile will have to accommodate the reliable distribution of the billions of vaccines that providers will manufacture and ship in 2021. Here are the obstacles facing the supply chain.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Getting Crafty with Supply Chain Solutions - Verst Logistics
Verst Logistics helped an arts and crafts supplies company address peak season challenges and growing sales by expanding its supply chain capabilities.
Distribution, Technology , Warehousing
Pandemic Spurs Accelerated Investment in Supply Chain Automation, Digital Technologies
How will digital technologies and automated solutions help your supply chain succeed in this new, post-pandemic reality? For starters, they increase resilience in the face of disruption and support your workforce.
Accelerating Innovation to Meet Supply Chain Challenges
These three winning projects exemplify ID Logistics' mission to continually drive process improvements and boost service levels.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
DHL Shares Strategy for Peak Season and Beyond
E-commerce is up 65% year over year, and expected to surge more than 50% during the busiest peak week, according to Chet Paul, senior vice president at DHL Express; Kraig Foreman, president at DHL Supply Chain; and Craig Morris, chief information officer at DHL eCommerce Solutions.
3PL, Distribution, Partnership
Taylored Fulfillment Services Acquires U.S. Operations of Toll Global Logistics
The acquisition triples Taylored’s footprint in key areas, totaling more than 4.1 million square feet of distribution space.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Macy's Parades Digital Lead
Digitally mature retailers better reacted to COVID-19 disruptions, finds a study by technology company Incisiv. Based on performance along the customer journey, the study names the top North American apparel retailers in digital maturity.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
What's the Holiday Sales Scenario?
The holiday retail season will play out in one of two ways sales-wise, both of which are lower than prior years. The gift that keeps on giving? E-commerce sales.
E-commerce, Retail, Technology
Consumers Set Their Sights on Visibility
With more consumers expecting to find, buy, and receive products wherever and however they desire, the need for retailers to optimize and elevate their supply chain capabilities is imperative for maintaining sales and brand loyalty.
E-commerce, Technology , Warehousing
The World Is Your Warehouse 3.0
LEO satellites will enable e-commerce companies to take orders from everywhere and anywhere, allowing all countries, developed or not, to share what we take for granted.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Stirring Up Solutions
These companies are concocting innovative e-commerce solutions as alcohol sales flow online.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
3 Ways Retailers Can Fully Prepare for the Holiday Season
COVID-19 created a whole new world of retail, with more online orders, increased transparency, and a focus on scalable redundancy. Retailers that meet these three goals may have a joyful holiday season after all.
Distribution, Technology , Visibility
Improving Visibility: And Sew It Goes
Timely deliveries are critical for Tacony, a manufacturer and distributor of sewing and floor care products. Learn how the family-owned company cut costs, streamlined transportation, and boosted service levels by collaborating with Sunset Transportation.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail
Reshaping Retail
Agile and innovative retailers transformed their operations during COVID-19. Will their new fulfillment options and increased digitization go out of style as stores reopen, or will they become retail staples?
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
We Scream for Ice Cream
Consumers are screaming for ice cream, and retailers are refining their e-commerce tactics for this frozen treat. Take a look at some ice cream supply chain trends.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Retail Responds
To improve their supply chain resilience for future disruption, retailers must invest in flexibility, visibility, and automation
E-commerce, Economic Development, Distribution
Becoming the Next Leading Logistics Hub
Kansas City, which offers an appealing central location and established "inland port," provides a blueprint for distribution hotspots.
Distribution, Demand Planning, Retail
Home for the Holidays
Consumers are planning to do their holiday shopping mostly from home and earlier this year, presenting big challenges for distribution centers.
E-commerce, Food Logistics, Retail
Online Grocery Shifts into Hyperspeed
Here are three ways retailers can ensure e-commerce capabilities run efficiently by focusing on trading partner collaboration.
Distribution, Manufacturing, Technology
True Manufacturing Embraces More Efficient, Visual Load Building
Looking to streamline load building, True Manufacturing turned to MagicLogic Optimization and integrated Cube-IQ, a software solution that optimizes load planning. The result was reduced work hours and increased efficiency.
E-commerce, Demand Planning, Retail
Vertical Focus: Home Goods
Take a look at how consumer shopping behaviors changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other trends impacting the home goods industry.
3PL, Distribution, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Sustaining Operational Excellence
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
How Will the Future Unfold?
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.
E-commerce, Reverse Logistics, Warehousing
How Returns Impact the Warehouse and What You Can Do About It
While it’s easy to pass off returns as primarily an e-commerce or retail issue, the fact is it’s a challenge all distributors face.
E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
The Importance of Inventory Accuracy After COVID-19
Once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and doors reopen, apparel and footwear retailers say their main concern is inventory accuracy—even over improving online order fulfillment and managing returns.
Distribution, Chemical Logistics, Warehousing
NACD Program Ensures Seamless Partnerships
The chemical distribution industry poses a unique challenge for warehouses and carriers due to the wide range of goods that fall under strict regulatory requirements for handling, storage, and shipping. Finding a 3PL partner who can meet these expectations is critical and often requires considerable research and evaluation.
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
We Must Learn to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruption from Disasters
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:
E-commerce, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Staying Productive in Unproductive Times
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.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Agility On Demand
When you combine consumer demand for deliveries at a breakneck pace, the historically tight labor market, and the unpredictability of the global trade landscape, e-commerce businesses must be just as fast as they are flexible to succeed today’s market.
Distribution, Finance, Manufacturing
Distributors, Shippers Eye Surcharging to Stay Afloat Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
Accepting credit cards can be a major differentiator for businesses, enabling customers to pay however is most convenient for them. To balance this need with the necessity of maintaining margins, consider credit card surcharging.
3PLs Flex Their Tech Muscle
Increasing visibility, flexibility, and accuracy, these technological tools enable 3PLs to more effectively move, store, and fulfill shippers’ orders—even during supply chain disruptions.
E-commerce, Global Economy, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Flexing Muscle on China Trade Compliance
Inbound Logistics publisher Keith Biondo discusses whether e-commerce shipment enforcement will ensure that China complies with Phase 1 of the U.S.-China trade deal signed in January 2020.
Green Logistics, Distribution, Technology
Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief
Take a look at notable good works, green projects, acquisitions, and more from February 2020.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Map Mishaps Throw Last-Mile Drivers Off Course
Almost all last-mile delivery drivers say they would be more effective if their maps were more accurate—this includes better meeting delivery windows and fewer parking tickets.
3PL, Distribution, Supply Chain
GOOD QUESTION | What Supply Chain Terms Do People Sometimes Confuse?
We asked and you answered—these are the supply chain terms and phrases that you think people often confuse.
Retail, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Technology
Robot Return Ratios
Using robots to clearly monitor and better match demand to supply pays huge dividends.
Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail
Coronavirus Precautions
Manufacturers with primary and sub-tier suppliers near Wuhan, China, can use these five guidelines to plan ahead for any COVID-19 impact.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Crossing the Final-Mile Finish Line
E-commerce revenue in 2020 will reach $3.52 trillion—this explosion is forcing retailers to find faster and more convenient modes to reach the final mile.
3PL, Last Mile Delivery, Retail
Navigating Amazon's Move into Freight
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.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation
Winning Moves for the Last Mile
Take a look at the strategies that retailers and their service partners use to improve last-mile delivery for direct-to-consumer sales.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Technology
What if General George Patton was Walmart’s CEO?
General Patton would survey the e-commerce battlefield where Walmart competes and conduct a threat assessment of every major competitor, especially Amazon.
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
What's the Word?
The hot supply chain words or phrases for the coming year and the concepts behind them.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
VERTICAL FOCUS | Paper
As a result of recent trends in customer preferences, demand for printing and writing paper continues to drop. Over the past decade, production of printing and writing papers has declined by 6% annually.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Transportation
Urban Logistics
Where the e-commerce boom intersects with urban centers, logisticians get street—and space—smart.
E-commerce, Retail, Supply Chain
Halloween: A Scary Supply Chain
A look back at the scary supply chain that was Halloween 2019.
E-commerce, Retail, Warehousing
Warehouse Automation Growing, But For How Long?
New research from market intelligence firm Interact Analysis finds that, during the past few years, the warehouse automation market has seen double-digit growth rates driven in part by the rise of e-commerce and omni-channel retail. Here's what you need to know.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Supply Chain
Building Brand Love
Supply chain efficiencies can support brand strategies in key ways.
E-commerce, Distribution, Technology
Best Buy's Shiny, New Supply Chain Strategy for the Holiday Season
Best Buy made its list and checked it twice, and it's ready to take on the holiday season with a new and improved supply chain.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain
Enabling Faster Distribution in the Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical Industry - MD Logistics
New facilities in Indianapolis and Reno enable 3PL MD Logistics to support faster time to market for its life sciences and pharmaceutical customers.
Retail, Supply Chain, Sustainability
Green Supply Chains: Sustainability Sells
This article looks at three companies that aim for environmental sustainability in their operations. It examines their “green” practices and also considers the financial impact of those activities.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Noted: The Supply Chain in Brief
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
E-commerce, Supply Chain, Technology
Achieving Transportation and Logistics Success in the On-demand Age
With heightened consumer demand for rapid delivery showing no sign of slowing, companies and their transportation partners are under immense pressure to produce an unprecedented amount of consumer goods, while at the same time deliver positive shopping experiences.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Bringing Logistics In-House
Without an in-house delivery option, enterprises are often held back if they rely on external providers. Even if the third party helps them increase their sales volumes, they can end up being order rich but money and data poor. To provide an answer to these questions, enterprises need a platform that allows them to manage an in-house delivery service, while flexibly deploying third-party solutions as needed.
Retail, Supply Chain, Visibility
A Good Night's Rest With Peace of Mind
Boll & Branch promises full comfort with zero chemicals.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Retail
The Leader of the Pack
Randa improves pick, pack and ship process with supply chain consulting firm VSS and Cybra's MarkMagic barcode labeling software
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
CPG Success: Top-Shelf Solutions
Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are among those most impacted by the proliferation of delivery channels over the past several years. To succeed in this changing marketplace, successful CGP businesses are refining factory operations and developing new distribution and transportation models.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Setting Up Shop
This story examines some of the new models for e-commerce fulfillment that retailers are using today, particularly ones that involve the use of physical stores.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
When Worlds Collide
Online retailers are winning in the market with all types of consumers, even in manufacturing industrial products.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Distribution
A New Argument for Pool Distribution as More Specialty E-Retailers Set Up Shop
Pool distribution is one strategy that’s getting a second wind in the face of intensifying e-commerce pressure and the changing face of America’s malls.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Today's Technology, Tomorrow's Demand
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Mark Bakker: Change Agent
A profile of Mark Bakker, head of supply chain operations, Americas, with HP Inc.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Technology
Automated EDI Brings Benefits as Far as Eyebobs Can See
A direct, automated EDI connection between its ERP system and retail partners gives eyebobs 20/20 visibility to its omnichannel orders.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Finding Capacity and Savings In a Dynamic Market - Hub Group
Hub Group generated savings and efficiency for a leading national retailer.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Maximizing Global E-Commerce Profits
The trends affecting supply chains require an agile approach
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Disrupting the Future of Grocery Retailing
What’s needed is a new retail model for grocery shopping.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Game Has Changed—Time for a New Playbook - Transportation Insight, LLC
Shippers need a playbook that charts a strategy for obtaining better operational understanding while improving processes that most directly affect customer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology , Warehousing
Automation Is a Game Changer for
E-tailers
A majority of consumers have moved on to online shopping. According to a report by eMarketer Retail, in 2017, retail ecommerce sales worldwide increased by 25% over the previous year. What has really helped boost e-commerce, is the convenience of quick delivery. This adds to the purchase experience that is vital for sustaining customers over the long term. This is possible only when the retail operations are driven by technology integration and automation, across its entire supply chain.
Fulfillment, Retail, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Accuracy and Time Savings Through AI-Driven Forecasting
AI is quickly gaining ground in supply chain management, and we’re seeing it applied to demand forecasting to overcome many obstacles.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Walgreens Launches Home Delivery Program for Prescriptions
Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics, Technology
Holiday Shipping Guidance for 2018: Analyzing FedEx 2017 Holiday Ship-By Dates
To better understand when shippers should send their packages during the holiday season, GrandCanals, the market leader in analytics-driven fulfillment, is launching an AI-powered website at where companies can view holiday ship-by predictions for 2018, updated nightly. These predictions are determined by artificial intelligence and consider both historical and current shipping trends across the GrandCanals Delivery Performance tracking network.
E-commerce, Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Growth in the Line of Beauty
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
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season
According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
What's Ahead for Retail Technology? Ask the Crystal Ball
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
Supply Chain Scorecards: A Tool for the Times
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.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Retailers Plug Into AI
Nearly two-thirds of retail supply chain professionals struggle with disconnects between systems, finds Symphony RetailAI's Strengthening the Retail Supply Chain survey of North American retailers.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hone for the Holidays
Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Rethink Fulfillment During Peak Season
Peak season is a great opportunity to determine where your warehouse priorities should lie. Here are the biggest stories to watch this holiday season.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shipping and Delivery: How to Get it Right
Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain
Store Delivery Keeps Retailers in the Game
The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returning Experience
The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returns in the E-Commerce Retail Supply Chain - MD Logistics
In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Overcoming Omni-channel Challenges in Retail - Crane Worldwide Logistics
Supply chains should allocate product across today's complex omni-channel networks to fulfill customer demand.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Footwear Chain Steps Up E-Commerce Efficiency
Independent footwear chain Browns Shoes reduced order lead time and more quickly filled e-commerce orders with an order management system.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Supply Chains in 2018: Millennial Consumers Most Concerned With Speed and Affordability of Deliveries
The e-commerce space is evolving quickly, and retailers must take care to consider consumers' shifting expectations, especially when dealing with younger shoppers.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Footwear E-Tailers: Shoe Me The Money
As e-commerce continues to grow, footwear brands and retailers benefit from continually increasing sales. The challenge for e-tailers is to be profitable while dealing with fickle consumer tastes and product seasonality, a high return rate and large number of SKUs, and packaging that’s larger and bulkier than its parent category, apparel.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Are You Ready for Omnichannel Retail?
While many challenges arise from an omnichannel retail strategy, supply chain professionals must rise to the occasion and stay ahead of these changes.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
Fulfillment Makeover Reveals A Glowing Supply Chain
Faced with rapidly-accelerating demand for its products, skin care company Rodan + Fields, an e-commerce merchant, chooses a distribution solution that includes a new location and automation.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Full-Service Fulfillment Solution Helps E-commerce Company Deliver - Saddle Creek
Saddle Creek helped allheart get orders out quickly, control costs, and keep up with demand spikes.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
2018 Business Trends: For Better, For Worse
Investing in new and improved information technology and robotic process automation (RPA), talent shortages, and trade protectionism are predicted to be the top trends in service delivery for 2018 and the next several years, according to the latest quarterly KPMG Global Insights Pulse survey.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Competing With E-Commerce Giants
Despite the highly competitive environment, it’s possible to compete with e-commerce giants. It just takes creativity, a strong, optimized supply chain and, of course, excellent customer service.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Strategy and E-Commerce Success - Unyson
Here are the six most important elements to consider when creating an item-specific supply chain strategy.
E-commerce, Logistics, Ports, Supply Chain
Imports, E-Commerce Drive Industrial Real Estate Demand
Seaports are a vital economic engine for the United States and a huge driver of demand for industrial real estate. Imports represented 63 percent of the total loaded cargo volume in 2017 for the top 13 ports in the United States.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Trends
E-commerce is an increasingly powerful engine for growth, and offers the best opportunities for small and mid-sized businesses, according to research conducted by DHL.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-Commerce: Cultivating a New Logistics Landscape
E-commerce continues to mow down traditional business practices. To adapt, companies serving manufacturing, industrial, and retail customers are seeding their portfolios with new services, and not letting any grass grow under their feet.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain
New Floor & Decor Facility
New and noteworthy in the supply chain
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Fashion Icon Designs Supply Chain Solution
With its distribution center approaching capacity, Michael Kors had several options to consider, including one that would expand the existing facility. The fashion company turned to supply chain software company LLamasoft for help evaluating possible solutions. The collaboration also led to Michael Kors developing a core supply chain decision-making capability as well as systems it could use for other purposes.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Supply Chain Impatience: No Time To Wait
Artificial intelligence, hidden cameras, robots—These are not part of a new movie, but reflect daily life in a "hurry up" world of impatient consumers. Read how supply chains are adapting to serve a market increasingly driven by e-commerce and Amazon-like business models.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shopper Expectations Outpace Retail Investments
Key findings from the 2017 Global Shopper Study
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Acquiring Shipt Will Bring Target Shoppers Same-Day Delivery
Target acquired same-day delivery company Shipt.
E-commerce, Manufacturing, Logistics, Supply Chain
Status Quo? No.
Status quo will not be the norm in 2018 as major and minor changes are brewing in business operations.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology , Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Collaboration: Myth or Reality?
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.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
CX in the Era of Supply Chain Impatience
Transportation, logistics, and supply chain play an increasingly pivotal role in providing excellent customer service.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain
Leveraging Supply Chain Automation to Meet This Year’s Holiday Shopping Demands
The holiday sales rush presents both an opportunity and a challenge for shippers as they navigate high-volume orders and expectations for next-day shipping. By leveraging supply chain automation, shippers can meet this year’s higher-than-ever consumer demands while staying competitive.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Ways to Improve Fulfillment Center Efficiency
Here are five key considerations to remember when solving for improved efficiency in your fulfillment center.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain
Survey: Customers Place a High Priority on On-Time Holiday Shipping
Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Tim O’Brien: Exuding Star Power
Profile of Tim O’Brien, senior director, supply chain, with Purchasing Power, a specialty e-commerce retailer that provides goods and services to customers who make payments through payroll deductions
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Logistics, Transportation
The Last Mile—History Repeating As Supply Managers Face Peak Season - Crane Worldwide Logistics
To prepare for this coming shopping season, supply chain managers need to engage key stakeholders to review current logistics operations and strategically assess whether or not they are prepared to meet existing consumer expectations.
E-commerce, Big Data, Manufacturing, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Consumer Behavior: The Missing Link
Retailers and manufacturers can unlock significant competitive advantage by leveraging consumer insights to make category decisions and create localized merchandising assortments.
Humanitarian Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
The Calm After the Storms
FedEx and UPS set aside rivalry to lobby White House on infrastructure, Retailers will rely heavily on technologies such as live chat, Facebook Messenger and Amazon Alexa for customer service, according to new research from Linc and Brand Garage, Research shows that U.S. industry executives are most concerned about the impact of trade protectionism, risk management, and border adjustment tax proposal
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Inventory Management, Retail, Supply Chain
E-Commerce Commentary: Three Ways Shippers Can Improve Customer Satisfaction
Shippers should turn their attention to three frequently overlooked components of inventory record management to improve inventory accuracy and, ultimately, consumer satisfaction.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail
Supply Chain Commentary: Prepare for Mobile Commerce
Mobile commerce is expected to become a $250-billion market by 2020, with an increasing number of sales being done via smartphone apps, says the 2017 UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper. Here are key takeaways for retailers.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Supply Chain, Technology
Amazon Closes Whole Foods Acquisition: 3 Experts Weigh In
Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods Market closes today August 28, 2017. Find out what it means today and for retailers in the near future.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Reverse Logistics: Earning a High Rate of Return
Opportunities that will make a difference in reverse logistics programs, and establishing goals for returns programs.
Economic Development, Distribution, Logistics, Ports
Florida: Logistics & Distribution—The Future is Here
Florida's state-of-the-art seaports and airports, and strong highway and rail networks, have helped establish a strong and growing logistics sector.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans
Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Amazon’s Prime Day: Primetime for Online Retailers to Get Logistics Lessons
Amazon is the most sophisticated technical and logistical company on the planet. Here's what online retailers can learn from Prime Day.
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
U.S./Canada Trade Remains Strong, With Plenty of Opportunity for Growth - Purolator
John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
E-commerce Fulfillment Survey Finds Evidence of Retailer Growing Pains
Careers, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Visibility
Paul Nugent: Feed the Flow
Profile on Paul Nugent, director of logistics for Kitchen and Bath Americas with Kohler Co.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Thinking Inside the Unbox
Challenge yourselves to go beyond a great product and deliver an outstanding brand experience for your customers when they open your package for the first time.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
3 Main Sources of Supply Chain Complexity
Once you understand where the complexities lie in your supply chain, you can get to the source of your problem and streamline issues to help your organization.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Retailer Reduces Transportation Spend - Unyson
A retailer teamed up with Unyson to create an out-of-the-box solution for its growing supply chain.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Apparel Logistics: Stepping Out in Style
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.
Big Data, Retail, Sustainability, Warehousing
Supply Chain Predictions 2020
Industry leaders look to the future, offering advice and strategies to help you successfully navigate the year ahead.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Retail, Transportation
Winning Moves for the Last Mile
Take a look at the strategies that retailers and their service partners use to improve last-mile delivery for direct-to-consumer sales.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
159 Expert Tips to AMP Your Supply Chain
Get moving with these actionable tips to jolt your warehousing, transportation, and logistics operations.
E-commerce, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
When Logistics Worlds Collide: Fashion History Predicts Future of Pharma Fulfillment
Larry Hotz, of WDSrx - Woodfield Distribution, LLC, draws from his experiences in the fashion industry to predict the future of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation Management
Lori Fellmer Keeps It Moving
A profile of Lori Fellmer, vice president of logistics and carrier management with BassTech International.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics
Walgreens Launches Home Delivery Program for Prescriptions
Walgreens is striving to become more consumer-friendly in an attempt to compete with e-commerce.
E-commerce, Expedited Shipping, Fulfillment, Logistics
How Shippers Can Relieve Consumers' Delivery Anxiety
Delivery anxiety is the anxiety consumers feel when they don’t know when they are going to receive their order or when shipping costs push the total order cost too high. Removing delivery anxiety, your single largest obstacle to converting orders, can result in an up to 20% increase in sales, happier customers, fewer calls to customer support, and an optimized delivery network.
Distribution, Logistics, Real Estate, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehousing
How to Adapt an Aging Warehouse
When the time arrives to consider investing in additional space, many distribution centers, retailers and businesses dependent on warehouses face a dilemma: should the organization move to a new facility, build an addition, or try to retrofit an older warehouse? And, in the case of a retrofit or addition, what can be done to make an aging or existing warehouse space more suitable?
E-commerce, Fulfillment, Retail, Warehousing
Keeping up with B2B Fulfillment Demands this Holiday Season
According to a recent report by CBRE, the average U.S. warehouse is about 34 years old. While this may seem relatively “young”, in our digitally-transformed world, any 34-year-old technology is practically a senior citizen. What’s more, within retail, the last five years has seen the rise of eCommerce as a preferred shopping method for consumers. It’s no surprise that the same CBRE report notes that U.S. warehouses are currently under significant strain to keep up with demand.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Hone for the Holidays
Holiday preparations are in high gear with hiring sprees and e-commerce investments reported by retailers and logistics service providers alike.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Shipping and Delivery: How to Get it Right
Executing against the wrong e-commerce strategy – or not having a strategy at all – is a recipe for higher costs and lower customer satisfaction levels and can have a major negative impact on your business.
Reverse Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Send It Back! How to Manage E-Commerce Returns
Up to 30 percent of e-commerce orders shipped to customers wind up coming back. Here's how smart retailers box up their reverse logistics strategies.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returning Experience
The war between the retail/e-commerce customer experience and increasing costs is heating up, thanks to the impact that rising transportation prices are having on the retail process. That trend plagues e-commerce players and retailers, both large and small.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Returns in the E-Commerce Retail Supply Chain - MD Logistics
In recent years, a rise in e-commerce sales has led to an increase in the amount of items returned. This increase in returns creates a challenging situation for retailers and an opportunity for their 3PL providers.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Thinking Beyond Home Delivery - SEKO Logistics
Consumer expectations are becoming increasingly demanding, and matching supply to demand is crucial for any successful supply chain.
Distribution, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Reinventing Your Warehouse or DC
Here are some warehouse operations moves—some small steps, some not—companies can do to boost their bottom lines and improve customer satisfaction, including layout and organization, docking, picking and receiving, fulfillment, and packaging.
Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain
A Cool Supply Chain Solution
A 3PL's cold call leads to a cool technology solution that streamlines processes and minimizes service disruptions
E-commerce, Automotive Logistics, Packaging, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Efficiency: Packaging for the Automotive E-Commerce Era
To improve the bottom line and take advantage of the e-commerce automotive aftermarket sector’s rising popularity, OEMs should focus on the role packaging plays in supply chain efficiency.
E-commerce, Global Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
H&M Tries on Supply Chain Improvements
Retailer H&M will increase supply chain investments and continue cost control measures to address slow growth in 2017, and keep pace with e-commerce rivals.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
The Human Experience
In the rush to satisfy ever-increasing demands for speed and efficiency, and the clarion calls to deliver your best customer experience, supply chain managers need to consider that impact on the worker experience.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking, Transportation
Truckload Carriers and E-commerce: Serving the Middle Mile
E-commerce is redrawing the landscape for freight transportation. Do truckload carriers have a place in this new world of high-velocity supply chains, especially as shipments get smaller and delivery windows shrink?
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Warehousing
E-Commerce Warehouses: SuperSize Me
E-commerce has driven a more than doubling of the average footprint of warehouses built in the United States since the early 2000s.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Trucking
LTL Carriers: E-Commerce Powerhouse
As more consumers choose e-commerce for a variety of goods, how are less-than-truckload carriers being impacted? Trucking companies are developing new strategies to serve retailers and manufacturers creating the goods that impatient consumers expect fast and free.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary: Satisfying Customer Demand in a 365 E-Commerce Market
Today, shippers need to employ innovative solutions year-round, both digitally and with a physical presence in the supply chain.
E-commerce, China, Automotive Logistics, Global Logistics
U.S.-Cuba Trade: Where Do Sanctions, Sourcing, and Compliance Meet?
U.S.-Cuba trade–The intersection of sanctions, sourcing and compliance; Chilean multinational logistics agency Agunsa has teamed up with Japanese shipping firm K-Line to form a dedicated automotive logistics company, KAR Logistics; UPS and SF Holding joint venture receives regulatory approval in China; Dubai introduces e-commerce center
Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics, Technology , Warehousing
How AR Can Take the Sting Out of Seasonal Surge Training Costs
Every holiday season, warehouses expand their workforces two times or more to handle peak retail demand that can make or break the entire year. Here’s how augmented reality can help.
E-commerce, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
H.O.W. | How to Transform the Supply Chain for Omnichannel Retailing
Getting your supply chain ready for omnichannel retailing requires integration with IT, sales and marketing, and procurement as well as transportation. Companies should assess what they can do in-house, and which areas require outside help.
E-commerce, Education & Careers, Logistics, Supply Chain
Educating the Supply Chain - SMC³
Jump Start 2018 provides shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and other supply chain professionals with indispensable insights about trends and challenges in the wider logistics arena.
E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability
How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability
Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.
E-commerce, 3PL, Retail Logistics, Logistics Solutions Providers, Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain
Recent Industry Disruptions Challenge, Improve Retail Logistics and Supply Chain - WSI
The retail industry needs to adapt an agile and visible supply chain to fulfill increasingly demanding consumer requests.
3PL, Retail Logistics, Distribution, Retail
Solved: Satellite DC Quickly Fulfills Orders - Unyson
Unyson helped a customer simultaneously increase service for time-sensitive shipments while decreasing costs.
Retail Logistics, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management
The Perfect Amount of Packaging
Sustainable packaging helps shippers’ bottom line and brand as well as being easier on the environment.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Logistics, Supply Chain
Distributors Step Up Their Game
Distributors continue to play a valuable role within many supply chains. At the same time, changing business models, and especially the rise of e-commerce, are prompting many to enhance the services they offer.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Visibility
Solved: Increasing Retail Presence - SEKO
When Dippin’ Dots needed more visibility in retail locations they teamed up with SEKO to get display freezers to market quickly.
E-commerce, Economic Development, Logistics, Supply Chain
An Inside Look at Freight-Based Development in Kansas City
CVS Pharmacy, Amazon, and others have invested more than $456 million in warehousing and distribution centers in the KC region, adding 4,700 jobs since 2015. How has this mid-sized Midwestern region been so successful attracting logistics operations? Why are experts predicting continued growth?
E-commerce, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Retail
U.S./Canada Trade Remains Strong, With Plenty of Opportunity for Growth - Purolator
John Costanzo of Purolator International discusses the latest trade trends between the United States and Canada.
E-commerce, Logistics, Partnership, Packaging, Supply Chain
New Packaging Innovation Center
UPS and Sealed Air’s new center will help solve e-commerce retailers’ packaging and shipping challenges.
Retail, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation
Uniformed Booking Platform Improves Vendor Compliance
A retailer needed to bring suppliers together and optimize processes so they teamed up with Unyson for a solution.
E-commerce, Logistics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Jennifer Daniel: Mastering the Art of Logistics
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.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Reverse Logistics, Logistics, Supply Chain
Minimize Returns While Improving Sales
Minimizing costs and even making a profit in reverse logistics is critical to an e-commerce company’s health. Here are some ways to do that.
Retail Logistics, Fulfillment, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Remains the “Next Big Thing”
Symphony RetailAI, and CPG manufacturers, announced the findings of a benchmark report. The fourth annual study, conducted by Retail Systems Research (RSR) and sponsored by Symphony RetailAI, shows enhanced efficiencies from previous years, but clear room for improvement in fulfillment strategies, demand forecasting, and inventory accuracy and visibility.
E-commerce, Last Mile Delivery, Lean, Retail, Supply Chain
Store Delivery Keeps Retailers in the Game
The fulfillment part of multi-channel e-commerce is tricky; store delivery is one possible last-mile option.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
E-commerce, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Logistics, Supply Chain, Technology
Accelerate Breakthrough by Helping Human Experts - Transportation Insight
While machine learning and predictive intelligence will shape this era, creative companies which value collaboration, human expertise and servant leadership can change the game.
E-commerce, 3PL, Logistics, Third-Party Logistics, Supply Chain
5 Ways Your 3PL Can Help Meet E-commerce Challenges
A 3PL could offer benefits worth exploring to help you accommodate e-commerce growth.
E-commerce, Retail, Packaging, Supply Chain, Sustainability
How Reduced Packaging Waste is Key to Sustainability
Shippers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce packaging waste and emissions as key components of their sustainability efforts.
E-commerce, Distribution, Fulfillment, Retail, Logistics, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain, Transportation
E-Commerce: The Great Retail Equalizer
This story looks at some of the trends and challenges associated with e-commerce today, and strategies for dealing with those challenges, through the eyes of one small retailer, one medium-sized and one large.
E-commerce, Retail Logistics, Retail, Logistics I.T., Supply Chain
Supply Chain Commentary:
The Battle of Retail Titans
Amazon and Walmart are battling it out to conquer the last mile of the supply chain. It's important to note that this is not a competition for the grocery industry, but rather a battle of the distribution center.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
E-commerce, Distribution, Retail, Logistics, Partnership, Supply Chain, Warehousing
Cookware Company Stirs Up a Sizzling Supply Chain
Even after adding a third production shift to its foundry, Lodge Manufacturing Company couldn’t manufacture enough cast-iron cookware to fill orders. To meet demand, the family-owned business in southern Tennessee invested $85 million in a second foundry, a modern 212,000-square-foot distribution center, and the company’s first warehouse management system, mobe3 from EVS.
©2021 Thomas Publishing Company