Production costs, transportation costs, and product quality are all primary considerations in corporate sourcing and production decisions. However, customs duties and other trade tariffs can also be critical inputs into these supply chain decisions, particularly when preferential treatment is an option. Trade duties and regulations vary by country and industry. And the automotive industry has […]

I believe that the average American over the last three decades has become progressively more aware of global supply chains and the distinction between an American company and an American made product. However, I also believe that information on country-of-origin is still very opaque in many cases. But the automotive supply chain is an exception […]

In March I provided a brief overview of the global trade management (GTM) solutions market and discussed some of the factors that encourage companies to invest in these solutions. There are a few “independent variables” that can explain GTM sales. Among them are regulation and compliance complexity, regulatory fine risks, supply chain complexity, and tariff […]

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) proposed new safety regulations that will impact the Autonomous Vehicle market. The chief fear surrounding Autonomous vehicles is that they could cause crashes. The new technology proposed by NHTSA could help reduce many kinds of accidents.

Even though the idea of launching drones from the roofs of delivery vans, is silly; Daimlers new van is impressive nonetheless. The idea of a car maker as a provider of a holistic delivery system that combines the vehicle, material handling hardware and special racking, and enterprise software is a very interesting. That, not drones, is what makes a true step forward in the automotive industry.

… the day began with a panel on cutting edge technologies that could change the face of logistics. Panelists spoke at length about drones and robots in the warehouse.

The tsunami of 2011, which triggered the meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, was a wakeup call for General Motors (GM). GM learned that their business continuity plans at the plants were too “tactical.” Supply chain risk management has become a hot topic in recent years. It was also a topic of discussion […]