Logistics

Make Process of Returning Products Work to Your Advantage

July 29, 2015

Product returns are typically seen as a necessary headache and a cost drain. But companies can use their return policies to enhance customer loyalty and increase profits.

Challenges of the Digital Supply Chain

July 29, 2015

SupplyChainBrain

The term "digital supply chain" describes the integration of advanced technology, big data, and analytics to better manage and execute the physical supply chain, says Frederick Hartung of Jabil. He explains how this is playing out today and what it means for the future.

Recognizing the Value in the Billing Process

July 28, 2015

SupplyChainBrain

Even though the invoice-to-cash cycle is critical to corporate health, many companies give little attention to the billing process, says Sean Smalley of Billtrust. Many opportunities exist within that process, however, to speed payment and reduce costs.

UPS Worldwide Express Expands Network for Second Time in a Year

July 28, 2015

UPS

UPS Worldwide Express Freight has undertaken a second expansion of its service network this year.

The Role of Contract Packaging in a Customized Supply Chain

July 27, 2015

SupplyChainBrain

Retailers increasingly are using customized packaging to meet the preferences of customers in specific stores, regions or channels, says Jason Tham, CEO of Nulogy. This work often is outsourced by brand manufacturers and Nulogy has developed software to link and streamline the process.

May Shippers Index Reflects Manageable Capacity Utilization

July 27, 2015

FTR

FTR's Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) for May, at -3.1, reflects the current manageable capacity utilization, which is expected to remain in place through 2015. As a result of improved capacity and low fuel prices, shippers are getting a welcome respite from rate increases. This environment should be maintained throughout the year. However, conditions affecting shippers will deteriorate in 2016 as the pressure from expected new regulations will put a significant drag on capacity.

Transparency Is the New Visibility

July 27, 2015

SupplyChainBrain

Today's businesses need to go beyond visibility to full transparency, says Nancy Marino, partner at Columbus Consulting, whose clients are mostly retailers. This means using technology to focus the performance of independent silos on corporate KPIs, thus improving performance, she says.

On-time Performance in Container Trade Keeps Getting Better

July 27, 2015

Drewry

Container service reliability made another steady improvement in June with the aggregate on-time performance for the three key East-West trades rising by 5.7 percentage points to extend the data-series record to 77.3 percent, according to Carrier Performance Insight, the online schedule reliability tool provided by Drewry Supply Chain Advisors.

Mercedes Initiative Targets Reduction of 20 Percent in Supply Chain Costs Per Vehicle

July 27, 2015

MHI Blog

Mercedes-Benz is investing hundreds of millions in a global reorganization of its supply chain network that will set the course for growth and efficiency with the goal of reducing supply chain costs by 20 percent per vehicle.

Continued Decline Predicted for Rentals of Ocean Container Equipment

July 24, 2015

Drewry

Container equipment rental rates came under renewed pressure in 2014 and by mid-2015 new dry freight pricing was at a ten-year low, whilst lease rates had fallen to an all-time low, according to the latest edition of the Container Leasing report published by global shipping consultancy Drewry.

Logistics

The latest news, analysis, services and systems regarding logistics and freight and their impact on global supply chains. Today’s companies are transporting and delivering perishables and manufactured goods in a more timely and efficient manner than ever before through logistics solutions. New technologies that provide information during local and global shipments are transforming the way companies do business - and allowing them to stay ahead of the competition in their industries. As transportation and distribution services continue to evolve, businesses are discovering new ways to increase efficiency and cut costs. Learn how companies are using logistics and cargo solutions to power their supply chains.