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Facilitating goods logistics in the urban environment

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The congestion in our city centers and residential neighborhoods is only getting worse. More deliveries from web stores, especially in the hours when we consumers are at home, means more trucks and delivery vans driving around. The number of deliveries sent between consumers via peer-to-peer sales platforms is growing like crazy. We are picking things up at click-and-collect points more and more often. How are we supposed to accommodate all that in the larger cities?

Spotlight

A-1 Freeman Moving Group

A company is only as strong as its roots, and the A-1 Freeman Moving Group's roots are firmly planted in a culture of honesty, integrity, and hard work. In 1974, Jim Freeman founded A-1 Freeman Moving Group in Oklahoma City, OK on a belief that he could build an organization that would provide better quality and value for his customers. What started as one man, one truck, and a vision is today North American Van Lines' largest agent west of the Mississippi and the fastest growing agent family. It is the fundamental desire to provide nothing short of excellence in transportation and logistics that has led to our success...

OTHER ARTICLES
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY,LOGISTICS

Autonomous Robots: The Future of Warehousing & Logistics

Article | July 16, 2022

Autonomous robots have transitioned from a futuristic system that only a few enterprises could afford to a sustainable, well-established solution in a wide assortment of warehouse automation projects in recent years. With the flourishing transportation and logistics industry and increasing e-commerce penetration worldwide, innovative technologies are revealing promising opportunities throughout the supply chain. Warehouse Automation: Driving Value in the Supply Chain Historically, autonomous robots have been used to perform tedious and repetitive tasks, necessitating sophisticated programming for setup and incorporation while lacking the dexterity to easily adjust operations. As autonomous robots become more intelligent, their setup times decrease, they need less monitoring, and they are able to work alongside their human counterparts. The benefits for the future supply chain are increasing as autonomous robots become more capable of working day and night with more consistent levels of productivity and quality and performing tasks that individuals should not, cannot, or do not want to do. Autonomous robots drive advancements and add value to the supply chain, primarily by increasing revenue potential and lowering direct and indirect operating costs. Autonomous robots, in particular, can assist: Boost efficiency and productivity. Lower risk, error frequency, and rework rates. Enhance employee safety in high-risk workplaces. Handle low-value, routine tasks so people can work together on strategic projects that can't be done by machines. Raise revenue by optimizing order fulfillment rates, and delivery speed, and, ultimately, increasing customer satisfaction. Sneak Peek into the Future of Autonomous Robot Autonomous robots are expected to witness strong growth in the coming years. These robots will become more common in the future supply chain as technology advances, allowing them to operate with more human-like abilities. Improvements in haptic sensors, for example, will enable these robots to grasp objects varying from multi-surfaced metal assembly parts to fragile eggshells without requiring changes to robotic components or programming. This will encourage companies operating in the industry to increase their research and development activities and introduce innovative and advanced supply chain technologies.

Read More
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY

Complexities Triggering Technological Advancement in Transport & Logistics

Article | April 19, 2022

Over the past decade, transportation and logistics have witnessed an immense transformation, from using automotive vehicles to drones and paper tags to advanced geotags. Also, the introduction of novel technologies and incorporation of innovative solutions such as artificial intelligence and blockchain has further reshaped the sector. How is Rising Complexity Triggering the Adoption of Novel Technologies? Today's supply chain is, in a word, complex. It has so many complexities, from ever-rising consumer expectations and disruptive events to globalized sourcing and omnichannel demand, that it is now being compared to a modern-day Gordian knot. With complexity comes ambiguity, particularly in the transportation and logistics industry. For instance, importers are expected to find cost-effective and efficient ways to transport goods from manufacturing facilities, which are frequently located halfway around the world, to distribution centers and then, ultimately, into the hands of consumers. In addition, e-commerce has further added to the complexity by introducing new channels into the jumble along with the introduction of same-day or next-day delivery standards with higher transparency and tracking features by leading players such as eBay, Walmart, and Amazon Here are a few prominent technologies assisting logistics companies to counter these complexities. Data Analytics Big data analytics aids in the more accurate and efficient planning of operational processes, services, and strategies, allowing businesses to align with emerging consumer needs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning AI and Machine Learning have become the most sought-after tech in the transportation food chain. It assists businesses in enhancing operational functionality, boosting productivity and speed, designing optimal transit networks and routes, and improving safety through predictive risk calculation and elimination. The Internet of Things (IoT) With the rising need for transparency and tracking of shipped goods, IoT is garnering immense popularity across the transportation and logistics sector. It enables businesses to monitor and track their goods in real-time with the help of geo-tagging, RFID tags, and GPS, resulting in fewer delays in deliveries.

Read More
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY,SUPPLY CHAIN

Predicting the Future of the Logistics Industry

Article | July 18, 2022

Introduction From warehouse robots to delivery drones, the supply chain is experiencing a tremendous upheaval. AI promises a totally autonomous and self-organized future supply chain. A fleet of vehicles utilizing a swarm algorithm can enhance cargo yard throughput; a trusted peer-to-peer ledger on blockchain architecture could change compliance in the sector; and wearables, mobile robotics, and machine learning technologies could speed up order fulfilment. IOT e-brokerage solutions can link shops to couriers and transporters with a click. Tomorrow's supply chain will be leaner, quicker, and self-organized. A few innovative technologies will fuel this unparalleled rate of change over the next 15 years. Here are the major technologies that are shaping the future of the logistics industry. Logistics Technologies for the Future Shipment Tracking Systems Previously, customers ordered shipments, had an anticipated arrival date, and then were kept in the dark until they chose to call. Customers can now access shipping and tracking systems around-the-clock due to developments in the internet and software. This not only enhances the customer experience (cx), but it also saves the business time and money. Internet of Things (IoT) The IoT reduces costs and delays by minimizing hazards in the supply chain. Cabs, cargo ships, trains, etc., have sensors that link to an alarm system or dispatcher. These sensors analyze and communicate information to the crew, who learns about hidden threats. IoT isn't a new technology, but it continues to influence logistics by improving in-transit visibility and delivery. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) RFID technology has been used for a few years to monitor inventories labor-efficiently. A product tag or sensor produces radio waves. The company processes the data. RFID tags are similar to barcodes, but their faster information transport and data processing appeal to companies and the direction of technology. Many organizations use RFID tags to track containers in warehouses. Enhanced GPS Accuracy Almost everyone utilizes GPS on their vehicles or smartphones. These devices' accuracy has improved over time, assisting lost drivers and enhancing the supply chain. By monitoring truck locations and boosting hauls with current traffic data, GPS increases efficiency and customer satisfaction. Closing Lines Unprecedented times have produced unprecedented transformations that will last for generations. Changing demographics, technology improvements, and COVID-19 impacts are altering global supply networks. We must understand the driving factors and act on what we learn to adapt and rise to the situation. For the sake of our current workforce and future generations.

Read More
SUPPLY CHAIN

Purchasing vs. Supply Chain Management software

Article | June 29, 2022

Purchasing software and supply chain management software are often mistaken for one another, but both have distinct functionalities. While purchasing software automates the procurement process, supply chain management software executes logistical transactions and manages supplier relationships. This report identifies the similarities and differences between the two software categories to help you understand which one is better suited to your needs. What is purchasing software? Purchasing software is an online tool that allows businesses to automate the process of procuring goods and services. It includes security compliance and reporting features. Purchasing solutions offer integrated tools for invoice approval, inventory control, asset management, customer service, and work order management. They help manage contracts, analyze spending, track sales deliveries, and monitor inventory levels. They also assist in identifying bottlenecks in the purchase process, such as functions that have high expenditure. Purchasing software offers invoice processing capabilities as well. Procurement professionals and accounting teams can use the tool to generate invoices, track invoice status, and monitor expenses via detailed reports. What is supply chain management software? Supply chain management software is a software platform that allows supply chain managers to automate the entire supply chain process—from acquiring raw materials to delivering the finished goods to consumers. The software provides tools for monitoring stock levels, including raw materials, and predicting future requirements based on the current inflow and outflow of inventory. Supply chain management tools manage material handling, order fulfillment, and information tracking for stakeholders such as manufacturers, suppliers, and transport and logistics providers. They also track the returns of damaged goods, process refunds and insurance claims, and provide planning and forecasting tools for supply chain professionals. What do they have in common? Purchasing is a crucial component of supply chain management. Together, these processes significantly contribute to an organization’s procurement cycle. Despite the functionality differences, both the software categories have a few features in common, including supplier management, order management, and forecasting. Which tool is right for you? The answer to this question depends on your use case. If you’re looking for a tool that majorly focuses on acquiring supplies, opt for a purchasing software solution, as it will help you streamline the procurement cycle, maintain purchase order accuracy, and monitor supplier activities. However, if you wish to manage your entire supply chain operations, including supplier, transportation, warehouse, and inventory management, then investing in a supply chain software solution would be the right choice.

Read More
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY,LOGISTICS

Cloud Technology: A Game Changer in the Logistics Sector

Article | July 16, 2022

Autonomous robots have transitioned from a futuristic system that only a few enterprises could afford to a sustainable, well-established solution in a wide assortment of warehouse automation projects in recent years. With the flourishing transportation and logistics industry and increasing e-commerce penetration worldwide, innovative technologies are revealing promising opportunities throughout the supply chain. Warehouse Automation: Driving Value in the Supply Chain Historically, autonomous robots have been used to perform tedious and repetitive tasks, necessitating sophisticated programming for setup and incorporation while lacking the dexterity to easily adjust operations. As autonomous robots become more intelligent, their setup times decrease, they need less monitoring, and they are able to work alongside their human counterparts. The benefits for the future supply chain are increasing as autonomous robots become more capable of working day and night with more consistent levels of productivity and quality and performing tasks that individuals should not, cannot, or do not want to do. Autonomous robots drive advancements and add value to the supply chain, primarily by increasing revenue potential and lowering direct and indirect operating costs. Autonomous robots, in particular, can assist: Boost efficiency and productivity. Lower risk, error frequency, and rework rates. Enhance employee safety in high-risk workplaces. Handle low-value, routine tasks so people can work together on strategic projects that can't be done by machines. Raise revenue by optimizing order fulfillment rates, and delivery speed, and, ultimately, increasing customer satisfaction. Sneak Peek into the Future of Autonomous Robot Autonomous robots are expected to witness strong growth in the coming years. These robots will become more common in the future supply chain as technology advances, allowing them to operate with more human-like abilities. Improvements in haptic sensors, for example, will enable these robots to grasp objects varying from multi-surfaced metal assembly parts to fragile eggshells without requiring changes to robotic components or programming. This will encourage companies operating in the industry to increase their research and development activities and introduce innovative and advanced supply chain technologies.

Read More
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY

Put Strategy First When Pondering Automation for Your DC

Article | April 19, 2022

Over the past decade, transportation and logistics have witnessed an immense transformation, from using automotive vehicles to drones and paper tags to advanced geotags. Also, the introduction of novel technologies and incorporation of innovative solutions such as artificial intelligence and blockchain has further reshaped the sector. How is Rising Complexity Triggering the Adoption of Novel Technologies? Today's supply chain is, in a word, complex. It has so many complexities, from ever-rising consumer expectations and disruptive events to globalized sourcing and omnichannel demand, that it is now being compared to a modern-day Gordian knot. With complexity comes ambiguity, particularly in the transportation and logistics industry. For instance, importers are expected to find cost-effective and efficient ways to transport goods from manufacturing facilities, which are frequently located halfway around the world, to distribution centers and then, ultimately, into the hands of consumers. In addition, e-commerce has further added to the complexity by introducing new channels into the jumble along with the introduction of same-day or next-day delivery standards with higher transparency and tracking features by leading players such as eBay, Walmart, and Amazon Here are a few prominent technologies assisting logistics companies to counter these complexities. Data Analytics Big data analytics aids in the more accurate and efficient planning of operational processes, services, and strategies, allowing businesses to align with emerging consumer needs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning AI and Machine Learning have become the most sought-after tech in the transportation food chain. It assists businesses in enhancing operational functionality, boosting productivity and speed, designing optimal transit networks and routes, and improving safety through predictive risk calculation and elimination. The Internet of Things (IoT) With the rising need for transparency and tracking of shipped goods, IoT is garnering immense popularity across the transportation and logistics sector. It enables businesses to monitor and track their goods in real-time with the help of geo-tagging, RFID tags, and GPS, resulting in fewer delays in deliveries.

Read More
SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY,SUPPLY CHAIN

Oracle’s Advice for Modern Supply Chain Chiefs

Article | July 18, 2022

Introduction From warehouse robots to delivery drones, the supply chain is experiencing a tremendous upheaval. AI promises a totally autonomous and self-organized future supply chain. A fleet of vehicles utilizing a swarm algorithm can enhance cargo yard throughput; a trusted peer-to-peer ledger on blockchain architecture could change compliance in the sector; and wearables, mobile robotics, and machine learning technologies could speed up order fulfilment. IOT e-brokerage solutions can link shops to couriers and transporters with a click. Tomorrow's supply chain will be leaner, quicker, and self-organized. A few innovative technologies will fuel this unparalleled rate of change over the next 15 years. Here are the major technologies that are shaping the future of the logistics industry. Logistics Technologies for the Future Shipment Tracking Systems Previously, customers ordered shipments, had an anticipated arrival date, and then were kept in the dark until they chose to call. Customers can now access shipping and tracking systems around-the-clock due to developments in the internet and software. This not only enhances the customer experience (cx), but it also saves the business time and money. Internet of Things (IoT) The IoT reduces costs and delays by minimizing hazards in the supply chain. Cabs, cargo ships, trains, etc., have sensors that link to an alarm system or dispatcher. These sensors analyze and communicate information to the crew, who learns about hidden threats. IoT isn't a new technology, but it continues to influence logistics by improving in-transit visibility and delivery. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) RFID technology has been used for a few years to monitor inventories labor-efficiently. A product tag or sensor produces radio waves. The company processes the data. RFID tags are similar to barcodes, but their faster information transport and data processing appeal to companies and the direction of technology. Many organizations use RFID tags to track containers in warehouses. Enhanced GPS Accuracy Almost everyone utilizes GPS on their vehicles or smartphones. These devices' accuracy has improved over time, assisting lost drivers and enhancing the supply chain. By monitoring truck locations and boosting hauls with current traffic data, GPS increases efficiency and customer satisfaction. Closing Lines Unprecedented times have produced unprecedented transformations that will last for generations. Changing demographics, technology improvements, and COVID-19 impacts are altering global supply networks. We must understand the driving factors and act on what we learn to adapt and rise to the situation. For the sake of our current workforce and future generations.

Read More
SUPPLY CHAIN

Purchasing vs. Supply Chain Management software

Article | June 29, 2022

Purchasing software and supply chain management software are often mistaken for one another, but both have distinct functionalities. While purchasing software automates the procurement process, supply chain management software executes logistical transactions and manages supplier relationships. This report identifies the similarities and differences between the two software categories to help you understand which one is better suited to your needs. What is purchasing software? Purchasing software is an online tool that allows businesses to automate the process of procuring goods and services. It includes security compliance and reporting features. Purchasing solutions offer integrated tools for invoice approval, inventory control, asset management, customer service, and work order management. They help manage contracts, analyze spending, track sales deliveries, and monitor inventory levels. They also assist in identifying bottlenecks in the purchase process, such as functions that have high expenditure. Purchasing software offers invoice processing capabilities as well. Procurement professionals and accounting teams can use the tool to generate invoices, track invoice status, and monitor expenses via detailed reports. What is supply chain management software? Supply chain management software is a software platform that allows supply chain managers to automate the entire supply chain process—from acquiring raw materials to delivering the finished goods to consumers. The software provides tools for monitoring stock levels, including raw materials, and predicting future requirements based on the current inflow and outflow of inventory. Supply chain management tools manage material handling, order fulfillment, and information tracking for stakeholders such as manufacturers, suppliers, and transport and logistics providers. They also track the returns of damaged goods, process refunds and insurance claims, and provide planning and forecasting tools for supply chain professionals. What do they have in common? Purchasing is a crucial component of supply chain management. Together, these processes significantly contribute to an organization’s procurement cycle. Despite the functionality differences, both the software categories have a few features in common, including supplier management, order management, and forecasting. Which tool is right for you? The answer to this question depends on your use case. If you’re looking for a tool that majorly focuses on acquiring supplies, opt for a purchasing software solution, as it will help you streamline the procurement cycle, maintain purchase order accuracy, and monitor supplier activities. However, if you wish to manage your entire supply chain operations, including supplier, transportation, warehouse, and inventory management, then investing in a supply chain software solution would be the right choice.

Read More
MORE ARTICLES

Spotlight

A-1 Freeman Moving Group

A company is only as strong as its roots, and the A-1 Freeman Moving Group's roots are firmly planted in a culture of honesty, integrity, and hard work. In 1974, Jim Freeman founded A-1 Freeman Moving Group in Oklahoma City, OK on a belief that he could build an organization that would provide better quality and value for his customers. What started as one man, one truck, and a vision is today North American Van Lines' largest agent west of the Mississippi and the fastest growing agent family. It is the fundamental desire to provide nothing short of excellence in transportation and logistics that has led to our success...

Related News

SUPPLY CHAIN

Blume Global now runs logistics operating platform natively on Google Cloud

Blume Global | October 19, 2021

Blume Global, the leading provider of supply chain execution and visibility solutions, is proud to be the first to deliver logistics execution and supply chain visibility solutions completely native to Google Cloud Platform. Customers that use Blume's digital operating platform with Blume Maps can access these solutions from a cloud-native platform. Blume's digital supply chain operating platform with Blume Maps, a digital twin of the supply chain, was born on GCP in 2018. Blume's digital operating platform and solutions are used by some of the largest freight railroads, container steam-ship lines, logistics service providers and shippers in the world to manage and track the movement of freight and transportation assets in more than 130 countries. Blume leverages GCP's services to collect, clean and provide access to high quality and accurate logistics data, enabling Blume's high-value solutions including Blume Maps; international, intermodal and domestic transportation management; transportation asset management; supply chain visibility; order orchestration; and control tower, which were also born on GCP. "Organizations today require solutions that help them manage and optimize their logistics strategies with data. We're pleased that Blume has chosen to run its platform on Google Cloud and provide customers with the solutions they need to succeed." Hans Thalbauer, managing director, Google Cloud Supply Chain. Blume's digital operating platform goes beyond the TMS status quo. Its supply chain digital twin, Blume Maps, is modeled after Google Maps. Consumers use Google's map tool to find locations, generate directions and provide feedback on each journey. With Blume Maps, planning a freight shipment's route, tracking the shipment's progress and ETA, and changing course during the journey if problems arise, is as natural as using Google's navigation app during a family road trip. The solution allows customers to generate accurate lead times, real-time shipment location, and ETAs for road, ocean, air, and railroad. Blume Maps can also provide alternative modes, carriers and routes when shipments are behind schedule, enabling unrivaled supply chain agility. "When considering where we wanted to build Blume Maps, we made a very conscious decision to go with GCP instead of other cloud providers because of their commitment to making a difference in the supply chain space," said Blume Global CEO Pervinder Johar. "At Blume, we're building the digital supply chain operating platform for the next 50 years, and our partnership with Google Cloud Platform has enabled that mission." About Blume Global The supply chain technology provider Blume Global aims to remove $1 trillion of waste from the global supply chain, making logistics processes more agile, dependable and sustainable with innovative logistics execution and visibility solutions. Blume's digital platform goes beyond the transportation management status quo, empowering users to quickly predict the impact of disruptions and react in real time before minor issues become major problems. With one of the most extensive networks among logistics technology providers, Blume Global's direct connectivity to the ocean, air, rail, parcel, LTL and truckload carriers combines with Blume Global's solutions and 27 years of industry data to give customers the intelligence needed to maximize transportation spend, improve customer service and reduce carbon emission.

Read More

LOGISTICS

PLS Logistics Services Acquires D&L Transport

PLS Logistics Services | September 23, 2021

PLS Logistics Services, a leading, technology-driven, third-party logistics company has acquired D&L Transport, a transportation brokerage headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. D&L Transport will continue to operate under its authority and remain an independent subsidiary of PLS, leveraging PLS's advanced technology and national carrier network while maintaining its independent operations. Brian DeFrain, a 10-year veteran of D&L Transport, will remain in the role of President of D&L. All existing management and employees will remain with the organization following the acquisition. Greg Burns, Chief Executive Officer of PLS Logistics, said, "D&L Transport through its national agent network has developed a broad range of services, with particular strength in the dry van, flatbed and refrigerated modes, and an outstanding reputation for customer service." Brian DeFrain, President of D&L Transport, remarked, "We are excited to partner with PLS Logistics and get immediate access to its broad service offering and industry-leading technology, while maintaining our independent operations." Founded in 2004, D&L Transport is a non-asset provider of Truckload solutions in North America. D&L Transport brings a strong management team and talented sales agents to PLS, as well as a robust network of shippers and carriers. Effective with this transaction, PLS will have an annual revenue run rate of $950mm and expects annual revenue of approximately $1.2 billion in 2022. About PLS Logistics Services PLS Logistics Services is a leading provider of logistics management, brokerage and technology services for shippers across all industries. PLS handles over a million loads annually across all major freight modes: flatbed, van, LTL, rail and barge, air and ocean. The PLS carrier network consists of over 65,000 pre-qualified trucking companies along with Class-1 railroads and major barge companies.

Read More

TRANSPORTATION

nuVizz Introduces Platform 2.0 to Meet Complex Transportation and Delivery Demands Across the Supply Chain

nuVizz | August 31, 2021

nuVizz, a leading network-based last mile delivery & transportation management and customer experience SaaS platform, introduces Platform 2.0, which helps organizations tackle the most challenging transportation routing and scheduling issues. Leveraging AI and machine learning, Platform 2.0 builds on the nuVizz real-time transportation visibility technology to create an intelligent delivery ecosystem that helps clients deliver next level customer service. The company also celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a newly branded website. “The demands of the transportation and delivery ecosystem are growing daily, and we are thrilled to introduce nuVizz Platform 2.0 to bring much needed new capabilities to market,” said Guru Rao, CEO of nuVizz. “With a decade of experience, nuVizz has a depth of business and technology expertise that enables us to meet the broad-ranging needs of our hundreds of customers worldwide. Platform 2.0 leverages AI and machine learning to create an active learning and self-correcting ecosystem that delivers predictive estimated time of arrival (ETA), dynamic routing and scheduling, and advanced data-driven workflow. These build on the platform’s foundation, which increases operating efficiencies through business process automation.” nuVizz Platform 2.0 capabilities include: • AI & ML application to intelligently route and schedule orders, helping drastically reduce the manual labor involved in the process • Industry-first active learning algorithms that take the best of both end-user business knowledge and machine learning capabilities to improve overall delivery efficiency • Quality data modules that fix common data issues at the source, reduce delivery exceptions, and improve customer service • Advanced workflow automation engine that takes away the need for manual involvement at every step of the delivery lifecycle According to Gartner, “advances in AI and ML provide new opportunities and improvements for transportation management systems (TMSs), vehicle routing and scheduling (VRS) solutions, real-time transportation visibility platforms (RTTVP), as well as other transportation technologies.”* Shippers, 3PLs and Transportation companies benefit from a wide-range of nuVizz Platform features: • As a network-enabled solution, it brings all stakeholders of the delivery ecosystem on a single platform with 100% real-time visibility • The advanced dynamic and real-time optimization capabilities improve asset utilization by more than 30-40% • Its self-serve appointment scheduling and customer communication modules reduce manual labor by more than 40% • As a completely automated delivery process, it eliminates paper and provides significant cost savings • The advanced billing and settlement module reduces the billing cycle by more than 50% and improves the cash cycle • Its best-in-class customer engagement capabilities improve customer satisfaction scores by more than 15 points “Ten years ago, nuVizz set out to create a technology platform that helped move goods, services, and people more efficiently, and it has been gratifying to see that vision come to fruition,” added Guru. “This has only been possible because of the dedication of our associates and trust our customers and partners placed in us over the years. We pride ourselves in being innovative and nimble, and look forward to what the next 10 years will bring.” About nuVizz nuVizz lights the way to better delivery and transportation logistics. From the first mile to the last mile—and everything in between—we’re trailblazers in supply chain optimization and digitization. Infinitely flexible, the nuVizz SaaS platform drives visibility, control, cost savings, and a better customer experience across the fulfillment lifecycle. Our single-minded mission: simple, sustainable transportation solutions for every business on the planet. Go further, grow faster.

Read More

SUPPLY CHAIN

Blume Global now runs logistics operating platform natively on Google Cloud

Blume Global | October 19, 2021

Blume Global, the leading provider of supply chain execution and visibility solutions, is proud to be the first to deliver logistics execution and supply chain visibility solutions completely native to Google Cloud Platform. Customers that use Blume's digital operating platform with Blume Maps can access these solutions from a cloud-native platform. Blume's digital supply chain operating platform with Blume Maps, a digital twin of the supply chain, was born on GCP in 2018. Blume's digital operating platform and solutions are used by some of the largest freight railroads, container steam-ship lines, logistics service providers and shippers in the world to manage and track the movement of freight and transportation assets in more than 130 countries. Blume leverages GCP's services to collect, clean and provide access to high quality and accurate logistics data, enabling Blume's high-value solutions including Blume Maps; international, intermodal and domestic transportation management; transportation asset management; supply chain visibility; order orchestration; and control tower, which were also born on GCP. "Organizations today require solutions that help them manage and optimize their logistics strategies with data. We're pleased that Blume has chosen to run its platform on Google Cloud and provide customers with the solutions they need to succeed." Hans Thalbauer, managing director, Google Cloud Supply Chain. Blume's digital operating platform goes beyond the TMS status quo. Its supply chain digital twin, Blume Maps, is modeled after Google Maps. Consumers use Google's map tool to find locations, generate directions and provide feedback on each journey. With Blume Maps, planning a freight shipment's route, tracking the shipment's progress and ETA, and changing course during the journey if problems arise, is as natural as using Google's navigation app during a family road trip. The solution allows customers to generate accurate lead times, real-time shipment location, and ETAs for road, ocean, air, and railroad. Blume Maps can also provide alternative modes, carriers and routes when shipments are behind schedule, enabling unrivaled supply chain agility. "When considering where we wanted to build Blume Maps, we made a very conscious decision to go with GCP instead of other cloud providers because of their commitment to making a difference in the supply chain space," said Blume Global CEO Pervinder Johar. "At Blume, we're building the digital supply chain operating platform for the next 50 years, and our partnership with Google Cloud Platform has enabled that mission." About Blume Global The supply chain technology provider Blume Global aims to remove $1 trillion of waste from the global supply chain, making logistics processes more agile, dependable and sustainable with innovative logistics execution and visibility solutions. Blume's digital platform goes beyond the transportation management status quo, empowering users to quickly predict the impact of disruptions and react in real time before minor issues become major problems. With one of the most extensive networks among logistics technology providers, Blume Global's direct connectivity to the ocean, air, rail, parcel, LTL and truckload carriers combines with Blume Global's solutions and 27 years of industry data to give customers the intelligence needed to maximize transportation spend, improve customer service and reduce carbon emission.

Read More

LOGISTICS

PLS Logistics Services Acquires D&L Transport

PLS Logistics Services | September 23, 2021

PLS Logistics Services, a leading, technology-driven, third-party logistics company has acquired D&L Transport, a transportation brokerage headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. D&L Transport will continue to operate under its authority and remain an independent subsidiary of PLS, leveraging PLS's advanced technology and national carrier network while maintaining its independent operations. Brian DeFrain, a 10-year veteran of D&L Transport, will remain in the role of President of D&L. All existing management and employees will remain with the organization following the acquisition. Greg Burns, Chief Executive Officer of PLS Logistics, said, "D&L Transport through its national agent network has developed a broad range of services, with particular strength in the dry van, flatbed and refrigerated modes, and an outstanding reputation for customer service." Brian DeFrain, President of D&L Transport, remarked, "We are excited to partner with PLS Logistics and get immediate access to its broad service offering and industry-leading technology, while maintaining our independent operations." Founded in 2004, D&L Transport is a non-asset provider of Truckload solutions in North America. D&L Transport brings a strong management team and talented sales agents to PLS, as well as a robust network of shippers and carriers. Effective with this transaction, PLS will have an annual revenue run rate of $950mm and expects annual revenue of approximately $1.2 billion in 2022. About PLS Logistics Services PLS Logistics Services is a leading provider of logistics management, brokerage and technology services for shippers across all industries. PLS handles over a million loads annually across all major freight modes: flatbed, van, LTL, rail and barge, air and ocean. The PLS carrier network consists of over 65,000 pre-qualified trucking companies along with Class-1 railroads and major barge companies.

Read More

TRANSPORTATION

nuVizz Introduces Platform 2.0 to Meet Complex Transportation and Delivery Demands Across the Supply Chain

nuVizz | August 31, 2021

nuVizz, a leading network-based last mile delivery & transportation management and customer experience SaaS platform, introduces Platform 2.0, which helps organizations tackle the most challenging transportation routing and scheduling issues. Leveraging AI and machine learning, Platform 2.0 builds on the nuVizz real-time transportation visibility technology to create an intelligent delivery ecosystem that helps clients deliver next level customer service. The company also celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a newly branded website. “The demands of the transportation and delivery ecosystem are growing daily, and we are thrilled to introduce nuVizz Platform 2.0 to bring much needed new capabilities to market,” said Guru Rao, CEO of nuVizz. “With a decade of experience, nuVizz has a depth of business and technology expertise that enables us to meet the broad-ranging needs of our hundreds of customers worldwide. Platform 2.0 leverages AI and machine learning to create an active learning and self-correcting ecosystem that delivers predictive estimated time of arrival (ETA), dynamic routing and scheduling, and advanced data-driven workflow. These build on the platform’s foundation, which increases operating efficiencies through business process automation.” nuVizz Platform 2.0 capabilities include: • AI & ML application to intelligently route and schedule orders, helping drastically reduce the manual labor involved in the process • Industry-first active learning algorithms that take the best of both end-user business knowledge and machine learning capabilities to improve overall delivery efficiency • Quality data modules that fix common data issues at the source, reduce delivery exceptions, and improve customer service • Advanced workflow automation engine that takes away the need for manual involvement at every step of the delivery lifecycle According to Gartner, “advances in AI and ML provide new opportunities and improvements for transportation management systems (TMSs), vehicle routing and scheduling (VRS) solutions, real-time transportation visibility platforms (RTTVP), as well as other transportation technologies.”* Shippers, 3PLs and Transportation companies benefit from a wide-range of nuVizz Platform features: • As a network-enabled solution, it brings all stakeholders of the delivery ecosystem on a single platform with 100% real-time visibility • The advanced dynamic and real-time optimization capabilities improve asset utilization by more than 30-40% • Its self-serve appointment scheduling and customer communication modules reduce manual labor by more than 40% • As a completely automated delivery process, it eliminates paper and provides significant cost savings • The advanced billing and settlement module reduces the billing cycle by more than 50% and improves the cash cycle • Its best-in-class customer engagement capabilities improve customer satisfaction scores by more than 15 points “Ten years ago, nuVizz set out to create a technology platform that helped move goods, services, and people more efficiently, and it has been gratifying to see that vision come to fruition,” added Guru. “This has only been possible because of the dedication of our associates and trust our customers and partners placed in us over the years. We pride ourselves in being innovative and nimble, and look forward to what the next 10 years will bring.” About nuVizz nuVizz lights the way to better delivery and transportation logistics. From the first mile to the last mile—and everything in between—we’re trailblazers in supply chain optimization and digitization. Infinitely flexible, the nuVizz SaaS platform drives visibility, control, cost savings, and a better customer experience across the fulfillment lifecycle. Our single-minded mission: simple, sustainable transportation solutions for every business on the planet. Go further, grow faster.

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