Cloud-Based Freight Procurement Solution Helps 3PL Optimize RFP Events
A large third-party logistics provider turned to SMC³’s freight procurement tool, Bid$ense®, to simplify and streamline the procurement event process. The solution saved the 3PL time and money.
GAWR vs. GVWR: How the Industry Defines and Uses Weight Standards
When venturing into the world of trailers, trucks, or towing, two crucial acronyms come to the forefront: GAWR and GVWR. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Knowing the ins and outs of weight standards is a big deal when it comes to keeping things safe and running smoothly in the world of vehicles and trailers. Manufacturers and […]
Multimodal Transportation: Definition, Examples, and Advantages
In an era of globalization, where swift and efficient transportation is crucial, the logistics sector has had to innovate and adapt. Among the various evolving transportation services, multimodal transportation stands out as an integrated solution catering to diverse intermodal shipping needs. Let’s delve into this concept and understand its significance in today’s fast-paced world. What […]
Supply Chain Risk Management: Definition, Examples, and Strategies
In an interconnected global economy, smooth supply chain operations are crucial to business success. Yet, with myriad variables and dependencies, supply chains are exposed to many potential disruptions. Enter supply chain risk management. Supply chain risk management is a strategic approach to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in the supply chain, ensuring business continuity and […]
Proforma Invoice: Format, Benefits, and Drawbacks
Navigating the world of invoicing can be daunting as it is full of terminology and practices. The proforma invoice is an essential document every business needs to understand. This informational guide outlines a proforma invoice format, its benefits, and potential drawbacks. Whether you’re a business owner, a committed buyer, or someone curious about invoicing, we’ve […]
Insourcing vs Outsourcing: Definitions, Advantages, Differences
As businesses seek to gain a competitive edge while controlling costs, understanding the nuances between insourcing and outsourcing is essential for their success. Throughout this blog post, we will dive into the definitions of both insourcing and outsourcing practices. Then, we’ll explore their advantages and potential drawbacks in various scenarios. Furthermore, we will provide insight […]
Five Best Practices that Support Accelerated Supply Chain Digitalization
There has been incredible progress in supply chain digitalization over the last several years. Technologies that were considered novel just a few years ago are now common while a host of new solutions have been introduced. Here are just a few examples: Robot-assisted and goods-to-person picking technologies have largely displaced manual each picking. Autonomous pallet […]
How 3PLs Build Resilient Supply Chains
As we come up for air after three years of unrelenting challenges caused by the pandemic, supply chains must prepare now for the next disruption by focusing on resiliency and adaptability.
How AI Will Revolutionize Shipping
New technology solutions are making waves in logistics, especially around artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). With huge potential for growth and supply chain improvement, logistics companies are using AI to build upon existing digital solutions and make them even more efficient.
NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
From recent acquisitions to service milestones and awards, here’s what new and notable in the supply chain.
Rethinking Retail Strategies
As a result of retail’s rapid change, retailers need to review existing strategies to fully leverage forward-thinking practices and technology. Identifying those opportunities contributes greatly to revenue, profit improvement, and customer satisfaction.
GOOD QUESTION: What’s One Transportation Metric Shippers Should Pay More Attention To?
While on-time delivery remains a top answer, industry insiders point out other transportation metrics that merit attention and closer consideration.
VERTICAL FOCUS: Candy Supply Chain
From a global shortage of sugar to cold chain compliance considerations, candy companies overcome supply chain challenges to hit the sweet spot for consumers.
Choosing a Warehouse Management System: 3 Tips for the Right Pick
If you are in the market for a warehouse management system (WMS) provider, focus on your current business needs with an eye to the future. Here are the factors to consider and questions to ask to ensure you make the right choice.
Supply Chain Leader Interview: On a Quest to Rid the World of Junked Plastic
An entrepreneur at heart, Vanessa Coleman knows it takes 10 shots to score one goal. That’s why she takes risks, stays persistent, talks to people, and is a good listener–all characteristics that helped build Oceanworks’ success.
9 Types of Trucks in Logistics: Definitions and Importance
The trucking sector is a critical logistics component, with businesses relying on it to maintain quick delivery times and carry multiple loads securely worldwide. Trucks deliver far more cargo than ships, trains, or aircraft, with 71.6% of the $14.5 trillion value of all goods shipped in the United States. Commodities can only go from intermodal […]
Gross Weight vs Curb Weight: Definitions, Differences, and Affects on Vehicle Performance
Navigating the world of vehicle weights can be daunting, with terms like gross weight vs. curb weight often causing confusion. These measurements are more than just numbers; they play a crucial role in determining a vehicle’s performance capability, safety features, and fuel efficacy. This article simplifies these notions by providing clear definitions, outlining their differences, […]
Panamax Ship: History, Advantages, and Capacity
The Panamax ship revolutionized the shipping industry, setting new size standards for vessels traversing the Panama Canal. These unique ship designs were born out of necessity, catering to the canal’s dimension restrictions while maximizing cargo capacity. The term “Panamax,” derived from maximum acceptable dimensions in Panama Canal locks, has spurred significant developments in container ship […]
2023 Trucking Perspectives
In a year of looser capacity but higher operating costs, Inbound Logistics provides an exclusive look at the issues that are top-of-mind for motor carriers and shippers.
IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
From recently delivered Super Post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes for the Port of Savannah to a new bi-directional automated guided vehicle with a 5,000-pound payload, these recent innovations and developments boost supply chain services and operations.
Tennis Ball Supply Chains: Bouncing Around the Globe
Sporting equipment makers are under pressure to reduce the carbon footprint of these pressurized rubber balls. Here’s how they’re hitting circular supply chain goals.
14 Ways to Ensure Carrier Service
Gaining the right service levels from your truckers starts before you choose a carrier and then requires effort to maintain. These strategies can help you get the service that rings your bell.
2023 Guide to Warehouse Management Systems
Looking to increase inventory accuracy, streamline fulfillment, and optimize equipment and labor utilization? A warehouse management system (WMS) may be the answer. This short list of WMS solutions can help you start your search.
TAKEAWAYS: Shaping the Future of the Global Supply Chain
From shipper expectations for the last quarter of 2023 to a regulations roundup, here’s how companies can navigate the peak season and keep freight moving while limiting costs.
How Freight Management Technology Can Enhance Processes and Relationships
Technology should enhance your transportation experiences, not replace trusted relationships with experienced agents who can strategically deploy technology to ensure that shipments progress smoothly and provide help when necessary.
Syfan Logistics Provides Safe Harbor for Manufacturer with Drayage Delays
Through front-end service and being available when others aren’t, Syfan Logistics helped a heavy machinery manufacturer avoid millions in losses.
Accelerate! Conference & Expo: A Unique Event with a Critical Mission
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) is a non-profit organization with the mission to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments, and minimize obstacles they face. In support of this mission, WIT will host its ninth annual Accelerate! event.
2023 Inbound Logistics Top 100 Truckers
Inbound Logistics’ annual Top 100 Truckers list helps identify carrier partners that can best fuel your diverse and demanding needs, especially in today’s challenging and ever-changing business climate.
Beyond the Freight Bill Audit
As freight bill audit and payment expands to transportation spend management, these leading companies deploy advanced technology tools and offer services that transcend traditional freight audit and payment.
Amazon, IKEA, Patagonia, and Major Brands Launch Initiative to Accelerate Transition to Zero-Emission Fuels
Amazon and more than 20 other major global companies launched a tender to accelerate zero-emission shipping. Shipping lines are invited to submit bids for zero-emission shipping services that enable members of the Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA) to reduce supply chain emissions.
MagicLogic Cube-IQ Plans Loads Faster, Reduces Damages for Arauco
Renowned forest products company Arauco is able to plan loads more quickly with MagicLogic’s Cube-IQ software. Additionally, the company sees claims for damaged loads decrease significantly.
The Fast Fashion Fallout: The Circular Economy and the Future of Sustainability in the Fashion Industry
It’s no secret the fashion industry is a top contributor to global textile waste. Every year, millions of tons of textiles are incinerated or placed in landfills where they take hundreds of years to decompose. Fortunately, there is hope as sustainability becomes a priority among young consumers.
Unlocking Warehouse Efficiency: 5 Key Performance Indicators
If you’re not measuring your performance, how do you judge success, growth, and progress? Most of the time, the answer here is simply “I can’t.” If you’re coming up empty, fret not and read on.
Temperature-Controlled Shipping: Definition, Methods, and Limitations
Temperature-controlled shipping is essential for transporting goods requiring specific temperature ranges to maintain quality, safety, and efficacy. As global commerce grows, there’s an increasing need for reliable temperature-controlled freight transportation methods. Temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, or live animals must reach their final destination safely. Recent studies indicate that improper shipping conditions, mainly certain temperature changes, […]
Green Logistics: Meaning, Tips, and Challenges
The transportation industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. With increasing concerns about environmental issues, green logistics emerged as a potential solution to tackle rising carbon emissions, waste management, and other challenges associated with conventional logistics operations. This article offers insights into green logistics and its importance in fostering sustainable solutions in the industry and how […]
Yellow Bankruptcy Puts Management and Labor Under Pressure
When 99-year old trucking company Yellow Corporation shut down, with the Teamsters Union planning to file for bankruptcy, we gained some insight into labor and management navigating an economic crucible not of their making. It’s true the players in this sad episode shoulder direct responsibility, but the backdrop of inflation impacted both labor and management […]
Demand Planning: Process, Significance, and Components
Demand planning is pivotal in today’s shipping and customer service industry. This strategic process predicts future demand, optimizes inventory levels, and boosts customer satisfaction. In an era where supply chain efficiency is paramount, understanding demand planning is the difference between a thriving business and one that struggles. Here, we’ll explore this critical component of the […]
Containerization of Shipping Containers: Definition, Types, and Process
In this comprehensive guide on containerized cargo, including definitions, types, and process, we will explore its vital role in global trade. As a professional interested in containerized cargo, you’ll find valuable insights into different types of containers and their specific uses within the supply chain. We will also discuss the intricate process involved in handling […]
4 Types of Logistics Management
Navigating the complex world of logistics management can be a daunting task for many businesses. Did you know different logistics types, such as inbound, outbound, reverse, and third-party logistics, play pivotal roles in creating an efficient supply chain? In this article, you’ll learn about these four major types of logistics management and how they can […]
Government Warehouse: Definition, Benefits, and Uses
Warehousing has become a critical part of everyday business. For instance, in the past 2 years, Amazon has acquired more than 50 warehouses across the United States. This is attributable to the fact that when goods are not in transit, they need to be stored safely and securely. However, finding the ideal warehouse can be […]
Deadhead Trucking: What It Is, Drawbacks, and How To Reduce It
In logistics, deadhead trucking is a topic that shippers cannot overlook. Understanding deadhead trucking becomes crucial as businesses strive to optimize their supply chain operations and reduce costs. This article delves into the intricacies of the deadhead mile in the trucking industry – from its definition to its drawbacks. It also offers practical tips for […]
These Three Trends Will Define the Future of 3PLs
From accelerating ecommerce demands and sustainability requirements to a growing emphasis on brand value, these are the trends shaping the way third-party logistics providers plan their business strategies and assist retail partners.
How to Thrive in a Global Trade Environment
Collaboration and networking are crucial to navigating the complexities of international relations and supply chain dynamics and pave the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.
The Benefits of Real-Time Visibility in Drayage Operations
Integrating real-time visibility into drayage operations can bring process improvements as well as increase customer satisfaction. Here’s how.
5 Ways to Design a Sustainable Supply Chain
Best-in-class organizations understand that sustainability drives long-term value for whatever form it takes within a business. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics are often used to determine how ethical and sustainable an organization is. Companies that deliver high ESG ratings consistently outperform the market in both the medium and long term, according to McKinsey research.
Transportation When Life is on the Line
Have you ever been in a hospital waiting room and wondered where all the equipment and supplies come from and how they got there? Making sure that everything is in its place requires precise supply chain planning, especially when lives are on the line.
10 Tips: Avoiding Compliance Pitfalls
Shipping dangerous goods (DG) safely and compliantly is complex and challenging, and can have a significant effect on your supply chain. Here are 10 ways to avoid compliance issues.
How to Counter a Hazy Warehouse Employment Outlook
You don’t have to give warehouse managers the latest jobs report—they can tell you the state of the economy by looking out over the aisles. Customer demand continues to climb, the supply of potential workers remains stagnant, and the war to attract talent is fierce.
GOOD QUESTION: What’s Your Controversial Take on a Supply Chain Issue?
Industry insiders share their controversial opinions on supply chain topics.
NOTED: Supply Chain Highlights
From philanthropic initiatives to major acquisitions, here’s what’s new and notable in the supply chain.
Made in America? Earning the Label
With U.S. consumers paying attention to “Made in USA” labels, here’s how companies can earn that stamp with supply chain savvy.
4 Ways to Leverage the Cloud
The past few years have highlighted the value of agile and resilient supply chains to meet customer expectations, build trust and loyalty, and grow revenues in the face of market turmoil.
Packaging Innovations 2023: Making Ecommerce & Sustainability a Package Deal
With a focus on ecommerce and sustainability demand, visibility, and improved efficiency, packaging systems are rapidly changing with the times.
10 Tips for Preparing for Supply Chain Ransomware Attacks
Cyberattacks in the manufacturing industry and supply chain have increased — here’s how leaders can reduce risk and prepare for responding to an attack today.
VERTICAL FOCUS: Sports & Recreation
The sports and leisure equipment market is projected to register a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% over the next five years.
TAKEAWAYS: Shaping the Future of the Global Supply Chain
What does the current landscape of corporate sustainability efforts look like? Here’s a glimpse at top challenges for emissions reduction initiatives and other supply chain trending topics.
IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
From recently introduced materials handling systems to a new intermodal service between Canada and Mexico, here are the latest supply chain offerings.
Virtual Warehousing: Definition, Uses, and Benefits
In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations continually seek innovative ways to optimize their supply chain and inventory management. This need serves customers’ expectations, enabling technologies to take over most business operations. Virtual warehouse has not been left behind in this transformation. For instance, in e-commerce businesses, a virtual warehouse is a concept that can make […]
Post Panamax Ships: Design, Evolution, and Future
Container shipping plays a pivotal role in the ever-evolving global trade landscape, with ships of various sizes and capacities serving distinct purposes in the supply chain. One class of vessels that has significantly transformed maritime transportation is the Post-Panamax ships. These ships, surpassing the size constraints of the Panama Canal, are instrumental in cargo transportation […]
Feeder Ship: History, Design, and Sizes
In the ever-evolving world of global trade, the efficient transportation of goods is paramount. Key players in this logistics dance are feeder ships – versatile vessels designed to bridge the gap between large containerships and smaller regional ports. As we delve into these maritime workhorses, we will uncover their history, design, purpose, and critical role […]
Operations Management vs. Production Management: Differences, Tools, and Uses
As the gears of industry turn, two types of management keep the machine well-oiled: operations management and production management. Operations management refers to the administration of business activities that lead to the production of goods and services. In contrast, production management is a subset of operations management that focuses on the production process of goods. […]
Gross Weight vs. Dry Weight: Definitions, Acronyms, and Factors that Affect Towing Capacity
Understanding the difference between gross and dry weight can be confusing, especially when it involves vehicle towing capacity. Did you know that these weights differ greatly and affect how much load your vehicle can legally carry? This article clarifies the differences by defining key terms, explaining common industry acronyms, and discussing factors influencing towing capabilities. […]
Public Warehouse: Definition, Benefits, and Features
A public warehouse, often recognized as a third-party company location, serves diverse businesses with flexible storage and distribution needs. Its vast enclosed space is rented out to small and medium-sized enterprises for storing and managing their inventory efficiently. With no need to lock capital investment into property or bear associated taxes, a public warehouse emerges […]
Delivering Last-Inch Logistics
Nailing down the final inches of a delivery can be complex. Fortunately, a variety of solutions show promise to help shippers navigate that crucial leg.
Reader Interview: Integrated Supply Network’s Theron Neese
Theron Neese is chief operating officer with Integrated Supply Network (ISN), a Lakeland, Florida-based distributor of automotive tools and equipment.
DC Diversification: Direct-to-Consumer Reigns
Despite research to the contrary, direct-to-consumer sales will continue to grow.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Wearable and Hands-Free Solutions
From a pick-by-vision system that uses smart glasses to exoskeletons that provide support during each lifting movement, these wearables and hands-free innovations boost worker safety and productivity in the warehouse.
The Benefits of Procurement Technology Platforms: A Closer Look at Return on Investment
Businesses can achieve transformational efficiencies and returns on investment with procurement technology platforms. Here’s how one company pulled off its digital transformation.
Port Development Accelerates
Across the United States and much of the world, ports are preparing for a changing future. These leading U.S. ports are upgrading their infrastructure and expanding their cargo handling capabilities.
Balancing Exception Management and Customer Satisfaction
For ecommerce fulfillment, exceptional customer service is not just about getting orders right but how you handle exceptions when things go awry. It’s critical to have systems to navigate shipment exception challenges and create customer experiences that foster loyalty.
Florida: Channeling Global Success
Long a premier logistics location, Florida has set its sights on growing its already enviable place in the global economy. The state’s logistics assets, including deep-water seaports like Port Everglades, lead the way.
Perishable Cargo: Meaning, Examples, and Regulations
Navigating the complexities of transporting perishable cargo can be daunting. Did you know that these goods encompass a vast range of products, from dairy, frozen food and other meat products to live plants and seafood? This article unravels the meaning, examples, and regulations surrounding perishable cargo transportation. What is Perishable Cargo? Perishable items refer to […]
Cold Storage Warehouse: Definition, How It Works, and Key Features
As supply chains evolve to accommodate growing consumer demand and more diverse temperature sensitive products, the importance of specialized storage solutions has become increasingly apparent. One such solution, critical for numerous industries, is the cold storage warehouse. This article delves into the world of cold storage warehousing, outlining what it entails, its significance, its unique […]
Enterprise Resource Planning: Definition, Benefits, and Challenges
Struggling with managing your business operations efficiently? You’re not alone – about 25% of organizations implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) to increase their efficiency. This article will guide you through the myriad facets of ERP, its benefits, vulnerabilities, applications, ERP meaning, and much more. It will also show you how to define ERP and highlight […]
Backorder: Meaning, Causes, and How to Limit Them
Understanding what backorders mean, their causes, and how to limit them is essential for businesses and logistics professionals. As supply chain disruptions become more common in today’s global economy, managing backorders effectively can make or break a company’s success. In this article, we explore the ins and outs of back-ordered items to equip businesses with […]
10 Best Paying Trucking Companies
Are you a truck driver looking to work for one of the country’s great trucking companies? Below is a list of the top paying trucking companies, as ranked by TruckDriversSalary.com. GP Transco and Riverside Transport stand out not just for their competitive pay but also for their reputation as being a best trucking company to […]
Top 20 AI Applications in the Supply Chain
Artificial intelligence can help with everyday supply chain tasks—say filling out customs paperwork—as well as guide supply chain planning and decision-making, enabling demand-driven responsiveness.
Back-to-School Report Card
With increased demand for electronics boosting consumer spending, retailers are gearing up for a packed back-to-school shopping season. So far the 2023 cycle is earning high marks:
IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions
MSC now calls at Port Everglades, instead of Miami, on its Santana service, which connects Southeast Asia to the United States. The service now includes the following on its rotation: Haiphong, Shanghai, Ningbo, Busan, Rodman, Caucedo, Port Everglades, Charleston, Baltimore, New York, Boston, and Singapore.
2023 Inbound Logistics Perspectives: 3PL Market Research Report
What’s trending in logistics partnerships in 2023? Our 18th annual 3PL market research report asked both providers and shippers.
How Artificial Intelligence Is Improving Supply Chain Operations
AI may better describe augmented intelligence rather than artificial intelligence. While AI systems can help alleviate labor shortages, they often perform best while working alongside people and augmenting human intelligence.
Top 10 3PLs: Readers’ Choice Excellence Awards
We got your messages and votes. All 12,500 of them. Readers say these third-party logistics providers are tops when it comes to customer service and responsiveness.
Full Steam Ahead, Don’t Let Ocean Costs Detain You
With rising ocean and detention costs, controls and analysis are more important than ever to protect profitability.
Putting 3PLs to the Text
There’s no such thing as TMI when third-party logistics providers work diligently with shippers to help them navigate macro changes and to provide accountability, transparency, efficiency, and streamlined supply chain operations. It’s 3PLs FTW.
Top 100 3PLs
When you need logistics, supply chain, and transportation solutions fast, these top 3PL companies and lead logistics providers deliver.
Securing Unmatched Private Equity Solutions
A private equity firm engaged Hub Group to evaluate its supply chain network and improve operational efficiencies for one of its prominent CPG companies. Hub Group delivered an end-to-end solution.
9 Quick Tips to Maximize Expedited Shipping
‘Expedite’ does not have to be a bad word in your supply chain. Here’s how to make expedited shipping a strategic strength.
Canada & the United States: Mapping Out Cross-Border Connections
The strength of the trade relationship between the neighboring countries is illustrated daily in border crossings, where freight handled by experienced logistics providers moves seamlessly both ways.
VERTICAL FOCUS: Baby Supplies
Changing the Diaper Market Despite supply chain disruptions, raw material shortages, and inflation, innovation is thriving in the baby diaper market and new brands continue to be born. Although the United States is a mature market for diapers, a Euromonitor report still predicts modest growth for baby diapers over the next five years, driven by […]
Global Logistics Essentials: What to Know Before You Source, Import, or Export
Global logistics brings both challenges and opportunities for today’s shippers. Here, we break down the nitty-gritty details every importer and exporter needs to know.
2023 Summer Reading Guide
Throw these books into your beach bag and catch up on the latest supply chain trends and strategies.
Project Logistics: Achieving the Impossible
Shippers and specialized transportation providers accomplish the seemingly impossible when they plan and partner to transport oversized, heavyweight, or odd-sized shipments.
A New Mission: Military Vets Enlist in Logistics
Military veterans are reporting for duty in today’s supply chain workforce. Companies are tapping into this well-trained and disciplined group of employees to help ease driver shortages and translate their hard-earned skills into fulfilling positions in transportation and logistics.
How to Attract and Retain the Best Supply Chain Workforce
As they steer through increasingly complex supply chain challenges, companies stay laser-focused on navigating the talent war and attracting the right people for the job.
U.S. Ports: Pivot and Improve
U.S. ports have weathered storms that forced slow steaming of supply chains across the globe. Through it all, the ports stand as studies of American resilience and innovation, serving as powerful lighthouses to the world.
Supply Chains Are Social Networks
Technology dominates today’s economy. But, while many of today’s new business skills require technical knowhow, it is social skills, ironically, that may be key for future human employment.
Automating Warehouse Operations: Where to Start and How to Maximize Gains
Deploying automation and robotics in the logistics industry has gained in urgency in recent years. No longer just the prerogative of global corporations, automation is also key for small to mid-size companies grappling with ecommerce acceleration and seeking efficiencies in their supply chain operations.
How Shippers Are Taking Control of Supply Chain Management
Analytics solutions offer visibility into past, present, and future spot and contract market rates, enabling strategic sourcing, planning, and cost management.
Labor Pains Persist
As rising interest rates, poor economic conditions, and a talent shortage continue, optimism among manufacturing industry leaders remains low, according to a Sikich Industry Pulse: Manufacturing and Distribution report.