Supply Chain Insights
A collection of the latest logistics and supply chain management industry whitepapers, eBooks, case studies and more.
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The ROI Behind Freight Visibility
Download Descartes’ eBook to learn how to measure the value and ROI of freight visibility, plus identify areas of greatest payback in your distribution operations to reduce tracking and detention costs, minimize chargebacks, streamline inbound deliveries and improve customer service.
How to Drive More Value from Your 3PLs
How you define your 3PL relationships is tied directly to your success. Read Gartner’s Report: Helping Logistics Leaders Define Transactional, Preferred and Strategic 3PL Relationships.
The Complete KPI Worksheet for Shippers
As a shipper, you know every mile, every load, every dollar counts. This is where KPIs or Key Performance Indicators come in. KPIs help you determine whether your carriers and transportation partners are delivering the most value for your buisness. The Complete KPI Worksheet for Shippers is the gold standard for carrier scorecards. Shippers can use this template to monitor performance, control costs, and benchmark their carrier network. Download now.
5 Signs You Need a New Training Provider
Training to handle, manage, and ship dangerous chemicals is not a rote exercise intended to “check a box.” When a mistake can lead to serious injury, death, evacuations, hospitalizations, highway closures, and lasting environmental contamination-training for personnel must meet higher standards for quality, accuracy, and knowledge retention.
Improving Supply Chain Accuracy, Productivity, and Speed
Download this free white paper from Brother Mobile Solutions to discover one of the smartest & simplest ways to speed productivity. Explore the changing warehouse landscape. Then find out how next-gen barcode printing & labeling solutions can help small & mid-size businesses.
Utilizing an OMS to Deliver an Outstanding Omnichannel Customer Experience
Could an OMS improve your customers’ buying experience? A new report from Saddle Creek Logistics Services answers key questions: What are the key benefits of an OMS? What should you look for in an OMS? When does it make sense to outsource?
Take Command of Demand with Retail Solutions
Consumer purchases used to be limited to what retailers had on their shelves. E-commerce means everything is in stock, and retailers are shifting gears to chase demand. Learn how retailers can optimize their supply chains by working with providers to craft timely forecasts, identify efficiency improvements and modify plans as needed using diverse services and technologies
The New Economics of Freight Brokerage
Defining the new economics of #freightbrokerage. With the swings in capacity, availability and rates of today’s freight brokerage, this whitepaper sets out to better define the #truckload marketplace, carriers and their assets and the role of technology and data in the new economics of freightbrokerage
The Master List of Accessorials for Shippers
To help cover all your bases, FLS Transportation Services together this Master List of Accessorial Charges. It covers the 28 fees every shipper must address before tendering loads. Avoid unnecessary freight costs and strengthen carrier relationships.
6 signs you need to re-evaluate your lift truck power
Power Challenges? Re-evaluate your lift truck power source. Read Yale Materials Handling – North America’s white paper to boost efficiency
Top 100 3PL Providers
Inbound Logistics’ annual Top1003PL editorial awards…providing details on innovative and reliable supplychain solution providers. Find out who made the cut here:
2019 North American Carrier Survey
What are carriers saying about the current capacity, pricing and technology situation in the North American logistics market? Carriers across the U.S., Canada and Mexico weigh in on the current economic events that are influencing pricing developments and having the highest impact on their businesses in 2019. Download the results of the most comprehensive survey among North American carriers to see just how much the landscape has shifted over the last year.
HazMat Autocomplete Challenge: Part 2
In Part 2 of this Hazmat Autocomplete Series, hazmat trainer Flip De Rea gives unscripted answers to five more of the web’s most-asked questions about hazardous materials compliance.
The Ultimate RFP Checklist for Shippers
Hey Shippers! Learn how to find the right freight partners, download The Ultimate RFP Checklist. It’s your ticket to managing bids, awarding lanes & reducing costs.
U.S.-Canada: Going the Distance
For all the political rhetoric on the international stage, the relationship between the United States and Canada remains extraordinarily civil and cooperative.
3PL Perspectives
Inbound Logistics’ 14th annual 3PL Market Research Report examines challenges, trends, and future expectations that are driving shippers and logistics providers to change the way they manage logistics and supply chain operations.
Avoiding the Pitfalls of a First-Time TMS Buyer: Lessons to be Learned Before Purchasing a TMS
In this whitepaper, we look at some of the key lessons to learn before you embark on a TMS project. From understanding the fundamental differences in design, to knowing the TMS products on the market today, to understanding the how (not the what), and asking for proof of a vendor’s claims, you can arm yourself with a deeper knowledge of the technology and vendor landscape that will help you ask the tougher questions.
Not Your Mama’s 3PL
Being a successful 3PL in this day and age means stepping outside of the box, and finding creative solutions for today’s fulfillment needs. How do you find those creative solutions? What will make you stand out in the traditional 3PL environment? Download our whitepaper to help with developing customer solutions in a variety of industries.
The Top 4 Benefits of Supply Chain Agility
IDC estimates that, by 2020, digitally advanced companies will outperform their peers to the tune of $430 billion in productivity gains. By creating a flexible digital supply chain, organizations can achieve these gains amongst numerous other strengths like increased agility. From centralization to flexibility, the advantages of supply chain agility can provide an enduring competitive advantage to your organization. Learn how implementing a comprehensive digital supply chain can enhance your company’s agility!
Beyond Transportation Savings: Leverage Freight and Parcel Audit Data to Unlock Business Insights
Most companies understand the importance of having reliable freight and parcel audit providers. What they may not understand, however, is how these services can improve strategies and results. Leveraging data provided by transportation insights is the key to unlocking valuable information and shining a light on weak spots in your supply chain. enVista’s latest whitepaper introduces the steps needed to make the most of your freight and parcel audit data, so you can reap the benefits of informed business decisions.
Not Your Mama’s 3PL
Being a successful 3PL in this day and age means stepping outside of the box, and finding creative solutions for today’s fulfillment needs. How do you find those creative solutions? What will make you stand out in the traditional 3PL environment? Download our whitepaper to help with developing customer solutions in a variety of industries.
A CFO’s Guide to Transforming the Global Supply Chain
In a recent study, 94% of respondents said digital transformation will fundamentally change supply chains, but only 44% of companies had a strategy for achieving their goals of digitization – it’s time to close that gap! Spreadsheets, emails, and paper are no longer an effective way to operate and the inherent risk of such increases daily. So, where should you start? Don’t get left behind and lose control of your global supply chain!
Artificial Intelligence: How is Your Company Responding to AI’s Continuing Evolution Within the Logistics Industry
Although many transportation companies had doubts about the abilities of artificial intelligence, it’s already proving to be crucial. Between decreasing unplanned maintenance and repair costs and improving driver safety, AI is delivering impressive, tangible results. As it continues to become more ubiquitous, what do companies need to know to manage expectations and fully embrace the technology? In IL’s latest podcast, Jay Allardyce, chief product officer for Uptake, explains his take on the potential promises and pitfalls of AI.
Case Study: Direct to Representative Sample Distrubution Services
Pharmaceutical manufacturers require an efficient sample distribution program that enables sales representatives to be as productive as possible. At the same, they must ensure full compliance with stringent industry regulations while minimizing product loss. Read this case study to discover how the Patheon Logistics team helped design a Direct to Representative sample distribution solution for a client that would optimize efficiency while delivering improved service levels.
Ask the Experts: The Web’s 10 Most Asked Hazmat Questions
In our Hazmat Autocomplete Challenge video, we used a popular search engine to collect the web’s most-asked questions about hazardous materials compliance. Click play now to watch Lion hazmat instructor Flip De Rea give unscripted, off-the-cuff answers to the questions hazmat shippers are asking online.
Take the Uncertainty Out of Your Supply Chain
As your supply chain grows in intricacies and complexity, more risk is introduced to your business. From the threat of labor shortages to rising transportation costs, the potential for exposure to risk may seem endless. It is critical for supply chain professionals to identify the areas of the potential impact from risk and uncertainty in their operations. Don’t wait until it’s too late, prepare your supply chain now!
Opportunities in Direct-to-Consumer Frozen Foods
The direct-to-consumer (DTC) frozen foods business is in the early stages of rapid growth. As many food types are becoming increasingly available on a direct to consumer basis, the share of total purchases allocated to frozen foods is higher in e-commerce than in brick-and-mortar sales. Gray Growth Strategies examines the state of the DTC temperature-controlled foods market and its prospects for future growth.
Case Study: Global Ultra-Cold Clinical Trial Logistics
Researchers predict a significant increase in the number of personalized medicines in development over the next five years. These therapies demand a cold supply chain. The globalization of clinical trials, the prevailing infrastructure and regulatory environment can impact the design of that supply chain. Learn how Thermo Fisher Scientific helped a client overcome significant transportation challenges during the expansion of its first cell therapy-based trial.
Get Your Supply Chain in Focus with IoT
Supply chains are prime candidates for IoT applications because of their many moving parts. Suppliers, brokers, and carriers all have a hand in your fast-moving supply chain. They need to collaborate with manufacturers, DCs, retailers, and customers as products are being produced, packed, and shipped across borders…but do you have true end-to-end visibility? It’s time to take your supply chain execution to a new level and attain 20/20 vision into your operations.
Avoiding the Pitfalls of a First-Time TMS Buyer: Lessons to be Learned Before Purchasing a TMS
In this whitepaper, we look at some of the key lessons to learn before you embark on a TMS project. From understanding the fundamental differences in design, to knowing the TMS products on the market today, to understanding the how (not the what), and asking for proof of a vendor’s claims, you can arm yourself with a deeper knowledge of the technology and vendor landscape that will help you ask the tougher questions.
The Secret to Becoming a Shipper of Choice
As a supply chain professional, you’re likely no stranger to acronyms, shorthands, and buzz phrases. But what about “shipper of choice?” Is it really a title that sets you apart from the competition? More and more, we’re finding the answer is a resounding yes. This guide highlights how to become the go-to shipper of choice by making your freight more desirable and optimizing your processes.
Restructuring Business Models to Satisfy the E-commerce Effect
Supply chain professionals everywhere are grappling with the challenges e-commerce has presented. Companies need to find strategic solutions to restructure their business models to accommodate these changes — but where should they begin? This white paper takes an in-depth look at the disruption of e-commerce in the supply chain by examining different markets and processes to offer suggestions for adaptation and prosperity.
AAEI Trade Trends Report
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is here, and along with it is an influx of global trade troubles. As the challenges continue to stack against you, consider this: How can you leverage technology to overcome emerging and enduring global supply chain management risks? With insights from top industry experts, it’s time to reevaluate your strategy for global supply chain execution
Omnichannel Retailers Delivering from the Endless Aisle
Trying to improve delivery and control the cost of “free shipping,” logistics professionals are implementing omnichannel shipping strategies that deliver from inventory sources closer to their customers, creating an endless aisle. This means a boon for local delivery service providers, and more to manage for shippers. Our latest eBook, “Omnichannel Retailers Delivering from the Endless Aisle,” delivers the ins-and-outs of shipping from the endless aisle.
Overcome the Top 4 Supply Chain Challenges
Your customers continue to demand new levels of service-faster turnaround times and perfect orders. Your team’s ability to fulfill and ship orders accurately can make or break these valuable customer relationships. When you can’t move orders through your distribution center efficiently, your bottom line is at stake. Fast-paced operations like yours need insights into how to make the most of every minute. In this white paper you’ll discover how to overcome the top 4 challenges in your supply chain.
Looking at Your Business in the Face of Decelerating Growth Rates
To make informed decisions, companies need to align business intelligence with macro insights. To that end, Inbound Logistics sits down with Bobby Holland of U.S. Bank and Bob Costello from the American Trucking Associations to look at the direction and velocity of the industry as reflected in the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index. Get the latest talk about trends, tariffs, capacity, and inventory/cost management
The Future of Fulfillment
In response to today’s online-buying, smartphone-wielding consumer who expects a seamless, faster purchasing journey, Zebra Technologies Corporation’s Future of Fulfillment Vision study reveals that 78 percent of logistics companies expect to provide same-day delivery by 2023 and 40 percent anticipate delivery within a two-hour window by 2028. Download the study for more details on how manufacturers, transportation and logistics firms, and retailers are preparing to meet the growing needs of the on-demand economy.
Hazmat Shipper Starter Guide
This ten-step guide to the basics of hazardous materials shipping is designed for professionals who are new to hazmat shipping or in need of a refresher. From classification to naming, packaging, marking, labeling, documenting, and loading hazmat/dangerous goods shipments, this new guide covers critical points shippers must know to achieve and maintain full compliance with US DOT’s 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).
2019 Logistics Planner Company Profile
Find the right technology solutions and transportation and logistics partners to drive supply chain efficiency. The 2019 Logistics Planner, 27 years strong, is updated with profiles of leaders in supply chain, transportation, technology, logistics, and more who stand ready to help you face upcoming challenges and optimize your enterprise.
How Does Your Returns Process Affect Your Retail Business?
E-commerce has changed the way consumers shop and put a completely new spin on retail. To differentiate themselves in an ever-competitive market, retailers have chosen to focus on making the returns process faster and easier for consumers. But is it working? Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo, sits down with Brian Bourke of SEKO Logistics to talk about the new retail landscape and how to have many happy returns.
Logistics KnowledgeBase
Industry experts provide the information you need to drive transformative change.
Don’t Just Get in the Game, Win it with the Right Shipping Plays
Global e-commerce is driving unprecedented shipping volumes across a number of industries as consumers expect more for less. As a result, third-party logistics companies (3PLs) are taking center stage as businesses seek guidance from experts who can help them navigate the carrier capacity crunch, spend less time and money on shipping, and spend more time focusing on their core business. Download the The 3PL Parcel Shipping Playbook to find the best plays to help shippers from all industries ship better globally from the first mile to the last inch.
What Shippers Need To Know When Tech Alone Isn’t The Answer
Rapidly changing customer demands constantly create new challenges for shippers. Some of the most impactful responses can revolve around the implementation of new technology. However, without the proper knowledge behind the switch, are shippers getting the biggest bang for their buck? Ryan O’Halloran of Trinity Logistics joins us to give his take on how technology alone can’t necessarily run the whole logistics program.
Capacity: Tech Solutions That Exist To Help With The Crunch
Today’s supply chain is responding to an increasing capacity crunch that’s challenging companies to find new and better ways to manage their business. From collaboration, to assessing the spot market, to more effective demand planning, technology now exists to help shippers make life easier for their carriers. Patrick Pretorius of Transporeon Group joins us to share his observations on how and where he sees technology making the biggest impact in logistics.
The Top 6 Global Supply Chain Expectations for 2019
It’s a new year for global trade: erratic trade policies, sourcing shifts, transportation woes…what else does 2019 have in store for supply chains? And how does your company plan to prepare? With insights and predictions from top industry experts, let’s navigate the future route of global trade together! Learn why Collaboration, Automation, and Data Analytics are such critical capabilities for your supply chain moving forward.
7 Secrets to Fully Monetize 3PL Services
For many 3PLs, managing multiple clients with unique needs, varying contract rates, different contract rules, and last-minute changes means manual processes and Excel spreadsheets can no longer keep up. The time is now for improved organization, efficiency, and transparency in billing.
Why Did My Hazmat Shipment Get Rejected?
If a carrier rejects your hazardous materials shipment, your team must spend valuable time re-packaging, re-labeling, re-writing paperwork, or otherwise correcting mistakes big and small. Held-up and rejected shipments disrupt logistics, stall your operations, and can severely impact the bottom line. To prevent rejection and the bad outcomes that follow, let’s review some common causes of hazmat rejection and spot red flags before they cause an issue.
Carrier Snapshot Report
In September 2018 Convoy surveyed over 650 small and mid-sized trucking companies across the United States to collect a snapshot of the industry. Read the highlights to learn how you can optimize your supply chain to be a Shipper of Choice with carriers.
The Logistics Transport Evolution: The Road Ahead
Now more than ever, ground transportation is a strategic component of business success as seen by respondents to a worldwide survey conducted by DHL Supply Chain. Three quarters of companies surveyed indicated that investing in improving ground transportation will positively impact their sales, and they are willing to pay for and partner with 3PLs for value-added services that can show a measurable ROI.
Enhancing Container Visibility
To increase savings, business leaders must concentrate on the total cost of the supply chain, rather than just transportation prices. The right company acts like a business partner and takes into consideration transportation, operations and inventory costs to help a network operate more efficiently. What is your transportation and logistics provider doing for you? What should they be doing?