Supply Chain Archives - GlobalTranz

How a 3PL Can Strengthen Your Supply Chain Resilience

James Greenlaw — Tue, 20 May 2025 18:09:46 +0000

Pandemics. Wars. Natural disasters. Tariff swings. If your business depends on freight shipping, you've likely felt the effects of a world that seems to change overnight. Building a resilient supply chain isn't just a best practice anymore — it's a business imperative.

From port congestion and fuel surcharges to weather events and labor shortages, the threats to your shipping network are real and growing. The good news? A third-party logistics provider (3PL) can help you anticipate disruption, respond quickly and stay competitive.

Understanding the Challenges: Why Shippers Are Vulnerable

Uncertainty has become a constant in today's supply chains. Even businesses that ship only within U.S. borders feel the effects of global issues. When tariffs rise, fuel prices spike or international trade agreements shift, those cause ripples across all freight modes — truck, air, rail and ocean. And since some shippers have fewer internal logistics resources, they're more likely to feel the pain first and recover more slowly.

Key pain points for many shippers:

Limited access to competitive carrier rates
Fewer internal tools for tracking and visibility
Less flexibility to pivot when disruption hits
More susceptible to surcharges and penalties from regulatory non-compliance

Freight Modes: Each Comes with Strengths, Challenges

Each freight mode brings its own set of strengths — and vulnerabilities — during times of supply chain disruption. Understanding where your supply chain is most exposed is the first step in building supply chain resiliency.

LTL and truckload freight

Less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) shipping are go-to options for many businesses. They offer flexible service and cost-effective pricing, especially for domestic shipments.
After the COVID pandemic's initial surge, trucking capacity grew monumentally while rates dropped — a short-term win for shippers. But this disruption led to a freight recession, causing many carriers to close up shop. Now, with demand rising and fewer trucks on the road, shippers are struggling to find capacity at reasonable rates.

However, LTL shipping allows companies to share trailer space, making it a budget-friendly option for smaller shipments. But with that affordability comes a tradeoff: more frequent handling, longer transit times and an increased risk of damage. Additionally, disruptions like driver shortages, congestion at terminals or regional weather events can ripple across LTL networks quickly.

TL shipping, on the other hand, gives shippers more control over timing and cargo security, since the freight travels directly from origin to destination. However, it can be cost-prohibitive if you're not moving enough volume to fill a truck. And when truckload capacity tightens — as it has in recent years — rates can surge, and lead times can stretch out.

Partnering with a 3PL helps mitigate these risks. They can provide access to vetted carrier networks, negotiate better rates and shift modes as market conditions evolve.

Ocean freight

Ocean freight remains one of the most cost-efficient ways to move goods internationally. However, it's highly exposed to risk:

Political unrest can force ships to take longer, more expensive routes.
Port congestion and container shortages delay deliveries.
Natural disasters or labor strikes can bring operations to a standstill.
Piracy and military conflict add physical danger and legal complexity.
Tariffs can make importing and exporting more complex and expensive.

These issues can arise suddenly and drag on for months, testing the limits of even the most resilient supply chain.

Air freight

Air freight delivers speed and security, making it the preferred mode for high-value, time-sensitive or perishable goods. It's often used for critical components in manufacturing, medical supplies or seasonal retail inventory that need to hit shelves fast.

But that speed comes at a cost — and not just financially. Air freight is among the most expensive shipping options, with rates that fluctuate dramatically based on fuel prices, global demand and aircraft availability. Beyond the cost, limited cargo space is a constant constraint, especially on passenger flights that double as cargo carriers. Weather delays, customs clearance issues and global disruptions (like labor strikes or health crises) can also ground flights and delay deliveries with little notice.

During peak seasons — like holidays — space can disappear fast. Without strong forecasting and booking agility, shippers may find themselves paying premium rates or missing critical delivery windows.
A 3PL can be a valuable ally here, too. They often have access to block space agreements with airlines, giving you priority access even during high-demand periods. They can also help evaluate when air freight is truly necessary — and when alternative modes like expedited ground or multimodal solutions might deliver similar results with lower risk.

Rail freight

Rail offers stability and lower costs, especially for bulk freight and long-haul shipping. It's a critical part of many 3PL supply chain strategies. However, it's not without risk.
Labor disputes, extreme weather and infrastructure issues can delay shipments. Wildfires in the Pacific Northwest, for example, have shut down major rail lines, forcing reroutes and backlogs that ripple across the country.

How a 3PL Boosts Supply Chain Resilience

The right 3PL doesn't just manage your freight — they help you build a smarter, stronger supply chain. By combining logistics expertise with industry-leading tools, 3PLs give shippers the edge they need to weather disruptions and thrive.

Regulatory navigation

Global trade rules change constantly. A 3PL tracks these changes and ensures your shipments stay compliant — reducing costly delays, rejections or fines. Whether you're dealing with customs, international tariffs or industry-specific rules, your 3PL acts as your compliance safety net.

Mode and route optimization

A major 3PL logistics benefit is the ability to assess your entire freight shipping strategy and recommend the most efficient freight modes, routes and carriers. Your 3PL might suggest combining LTL and intermodal freight or temporarily shifting from ocean to air when speed matters. The ability to pivot quickly — and strategically — builds long-term supply chain resilience.

Freight carrier network and negotiated rates

3PLs work with a vast network of trusted freight carriers, giving you access to competitive rates and more flexible service options. Their collective buying power means:

Lower rates than you'd likely get on your own
Priority capacity during peak seasons
More consistent service across modes

Transparent cost management

Freight shipping costs can be hard to track — especially when you're juggling multiple carriers, freight classes and seasonal surcharges. A good 3PL provides transparent pricing and detailed analytics so you can:

Understand your cost drivers
Uncover areas to cut waste
Budget with greater accuracy

Real-time risk monitoring

Your 3PL should track global news, weather and supply chain trends daily. They'll help you prepare for risks like port strikes, natural disasters or fuel price spikes before they impact your business. Combined with shipment tracking, these insights allow you to act fast, reroute if needed and keep your customers informed every step of the way.

Advanced technology and data

Many 3PLs offer transportation management systems (TMS) to streamline shipping decisions — a powerful tool that helps you:

Monitor shipments in real time
Analyze historical shipping trends
Optimize routes and carrier selection
Improve your overall logistics strategy

With the right data at your fingertips, you can adapt faster and operate more efficiently.

Partner with GlobalTranz for a More Resilient Supply Chain

GlobalTranz has helped shippers of all sizes navigate freight shipping with confidence. As a leading national 3PL, we combine trusted expertise with flexible services tailored to your business growth.

With GlobalTranz, you get:

Access to 75+ LTL and 45,000+ TL carriers
Affordable, negotiated rates backed by our buying power
Custom shipping strategies designed for your unique needs
Reliable support and real-time tracking tools

When disruption strikes, we help you pivot. When opportunity knocks, we help you scale. That's the power of a well-supported 3PL supply chain.

Ready to strengthen your supply chain resilience?

Let's build a plan that works for your business — no matter what comes next. Contact GlobalTranz today for a free, customized shipping consultation. We're here to help you ship smarter, respond faster and grow stronger.

The post How a 3PL Can Strengthen Your Supply Chain Resilience appeared first on GlobalTranz.

The State of the Shipping Industry: 7 Trends We Are Watching in 2024

James Greenlaw — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 19:06:20 +0000

Were you impacted by the shipping turbulence of 2023? It's likely you were since a massive freight recession and soft consumer demand sent the shipping industry into a tailspin.

How To Navigate the Shipping Industry in 2024

Despite the adversity we are seeing, shippers like you have an opportunity to optimize your shipping operations for cost savings and efficiency. Don't know where to start? WWEX Group is here to help. Download our "State of the Shipping Industry Report: 7 Trends To Watch for in 2024" to get a peek at the topics that will shape the shipping industry this year. Here, we discuss important trends including:

The freight recession
Sustainable shipping
Optimizing your freight shipping
Supply chain resiliency

Download Now!

We also provide tips on how to leverage tools and resources to expertly navigate 2024 for increased profitability and operational efficiency. Additionally, we tell you what to look for in a shipping partner and how a 3PL can ensure your success in the coming year.

Lean On WWEX Group and GlobalTranz for a Prosperous and Profitable 2024

As a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, WWEX Group takes the growing pains out of growth by partnering with businesses that need shipping solutions — whether it's parcel, freight or end-to-end logistics management.

As the parent company of GlobalTranz, we provide a nearly unmatched combination of adept talent, shipping industry relationships and a far-reaching distribution model. With a unified mindset and a single infrastructure, we're redefining the standard for service and turning logistics into a growth opportunity — instead of a roadblock — for businesses of all sizes.

Download our "State of the Shipping Industry Report: 7 Trends To Watch for in 2024" to get ahead this year. If you are ready to speak to an expert, contact GlobalTranz for a free consultation today!

The post The State of the Shipping Industry: 7 Trends We Are Watching in 2024 appeared first on GlobalTranz.

TMS Technology FAQ: What To Look for in a Transportation Management System

James Greenlaw — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 17:58:47 +0000

In the shipping world, transportation management systems (TMS) are ubiquitous. In fact, over the past decade, they have become an essential tool for companies looking for fast and efficient ways to manage their shipping and cut costs. Many shippers who utilize a TMS in shipping may wonder, however, if they're getting the most out of their technology and if there are new options on the market that can provide even greater shipping capabilities.

In this FAQ, we answer questions about the newest developments in TMS technology and explain how these features and capabilities can benefit shippers. We also analyze how to find a 3PL with the right level of technology so you can make informed decisions on how to protect your bottom line.

Why does my business need a transport management system that includes all the latest technology?

Innovative TMS technology uses historical data, artificial intelligence, machine learning and current trends to forecast shipping needs and accurately predict shipment time of arrival. It can also:

Collect and share data from thousands of carriers
Automate freight shipping processes
Manage inbound and outbound freight
Provide real-time shipment tracking and monitoring
Identify optimal routes to keep shipments on time

Not every TMS in shipping provides this level of data — which simply means you need to determine how important this information is to your business model. Just remember, an intuitive TMS — along with a leading 3PL — is a shipper's best friend and can help you utilize all this data in meaningful way to drive a competitive advantage for your business.

What technological changes have been made to TMS technology that will improve our supply chain and help us make better decisions?

A TMS is a shipper's hub of transportation activity and source of vital information that helps streamline operations. In fact, over the past couple of years, companies have begun to use advanced levels of shipping data to help them work smarter. Here are three functions you should be utilizing:

Data, artificial intelligence and machine learning — Makes supply chains more efficient and cost effective while enabling business intelligence for improved decision-making. This will also help with digitization and automation which make your operations more organized, accurate and efficient.
Predictive analytics —Uses historical data and current trends to learn the type of mode to use; whether using multiple modes would have better outcomes; how fast shipments can be delivered before it's no longer cost-effective; what route to take to avoid risks for time- or temperature-sensitive shipments and more.
Real-time tracking and tracing — Lets you plan inbound and outbound activities and enhance customer relationships by reassuring on-time pickup and delivery. These technologies also help you bypass carrier capacity issues by granting easier access to more carriers so you can compare prices and services.

What should I look for in an effective transportation management system?

A sophisticated TMS in shipping will help drive supply chain capabilities and improve operational efficiencies. Look for a TMS with the following:

Carrier contact management and performance visibility
Digital documentation and storage
Web portal dashboard capabilities
Data analytics and customized reporting
Invoice and audit management
Automated processes for billing, invoicing and booking shipments
Real-time tracking and tracing
Platform integration
Inbound and outbound transportation management
Artificial intelligence and machine-learning capabilities
Blockchain applications

How can artificial intelligence and machine-learning help my business?

Artificial intelligence and machine learning use historic and real-time data in the TMS to develop algorithms, predict events and identify issues in the supply chain. Shippers gain deep insights and use the information for smarter decision-making.

What's the advantage of cloud-based TMS technology?

Being connected to external systems through the cloud gives you access to freight shipping carriers, logistics solutions and tracking capabilities from any device with internet access. It activates transparency throughout your supply chain so you can streamline the flow of products and anticipate the arrival of inbound freight. It also enables real-time communication and collaboration among shippers, carriers, brokers and customers.

How can a TMS in shipping help drive down costs and bring value to my business?

TMS technology allows you to:

Compare costs among carriers who handle your type of freight shipping
See what other carriers charge shippers for the same freight lane
Find carriers with openings due to a cancellation when capacity is scarce or when you need an immediate turnaround for an unexpected shipment
Leverage route optimization to learn the best routes based on weather, road closures and traffic and to save on time and travel costs
Utilize real-time tracking for visibility into inbound and outbound movements so you can better manage dock activities and schedule employees with better precision

Want more information? Learn about 13 KPIs to Track With a Transportation Management System.

GlobalTranz Can Help You Leverage TMS Technology for Better Shipping Outcomes

For more than 30 years, GlobalTranz has been a leading full-service, technology-driven, third-party logistics solutions provider that helps businesses transform the way they manage their shipping. Our TMS empowers shippers to maximize productivity and streamline operations in one easy-to-use shipping platform. Our cloud-based interface allows shippers to rate and shop carriers across multiple modes, optimize routing, create shipping documents, track and tender, and manage the shipment lifecycle from creation through delivery.

We also provide companies of all sizes with transportation solutions including less-than-truckload and full truckload shipping, plus warehousing, management transportation, and supply chain optimization services.

Are you ready to learn more about GlobalTranz and our sophisticated transport management system and shipping industry expertise? Reach out for a free consultation today!

The post TMS Technology FAQ: What To Look for in a Transportation Management System appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Turn Your Inbound Freight into an Advantage

James Greenlaw — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 22:36:28 +0000

If you're like most companies, you likely rely on vendors to arrange for your inbound shipping. But did you know that, in doing so, you're losing out on more than just visibility of your incoming inventory? Vendors typically include shipping costs in the price of their products, leaving your business in the dark regarding company rates and additional fees that may be accrued. Should you be unhappy with carrier performance or delivery options, you'll likely have little information to use to change carriers directly. That's why shifting inbound logistics management to an internal team gives your company a leg up by creating greater efficiencies and cost savings. We're here to walk you through how to turn your inbound logistics from a costly expense to a competitive advantage.

What are the in-house benefits of inbound freight management?

Considering bringing your inbound logistics management in-house? Whether you're looking to save on costs or gain more control over your supply chain, inbound logistics may be an ideal solution. Here are a few of the major benefits of maintaining your own inbound freight management.

Greater control over shipping costs

When a company manages its own inbound logistics, it has greater control over shipping costs and transit times since shippers can compare carrier rates and service options to best meet their unique needs and limitations. Costs can further be reduced by identifying and eliminating unnecessary accessorial fees. Plus, with better visibility and influence over the carrier's performance, dissatisfied shippers can switch to another carrier with ease to better fit their needs or budget.

Even carriers benefit from companies managing their own inbound freight logistics since shippers can choose to use the same company for inbound and outbound shipping. The carrier gets an extra shipment they may not have otherwise, lot congestion is reduced and separate pickup coordination requirements are eliminated, making the shipment more fuel efficient. Handling both your inbound and outbound shipments may also make carriers more willing to offer discounted or special loyalty rates.

Greater control over resource management

When suppliers arrange carrier pickup and delivery, the company is left without control over the truck's arrival and is typically left paying the dock crew added wages for idle time. When you take inbound shipping into your own hands, your company gains priceless visibility into when trucks will arrive for pickup and delivery and can schedule workers accordingly. Plus, you'll be able to make sure your inbound and outbound carrier schedules don't overlap. This helps to avoid chaos at the dock and makes both loading and unloading more efficient. When the lot is less congested, drivers spend less time waiting and you can save on dwell time fees.

More balanced inventory management

Not only does bringing your inbound freight management in-house help you gain supply chain visibility, but it also helps you better manage your inventory. Balancing product flow with inventory through inbound logistics will help ensure levels are cost-effective. An inventory management system gives companies visibility so they can submit orders when inventory is low, rather than allowing suppliers to replenish on a cycle - this avoids tying up cash with excess inventory.

Better enabled data analytics and KPIs

When you handle your own inbound logistics solutions, you have control over the technology and resources being used to keep your shipments on track. For example, using a transportation management system (TMS) for both inbound and outbound logistics gives companies a more complete picture of opportunities to optimize efficiency and cost savings. The data collected through a reliable TMS can be used by a third-party logistics (3PL) expert to identify optimal delivery routes, uncover opportunities for shipping cost reduction, determine whether shipments are candidates for consolidation or pooling, and decide if other different modes — or combination of modes — could improve cost savings and help manage dock congestion. Data analysis can also help establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure areas for improvement and identify any successful operational efficiencies to maintain.

How can a 3PL help with inbound logistics management?

Bringing your inbound logistics in-house can feel like a huge undertaking, but you don't have to go it alone. 3PLs offer the resources, technology and expertise you need to manage your logistics and transportation and oversee the vendor and carrier relationship to bring all your operations together in one wholistic strategy.

A 3PL will utilize TMS data and an end-to-end view of your supply chain to not only improve the inbound and outbound flow of goods, but also allow for easier carrier and rate selection. Plus, 3PL experts will work directly with you to reduce freight and warehouse costs, decrease wait time and improve both speed and accuracy. That's extra money in your pocket.

So, how can a 3PL help improve your inbound freight management? With a trusted 3PL by your side, your operations will be more efficient, leaner, more cost effective and reliable. As a further benefit, stakeholders in the organization will see the results and understand how improving inbound logistics can be thought of less as an expense than as competitive advantage.

Best-in-Class Inbound Freight Management from GlobalTranz

If your company is looking for ways to be more efficient and save money, managing your own inbound logistics may be the ideal solution. However, knowing where to begin may be a challenge you're not confident tackling by yourself. Luckily, GlobalTranz offers best-in-class shipping and logistics solutions, round-the-clock support from real industry experts, and industry-leading resources to help maximize all aspects of your logistics. Whether you're seeking less-than-truckload (LTL) or full truckload (FTL) shipping solutions, GlobalTranz has the tools and expertise to transform your supply chain. Ready to get started? Connect with an expert to learn more.

The post Turn Your Inbound Freight into an Advantage appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Supply Chain Trends in Technology and Data Analysis

James Greenlaw — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 22:11:21 +0000

To stay ahead and remain competitive in a crowded marketplace, shippers need to do everything possible to streamline operations and stay profitable. This includes understanding the latest supply chain management trends so your products go from sourcing to delivery with ease.

Today, two of the most significant of these supply chain trends encompass technology advancements and data utilization. These resources can help shippers make informed decisions in real time, allowing them to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and operational efficiency while navigating supply chain disruption.

Upgrade Your Supply Chain Performance With Technology and Data

GlobalTranz is a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider with decades of experience providing supply chain management services to shippers across the country. We also provide valuable resources, like this e-guide where we outline five major technology and supply chain trends that you should know about. Topics we discuss include:

How technological advancements are creating more efficient logistics operations.
Why data integrity is important in making informed shipping decisions.
How cyberattacks are impacting the shipping industry and what you can do.
Why companies must adapt to disruptions caused by climate change.
What shippers can do to incorporate sustainability into their shipping operations.

Download Now!

GlobalTranz Can Help You Create a Supply Chain Management Plan

Staying current on advances in technology and data can be difficult for busy shippers who are struggling to meet deadlines and keep customers happy. That’s where 3PL providers like GlobalTranz can help. We work with thousands of companies across the country, building out shipping logistics strategies that are based on the latest supply chain management trends and technologies.

Download our Supply Chain Trends E-guide today to learn more. If you are ready to learn how GlobalTranz can improve you supply chain processes and want to speak to one of our shipping logistics experts, reach out for a free consultation.

The post Supply Chain Trends in Technology and Data Analysis appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Level Up with Supply Chain Consulting and Engineering

James Greenlaw — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:42:45 +0000

Businesses looking to improve the performance of their supply chain may choose to outsource their transportation management to a trusted third-party logistics (3PL) provider. But when doing so, it is vital to select a trusted provider who offers quality supply chain consulting and engineering services.

A supply chain engineer works alongside your company to drive continuous improvement. Their holistic solutions involve a deep dive into analytics, processes, technology and more to create a fully optimized supply chain. In this article you 'll learn more about this partnership and how your company can level up with managed transportation solutions from the supply chain engineering experts at GlobalTranz.

What is supply chain engineering?

Supply chain engineering involves the planning, implementation and management of effective supply chains. These solutions typically require market research, operations management and proper technology usage to gain efficiencies. A supply chain engineer may also work as a supply chain consultant who works to identify and resolve issues or challenges within an organization to help strengthen the company 's processes.

Benefits of Supply Chain Consulting

There are many potential benefits resulting from a supply chain consult. This added value is achieved through on-site process mapping and observation, current state needs and spend analysis, the support and tailored service offerings of a trusted 3PL, and a roadmap for implementation and performance tracking. Your supply chain engineer should also provide:

Experience Analyzing Advanced Data Points

While you know your business better than anyone, data can be tricky - especially when your supply chain has not been properly optimized. An experienced supply chain consultant will understand how to interpret data points that you may have overlooked, or undervalued, allowing you to focus on the bigger picture.

Unique Solutions with an External Perspective

A supply chain engineer is typically brought in as a consultant rather than being a full-time employee. That means that they know statistics and details about the market that may not be readily available to your internal employees. Plus, these external experts are likely to bring in logical, impartial solutions to best benefit your business.

Implementation and Maintenance Support

Not only will a supply chain engineer help you craft an ideal solution, they will walk you through their strategy before helping you implement and maintain it. Then, they will provide follow-up analytics reviews and consultations to keep your business running smoothly.

How Supply Chain Engineers Improve Logistics Performance

Supply chain engineers are vital to efficiently and successfully enhancing logistics performance. They implement strategic measures and optimize the movement of goods throughout the supply chain by employing various techniques including process mapping, inventory optimization and more. By leveraging technology, data analytics and industry best practices, these engineers can effectively identify areas of improvement and streamline logistics operations. When seeking a consultant to help you improve order accuracy, reduce lead times, minimize transportation costs and enhance overall operational efficiency, make sure to look for a consultant who will:

Conduct a detailed supply chain assessment.

An effective engineer should initiate your supply chain consultation by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your existing processes. They will meticulously analyze each detail of your supply chain — procurement processes, packaging, systems integration, freight costs and more — to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for your business. These KPIs will help you and your consultant gauge achievements and identify specific areas that need improvement to achieve continuous transportation optimization.

Create a custom supply chain solution to maximize productivity and stability.

After collecting adequate data during the initial audit of your supply chain processes, your consultant will then analyze the data to develop a comprehensive action plan aligned with your specific business goals and requirements. At this stage, your supply chain engineer may also engage with stakeholders, buyers and competitors to ensure their perspectives are incorporated and to find the best possible solution for your unique business ecosystem. This collaboration not only enhances the resilience of your supply chain, but also equips it to better overcome unforseen challenges that may arise.

Implement and manage the supply chain strategy.

After they finalize your new strategy, your supply chain engineer will begin the implementation process. They will proactively conduct follow-up consulting sessions to ensure the strategy remains effective, continuously tracking and reanalyzing data to identify any potential issues that may arise throughout your partnership. These collaborative sessions will serve to keep you up to speed on all aspects of your supply chain process, allowing you to deal with the latest developments effectively and in a timely manner. By maintaining this open line of communication, your supply chain engineer will enable you to make informed decisions and adapt to ever-changing market dynamics effectively.

What to Look for in a Supply Chain Consultant

Outsourcing managed transportation to 3PL experts enables businesses to focus on their core competencies while creating a competitive edge with optimum supply chain performance. When searching for a supply chain management consulting partner for your business, it is important to consider several questions:

How much experience does your transportation manager have?
Do they provide a variety of solutions to help with each specific area of your supply chain?
Do they have access to innovative technologies and software to inform their research on your business analytics?

Before bringing on a supply chain consultant, it is vital to ensure that they have the expertise and resources available to truly maximize your supply chain process.

Access Top Supply Chain Management Consulting from GlobalTranz

When looking to improve your supply chain visibility and resiliency, it's important to find a supply chain consulting company that you can trust. GlobalTranz provides top shipping and logistics solutions for businesses across the nation, resulting in maximized supply chains and cost savings. From procurement to pickup and beyond, our GlobalTranz supply chain experts have all the know-how, technology and resources you need to make your business better than ever.

Ready to get started? Our GlobalTranz managed transportation experts are ready to jump in and transform your supply chain. Reach out today for a consultation.

Connect with an Expert

The post Level Up with Supply Chain Consulting and Engineering appeared first on GlobalTranz.

How To Handle Supply Chain Disruptions with Organizational Resilience

Annie Graupner — Fri, 05 May 2023 13:00:32 +0000

Developing a strategy to overcome supply chain disruption can be difficult. With so many complexities and ever-changing external factors, anticipating the unexpected can feel nearly impossible. But by building up your organization's supply chain resilience and strategy, you can better position your business for long-term success.

To help you get started, we'll walk you through the basics of organizational and supply chain resilience and teach you how to handle supply chain disruptions as they occur.

What is supply chain resilience?

Supply chain resilience refers to how effectively and efficiently a specific supply chain can adapt to and overcome external disrupting factors, such as inclement weather or sudden trade embargoes. Since disruption — in one form or another — is inevitable, it's important for businesses of all sizes to develop a strong supply chain strategy that can better handle supply chain disruptions down the line.

What factors cause supply chain disruptions?

There are many factors that can potentially play into supply chain disruption. These include:

Weather (sudden inclement weather, natural catastrophes)
Trade disputes, tariffs and embargoes
Cyber threats and attacks
Capacity constraints
Transportation delays
Pricing and sourcing issues

Luckily, there are ways to prepare your business for these potential disruptors, optimize your supply chain and gain end-to-end visibility.

How to Handle Supply Chain Disruptions

The degree to which your supply chain reacts to and recovers from disruption is directly correlated to how well your organization anticipates these challenges and maintains operational continuity. If your current strategy seems inadequate to handle supply chain disruptions, consider these tried-and-true tips to maximize your supply chain strategy and keep moving forward!

Buffer your inventory and avoid JIT solutions.

Just-in-time (JIT) solutions allow businesses to keep a minimum amount of inventory while maximizing profits, but they can cause some serious damage should disruption come knocking. If you run into issues sourcing materials, it may become difficult or near impossible to fulfill JIT orders, so make sure to buffer your inventory and keep some stock ready to ship out in the event of a supply shortage.

Don't have the warehouse space available to store extra inventory? GlobalTranz offers warehouse management solutions — plus, distribution and fulfillment services — to help your company thrive.

Stay agile by using a TMS for supply chain optimization.

Many companies operate utilizing data that may be several days old, and during a crisis, the situation can shift drastically in that time. Pricing, truck space and the availability of materials can change rapidly, but by utilizing a transportation management system (TMS), like GlobalTranz TMS, you can access up-to-date data and react in real-time to ensure business agility when it matters most.

Work with a variety of customers and suppliers to increase your resilience.

Over the past few years, it has become clearer to businesses around the world that customer and supplier diversification is crucial in times of market disruption. The vast majority of potential supply chain disruptions are geographically confined, so diversifying your market and network allows you to continue operating should something compromise part of your process. And as technology continues to advance, expanding your global outreach has become easier than ever.

Improve your organizational resilience to support your supply chain strategy.

For your supply chain to remain agile in times of disruption, your company must first be able to detect, resist and recover from disruption, regardless of its source. The best way to build organizational resilience and achieve supply chain optimization is to build a cohesive and comprehensive supply chain strategy by curating the people, processes and technology you need to stay ahead of the curve. Of course, higher levels of efficiency do cost more, so you'll have to decide on a budget appropriate for your strategy.

Work with a supply chain expert or trusted 3PL partner to maximize your efforts.

When disruptions happen — and they will — a strategic partner can be with you every step of the way. Working with a supply chain expert or trusted third-party logistics (3PL) partner provides industry insight and solutions you may not have had access to alone. In addition, a 3PL can provide you with a pre-qualified list of carriers, connect you with reputable suppliers around the globe and help you access and utilize real-time data to recognize and respond to disruptions as they pop up.

Optimize Your Shipping Strategy with Supply Chain Experts from GlobalTranz

What worked in the past might not be what works today, though there are lessons to be learned from the history of supply chain. Our team of experts have extensive experience to analyze your operations, identify opportunities to save money and maximize efficiencies.

The role of a 3PL in supply chain management is to help shippers like you create and curate the best possible solutions to meet their unique business needs, while also helping you monitor and respond to market changes. That's why GlobalTranz offers a full suite of solutions to help you build, manage and protect your business. From supply chain optimization to managed transportation services and more, our supply chain experts are ready to help your business grow and thrive.

The post How To Handle Supply Chain Disruptions with Organizational Resilience appeared first on GlobalTranz.

7 Considerations for Choosing Warehouse Logistics Solutions

James Greenlaw — Mon, 01 May 2023 23:05:44 +0000

Every step in your supply chain can have a tremendous impact on the profitability of your company. Warehouse services are no exception. These spaces offer a variety of solutions that help shippers store, move, manage and fulfill products. But each of these components also has the potential to affect your bottom line.

As a result, selecting the wrong warehousing solution can lead to disruption and loss of revenue for any shipper — no matter how well-intentioned they were in their choice.

How To Choose Warehouse Types that Support Your Business

GlobalTranz, an industry-leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, helps companies of all sizes with top shipping and warehousing services. That includes supporting them with more than 50 million square feet of warehouse space across North America.

In our e-guide, 7 Considerations When Choosing Warehouse Logistics Solutions, we provide in-depth information that will allow you to make informed decisions when selecting warehouse types for your company. In particular, we analyze:

Download Now

Different types of warehouses — Learn about private, public and other warehouse types, and what they provide shippers.
How to choose a warehouse — Understand the factors you must consider when looking for warehouse logistics solutions that are right for your business.
Comparison of warehouse services — Get a side-by-side look at the benefits and drawbacks of each warehousing solution.
Warehousing services expertise — Discover why GlobalTranz is a leading 3PL,offering top third-party warehouse services.

Connect With a 3PL Warehouse Management Expert

Thousands of shippers across the country rely on GlobalTranz and our innovate warehouse logistics solutions — including technology, infrastructure, staffing and more. Our services and expertise help shippers optimize their supply chain, save money, create efficiencies, meet deadlines and beat the competition.

Reach out to GlobalTranz today for a free consultation to learn about our third-party warehouse services expertise.

The post 7 Considerations for Choosing Warehouse Logistics Solutions appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Supply Chain Transformation: 5 Ways a 3PL Provider Can Help

Annie Graupner — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:00:02 +0000

It's easy to overlook the role that third-party logistics (3PL) providers play in the overall global economy. In both good times and during periods of supply chain disruption, logistics are genuinely essential to the efficient and speedy movement of goods around the globe — 3PLs not only contribute to an optimized flow of these goods, they generally also guide businesses toward improved health and profitability.

The complexities of the modern supply chain emphasize the need for companies of all sizes to partner with an expert to ensure access to proven technology, capacity and strategic insights. While selecting a 3PL that is the optimal fit for your business can be challenging, it's the first step toward supply chain optimization and dramatically raising the level at which your business operates and competes.

The 3PL Role in Supply Chain Transformation

Companies traditionally find it difficult to access logistics solutions and manage capacity on their own, and they turn to 3PLs with this expertise to improve operational processes and gain a competitive advantage. Just some of the benefits of this partnership and supply chain optimization include:

Deep carrier relationships to reduce company freight costs
Improved transit time and on-time delivery
Claims reduction and chargeback avoidance strategies
Improved product visibility and daily reporting
Strategic account management team for tailored solutions

Below are five critical characteristics to look for in a 3PL as you begin your supply chain transformation.

1. Supply Chain Improvement Starts with Technology

Look for a 3PL provider that offers a transportation management system (TMS) and supply chain technology to provide real-time data to drive optimized decision-making and automation, and put KPIs in place to monitor the health of your operations. Pricing may vary significantly based on carriers, lanes and capacity constraints – partner with a trusted 3PL that will provide cost prediction model intelligence on pricing and market trends via a live dashboard to help your business adapt to rapidly changing market conditions, automate processes and gain visibility.

2. Multimodal Expertise, One of the Many Benefits of 3PL Partnerships

Using multimodal shipping services and logistics solutions helps mitigate capacity challenges and meet customer delivery expectations. Full-service 3PLs have access to a broad range of carriers and transportation services that can be combined to create custom logistics solutions for your business.

3. Carrier Relationships Add Capacity Coverage

A strong carrier network is essential to a company's supply chain. Many shippers have varying needs for specific lanes to move freight. Shifting consumer demand, bad weather, driver shortages, fuel prices and an array of influences conspire to shrink available capacity and can impact a company's ability to move product. 3PL logistics providers have a large network of pre-qualified carriers and can help you find capacity where and when you need it. 3PL provider carrier partners are essential, and 3PLs bring them freight and customers that they would otherwise not have.

4. Solutions for Supply Chain Improvement

Tap external expertise to assess supply chain risks and develop plans to adapt to them. An experienced 3PL provider has developed strategies for many other shippers and can adapt successful strategies for a customized supply chain optimization plan. When we engage as a strategic partner with our customers, we provide a control tower view over an entire supply chain operation. We work with vendors to ensure that inbound freight is being handled properly and is moving to the right place at the right time and manage the outbound moves to the end customers.

5. Scalable Managed Transportation Solutions

Businesses in different stages of their life cycle have unique needs. When it's time, a capable 3PL will have a robust offering of managed transportation solutions and be ready to evolve from a freight shipping partner to a fully (or partially) outsourced supply chain management partner. Ultimately, you want to find a managed transportation services partner that provides technology-driven and people-powered supply chain solutions with your customers' needs in mind.

An Efficient Supply Chain Starts with Third Party Logistics Expertise

GlobalTranz is an industry-leading 3PL services company, providing best-in-class supply chain optimization, managed transportation (including LTL and FTL freight shipping) and shipping technology solutions for businesses of all sizes. Our goals are to find new ways to decrease costs, increase efficiency, provide a competitive advantage for your business and help you improve service levels for your customers.

Connect with a GlobalTranz Expert to learn how customized logistics solutions can help you transform your supply chain.

The post Supply Chain Transformation: 5 Ways a 3PL Provider Can Help appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Overcoming Supply Chain Disruption

Annie Graupner — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 13:00:47 +0000

Creating a resilient supply chain is key to building a successful business in any industry. But supply chain resiliency can be difficult to achieve due to the number to factors that may pop up to challenge a process's overall efficiency and flexibility.

In recent years, shippers have had to reevaluate their supply chain efforts in response to global economic disruption. As the economy continues to try to stabilize, businesses like yours are finding it increasingly important to reimagine their processes to help withstand these unforeseen challenges. To help, we've compiled a list of factors impacting your supply chain and ways you can create a truly optimized supply chain to help protect your business for the future.

Potential Impacts on Supply Chain Processes

Political relations

It's well known that, when a commodity's country of origin is engaged in a dispute with another, that commodity becomes much more valuable. Wars, shipping embargoes and even trade deals can send prices skyrocketing and make international trade goods like gas and minerals extremely hard to come by. Global trade regulations and conflicts, as well as tariff threats as a political tool, can cut off sources and entire markets and push your business plan into the red.

Although there's no way to control the global trade industry, you can work with a supply chain consultant with global expertise to monitor these threats and develop solutions to lessen the impact on your business.

Health crises

The 2020 onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has been, by far, one of the largest supply chain disruptors of the 21st century. In fact, this disruption was so far-reaching that everyone experienced it in some way — from toilet paper supply to an overwhelming shortage of necessary medical supplies. And while global pandemics like this have the power to shut down nearly all existing supply chain processes, local epidemics are even able to mimic these conditions on a much smaller scale.

As with external factors like the global trade industry or the national economy, individual businesses, unfortunately, have no control over when, how or for how long a health crisis will impact operations. However, you can work with a supply chain consultant who will monitor evolving economic and financial trends to help your business navigate any external disruption.

Economic climates

As we've made our way past the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been much talk regarding the state of both the national and global economies and how a recession may be imminent. While scholars and economists may have differing views on the economy's current state, one thing is certain: a recession period can grind your supply chain to a screeching halt.

While we have little control over the global supply chain in its entirety, we are able to minimize the effects of a recession on our own supply chains by planning ahead. Identify unnecessary expenditures within your supply chain, create a flexible business structure to allow yourself wiggle room and consider working with a trusted 3PL to save money and increase your buying power to give yourself the best fighting chance should any markets crash.

Weather patterns

Weather can cause both short and long-term disruptions in supply chains in many industries. Sudden severe weather and natural disasters can shut down entire areas of the country for days or even weeks at a time. Additionally, changing climates may have an even longer-term effect on the sourcing of certain raw materials, meaning some supply chains may require a complete overhaul to remain effective in the coming years.

To prepare against weather-related supply chain disruptions, put contingency plans in place for alternative sourcing and routing, and decide how you will handle any missed or delayed processes upon your return so you won't miss a beat when bad weather hits.

Cyber threats and attacks

Society has become more technologically dependent than ever, especially with the recent surge in e-commerce growth. From localized phishing attacks to large-scale data breaches, technology vulnerabilities can drastically increase your supply chain risk.

Luckily, there are an array of ways to help keep yourself and your business safe from cybercriminals that you can put into action right away. Make sure to always practice safe internet access, invest in security systems to protect your data and software and work with a supply chain consultant to keep up with cybersecurity threats and trends as they emerge.

Logistics challenges

From capacity constraints and not having enough trucks on the road to struggling to source quality goods, modern shippers are dealing with an array of logistics issues all at once. Additionally, as prices continue to fluctuate as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and as the global supply chain slowly regulates, these logistics challenges can wreak havoc on your bottom line.

So what's the simplest way to manage your logistics and keep your business on track, all while gaining end-to-end supply chain visibility? Partner with a trusted 3PL like GlobalTranz! We'll do all the heavy lifting when it comes to minimizing your supply chain risk so you can get back to focusing on growing your business to new heights.

Develop a Fully Optimized Supply Chain with GlobalTranz

Optimizing shipping and logistics solutions can be complicated for many shippers on any given day, but especially when faced with global and economic disruption. That's why we're proud to be a 3PL of choice for shippers across the nation. By providing best-in-class support, award-winning solutions and total supply chain visibility, GlobalTranz continues to help businesses transform the way they view logistics and overcome a variety of supply chain challenges. Connect with an expert today to see how we can help protect your business from supply chain disruptions and more.

The post Overcoming Supply Chain Disruption appeared first on GlobalTranz.

How To Find the Right Last-Mile Logistics 3PL Partner

Annie Graupner — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 13:00:45 +0000

As a shipper, you know today's competitive marketplace and changing customer expectations have made it imperative that you provide timely, accurate and visible shipping solutions. Technology and e-commerce shipping innovation have empowered customers with vast choices when it comes to selecting a product. In some cases, that choice may hinge on who can provide fast, hassle-free delivery.

That is why shippers owe it to themselves to optimize every phase of their supply chain to meet this customer demand. One phase they often struggle with is last-mile logistics. But by understanding how to implement best practices to offset associated challenges, companies can increase their customer base and build brand loyalty among buyers.

To accomplish this, many shippers have found great success in working with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider that has experience in less-than-truckload (LTL) and last-mile logistics shipping. This ensures they have the tools and resources to meet customer expectations and can pivot their shipping strategy when necessary.

What is last-mile logistics?

As the name implies, last-mile logistics (also known as final-mile logistics) refers to a shipment's requirements for the last leg of its journey and delivery. The length of this phase, however, might be less or much more than an actual mile. During final-mile shipping, a product is loaded on a truck at a fulfillment center or other transition location and is then sent to its destination.

Some very important details to understand about final-mile logistics are:

Shippers have often found this phase difficult since the final location may be in urban, densely populated or very rural areas.
Unloading can also present a challenge if the receiver does not have the proper equipment to handle the shipment.
Selecting the right shipping services is imperative to being successful during this final phase.
Working with a top freight shipping and last-mile 3PL is often the solution to last-mile success.

What To Look For in a Final-mile Logistics 3PL Provider

Despite the challenges, final-mile logistics does present an opportunity for shippers to differentiate themselves from those that do not provide effective services. Those willing to invest in technology and partner with a last-mile 3PL can optimize their solutions and increase revenue and brand loyalty.

GlobalTranz, an industry-leading 3PL service provider with expertise in last-mile delivery logistics, advises shippers to evaluate the following five areas when considering final-mile logistics companies.

Carrier network

When considering final-mile logistics companies, shippers should look for those with a network of qualified carriers that can provide efficient options for a shipment's entire journey. After all, last-mile logistics becomes irrelevant if the product doesn't make it to that phase in the first place.

Shippers should take a careful look at exactly how a 3PL will help you move your product to a fulfillment center and then to the final destination, and why those solutions can ensure your freight will be delivered on time. Final-mile logistics companies should also be willing to provide references that can tell you about their experiences so you will know their solutions have been successful and are not just philosophical in nature.

Shipping technology

A transportation management system (TMS) is an essential shipping technology platform for supporting your last-mile shipping needs. Final-mile logistics companies should offer a robust TMS that helps shippers:

Find the least-expensive LTL linehaul and dedicated last-mile carrier.
Manage freight shipping and maintain visibility of shipments en route.
Combine bills of lading (BOL) and other documentation from the LTL provider and dedicated last-mile carrier into a single document.
Get a multi-modal and unified view of their truckload and LTL shipping.

Final mile shipping speed

Some 3PLs that claim to provide last-mile delivery services rely on LTL providers for both the linehaul and final delivery, which can be problematic. Look for a 3PL that utilizes LTL for the linehaul and a dedicated last-mile carrier that specializes in this service.

This can shorten transit times and ensure your shipments meet deadlines. Your 3PL should be able to offer both and help you determine which carriers are right for your specific shipments.

Accessorial fees and hidden charges

These unexpected charges can add up and impact your bottom line, particularly when operating without the help from a 3PL. In fact, when trying to coordinate carriers for both the linehaul and last-mile delivery, it may be confusing to determine what kind of accessorial fees will be assessed on your invoice.

Common accessorial fees — which often will be tacked on during final mile — include those for redelivery, residential delivery, liftgate usage, inside delivery among others. A last-mile 3PL can help you understand these fees and implement strategies to offset and avoid them.

Prevention and freight shipping insurance

As you know, shipments will be damaged from time to time. It's unavoidable. However, by selecting the appropriate services, carriers and freight insurance coverage, you can do your part to ensure your shipment makes it to its destination undamaged or is protected in the event that it doesn't. A 3PL service partner should provide coverage options and a TMS that allows you to add insurance when you schedule your shipment.

How GlobalTranz Enables Final-mile Success With a Robust TMS

GlobalTranz provides shippers with a full suite of shipping solutions, including last-mile logistics services that help cut costs and keep customers happy. In particular, the GlobalTranz TMS includes an intuitive and efficient final-mile module that automatically provides shippers with a two-carrier move.

The TMS matches the optimal LTL linehaul carrier with carriers that specialize in final-mile logistics. The GlobalTranz final-mile network covers all 48 contiguous U.S. states and can flex to meet any unique need. The system retains critical information regarding the characteristics of pickup and delivery locations, ensuring that the right equipment and service level is provided every time, helping to minimize costly accessorial charges.

By pairing LTL carriers with final-mile providers, the risk of damage is mitigated by a reduction in handling through the shipment's journey. Lastly, the GlobalTranz TMS creates a single invoice and BOL, significantly streamlining and simplifying the payment process.

Solve Last-mile Logistics Challenges With GlobalTranz Shipping Solutions

Navigating the space between various modes can be tricky. The GlobalTranz modal optimization approach is focused on helping our customers determine which mode is best suited to handle their product. Our expert team, backed by our proprietary technology, will assist you.

Our final-mile solutions do not compete with small parcel carriers. Rather, they are a solution that has been purpose-built for businesses with pallet-size (and greater) shipments that would typically be transported via traditional LTL.

GlobalTranz combines the speed and efficiency of an LTL provider with exceptional customer experience at the time of delivery via our dedicated final-mile logistics carriers. Our solution has been designed to take the hassle out of the final mile and allow businesses to get back to what really matters — serving their customers.

Request a consultation with GlobalTranz to learn how your business can benefit from a true "one-stop solution" for your final-mile needs.

The post How To Find the Right Last-Mile Logistics 3PL Partner appeared first on GlobalTranz.

13 KPIs to Track With a Transportation Management System

mzugovic — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 13:00:16 +0000

Key performance indicators (KPIs) are assigned benchmarks for evaluating progress toward your company goals. For shippers, using your transportation management system (TMS) to establish and track KPIs is crucial to understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your shipping operations and optimizing for the future.

Deciding which KPIs to track can be difficult. That's why GlobalTranz, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider that offers a full suite of shipping solutions, has created a list of the most important TMS platform metrics you should be monitoring and detail why they are important to your company.

Freight Shipping KPIs To Analyze in Your TMS

Any effective transportation management system provides shippers with the information necessary to make informed decisions and determine the viability of current operations. Transportation management KPIs identify areas of system efficiency and uncover those that need improvement. Understanding KPIs can help shippers know exactly what changes need to be made to improve operations and decrease costs. The core KPIs to track include:

Freight cost for each unit shipped

This KPI is calculated by dividing the total costs for freight shipping by the number of units shipped during a defined time period. This metric is critical to understanding the average per-unit freight spend for your organization.

Outbound freight shipping costs compared to total sales

To determine this metric, shippers must divide outbound freight costs by net sales. This allows your company to differentiate between inbound and outbound freight costs.

Inbound freight shipping costs compared to purchases

Calculating this metric is nearly identical to the outbound freight costs mentioned above. However, in this case, you would divide inbound freight costs by net sales.

Transportation time

Transit time tracking can help you compare the expected shipping time and the actual delivery time for your shipments. This will allow you to make adjustments to your shipping strategies to ensure packages are delivered on time.

Claims versus freight costs

Dividing total loss due to freight shipping claims by overall freight costs helps measure safe delivery for each shipper and carrier. Higher numbers allude to opportunities for improvement, and lower numbers may validate current tactics.

Freight shipping billing accuracy

This KPI is computed by dividing accurate freight bills by the number of freight bills in the period. The goal of this metric is to help you understand whether and how often you are being charged too much for freight services.

Accessorial fees compared to total freight costs

Failure to track accessorial charges inhibits freight shipping management capability. Keep accessorial fees as close to zero as possible and create processes that offset these charges in the first place.

Percent trucking capacity use

Understanding how much capacity you utilize compared to available space on trucks can be determined by dividing the shipment weight by available shipping capacity. This gets tricky with more extensive, volume-based shipping, but it is possible. Bottom line, shippers should understand if utilizing more truck space would save them money.

Mode selection compared to optimal use

Mode selection is another tricky KPI. Focus on the shipments sent via optimal mode by total shipments sent. Obviously, shippers must know what the optimal shipping method is for each item, so it is best to evaluate the lowest-cost shipping mode over a set period of time.

Dwell time per shipment

This KPI measures wait and load times. This is important since you can be assessed dwell time fees by carriers. Extensive dwell time can also cause your shipments to be delayed. There are many ways to measure this, but shippers can simply create a benchmark and make note of the number of shipments above that number. This will give you a concrete data point indicating how often your shipments surpass acceptable dwell times.

Number of redeliveries

Carriers can assess a fee if they must attempt a delivery more than once. Measure the number of times your shipments were assessed a redelivery fee compared to the overall number of shipments to get a health check on the accuracy of your bill of lading (BOL) and other processes.

Damage in transport

Products that are damaged during transport may need to be replaced and redelivered — a compounding effect that will increase expenses. Determine how many products are damaged compared to overall shipments to identify the need for better packing procedures, new carriers or other solutions.

On-time deliveries

Determine what percentage of shipments are delivered on time compared to the overall number of shipments. This is an imperative metric. It will force you to analyze your entire freight shipping operation and your carrier and freight service selections.

Enhance Shipping Efficiency With Transportation Management System Data

Shipping efficiency relies on making the best decisions possible. A transportation management system enables that function. When done properly, KPIs established for your TMS shipping technology can help you make data-driven decisions, eliminate uncertainty by auditing system performance and determine further if operational efficiency is resulting in expected gains.

A Third-Party Logistics Provider Like GlobalTranz Can Help You Track Impactful KPIs

GlobalTranz is an industry-leading 3PL services company, providing best-in-class supply chain optimization, managed transportation (including LTL and FTL freight shipping) and shipping technology solutions to businesses of all sizes across the nation.

The GlobalTranz TMS software empowers shippers to maximize productivity and streamline operations in one easy-to-use shipping platform. Our cloud-based interface allows shippers to rate and shop carriers across multiple modes, optimize routing, create shipping documents, track and tender, and manage the shipment lifecycle from creation through delivery.

Our team of logistics experts will help you set up and analyze KPIs to work towards transportation optimization, save money, increase efficiency and stay ahead of logistics trends.

Are you ready to work with an industry-leading third-party logistics partner? Reach out for a consultation today!

The post 13 KPIs to Track With a Transportation Management System appeared first on GlobalTranz.

What is reverse logistics and how can you benefit?

Annie Graupner — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 18:17:48 +0000

As a shipper, you are probably always on the lookout for ways to save money and increase operational efficiencies to protect your bottom line. One solution that some companies struggle with is reverse logistics. This is the process of regaining value on returned products or its parts and materials by reintroducing them into the marketplace. You can also sell qualifying recyclable parts and lower your environmental footprint.

It's no wonder many companies have begun to appreciate the underlying value of their products and are more willing to spend the time and money to invest in the reverse logistics process. In fact, they may have no choice. The National Federation of Retailers recently released a report that said, "retailers expect 17.9% of merchandise sold during the 2022 holiday season to be returned." With numbers like this, perhaps reverse logistics management should be seen both as an opportunity and necessity.

GlobalTranz, an industry-leading third-party (3PL) logistics company with a full suite of shipping solutions, is here to help. Below, we outline the different types of reverse logistics solutions and describe in detail how a company can gain value throughout the entire lifecycle of their products.

6 Reverse Logistics Management Strategies to Incorporate

Reverse logistics is considered one of the biggest challenges facing shippers. The idea of transporting and processing returned products can be difficult for many companies. However, the benefits of an efficient program include better customer outcomes, reduction in storage/distribution costs, saving money and environmental considerations. A 3PL can help you incorporate the following reverse logistics supply chain management strategies.

Returns

The customer usually initiates this step when they no longer want a product, or they found it to be unsatisfactory. The retailer or business can resell the products to another customer in marketplace at regular price or as a clearance item. Additionally, if the products are in good condition, they have the option to sell them to inventory liquidators or overstock buyers to sell at a lower price.

Pro tip: "Return" has a different meaning for rental and leasing companies that loan out vehicles, machinery and equipment on a regular rotation. When the products are returned, the company should inspect them to ensure they're in safe and working order before leasing them to another party. At some point these products, which go through a standard reverse process multiple times, will join other products in the reverse cycle as their quality and usefulness degenerates.

Recall

In recall situations, the company initiates the reverse logistics process. Consumer protection laws require manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, importers and retailers to report products with safety defects or concerns to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. If a recall is in order, the company will create an action plan to address the concerns, communicate the information to consumers and monitor the recall process. A product recall can be costly, but a company's reputation can be saved through a thorough, professional and ethical corrective plan.

Repair and refurbish

These reverse logistics solutions may start with either the customer or company. For example, a customer may send defective equipment or electronic devices to the manufacturer for repair. Or a company may publicize offers for consumers to turn in their current device or electronic goods and upgrade them for the next best model. In both cases, the company then refurbishes the older product for resale.

Remanufacture and reuse

When a product is returned to the manufacturer, it can be disassembled, and its working parts reused in other products. This process may require more strategy since the manufacturer will need to inspect the product and assess if it can be salvaged and reused. Reusing a working component can save the company money from having to purchase new ones.

Recycle

Products that are of no value to the manufacturer can be sold to other businesses for recycling and reuse. This limits the product's environmental footprint and allows you to extend the lifecycle of a product that would otherwise be reduced to garbage.

Proper disposal

This is the final step of a product and its parts when the previous categories aren't applicable or an option. In this phase, the product owner responsibly disposes of the product to create the least impact or risk to the environment. Chemicals and pharmaceuticals fall into this category, as well as those products that are of no further value and have completely reached the end of their lifecycle.

Want to learn more about reverse logistics management? GlobalTranz can help.

GlobalTranz is an industry-leading 3PL, providing best-in-class supply chain optimization and managed transportation solutions to shippers of all sizes across the nation. Our team of logistics experts will help analyze your supply chain management processes, identifying opportunities to save money and maximize operational efficiencies. That includes incorporating reverse logistics solutions into your shipping strategy.

Are you ready to speak to one of our experts? Reach out for a consultation today!

The post What is reverse logistics and how can you benefit? appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Combining Lean and Agile Supply Chains for Top Results

mzugovic — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000

As a shipper, you know the supply chain is complex and ever-changing with many parts along the way that can impact your bottom line and customer results. To make it even more perplexing, recent technology innovations — including augmented reality, artificial intelligence and other solutions — have created both opportunities and challenges for shippers who try to keep up with competition in a quickly evolving shipping world.

At one point, many shippers incorporated lean supply chain methodologies into their manufacturing and supply chain management operations with great success. More recently, companies have adopted the newer solutions found in the agile supply chain philosophy.

However, many successful shippers take a hybrid approach to supply chain management, using both lean and agile methods, combining the most effective tools from each to create a robust supply chain strategy. This combination offers a best-in-class approach to supply chain management and logistics. Partnering with a reputable third-party logistics (3PL) provider can help with this sometimes-difficult task.

What is lean supply chain management?

As the name suggests, lean supply chain management allows companies to work and ship more efficiently by removing unnecessary steps and procedures. In other words, the goal is to eliminate waste. The outcome allows companies to ship a steady stream of maximum volume and provide discounted rates for customers. It also allows shippers to deliver better customer service by responding quicker and more efficiently.

It does require companies to analyze every part of their supply chain. But in the end, the result is a well-oiled operation that delivers products to customers at optimal cost and price. Goals of lean supply chain management include:

Eliminate all waste and unnecessary steps in the supply chain
Continuously look for technology and automation solutions
Ensure increased visibility for all members of the supply chain
Reduce lead time and meet customer delivery expectations
Increase speed of production and reduce supply chain variation
Focus on total cost of the fulfillment for long-term cost savings
Create a culture of team communication and collaboration

Lean supply chain strategies are ideal for:

Types of products – Low variability such as personal items and food products
Product demand – Predictable and consistent with little potential change
Life cycle of product – Longer than the average product
Cost – Products priced, produced and delivered at lower costs

What are agile supply chain strategies?

Agile supply chain methodology is different than its lean counterpart because it focuses on the flexibility and quickness in which a supply chain reacts to variation and disruption in the marketplace. In other words, supply chain agility is responsive to what is happening, where lean tries to create consistent patterns in which its supply chain operates.

In fact, agile supply chain relies on real-time data, automation and team collaboration to respond quickly to changes in demand and customer preference and is designed to account for unpredictability in the market. Goals of agile supply chain strategies include:

Respond quickly to market changes
Make better use of resources
Focus on accurate information
Integrate planning and forecasting
Emphasis on risk management
Comprehensive control strategies

Agile supply chain management is ideal for:

Types of products – Products that are currently in demand
Product demand – Changing or based upon the current market
Life cycle of product – Short and quick-to-market
Cost – Varies by product and its demand.

Utilizing Agile and Lean Supply Chain Management Together

Generally, shippers like you have implemented either agile or lean supply chain methodology depending on your business model and product types. Today, however, it is possible and sometimes necessary to implement both and take a combination approach to your supply chain.

In fact, shippers should use every agile and lean supply chain tool at their disposal to save money and increase efficiency. They should also focus on creating supply chain processes that provide consistency and are flexible enough to change in the face of market fluctuation. That means utilizing supply chain agility to respond to unpredictable consumer/market demands (agile supply chain) while cutting waste for better efficiency (lean supply chain). With this hybrid approach, you can:

Focus on reducing costs along the supply chain and pass on cost savings to the customer
Constantly learn from the market and implement both long-term and short-term strategies
Ensure you are meeting customer demand while remaining flexible to market change
Utilize both real-time and collective data to make informed supply chain decisions
Create a shipping strategy that is effective for a wide variety of product types

GlobalTranz Is an Industry-Leading 3PL in Supply Chain Management

Managing a supply chain is a difficult task for shippers. There is great fluctuation in the market that can make profitability elusive. Perhaps it’s time to consider a shipping partner like GlobalTranz. We are an industry-leading 3PL that provides an extensive vendor network and logistics expertise to optimize your supply chain. We also provide a full suite of tools, resources and expertise for shippers.

This allows us to lower your costs and streamline your operations and supply chain management while you focus on your strategic goals. Our expert team creates and implements custom supply chain management solutions that make a positive impact on your bottom line and drive improved customer satisfaction. If you are ready to connect with an expert, reach out to our team today.

The post Combining Lean and Agile Supply Chains for Top Results appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Why You Need Transportation Optimization (And the Steps To Get There)

James Greenlaw — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 20:15:20 +0000

The shipping and transportation industry moves quickly. New services — as well as challenges — emerge in the marketplace on a consistent basis. That makes it imperative for shippers to constantly look out for solutions that make it easier to move product and keep customers happy. One way that shippers can stay ahead of the competition is through transportation optimization. This is the practice of analyzing and improving your supply chain with a focus on cutting costs, saving time and eliminating disruptions.

8 Steps to Transportation Optimization

GlobalTranz is an industry-leading third-party logistics (3PL) company that provides shippers of all sizes with fast and reliable transportation services across all major modes of freight. Below, we list the eight areas that shippers should focus on in their transportation optimization efforts.

Automation and Warehouse Location Optimization

Using robots and artificial intelligence in the warehouse for unloading pallets, picking, packing and fulfilling orders will improve accuracy and increase productivity and speed.

Consolidating Shipments for Transportation Route Optimization

To help with less-than-truckload (LTL) capacity issues and save on shipping costs, multiple orders heading for the same geographic area via LTL can be combined and delivered to a distribution center via full truckload (FTL) shipping. From there, the shipments can be separated and shipped to the destination by LTL freight.

Continuous Transportation Network Optimization

Using the same truck to deliver outgoing FTL freight shipments and returning with incoming shipments in a single route eliminates empty cargo space, reduces empty miles on the road, makes the most of a driver's time and saves on shipping costs.

Utilizing Multiple Freight Carriers from a 3PL Network

Dispersing shipments through multiple carriers can keep freight moving in times of capacity shortages. A 3PL's transportation management system (TMS) can identify available carriers, their rates and service options.

Intermodal Transportation Optimization Options

Businesses can combine different modes (multimodal) to take advantage of different speeds, reach and costs. Shipping by rail for most of the journey can save on expenses with final transport by truck to the distribution center.

Transportation Route Optimization and Planning

Using GPS tracking and real-time analytics on weather, traffic flow and distance to destinations will help carriers determine the best routes for their drivers. Plus, adding details on truck stops can eliminate driving off course for mandatory rest times.

Eliminating Bottlenecks Through Effective Scheduling

Strategically allocating inbound deliveries with pickups from outbound trucks can help the flow of traffic at your warehouse. You can use a TMS for orderly scheduling.

Utilize Warehouse Location in Shipping Strategy

The location of your warehouses can greatly impact delivery times. If you have multiple warehouses or distribution centers, shipping from locations nearer to the destination saves time and money.

Connect With the GlobalTranz Team of Transportation Optimization Experts

GlobalTranz is an industry-leading 3PL, providing best-in-class supply chain optimization and managed transportation solutions to businesses of all sizes across the nation. Our team of logistics experts will help analyze your supply chain, identifying opportunities to save money and maximize operational efficiencies. We'll even determine optimal distribution sites and storage requirements to protect your products and help you optimize your efforts.

Are you ready to speak to one of our experts? Reach out for a consultation today!

The post Why You Need Transportation Optimization (And the Steps To Get There) appeared first on GlobalTranz.