Today, more than ever before, companies are looking for ways to implement Lean manufacturing concepts into their distribution and warehousing network as a way to control costs and improve operational performance. This research often leads to the purchase of new technology or equipment. But while investment in these tools might create incremental savings, there’s a far more effective resource that’s often overlooked: employees.
The successful implementation of Lean in… Continue reading
As the economic recovery continues, several things are certain: fuel costs will eventually rise, truck capacity will tighten, trucking fleets will decline, driver availability will be constrained and pricing control will begin to shift away from shippers.
With base rate increases and fuel surcharge fluctuations on the horizon, best-in-class companies understand the need to become carrier friendly and establish strong carrier relationships to mitigate these future challenges.
Since… Continue reading
I think one of the toughest tests for a WMS implementation team is supporting a high growth retail customer through its busy season, which is what we did with Overstock.com during the December busy season in 2002 and 2003. In 2002 Overstock.com had annual revenues of $92 million. By 2010 the company had grown to $1.1 billion. Although Overstock.com’s growth has dramatically changed its product mix and distribution processes… Continue reading
There has been a lot of press lately about the use of social media tools in the logistics business. It seems many people are wondering how to leverage the power of social networking to help manage transportation. It’s a worthwhile question. After all, while Facebook and other social networking sites have had a tremendous impact connecting people, they were not developed to help shippers connect with trucking companies. Their purpose… Continue reading
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Guest Commentary: Is a Direct-to-Store Delivery Model Right for You?
Speed is the name of the game in today’s retail landscape. How quickly products are purchased from store shelves depends on various factors, including consumer preference, special promotions, and brand recognition, just to name a few. The trick to gaining speed and increasing your inventory turns is to ensure you have a successful and cost-efficient replenishment system. Over the last few years, many consumer goods manufacturers have been increasingly using… Continue reading
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