Leadership Playbook  for Supply Chain Managers

Leadership Playbook for Supply Chain Managers

Industry leaders and mainstays share leadership tactics—from venturing out of comfort zones to embracing missteps—that allow supply chain managers to inspire others, build cohesive teams, and tackle logistics challenges.

Demand Planning vs. Supply Planning: Key Differences and Value

Demand Planning vs. Supply Planning: Key Differences and Value

Demand planning vs. supply planning remains a cornerstone debate in the logistics sector. Both concepts are integral to supply chain management, determining many businesses’ efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall success. Recent studies indicate that organizations that effectively balance demand planning and supply planning see up to a 15% increase in forecast accuracy and a 35% reduction […]

Inventory Management: Definition, Types, and Examples

Inventory Management: Definition, Types, and Examples

Effective inventory management is the unsung hero of successful business operations, whether in the bustling retail world or in systematic manufacturing processes.  It’s a critical component that can dictate a company’s ability to meet customer demand, manage cash flow, and maintain a competitive edge.  According to a report by the National Retail Federation, the retail […]

COVID Hangover, Port Funding and More News

COVID Hangover, Port Funding and More News

U.S. Ports: Let’s Have Some Funds The U.S. Department of Transportation selected 41 projects to receive $653 million in grant funding under the Port Infrastructure Development Program, part of approximately $17 billion included in a 2021 infrastructure spending bill for ports and waterways. The program was designed to improve U.S. port capacity and efficiency and, in turn, help […]

Myth-busting AI in the Supply Chain

Myth-busting AI in the Supply Chain

Over the past decade, supply chains have undergone a substantial digital transformation. One of the most significant factors driving this change has been the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies. As these technologies have become more prominent, however, so too have misconceptions about their impact on supply chain and logistics operations.

White Glove Delivery: Meaning, Benefits, and Drawbacks

White Glove Delivery: Meaning, Benefits, and Drawbacks

In an era where customer satisfaction has become the cornerstone of many industries, the concept of “white glove delivery” has emerged as an emblem of exceptional service.  This premium service goes beyond traditional shipping, offering an enhanced delivery experience. But what exactly is white glove delivery, and when should you consider using it? What Is […]

Top Maritime CEOs Go All-In on Decarbonization Efforts

Top Maritime CEOs Go All-In on Decarbonization Efforts

Top executives from major global shipping lines have come together in a united move, urging the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to set an end date for fossil fuel-only newbuilds. A collaboration of global shipping leaders presented a joint declaration last week at COP28 (taking place in Dubai through December 12) aiming to accelerate the adoption […]

Logistics Management: Definition, Functions, and Benefits

Logistics Management: Definition, Functions, and Benefits

Logistics management functions encompass various activities and processes critical to the success of businesses across multiple industries.  Understanding how these functions work and their importance is vital for any company aiming to optimize its supply chain, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.  From ensuring inventory management is spot on to navigating the complexities of transportation […]

Supply Chain Management: Definition and Process

Supply Chain Management: Definition and Process

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a critical backbone of any thriving economy, acting as the arterial network that ensures products move efficiently from production to the hands of the consumer.  Within this domain, SCM is a dynamic and evolving field, essential for seasoned industry professionals and ambitious newcomers shaping their careers.  A study by PwC […]

Lean Supply Chain: Definition, Advantages, and Disadvantages

Lean Supply Chain: Definition, Advantages, and Disadvantages

In today’s highly competitive business environment, a lean supply chain is more than just a strategy; it’s necessary for companies looking to enhance efficiency and customer value.  By employing lean principles that originated from the Toyota Production System, businesses across various sectors are streamlining their supply chains to reduce waste, improve customer satisfaction, and gain […]

Port of Savannah Boosts On-Port Rail Capacity and More News

Port of Savannah Boosts On-Port Rail Capacity and More News

Products • The new Movu Robotics line offers a range of products, including atlas pallet shuttles, escala bin shuttles, and ifollow autonomous mobile robots for pallets and roll cages that work either stand-alone or as collaborative robots. Movu Robotics provides automation solutions for warehouse applications such as storing, conveying, picking, and handling. • Storopack’s new […]

Expedited Carriers Guide 2023

Expedited Carriers Guide 2023

Reliable expedited freight services are essential for enterprises that need to transport critical and time-sensitive goods quickly and cost-efficiently. The expedited providers in this guide offer services and solutions with a wide range of capabilities, including time-definite delivery and white-glove service with real-time tracking.

Shipment Speed and Size:  Why It Matters

Shipment Speed and Size: Why It Matters

The 2023 holiday season outlook is a bit more “merry and bright,” according to a recent DHL survey of 800 U.S. small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), as respondents anticipate an increase in ecommerce buying activity over last year. Overall, the survey findings suggest that while challenges—such as inflation and supply chain disruptions—persist, a majority of […]

Transloading vs Cross Docking: Definitions, Advantages, and How to Choose a Service

Transloading vs Cross Docking: Definitions, Advantages, and How to Choose a Service

Navigating the complexities of the supply chain can be daunting for businesses looking to optimize their shipping performance.  At the heart of a modern supply chain are services like transloading and cross-docking, which are vital for moving shipments efficiently. Understanding the differences between these services and how they can enhance or hinder your operation is […]

Highlighting DC Efficiency

Highlighting DC Efficiency

Consumer demand for order fulfillment speed and accuracy highlights the central role distribution centers now play in the supply chain. DCs are stepping up by tapping into sophisticated technology and resources to transform and optimize operations and boost efficiencies.

What Is Sustainable Materials Management? Types and Benefits

What Is Sustainable Materials Management? Types and Benefits

In a world rapidly adapting to green initiatives, the concept of sustainable materials management (SMM) is gaining prominence. It is a systemic approach to using and reusing materials more productively over their entire life cycles.  SMM represents a key shift in how society thinks and deals with materials. By focusing on the importance of conserving […]

Operations Management vs Supply Chain Management: Their Key Similarities and Differences

Operations Management vs Supply Chain Management: Their Key Similarities and Differences

In the dynamic worlds of business and manufacturing, efficiency, effectiveness, and improvement are key. One aspect where this becomes evident is when analyzing operations management vs supply chain management. Though distinct, these two integral components of business management are often intertwined, each playing a crucial role in ensuring that businesses operate smoothly, products meet quality […]

Conformance vs. Compliance: Their Key Differences

Conformance vs. Compliance: Their Key Differences

As supply chain managers navigate the intricate landscape of industry norms and regulations, the terms conformance vs. compliance often surface, each carrying its distinct meaning and application. These concepts are pivotal in ensuring that products and services meet prescribed standards and legal requirements.  This article aims to demystify these terms, illustrating their practical implications in […]

Distribution Logistics: Definition and Applications

Distribution Logistics: Definition and Applications

In the interconnected world of global commerce, distribution logistics is more crucial than ever. The invisible engine powers the smooth flow of goods from manufacturers to consumers, ensuring that products not only reach their destinations but do so efficiently, safely, and at the right time.  Whether it’s ensuring that the latest tech gadget is available […]

Automated Warehouse: Examples, Benefits, and Trends

Automated Warehouse: Examples, Benefits, and Trends

The automated warehouse is not only a glimpse into the future of logistics but a present reality shaping the supply chain landscape.  According to a study by MHI and Deloitte, 80% of respondents believe the digital, always-on supply chain will be the predominant model within five years. With the advent of technology, warehouse automation systems […]

E-Commerce Fulfillment: Steps and Logistics Strategies

E-Commerce Fulfillment: Steps and Logistics Strategies

In today’s dynamic digital landscape, e-commerce fulfillment is a cornerstone for online retail success. As e-commerce businesses strive to meet customer expectations for swift, accurate, and convenient delivery, effective ecommerce fulfillment services become pivotal.  This article unravels the intricacies of ecommerce fulfillment. It offers insights into the evolution of ecommerce order fulfillment, the transformative shift […]

How to Navigate Your Supply Chain During Market Swings

How to Navigate Your Supply Chain During Market Swings

Market conditions play a crucial role in shaping challenges professionals face when managing their organization’s supply chains. While bear markets are known for their economic uncertainty and declining stock prices, bull markets are characterized by investor optimism and rising asset values. Both markets present unique hurdles that supply chain professionals must adeptly navigate.

Air Cargo Update: Turbulence and Tenacity

Air Cargo Update: Turbulence and Tenacity

Since the onset of the pandemic, air cargo capacity has alternately dipped and climbed. But the skies have begun to clear as forwarders and other logistics providers discover creative solutions and air carriers provide more room to breathe.

Nearshoring: A New Era for Resilience

Nearshoring: A New Era for Resilience

Nearshoring and reshoring have gained significant attention as effective ways for businesses to rethink operations while mitigating risk and increasing speed to markets to optimize operations. What are the benefits and challenges?

10 Tips for Boosting Ecommerce Efficiency

10 Tips for Boosting Ecommerce Efficiency

There are endless opportunities for smart businesses to capitalize on the growing ecommerce trend. Processing high volumes of small parcels, however, requires flawless operations at every step of the supply chain to ensure maximum profitability.

Freight Management: Definition, Modes of Transportation, and Important Terms

Freight Management: Definition, Modes of Transportation, and Important Terms

Navigating the complex network of moving goods can be challenging. Freight management stands as the lighthouse, illuminating paths that ensure cargo reaches its destination efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. This pivotal mechanism is not just a boon for the transportation industry but is instrumental for any business that relies on the precise and timely delivery of […]

Operations Management: Systems, Skillset, and Industries That Benefit

Operations Management: Systems, Skillset, and Industries That Benefit

Operations Management (OM) is pivotal in global industries’ seamless functioning and progression. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for operations managers is projected to grow 5.8% from 2020 to 2030.  This multifaceted discipline optimizes business operations, quality control, and inventory management to elevate customer satisfaction and achieve business goals.  As businesses grapple with […]

Construction Materials Management: Techniques, Software, and Benefits

Construction Materials Management: Techniques, Software, and Benefits

Construction materials management is pivotal in completing construction projects, ensuring that materials are available, of the right quality, and reasonably priced.  Every year, the construction industry faces significant challenges associated with material shortages, quality control issues, and logistical inefficiencies.  Implementing an efficient material management process is not just a cost-saving measure, but a strategy to […]

AI Has a Black Box Problem, Here’s How to Avoid It 

AI Has a Black Box Problem, Here’s How to Avoid It 

Retailers beware! Before you dive into artificial intelligence solutions to keep your shelves restocked, consider the ramifications of AI’s lack of visibility into how it reaches its output, and whether a slower approach to AI can yield better longer-term outcomes.

How to Plan an Optimal Transport Strategy

How to Plan an Optimal Transport Strategy

As the state of the freight industry remains uncertain, optimizing your transportation strategy remains a top priority for logistics operations. At its core, this process includes designing, planning and managing transportation systems to maximize efficiency, minimize costs, and meet customer demands.

How to Attract Megaprojects: Become a Megasite

How to Attract Megaprojects: Become a Megasite

As industrial development in the United States continues at a lightning pace, it’s essential for communities throughout North America to enhance their megasite offerings in order to meet demand. Kansas City provides an example.

Small Businesses Need Supply Chain Planning Tools, Too

Small Businesses Need Supply Chain Planning Tools, Too

Supply chain technology vendors historically have paid little attention to the planning needs of small “mom and pop” businesses. That’s surprising, considering there are approximately 32 million such businesses in the United States, with 2.7 million in the retail trade alone, according to the 2019 U.S. Census.

Key Challenges in Logistics Management: Strategies to Overcome Them

Key Challenges in Logistics Management: Strategies to Overcome Them

In today’s competitive global marketplace, logistics management difficulties are ever-changing, with firms negotiating a maze of supply chain complexities, rising transportation costs, and shifting customer expectations. With logistics at the heart of business operations, its significance cannot be overstated.  This article dives deep into the challenges in logistics management, showing how modern technology, the supply […]

Gross Weight: Meaning and Calculations

Gross Weight: Meaning and Calculations

This article looks at gross weight and how to measure cargo weight. In the bustling realm of shipping, understanding the intricacies of weight is crucial.  With millions of containers transported across the globe daily, weights play a pivotal role in determining everything from shipping costs to safety regulations.  Whether you’re weighing a package’s net weight, […]

How to Leverage Rail Intermodal

How to Leverage Rail Intermodal

Intermodal shipping presents challenges, but it also offers great opportunities and benefits. Follow these strategies to help ensure your intermodal shipments move as cost-effectively and efficiently as possible.

10 Tips for Selecting LTL Service Levels

10 Tips for Selecting LTL Service Levels

In an unpredictable and evolving global supply chain, it is vital to have a trustworthy LTL carrier strategy that adds consistency to your operations. It is essential to select carriers that are aligned on your priorities and can be most beneficial to your business.

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

IN BRIEF: New Services and Solutions

From sustainable shipping containers to upgraded global logistics centers and new air freight routes, these products, services, and solutions are generating buzz in the supply chain.

Falling for Pumpkins

Falling for Pumpkins

Pumpkins carve out increasing sales in the food and beverage market as consumer preferences jack up demand for this fall staple.

3PLs  Keep IT Together

3PLs Keep IT Together

Serving as the glue that holds everything together in the supply chain, third-party logistics providers inject technology tools, advanced capabilities, and exacting attention to detail into the services they provide shippers. Here’s how they seal the deal.

VERTICAL FOCUS: Renewable/Sustainable Materials

VERTICAL FOCUS: Renewable/Sustainable Materials

Raw material shortages are becoming a dire challenge for supply chains due to overconsumption and increasingly extreme weather. Here’s how prioritizing sustainability will make a difference. Also revealed: top 10 renewable materials.

Formula for Success: How Infant Formula Company Bobbie Met Growing Demand

Formula for Success: How Infant Formula Company Bobbie Met Growing Demand

Even before the baby formula crisis of 2022, Bobbie, the first infant formula certified organic according to both USDA and European Union standards, had bested its forecasts multiple times. To accommodate and manage its continued growth, the company partnered with Saddle Creek, a third-party logistics (3PL) provider based in Lakeland, Florida.

GAWR vs. GVWR: How the Industry Defines and Uses Weight Standards

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

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

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

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

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 

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

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

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.

Rethinking Retail Strategies

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.

9 Types of Trucks in Logistics: Definitions and Importance

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

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

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

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

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.

14 Ways to Ensure Carrier Service

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

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.

2023 Inbound Logistics Top 100 Truckers

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

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.