Jack Ma goes all-in on smart logistics infrastructure network

In a surprise appearance at last week’s Canelo's Global Smart Logistics Summit, Chinese tech tycoon Jack Ma announced that Cainiao Network, the logistics affiliate of Alibaba, is going to invest more than RMB 100 billion ($15 billion) to build the technical backbone for a smart logistics network aimed at improving delivery reach and efficiency.

Spotlight

Joyce Van Lines, Inc.

Joyce Van Lines, Inc. is a premier full service; award-winning independent carrier with a reputation built on quality, integrity, trust and superior customer service. Whether you are moving locally, across the country, or around the globe, our main business objective is to assure you of a professional and stress-free move to your new location.

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Transportation

Boosting Efficiency with Carrier Management

Article | April 26, 2023

Carrier management systems have undergone much evolution thanks to the exponential development in shipping and logistics technology. Although its primary mission was to assign, control, and track shippers and carriers, the industry's post-pandemic trends have reflected a variety of new best practices. Traditionally, many carrier management systems were manually operated and made extensive use of paper processes that didn’t provide perks like real-time data, reporting functionalities, or the visibility to make informed decisions. Today’s carrier management systems comprise these features and go even further. They offer tangible improvements and advantages that impact the bottom line. Here are three things you should look for in a carrier management solution to make sure your digital transformation goes as well as possible. Support for a Diverse Range of Carriers To effectively manage your carriers, it’s essential to be able to keep up with technologies used by everything from small to large carriers. The ability to support modern technologies and EDI that are routinely used by larger carriers while also offering online portals and mobile-readiness is integral. A platform that supports a diverse range of carrier sizes helps streamline processes and eliminate friction between operational groups. It also offers all carriers on the system the ability to stay in the loop and access the same data for load and freight boards to keep the freight moving. Performance Mapping Capabilities The ability to track performance and keep an eye on crucial metrics is an important consideration for a carrier management system. Real-time data bolsters carrier relationships and equips you with the ability to control and manage factors like load capacity, location of your fuel and fleet, and intimate teams on issues like inventory, sourcing, forecasting, and dispatching in real-time. Not only does this positively impact shippers, but carriers as well. With an overview into their own performance, carriers are empowered to course-correct and respond to sudden hurdles in time. Shippers must be able to get access to the following metrics in order to have the upper hand in rate negotiations with carriers: On-time performance Data accuracy Compliance Status update timelines Collaboration-Friendly Platforms A flexible solution that allows shippers to work collaboratively ensures strategic flexibility. Monitoring the performance across different modes including truckload, intermodal, and LTL as well as parcel consolidators and shippers. Today, carrier management systems and other digital solutions are able to integrate these modes and offer superior capabilities when it comes to receiving updates from all modes in real-time. When combined with cloud-based solutions, carrier management can take efficiency to a whole new level. To Conclude The success of your supply chain and company depends on your partnerships with your carriers, which can also have a significant impact on your ROI, particularly as the market continues to transform further towards third party partnerships. In order to foster carrier performance, carrier management should be a significant part of your strategy.

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Warehousing and Distribution

Optimize B2B Supply Chain: Maximizing Efficiency from Planning to Delivery

Article | June 27, 2023

Efficiency is crucial for B2B supply chain success. Effective supply chain management techniques can streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction from planning to delivery. Contents 1. Strategic Planning to Enhance Supply Chain Optimization 1.1 Roadmap for Developing Supply Chain Optimization 1.2 Integrating Supply Chain Strategy with Business Strategy for ROI Growth 2. Effective Procurement Strategies to Maximise ROI in Supply Chain 2.1 Supplier Relationship Management 2.2 Cost-effective Procurement Processes 2.3 Continuous Improvement and Innovation 2.4 Risk Management and Mitigation 3. Optimizing Supply Chain with Effective Demand Forecasting Techniques 3.1 Anticipate Future Demand 3.2 Overstocking and Understocking Risk Management 3.3 Integrated Forecasting approach between Supply Chain Stakeholders 4. Emerging Technologies for Supply Chain Optimization Leveraged by Enterprises 4.1 AI and ML 4.2 Blockchain Technology 4.3 IoT 4.4 Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality 5. Leading Solution Providers for B2B 6. Conclusion Optimizing the B2B logistics and supply chain management has become a crucial business strategy to increase efficiency, cut costs, and boost customer satisfaction in the fiercely competitive business environment. With the increasing customer demand, supply chain managers now emphasize on faster, more precise, and unique ways to fulfill orders with enhanced logistics management techniques. “Companies that optimize their supply chain operations experience a 2.3 times greater EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) than their competitors.” (Source - A survey by Deloitte in 2020) Despite the significance of supply chain optimization, it is challenging to keep up with the latest industry trends and best practices due to the dynamic nature of the logistics industry. Learning the value of optimizing the B2B supply chain and how it can assist businesses in keeping up with the ever-growing demands of their customers through planning, strategizing and leveraging technologies helps businesses maintain a competitive advantage and achieve sustainable growth. 1. Strategic Planning to Enhance Supply Chain Optimization To achieve optimal results, businesses must develop a comprehensive plan outlining their supply chain improvement goals, objectives, and strategies. 1.1 Roadmap for Developing Supply Chain Optimization Developing a roadmap for supply chain optimization includes reviewing current operations that help in identifying the strengths and weakness of the supply chain management and assist in recognizing the opportunities for improvement, establishing SMART goals and objectives, defining strategies to meet these goals, involve streamlining processes, investing in technology, improving supplier relationships, and engaging customers and actions, as well as ensuring market adaptability to accommodate changing market conditions and evolving customer needs through assessment and adjusting the roadmap. 1.2 Integrating Supply Chain Strategy with Business Strategy for ROI Growth Integration of the supply chain involves aligning the supply chain objectives with the overall business goals, such as revenue growth, cost reduction, and customer satisfaction. The integration ensures the supply chain operations support the business goals, like cost reduction, customer satisfaction and revenue growth. "Companies that successfully integrate their supply chain and business strategies can reduce operating costs by 10-15% and increase efficiency by 20-30%.” (Source - A study by Accenture in 2020) The alignment further helps track KPIs and data-driven decision-making and continuously improves the supply chain operations to achieve objectives. Furthermore, it assists in better planning, coordination, and execution of supply chain activities, resulting in faster and more accurate fulfillment of customer orders. 2. Effective Procurement Strategies to Maximize ROI in Supply Chain Procurement strategies can raise productivity in the fast-paced logistics management and supply chain industry by optimizing the supply chain, boosting efficiency, and giving a competitive edge. 2.1 Supplier Relationship Management Effective supplier relationship management (SRM) can result in more competitive pricing, enhanced product quality, and increased dependability. To accomplish SRM, businesses must identify key suppliers, develop partnerships, communicate effectively to ensure clear expectations and mutual understanding, share information and collaborate to foster innovation and continuous improvement. 2.2 Cost-effective Procurement Processes Implementing cost-effective procurement procedures can help businesses reduce expenses and enhance productivity. To achieve cost-effectiveness, businesses should streamline operations to save time and money, leverage technology to automate processes and improve accuracy and negotiate with suppliers for better pricing and terms. 2.3 Continuous Improvement and Innovation Continuous improvement and innovation are necessary for logistics and the supply chain to remain competitive. This involves regularly reviewing and updating procurement processes, supporting supplier innovation, and keeping up with procurement and supply chain management technology trends and developments. 2.4 Risk Management and Mitigation Effective risk management and mitigation strategies are essential to prevent disruptions in the supply chain. To achieve this, businesses should focus on identifying potential risks and developing mitigation strategies, incorporating redundancy into the supply chain to minimize the impact of disruptions, and establishing transparent emergency communication and escalation procedures. 3. Optimizing Supply Chain with Effective Demand Forecasting Techniques 3.1 Anticipate Future Demand Accurate demand forecasting is crucial for supply chain optimizing done by analyzing real-time supply chain data to identify trends. For demand forecasting, businesses can utilize historical sales data, market trends, and customer feedback. To make accurate forecasts, companies must consider various factors influencing demand, such as seasonality, economic conditions, and shifting customer preferences. 3.2 Overstocking and Understocking Risk Management Demand forecasting errors can lead to overstocking and understocking in supply chain management. Using demand forecasting rightly can determine the optimal inventory level at any given time to avoid overstocking and understocking. Businesses can predict demand and adjust inventory by analyzing sales data, market trends, and other factors. 3.3 Integrated Forecasting approach between Supply Chain Stakeholders The integrated forecasting approach entails coordinating data sharing and communication between all supply chain stakeholders, from suppliers to customers. Stakeholder participation in demand forecasting improves accuracy. In addition, each stakeholder has unique knowledge and perspective that can help identify trends and patterns. 4. Emerging Technologies for Supply Chain Optimization Leveraged by Enterprises 4.1 AI and ML Leading SCM providers do offer regression modeling and causal analysis for demand forecasting. Using AI and ML, the functionality is embedded within the DP module. If a more rigorous and sophisticated approach is desired, it is possible to forecast demand numbers outside the SCM system using sophisticated modeling and then upload them back into the SCM system. 4.2 Blockchain Technology Blockchain enables secure, transparent, and decentralized transactions. It can be utilized in the supply chain to track the movement of goods, reduce the risk of fraud, and increase supply chain visibility by maintaining an immutable record of every transaction. 4.3 IoT To monitor humidity, temperature control, and other environmental factors that affect the quality of products while in transit. IoT helps businesses enhance supply chain visibility, reduce product spoilage risk, and enhance customer satisfaction using modern temperature control technology. 4.4 Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality AR and VR technologies are transforming the supply chain by improving the accuracy of inventory management, reducing errors, and enhancing the training of employees. In addition, its tools can be used to create digital representations of warehouses, products, and equipment, allowing employees to visualize the supply chain and identify areas for improvement. 5. Leading Solution Providers for B2B Several leading B2B companies have been identified based on research for supply chain optimization. To optimize supply chains, these companies have demonstrated a commitment to strategic planning, effective procurement strategies, and demand forecasting techniques. The solution providers also recognize the significance of managing risks associated with overstocking and understocking and have implemented integrated forecasting approaches with their supply chain partners and customers. In addition, these companies use emerging technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, cloud technology, machine learning and AI, blockchain technology, and the IoT to improve their supply chain operations. By prioritizing supply chain optimization, the following B2B companies gain a competitive advantage within logistics and supply chain industries and provide exceptional customer experiences. Coupa Software The supply management solutions offered by Coupa Software are hosted in the cloud and make use of machine learning and artificial intelligence to provide businesses with insights that can be used for data-driven decision-making.It assists businesses in tracking the performance of their supply chains compared to key performance indicators, identifying areas in which advancements can be made, and taking action to optimize their supply chain operations. Stord Stord a platform provider, offers a suite of software solutions that improve supply chain management for businesses. Its warehousing, transport, and inventory management solutions are integrated into a single platform. As a result, Stord offers companies greater visibility and control over their supply chains, allowing them to make more informed decisions and optimize operations by combining these functions into a single platform. Roambee Roambee is an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered platform that provides improved supply chain and visibility solutions for real-time, on-demand, and end-to-end data. Using cloud data analytics and automation, it assists in monitoring shipments, inventories, and returnable assets to provide dependable and responsive monitoring solutions. The result is a return on investment (ROI) of 4X or more on the supply chain assets by optimizing inventory levels and utilization. FlowSpace FlowSpace offers cloud-based supply chain solutions. With an internet connection, businesses can access real-time inventory, orders, and shipments from anywhere. Its solutions optimize inventory and demand fulfillment with machine learning and predictive analytics. In addition, IoT sensors and beacons provide accurate warehouse operations data for the company. FlowSpace uses cutting-edge technology to provide efficient and effective supply chain solutions. OPTEL Group OPTEL Group's cutting-edge traceability solutions help businesses optimize their supply chain. These solutions permit businesses to track their products and materials throughout the supply chain, from production to distribution. It's traceability solutions provide businesses with real-time visibility into their supply chain operations by utilizing advanced data capture technologies such as barcode scanning, RFID, and serialization. This allows them to identify potential bottlenecks, optimize workflows, and decrease waste and inefficiency. Blue Ridge Blue Ridge,a provider of cloud-based supply chain solutions, has developed a suite of solutions that make use of machine learning and artificial intelligence to improve the accuracy of forecasts, reduce the costs associated with inventory, and increase company's profitability. It does this by providing businesses with flexible and scalable solutions, as well as ones that can be adapted to meet the particular requirements of each business. GMDH Streamline GMDH Streamline makes use of complex algorithms to perform data analysis and provide insights that, when implemented in B2B logistics operations, can lead to increased efficiency and a reduction in costs. This software can analyze past sales data and make predictions about future demand patterns, which helps to ensure that the right products are always available for purchase. Because of this, there will be less of a need for excessive stockpiling, which can prevent the free flow of capital and raise the risk of stock obsolescence. Netstock Netstock's cloud-based solutions provide businesses the agility and responsiveness they need to stay competitive in the ever-changing business landscape. With its seamless integration with industry-leading ERPs, Netstock unlocks valuable ERP data and enables businesses to make informed decisions based on enhanced analytics. In addition, by leveraging Netstock's solutions, businesses can respond swiftly to supply and demand fluctuations, resulting in optimized logistics and efficient supply chain management. Solvoyo With Solvoyo's platform, businesses can optimize their supply chain performance, reduce inefficiencies, and achieve cost savings. In addition, the platform offers advanced scenario modeling and real-time analytics to help companies to make informed decisions and quickly adapt to changing market conditions. By leveraging Solvoyo's capabilities, businesses can achieve a competitive advantage and drive growth in the dynamic world of supply chain management. American Software, Inc. American Software provides logistics and supply chain companies with supply chain management software solutions. Its solutions including supply chain planning, warehouse management, transportation management, global trade management, and vendor inventory management are intended to assist businesses in optimizing their B2B logistics operations, increasing their efficiency, and lowering their expenses. In addition, it provides modern temperature control technology to ensure safe and efficient transport of temperature-sensitive goods in the supply chain. 6. Conclusion “The global supply chain management market size is expected to reach USD 37.4 billion at a CAGR of 11.3% by 2027." (Source - Grand View Research) The anticipated growth of the global supply chain management market presents businesses with opportunities to enhance their supply chain operations by implementing innovative technologies and strategies. The increase in market size indicates a growing demand for efficient supply chain management solutions that reduce costs, optimize efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction. Businesses can use AI, blockchain, and augmented reality to analyze real-time data, forecast demand, and streamline procurement. These technologies and strategies can give logistics and supply chain management businesses an edge in the increasingly competitive marketplace.

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Warehousing and Distribution

Complexities in Integrating Supply Chain Analytics from Data to Action

Article | June 16, 2023

Data volume in supply chains is usually enormous. Analytics applied to the supply chain help make sense of the pile of information by identifying patterns and drawing conclusions. Contents 1 Importance of B2B Supply Chain Analytics 2 Obstacles in Supply Chain Analytics Integration 2.1 Barriers in Collecting and Processing Data 2.2 Insufficient Technical Skills 2.3 Issues in Managing and Integrating Data 2.4 Inadequate Analytics and Insights Generation 3 Addressing Supply Chain Analytics Complexities for Better Decision-Making 3.1 Leveraging External Expertise 3.2 Enhancing Collaboration and Communication 3.3 Improving Data Quality and Governance 3.4 Developing Analytics Capabilities 4 Power of Successful Supply Chain Analytics Integration in Transforming Businesses 5 Conclusion 1 Importance of B2B Supply Chain Analytics Supply chain analytics has become a pillar of contemporary business strategy, enabling organizations to leverage data insights and enhance vital supply chain processes. By utilizing real-time data analytics, businesses can streamline their supply chain operations, boost productivity, and increase customer satisfaction. With unparalleled visibility into key performance indicators, B2B supply chain analytics provide the opportunity to identify inefficiencies, reduce costs, and react swiftly to ever-changing market dynamics, streamlining the process for supply chain business analysts who manage supply data. Leveraging the power of supply chain analytics tools is important for the success of modern businesses in the age of data-driven decision making. With the ability to optimize inventory levels, manage lead times, and reduce transportation costs, supply chain data analytics provides a competitive advantage that can increase the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of businesses of all sizes and in all industries. 2 Obstacles in Supply Chain Analytics Integration Supply chain analytics integration has become increasingly critical for companies seeking to optimize their supply chain operations. However, several obstacles hindering successful implementation often complicate the integration process; hence, understanding and knowing them in advance is vital for smooth operations. 2.1 Barriers in Collecting and Processing Data Effective data collection and processing are critical in generating accurate insights to drive supply chain analytics decision-making. However, it comes with challenges; the most critical obstacle is data silos, where data is stored in isolated systems or departments, leading to difficulties in accessing and integrating it. It gets more complex when different departments or partners use varied data formats or standards. Additionally, cleaning and processing data is also challenging, as it involves identifying and eliminating duplicates, inconsistencies, and errors that can negatively impact analytics accuracy. 2.2 Insufficient Technical Skills Successful supply chain analytics integration depends heavily on technical skills and knowledge. Insufficient technical talent and expertise are significant barriers to successful integration. The integration process requires specialized technical expertise and the supply of skilled professionals with expertise in ETL, statistical analysis, knowledge of ML, IoT, SQL, and more in managing supply chain analytics Talent lacking technical skills cannot accurately interpret data, leading to ineffective decision-making. Preliminary data analysis, processing, and visualization due to a lack of technical expertise results in suboptimal decision-making, which can be costly for businesses. 2.3 Issues in Managing and Integrating Data Data integration combines data from various sources and formats to create a unified view. However, businesses face data governance, quality, and standardization issues, resulting in incomplete or inconsistent data. Lack of accurate information reduces the efficiency of supply chain analytics and impacts decision-making. Additionally, data management is complex, and business face difficulties creating effective data management processes, resulting in problems related to storing, retrieving, and updating data. 2.4 Inadequate Analytics and Insights Generation Obtaining valuable insights from enormous data collected during the supply chain process requires advanced analytics tools and technologies. Many businesses, however, continue to rely on traditional reporting methods, which limit the range and complexity of insights generated. The lack of expertise in data analysis and visualization can lead to poor interpretation and use of data, resulting in suboptimal decision-making. In addition, businesses experience difficulty identifying relevant data sources or may struggle to establish the necessary data governance frameworks to ensure data quality and accuracy. 3 Addressing Supply Chain Analytics Complexities for Better Decision-Making Supply chain analytics can provide valuable insights, but the complexities involved in analyzing and interpreting data can be a significant hurdle. Learning the strategies for addressing these complexities to improve decision-making in supply chain management has become essential. 3.1 Leveraging External Expertise Leveraging external expertise can be a powerful strategy for addressing supply chain analytics complexities related to collecting and processing supply chain data during integration. External experts bring specialized skills, experience, and knowledge that may not be available in-house, enabling organizations to overcome talent shortages and expand their capabilities. Furthermore, consultants, data scientists, or technology providers provide an objective viewpoint on the organization's data and processes, identifying areas for improvement and optimizing performance. By collaborating with external experts, organizations can access the latest tools, technologies, and best practices, ensuring that their supply chain analytics are up-to-date and relevant. 3.2 Enhancing Collaboration and Communication Enhancing collaboration and communication can effectively address the challenge of insufficient technical skills in thriving supply chain analytics integration. By promoting cooperation and cross-functional communication, organizations can leverage the skills and expertise of team members from various departments to fill gaps in technical knowledge. This approach can also help to break down data silos and improve data sharing and integration. In addition, collaboration and communication can facilitate knowledge transfer, enabling team members to learn from one another and develop a more comprehensive understanding of the supply chain analytics process. Ultimately, this can lead to improved decision-making, as a more skilled and knowledgeable team can generate more accurate and insightful analytics. 3.3 Improving Data Quality and Governance Businesses ensure accuracy, completion, and up-to-date data by establishing standardized processes and protocols for collecting, storing, and analyzing data. Data quality checks, including data cleansing and normalization, can help eliminate errors, redundancies, and inconsistencies that can negatively impact the accuracy and usefulness of analytics. In addition, effective data governance, including establishing data ownership, security, and privacy policies, helps ensure that data is managed and shared appropriately across the organization. As a result, it reduces the risk of data breaches, compliance violations, and other data-related issues, ensuring that organizations have access to reliable data for better decision-making. 3.4 Developing Analytics Capabilities Developing capabilities significantly help organizations overcome inadequate analytics and insights generation challenges in analytics integration. Investing in advanced analytics tools and platforms like technical skills, data infrastructure, and advanced supply chain analytics techniques help businesses generate real-time, accurate, and actionable insights from collected data. Developing analytics capabilities requires creating a culture that values data and analytics, establishing robust data governance frameworks, upskilling the workforce and creating cross-functional teams collaborating on data-related projects. In addition, it helps businesses gain a competitive advantage. 4 Power of Successful Supply Chain Analytics Integration in Transforming Businesses Effective supply chain analytics integration is revolutionizing business operations. Real-time and supply chain predictive analytics have helped businesses gain unmatched transparency in their supply chains, enhance critical processes, improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, and experience revenue growth and profitability. The ability to identify inefficiencies and supply chain optimization opportunities enables businesses to effectively allocate resources and reduce expenses. In addition, successful supply chain analytics integration enables businesses to respond quickly to changing market dynamics, optimize inventory management, and strengthen the resilience of their supply chains. Businesses are leveraging the power of big data analytics to disrupt and transform supply chain at all levels. The concept of data, which was once a fundamental component of digital supply chain transformation, is now revolutionary. Therefore, it is essential to achieve advancements in supply chain analytics integration and management. 5 Conclusion With technological and data analytics advancements, businesses can utilize real-time data insights to make data-driven decisions, optimize supply chain processes, and improve customer experiences. Integration of supply chain analytics is crucial for supply chain businesses of all sizes. Utilizing supply chain analytics software can further streamline integration as well as enhance data analytics and supply chain management.

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Warehousing and Distribution

Top 10 Warehouse Automation Tools to Optimize Supply Chain Performance

Article | July 11, 2023

Transform the supply chain with cutting-edge warehouse automation tools. Enhance productivity, minimize costs, and deliver exceptional customer experiences to stay ahead in the competitive market. In the rapidly evolving world of manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain management, adopting automation has become imperative for businesses aiming to maintain a competitive edge. By minimizing costs, enhancing efficiency, and reducing downtime, automation delivers optimal value for manufacturers. However, selecting the right partner can be challenging with numerous warehouse automation companies available. This article explains the features and benefits of top ten warehouse automation tools that offer expertise in improving business operations. These data warehouse tools provide comprehensive solutions to meet diverse needs of the logistics and warehousing companies and improve the supply chain performance. 1. 3PL WMS Software Solution 3PL WMS Software Solution is one of the leading warehouse automation tools for supply chain operations. This software has comprehensive features that automate and streamline warehouse processes, offering unprecedented efficiency. The tool seamlessly integrates with existing systems and provides total transparency and control. 3PL warehouse automation software boosts order throughput, reduces pick time, and automates billing effortlessly. Gain unprecedented insights through accurate, real-time reporting, ensuring inventory accuracy and reducing lost-inventory costs. This warehouse automation tool, designed as the warehouse management backbone, revolutionizes operations, enhances customer satisfaction, and drives exponential growth. 2. Datex 3PL WMS Datex 3PL WMS offers the most innovative warehouse management tools that help implement warehouse automation in the supply chain process for transportation services. This software empowers transportation and logistics services, revolutionizing material handling, storage, trans-loading, cross-docking, and more. It supports diverse industries such as refineries, steel mills, and energy distribution facilities. Its flexibility makes it an optimal solution to handle any inventory type, including bulk materials, steel products, liquids, and hazardous materials. This automated warehouse software also enables multi-warehouse operations and accommodates various modes of transportation. Additionally, Datex 3PL WMS boasts a highly flexible billing system, allowing individualized billing strategies and capturing value-added services. Industry experts benefit from streamlined processes, improved efficiency, and accurate billing, ultimately enhancing their supply chain business and warehouse operations. 3. Deposco Deposco Bright Warehouse is a game-changing warehouse management software solution that offers advanced features and capabilities to businesses of all sizes. This data warehouse tool empowers companies to pick, pack, and ship orders efficiently, optimizing processes to further improve order fulfillment while reducing operational costs. It provides strategic order allocation, workgroup segmentation, and optimized picking strategies, to achieve accurate and speedy order fulfillment. The software offers network-wide inventory visibility through advanced tracking, barcoding, and management capabilities. This solution automates shipping processes by seamlessly integrating with carriers, ensuring maximum accuracy and speed. Leveraging its material handling technology for automation can lead to significant productivity improvements. Businesses can enhance their capabilities by accessing a unified view of operations, utilizing customization options, and benefiting from direct API integration with shipping carriers. 4. Softeon Softeon is a powerful warehouse management tools for supply chain automation. Its comprehensive WMS optimizes distribution operations, handling all essential tasks while offering unique functionality for a competitive edge. With a proven deployment success rate and flexible delivery options in the cloud or on-premise, Softeon empowers businesses to streamline inventory management and delivery processes. By integrating with their Warehouse Execution System (WES), warehouse and distribution companies can further enhance order fulfillment orchestration and optimization. Industry leaders like UPS Supply Chain Solutions and Sears Home Services rely on this warehouse automation software. 5. Logiwa WMS Logiwa WMS offers a cloud fulfillment platform that combines WMS software and order fulfillment capabilities, enabling companies to operate a digital fulfillment network and expand their direct-to-consumer operations without the need for additional staff. The data warehouse management tool offers comprehensive warehouse and inventory management functionality, billing, and seamless integrations with over 200 ecommerce, accounting, and shipping solutions; it empowers 3PL providers to optimize order fulfillment, enhance speed and accuracy, and drive customer satisfaction. 6. SnapFulfill SnapFulfill is one of the leading warehouse management technologies that empower companies across various industries, including B2C and B2B retail, third-party logistics, manufacturing, food and beverage, and electronics, to optimize their inventory, space, and resources. With SnapFulfill's class-leading warehouse management solutions, businesses can streamline operations and enhance efficiency. The software offers flexible deployment options and payment methods for diverse warehousing challenges. By utilizing SnapFulfill, industry experts gain access to advanced data warehouse tools that enable them to improve their supply chain business, enhance warehouse and distribution processes, and achieve optimal inventory management for increased productivity and profitability. 7. Indigo Software Indigo WMS is an award-winning warehouse management system tool designed to enhance supply chain operations. It offers real-time control, visibility, and functionality for all warehouse processes. It is one of the best supply chain tools to track inventory in real-time, enabling efficient cycle counting, forward pick replenishment, and improved inventory forecasting. With Indigo WMS warehouse automation software, these tasks are automated, and the software ensures greater picking accuracy, reduces returns, and enables on-time and complete deliveries. It seamlessly integrates with existing systems, whether from SAP, Microsoft, Oracle, Infor, Sage, or other ERP, TMS, or SCP vendors, providing live and up-to-date data visibility across the entire supply chain process. 8. OrderWise OrderWise is an order management system that empowers businesses in the consumer goods and retail sector to accelerate operations and deliver exceptional customer service. With its integrated features, OrderWise ensures seamless order processing and maximizes sales opportunities. By tracking orders from various sales channels, managing tight schedules, and making real-time adjustments, businesses can meet customer demands promptly. This is one of those supply chain management tools that provides valuable insights into customer purchase history and stock availability, enabling personalized recommendations and enhancing sales effectiveness. Whether for ecommerce, retail, or B2B sales, OrderWise streamlines order operations, making them smoother, faster, and more accurate. 9. Balloon One Balloon One provides supply chain management tools, offering tailored software solutions to distribution, manufacturing, and e-commerce businesses. Its expertise lies in streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing operational efficiency. With a focus on minimal disruption, Balloon One seamlessly implements software solutions, ensuring uninterrupted business operations. As an impartial advisor, the software offers both SAP Business One and NetSuite, thus allowing to recommend the ideal ERP system for each company's unique requirements. In addition, this software provides wholesale and distribution businesses with the robust HighJump WMS, a real-time warehouse management system that delivers scalability and flexibility. 10. Foxfire Foxfire offers supply chain management tools specializing in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). It offers WMS solutions, including features to optimize inventory, increase labor productivity, and enhance customer satisfaction. With over 20 years of industry experience, Foxfire has a proven track record of delivering measurable results to customers worldwide. This tool provides a comprehensive approach, including needs assessment, best practice recommendations, training, and ongoing support. Additionally, it is cost-effective by delivering low lifetime costs. Conclusion The warehouse automation market is experiencing significant growth, with a wide array of exceptional warehouse automation tools that offer high-quality solutions. Regardless of any special requirements, exploring the features of each warehouse automation tools is vital to identify the ideal fit for any business. Choosing the correct solution from the data warehouse tools list will help to improve inventory management and distribution efficiency through warehouse automation. Embrace the opportunity to streamline processes by leveraging supply chain management tools and warehouse automation solutions and experience the transformative power of automation to unlock the full potential of your business.

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Spotlight

Joyce Van Lines, Inc.

Joyce Van Lines, Inc. is a premier full service; award-winning independent carrier with a reputation built on quality, integrity, trust and superior customer service. Whether you are moving locally, across the country, or around the globe, our main business objective is to assure you of a professional and stress-free move to your new location.

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Procurement and Sourcing, Operations

Smart Warehousing and Mable Partner to Offer New CPG Brands, Flexible 3PL Solution

Smart Warehousing | February 10, 2023

Smart Warehousing, one of the industry's leading Warehousing, fulfillment, and logistics solutions providers with its 38 warehouses across the US, recently announced its partnership with Mable, a wholesome platform representing more than 3000 emerging, better-for-you consumer packaged goods brands. Up to this point, Mable's technology has allowed brands to ship direct to retailers via meetable.com, where retailers can buy their products. The Smart Warehousing partnership is a complementary solution to the direct ship model with the growing demand for small, better-for-you brands. In December 2022, Mable began its pilot program, stocking the warehouse with a few of its highest-selling brands via an upfront, bulk purchase. The orders from participating brands to Mable are now processed through an algorithm to determine the most efficient shipment method, direct or fulfillment, through Smart Warehousing. As a result, when a business orders any participating brands, it will receive its products in a single shipment. The partnership provides Mable with an additional distribution option with a pre-vetted partner. In addition, it reduces the operational workload on small orders and enables brands to offer minimum lower orders. To start using Smart Warehousing, there are no minimum order limits for the Mable brand. CEO of Smart Warehousing, Carl Wasinger, said, "We are very excited to put our innovative technology and network of fulfillment locations to work for Mable." He further said, "By helping to position inventory, in the right place at the right time and in the right quantity, Smart Warehousing can help brands of all sizes compete and grow their business across all channels." (Source: GlobeNewswire) About Smart Warehousing A warehousing and fulfillment company, Smart Warehousing was established in 2001 and headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. It operated as a direct extension of the customer's teams. The company's model is a fully optimized solution that meets the fulfillment needs of merchants and sellers all over the World, committed to customer support associates, cutting-edge technology, and highly automated processes. The company has more than 12 million square feet of warehouse space, to store both big and small items for its clients. With more than 1 million square feet of temperature-controlled space, Smart Warehousing can handle frozen and temperature-controlled items. Its national footprint takes care of you because it has warehouses all over the country.

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Mobility study shows extent of technology's impact on transportation

Smart Cities World | July 10, 2019

The study covers 37 cities across 15 countries and looks at social-demographic changes including work patterns, use of digital technologies and regional development. The vast majority of people (83 per cent) believe technology plays an essential role in simplifying their travel in a city while more than two thirds (70 per cent) of those who own a smartphone use a transport app or maps and plans at least once a month, according to a new global study. Even the most “digimobile” though are worried about being left behind by the speed of technology and almost three-quarters (71 per cent) have concerns about how companies use their personal data.

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Blockchain and the future of the food supply chain

SmartBrief | October 22, 2018

At its core, blockchain is “a public register in which transactions between two users belonging to the same network are stored in a secure, verifiable and permanent way.” The data from those transactions are saved in cryptographic blocks that are connected to each other, and can then be traced and verified. In the food industry, blockchain can be applied to the supply chain since it allows growers, suppliers, manufacturers, and end-users to easily and efficiently verify where an ingredient or product has been. Technology company IBM is charting a new course for the food retail industry through the use of blockchain tracking. Walmart, Kroger, Tyson Foods and several other CPG companies have teamed up with IBM to undertake a blockchain project that could help ensure food safety and transparency within the supply chain. IBM made its Food Trust technology available to the masses earlier this month, with the cooperative of growers, suppliers, and retailers able to collaborate by securely sharing critical data about food products on the blockchain, according to the company.

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Smart Warehousing and Mable Partner to Offer New CPG Brands, Flexible 3PL Solution

Smart Warehousing | February 10, 2023

Smart Warehousing, one of the industry's leading Warehousing, fulfillment, and logistics solutions providers with its 38 warehouses across the US, recently announced its partnership with Mable, a wholesome platform representing more than 3000 emerging, better-for-you consumer packaged goods brands. Up to this point, Mable's technology has allowed brands to ship direct to retailers via meetable.com, where retailers can buy their products. The Smart Warehousing partnership is a complementary solution to the direct ship model with the growing demand for small, better-for-you brands. In December 2022, Mable began its pilot program, stocking the warehouse with a few of its highest-selling brands via an upfront, bulk purchase. The orders from participating brands to Mable are now processed through an algorithm to determine the most efficient shipment method, direct or fulfillment, through Smart Warehousing. As a result, when a business orders any participating brands, it will receive its products in a single shipment. The partnership provides Mable with an additional distribution option with a pre-vetted partner. In addition, it reduces the operational workload on small orders and enables brands to offer minimum lower orders. To start using Smart Warehousing, there are no minimum order limits for the Mable brand. CEO of Smart Warehousing, Carl Wasinger, said, "We are very excited to put our innovative technology and network of fulfillment locations to work for Mable." He further said, "By helping to position inventory, in the right place at the right time and in the right quantity, Smart Warehousing can help brands of all sizes compete and grow their business across all channels." (Source: GlobeNewswire) About Smart Warehousing A warehousing and fulfillment company, Smart Warehousing was established in 2001 and headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. It operated as a direct extension of the customer's teams. The company's model is a fully optimized solution that meets the fulfillment needs of merchants and sellers all over the World, committed to customer support associates, cutting-edge technology, and highly automated processes. The company has more than 12 million square feet of warehouse space, to store both big and small items for its clients. With more than 1 million square feet of temperature-controlled space, Smart Warehousing can handle frozen and temperature-controlled items. Its national footprint takes care of you because it has warehouses all over the country.

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Mobility study shows extent of technology's impact on transportation

Smart Cities World | July 10, 2019

The study covers 37 cities across 15 countries and looks at social-demographic changes including work patterns, use of digital technologies and regional development. The vast majority of people (83 per cent) believe technology plays an essential role in simplifying their travel in a city while more than two thirds (70 per cent) of those who own a smartphone use a transport app or maps and plans at least once a month, according to a new global study. Even the most “digimobile” though are worried about being left behind by the speed of technology and almost three-quarters (71 per cent) have concerns about how companies use their personal data.

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Blockchain and the future of the food supply chain

SmartBrief | October 22, 2018

At its core, blockchain is “a public register in which transactions between two users belonging to the same network are stored in a secure, verifiable and permanent way.” The data from those transactions are saved in cryptographic blocks that are connected to each other, and can then be traced and verified. In the food industry, blockchain can be applied to the supply chain since it allows growers, suppliers, manufacturers, and end-users to easily and efficiently verify where an ingredient or product has been. Technology company IBM is charting a new course for the food retail industry through the use of blockchain tracking. Walmart, Kroger, Tyson Foods and several other CPG companies have teamed up with IBM to undertake a blockchain project that could help ensure food safety and transparency within the supply chain. IBM made its Food Trust technology available to the masses earlier this month, with the cooperative of growers, suppliers, and retailers able to collaborate by securely sharing critical data about food products on the blockchain, according to the company.

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