Home > Resources > Articles > Trends in Shipping by Vertical: Retail, Wholesale & OEM Shipping for 2020

Trends in Shipping by Vertical: Retail, Wholesale & OEM Shipping for 2020

February 10, 2020 | 120 views

Global trends in shipping continue to evolve in the wake of uncertainty and risk. The recent outbreak of the Coronavirus threatens to undermine use of shipping options that would involve air freight between the U.S. and China, explains Wired. New hazmat regulations are taking effect in 2020. Retailers are trying to stay evergreen and compete with Amazon. The list of risks is endless, and the only way to really succeed will lie in understanding the trends in shipping by vertical and a few key sectors that require vigilance in the coming year.

Spotlight

Casper Shipping Ltd

Casper Shipping is the leading independent port agency, logistics and marine services group of companies in the UK. With origins dating back to 1872, Casper Shipping has provided professional port agency, customs and forwarding services for 145 years.

OTHER ARTICLES
PROCUREMENT AND SOURCING,LOGISTICS

Autonomous Robots: The Future of Warehousing & Logistics

Article | August 8, 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
PROCUREMENT AND SOURCING,LOGISTICS

Boosting Efficiency with Carrier Management

Article | August 8, 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

Casper Shipping Ltd

Casper Shipping is the leading independent port agency, logistics and marine services group of companies in the UK. With origins dating back to 1872, Casper Shipping has provided professional port agency, customs and forwarding services for 145 years.

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

Passport Shipping Announces Acquisition of Access Worldwide, Adds Depth and Breadth to Cross-Border Logistics

Passport Shipping | August 10, 2021

Passport, an international shipping carrier built for cross-border e-commerce, has acquired Access Worldwide Inc. - an Atlanta-based international shipping consolidator with more than two decades of parcel supply chain industry experience. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. "This is great news for the customers of both companies as it provides value-added capabilities and services to each," said Alex Yancher, founder and CEO of Passport. "By combining our capabilities, we'll be able to elevate the quality of our products, gain access to better shipping rates and expedite transit times." With the acquisition, Passport is also better positioned to work on bespoke solutions for large consumer brands and marketplace business models that require deep expertise to execute complicated configurations. By the end of this year, Statista expects the number of online shoppers around the world to reach 2.14 billion, representing an opportunity for direct-to-consumer brands to grow revenues by expanding their market footprint internationally. With the acquisition, Passport gains access to an expert team with decades of hands-on, asset-based operational experience in the international parcel logistics space including Access Worldwide CEO Adam Langston who becomes Passport's new Chief Commercial Officer. "Since its inception, I've been really impressed with Passport's business and, candidly, have always viewed them as a company that would be a great-fit partner," said Langston. "This acquisition enables us to bring key pockets of expertise and industry relationships to a business that's poised for long-term category leadership." Additionally, Passport can now leverage Access Worldwide's logistics relationships, including critical first mile trucking providers and customs brokers to build-out and optimize a global supply chain that helps drive a better customer experience and cost structure. About Access Worldwide Access Worldwide was founded in 1999 to provide global mailers and shippers with a more reliable and cost-effective way to reach international customers. The company's employees serve over 150 countries each day via its global network of more than 60 postal and private delivery systems that help to eliminate overhead and hidden costs. Customers typically save up to 50 percent on shipping costs with full global tracking and visibility to all destinations. The company is also one of a limited number of Postal Qualified Wholesalers, a vetted designation with access to service levels and mailing products not available to the general public. About Passport Shipping Founded in 2017, San Francisco-based Passport Shipping is an international shipping carrier built for e-commerce companies and their 3PLsincluding Kylie Cosmetics, Native Deodorants, Bombas, Raycon and LMNT. The company manages all the complexities associated with international shipping so their consumer brand customers can stay focused on their core business. At the same time, Passport offers end consumers door-to-door tracking and high-touch customer support on all packages being sent to more than 150 countries around the world.

Read More

LOGISTICS

RPA Labs Debuts the Shipping Industry's Future Customer Experience

RPA Labs | June 11, 2021

Today RPA Labs reported the arrival of RPA Engage, the premier logistics conversation AI (man-made reasoning) that improves client encounters via automating interactions with clients, merchants, and inward groups. An exclusive mix of conversational AI, machine learning, natural language processing, and an implicit language library of logistics wording permits RPA Engage to answer any logistics requests including: Spot Quotes Track & Trace Sailing Schedules Customer Service Inquiries And More RPA Engage is a no-code arrangement that is prepared to quickly send, effectively coordinating with any framework, and configurable to fit an assortment of organization explicit necessities. RPA Engage offers two options to enhance your customer experience: 1. The world's first commercially available AI-Powered Logistics ChatBot RPA Engage fully integrates with existing systems to provide instant, accurate responses to customer inquiries throughout all your chat channels. Freight forwarders, 3PLs, and supply chain companies who quickly respond to inquiries improve customer experience. RPA Engage's AI-Powered Logistics ChatBot offers an immediate response to general inquiries such as "where's my shipment" or "how much is it for an ocean container from Shanghai to Chicago?" Companies implement RPA Engage to provide instant chat responses on company websites, social media channels, text/SMS, third party applications, and more. 2. Email Response Bot Offer nonstop support for customer and vendor inquiries on the most widely used method of communication in the world: email. RPA Engage directly integrates through email to answer customer inquiries, eliminating email inboxes up to 80%. "No one can refute that the way shippers consider and consume logistics services is steadily changing. In a time of generational change and unprecedented global events, we want to engage our clients at the time, place, and platform best suited to their needs. RPA Labs ChatBot is a piece of that strategy. Rating new shipments, regardless of communication method, is historically and reliably deficient in obtaining all the data needed for a quality response. The RPA Engage AI-Powered Logistics ChatBot addresses that within a simple user interface and attention span; in other words, without a long and unfriendly checklist for the user," said Jay Devers, CEO and Co-Founder of Bestway Freight Solutions. "Our expectations are high: we want to see new users to the system and we want to see user satisfaction rise among long-standing customers. We chose RPA Labs because they are a leader in this space with a proven executive team known to be on the front end of new technology." Fast and quality responses like those mentioned by Devers are crucial during a time that has been so heavily influenced by the "Amazon effect" and the idea that customers expect to receive information the moment they submit an inquiry. This applies more and more to the logistics industry every day – if it takes hours or days to hear back on a quote inquiry, customers will submit requests to competitors not necessarily looking for the best price, but for whoever can respond the fastest. About RPA Labs RPA Labs provides a full-service solution in robotic process automation for companies in logistics/supply chain that are buried in emails, documents, and inefficient processes. Their software bots help companies scale without more people by eliminating manual, repetitive tasks, so they can offer a better experience to their customers and workforce.

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

Passport Shipping Announces Acquisition of Access Worldwide, Adds Depth and Breadth to Cross-Border Logistics

Passport Shipping | August 10, 2021

Passport, an international shipping carrier built for cross-border e-commerce, has acquired Access Worldwide Inc. - an Atlanta-based international shipping consolidator with more than two decades of parcel supply chain industry experience. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. "This is great news for the customers of both companies as it provides value-added capabilities and services to each," said Alex Yancher, founder and CEO of Passport. "By combining our capabilities, we'll be able to elevate the quality of our products, gain access to better shipping rates and expedite transit times." With the acquisition, Passport is also better positioned to work on bespoke solutions for large consumer brands and marketplace business models that require deep expertise to execute complicated configurations. By the end of this year, Statista expects the number of online shoppers around the world to reach 2.14 billion, representing an opportunity for direct-to-consumer brands to grow revenues by expanding their market footprint internationally. With the acquisition, Passport gains access to an expert team with decades of hands-on, asset-based operational experience in the international parcel logistics space including Access Worldwide CEO Adam Langston who becomes Passport's new Chief Commercial Officer. "Since its inception, I've been really impressed with Passport's business and, candidly, have always viewed them as a company that would be a great-fit partner," said Langston. "This acquisition enables us to bring key pockets of expertise and industry relationships to a business that's poised for long-term category leadership." Additionally, Passport can now leverage Access Worldwide's logistics relationships, including critical first mile trucking providers and customs brokers to build-out and optimize a global supply chain that helps drive a better customer experience and cost structure. About Access Worldwide Access Worldwide was founded in 1999 to provide global mailers and shippers with a more reliable and cost-effective way to reach international customers. The company's employees serve over 150 countries each day via its global network of more than 60 postal and private delivery systems that help to eliminate overhead and hidden costs. Customers typically save up to 50 percent on shipping costs with full global tracking and visibility to all destinations. The company is also one of a limited number of Postal Qualified Wholesalers, a vetted designation with access to service levels and mailing products not available to the general public. About Passport Shipping Founded in 2017, San Francisco-based Passport Shipping is an international shipping carrier built for e-commerce companies and their 3PLsincluding Kylie Cosmetics, Native Deodorants, Bombas, Raycon and LMNT. The company manages all the complexities associated with international shipping so their consumer brand customers can stay focused on their core business. At the same time, Passport offers end consumers door-to-door tracking and high-touch customer support on all packages being sent to more than 150 countries around the world.

Read More

LOGISTICS

RPA Labs Debuts the Shipping Industry's Future Customer Experience

RPA Labs | June 11, 2021

Today RPA Labs reported the arrival of RPA Engage, the premier logistics conversation AI (man-made reasoning) that improves client encounters via automating interactions with clients, merchants, and inward groups. An exclusive mix of conversational AI, machine learning, natural language processing, and an implicit language library of logistics wording permits RPA Engage to answer any logistics requests including: Spot Quotes Track & Trace Sailing Schedules Customer Service Inquiries And More RPA Engage is a no-code arrangement that is prepared to quickly send, effectively coordinating with any framework, and configurable to fit an assortment of organization explicit necessities. RPA Engage offers two options to enhance your customer experience: 1. The world's first commercially available AI-Powered Logistics ChatBot RPA Engage fully integrates with existing systems to provide instant, accurate responses to customer inquiries throughout all your chat channels. Freight forwarders, 3PLs, and supply chain companies who quickly respond to inquiries improve customer experience. RPA Engage's AI-Powered Logistics ChatBot offers an immediate response to general inquiries such as "where's my shipment" or "how much is it for an ocean container from Shanghai to Chicago?" Companies implement RPA Engage to provide instant chat responses on company websites, social media channels, text/SMS, third party applications, and more. 2. Email Response Bot Offer nonstop support for customer and vendor inquiries on the most widely used method of communication in the world: email. RPA Engage directly integrates through email to answer customer inquiries, eliminating email inboxes up to 80%. "No one can refute that the way shippers consider and consume logistics services is steadily changing. In a time of generational change and unprecedented global events, we want to engage our clients at the time, place, and platform best suited to their needs. RPA Labs ChatBot is a piece of that strategy. Rating new shipments, regardless of communication method, is historically and reliably deficient in obtaining all the data needed for a quality response. The RPA Engage AI-Powered Logistics ChatBot addresses that within a simple user interface and attention span; in other words, without a long and unfriendly checklist for the user," said Jay Devers, CEO and Co-Founder of Bestway Freight Solutions. "Our expectations are high: we want to see new users to the system and we want to see user satisfaction rise among long-standing customers. We chose RPA Labs because they are a leader in this space with a proven executive team known to be on the front end of new technology." Fast and quality responses like those mentioned by Devers are crucial during a time that has been so heavily influenced by the "Amazon effect" and the idea that customers expect to receive information the moment they submit an inquiry. This applies more and more to the logistics industry every day – if it takes hours or days to hear back on a quote inquiry, customers will submit requests to competitors not necessarily looking for the best price, but for whoever can respond the fastest. About RPA Labs RPA Labs provides a full-service solution in robotic process automation for companies in logistics/supply chain that are buried in emails, documents, and inefficient processes. Their software bots help companies scale without more people by eliminating manual, repetitive tasks, so they can offer a better experience to their customers and workforce.

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