Topics: 3PL, Logistics, White Glove Delivery, Distribution, E-commerce, Value Added Services
New driving regulations are in effect, and, now, truck drivers are seeing fewer consecutive hours at the wheel. That means later delivery times to your stores. You need to think about saving costs, hour by hour. While your driver used to take ten hours to complete a route, he'll now need thirteen due to more frequent stops and breaks.
Topics: Logistics, Shipping, Distribution
How do you know if a 3PL provider is organized and established enough to ensure your product gets to stores on time in an accurate, professional manner? With so much product on their hands in so many different locations, 3PLs can be difficult to manage. They can fail to arrive on time. They can struggle to meet demand. But, thankfully, some 3PL companies offer data about their distribution hubs so you can know, exactly, what to expect when you do business with them.
Topics: 3PL, Logistics, Fulfillment, Inventory Management
There are many different theories and techniques when it comes to retail logistics and distribution. Companies can choose between operating one centrally located distribution center and operating multiple distribution centers throughout a region or country. There is plenty of debate regarding which is most efficient and effective. Ultimately, it all comes down to how much product you are shipping and where you are shipping. Depending on these factors, one of the two models is probably more appropriate for you and your business than the other.
Third party logistics (3PL) firms offer a one-stop-shop for warehousing, assembly, packaging, distribution, and more. Using a 3PL provides businesses with an expert in logistics, and maximizes profitability through their combined knowledge and resources. In other words, you focus on selling and the 3PL focuses on shipping. There are many good reasons to outsource supply chain management to a 3PL vendor. But if we want to boil it down to where a 3PL provider can make the most impact, there are 5 key areas to discuss.