The Top Logistics News Stories of 2017

 

2017 was another transformative year for freight transportation, logistics, and the food supply chain. In many ways, the end of the year is like the last mile. It’s the final push, the homestretch, but often it’s marred by hiccups (and traffic) along the way. An efficient, stress-free finale may seem like an elusive goal.

Here’s a look at this year’s biggest stories in logistics, and how they caused fundamental shifts in the way business is done.

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Benefits of Using the Right Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

 

The supply chain has changed dramatically over the last 10 years in so many ways that it can be hard for some to keep up with.  Increases in freight and transportation have made these costs higher than distribution center labor in many businesses.

One way to get ahead of this constantly changing landscape is using robust Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). Not all Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are alike.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing warehouse management systems since every business will have different needs based on products, computer systems, and so on. Regardless of the type of WMS you use, however, the advantages it can bring will remain constant.

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Reefer vs Dry LTL Shipping

 

Before you can successfully transport freight, you must first determine the shipping option that best meets your transportation needs. There is a wide variety you can choose from, including dry van, refrigerated (reefer), flatbed and more.

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with all of the freight shipping modes and the requirements that come along with each. We’ve outlined the advantages of Reefer vs Dry LTL Shipping.

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Benefit of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

What is a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)?

A Standard Operation Procedure is a procedure specific to your operation that describes the activities necessary to complete tasks in accordance with industry regulations, provincial laws or even just your own standards for running your business.

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) plays an important role in your business. SOPs are policies, procedures and standards you need within your business to ensure success.

These can create:

  • efficiencies, and therefore profitability
  • consistency and reliability in production and service
  • fewer errors in all areas
  • a way to resolve conflicts between partners
  • a healthy and safe environment
  • protection of employers in areas of potential liability and personnel matters
  • a roadmap for how to resolve issues – and the removal of emotion from troubleshooting – allowing needed focus on solving the problem
  • first line of defense in any inspection, whether it be by a regulatory body, a partner or potential partner, a client, or a firm conducting due diligence for a possible purchase
  • value added to your business should you ever wish to sell it

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