Author: STCBlogAdmin
3 Effective Retail Rollout Management Practices
Developing and executing effective retail rollouts and distributions require detailed planning to create a solid foundation for success. It is critical that all parties are strategically aligned for a rollout to be successful and the logistics plan to be effective. There are several strategies that can better streamline rollouts and distributions when ensuring a timely and superior program.
Strategies
There are three primary strategies that should be followed to guarantee successful retail rollouts and distributions. These strategies include risk management, scheduling and project optimization.
Risk Management
As with all business practices, retail rollouts and distributions require a variety of decisions throughout the entire process. Every decision contributes to the success or failure of the project. Therefore, to ensure that correct decisions are made, all potential scenarios must be anticipated, communicated and assessed with regards to risks and benefits. These decisions effect cost, timeline and quality of the retail rollout.
To successfully implement the risk management strategy, it is critical to evaluate all risks and compare them with the benefits. This process comprises taking risk information and organizing it into a useable format thus allowing team members to be ahead of any issues that may arise. Then, take the implications and evaluate them to determine a risk-to-benefit situation for rollouts and distributions.
Scheduling
Another critical strategy is implementing correct scheduling to ensure milestones are met for the rollout and distributions timeline. It takes a specific amount of time to properly complete each task. Timelines for launches, revenue deadlines, marketing campaigns, lease payments and a number of other factors can affect timing, presenting a challenging situation in which those involved are expected to complete the work under tight deadlines. This increases risk in that the quality of the work may be substandard and can lead to errors or missing timeline milestones.
To mitigate this issue with a proper scheduling strategy, it is important to have confirmation from all parties on the amount of time for each to complete their required task. This allows them to be held accountable for completing the work on-time and with the highest possible quality. This strategy is fundamental in managing expectations and delivering the best opportunity for success with rollouts and distributions.
Project Optimization
Searching for project optimization methods during the retail prototyping phase relies on a variety of factors. First, they are required to develop the identity of the brand. This includes materials, colors, environment and feel; all of which help to build or maintain product identity. As a result of time restraints, the designer cannot analyze every option and not all processes can be optimized from the beginning. In some instances, the products may not be available at the time of the prototyping due to long lead-times or could only be available through select suppliers.
Therefore, a project optimization strategy must rely on value engineering, an organized process for cost reduction while minimizing performance impact. This piece is commonly integrated with the entire design process and should be a factor that the designers are constantly considering. Processes must be streamlined and the result is efficiencies that equate to cost savings and overall improved rollouts and distributions.
Risk management, scheduling and project optimization are three vital strategies that can be implemented to maximize rollout and distribution success. These three approaches anticipate issues, streamline the process while improving accountability and save on costs. These are typically three areas that fail during rollouts and distributions if not properly planned at the beginning of the project.
STC Logistics specializes in solutions to streamline the logistics process for rollouts and distributions. To learn more about our retail specialties, give us a call at 1-800-547-4324 or click below.
5 Steps for Taking Your Logistics Green
Business changes can be intimidating and often costly—especially if these changes lack clear-cut numbers for your return on investment. Adopting more green, environmentally-friendly options for your supply chain does not sound like something that can quickly improve your business’ bottom line, but the eventual benefits can lead to quite a positive ROI.
Of course, significant supply chain changes should never be taken lightly, and it’s important to conduct thorough research on green business practices in advance. Consider these tips before you encourage your business to “go green”:
1) Establish a baseline: Like anything in business, it’s important to set up a plan before making any significant changes to your operating system. Creating a sustainability baseline is a great start. Analyze each department of staff and compile the operational statistics that will provide you with the data needed to determine your carbon footprint and value drivers.
2) Find your opportunities: Once you’ve determined your business’ carbon footprint and value drivers, start doing some research. Find the areas where making reductions will align with value drivers. This could include reducing excess waste or byproducts; reducing areas where there is a disconnect, such as the amount of fuel used for transport of goods, compared to the actual transit time taken for your business’ logistics needs. The more opportunities for your business to adjust, the better.
3) Invest in certifications: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created the SmartWay program, which is designed to improve fuel efficiency and environmental performance in transportation supply chains. The EPA works with small trucking companies, rail carriers, commercial manufacturers and retailers. Businesses and 3PL’s can partner with this organization to track fuel consumption and improve transportation performance, access freight supply chain best practices which reduce costs and emissions, and address carbon-risk throughout their supply chain by improving energy and environmental efficiency of freight operations. There is also the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program, a green building certification that encourages the best and healthiest building strategies and practices. Each building needs to meet a certain number of prerequisites in order to qualify for certification in fields like construction, interior design and building operations.
4) Learn the benefits and breaks: Depending on your location, there are a variety of tax breaks, credits and loan guarantees for any business that qualifies for environmental improvements through the state and/or federal government. The Recovery Act established in 2009 was designed to provide more benefits and incentives for businesses thinking about taking their supply chains green.
5) Get the word out: Once your green changes have been enacted, don’t forget to let your consumers know! Going green has become a positive buzzword in last two decades, and many Americans are fine with spending a little more if they know what they’re purchasing will have a positive effect on the environment.
While these are only a few tips regarding taking your logistics green, there are plenty of other options for you to consider when partnering with a 3PL provider. By utilizing the latest technology and most efficient logistics practices, 3pl providers can devise the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly logistics solution for your business—whether you’re shipping by air, land or sea.
STC Logistics is a certified SmartWay Transport Partner and has implemented ways to improve environmental performance and address carbon-risk throughout our supply chain. To learn more about our services, please click below.
From Planning to Delivery: Holiday POP Displays
Busy retailers need to consider a multitude of details when planning for a holiday season. In order to meet the needs of customers during a rush such as Black Friday or Christmas, retailers must always be logistically proactive in making sure seasonal displays and products get delivered on time and in ideal condition to attract customers. Even for day-to-day operation or a brand new rollout plan, having an excellent third party logistics provider will guarantee that all customers are satisfied while business runs smoothly.
Proactive Preplanning of Holiday POP Displays
Planning to setup successful POP displays means the displays and products must arrive on schedule and organized in order to maximize efficiency. Working with a 3PL provider can take care of the many details of preplanning an upcoming holiday season, ensuring sales will go smoothly. Using technology that helps scan for and manage issues, a great 3PL provider will assess and correct any potential problems before they have a chance to occur. Your 3PL can also handle all of the logistic planning needed to execute a flawless holiday season, alleviating some of the stress that retailers experience during busy seasons.
Intelligent Bundling
Many retailers can make the mistake of using logistics providers that are behind the times. Oftentimes these dated methods are far from the most efficient way to order and transport displays and products. These inefficiencies slow business and create lags in schedules, leading to extra costs and exceeded budgets. By handling all details of the ordering process, 3PL providers cut out many of the “middle men” which may cause confusion and slow the process for retailers. Retail-specialized providers will ensure the most efficient method for ordering, transporting, and delivering all POP displays so retailers can spend their time focusing on the daily needs of the store, rather than the transport of materials.
Safe Handling and Delivery of POP Displays
A number of risks are involved with the transport and delivery of holiday POP displays, including the collection of dust or dirt, corrosion of materials or exposure to the elements. These hazards, combined with the risk of damage due to jostling during transport, can weaken the overall effect of these displays and therefore must be avoided. An experienced and professional 3PL provider will guarantee that all POP displays will arrive safely and in the condition they are meant to be. Searching for the safest and quickest route ensures that POP displays are minimally handled and protected through their delivery.
Timely Deliveries
One of the most important steps to a successful holiday season is ensuring all products and POP displays arrive on time so that merchandise can hit shelves as soon as customers demand. During the busiest seasons of the year, retail employees may become disorganized and struggle to order deliveries properly—resulting in product campaign delays and lost profit. By allowing a qualified 3PL provider to handle the details, retailers can focus on running day to day business rather than worrying about the timing of deliveries. 3PL providers specialize in delivering freight on time, whether it’s for a holiday rush, restock, or rollout operation. STC Logistics ensures timely and safe deliveries for any season with a 99% on-time delivery of undamaged goods for the last 15 years.
As a retailer, there’s no reason to stress over the details of making sure POP displays are handled and delivered correctly when dedicated, professional 3PL providers are willing to make sure each step in the process is controlled perfectly. Making sure each display is ordered in a timely fashion, transported carefully, delivered on time and in great condition, STC Logistics manages any potential issue that could interfere with an entirely successful holiday rush or rollout. An experienced 3PL provider ensures a seamless delivery service, helping any retail establishment avoid challenges during the most demanding time of the year.
Holiday Retail Planning: The Benefits of Working with a 3PL Provider
Retail planning for the holiday season can be a daunting task. Having the right decorations and an accurate inventory full of all the new specialty products for the season is essential for business success. To meet these retail planning challenges, many savvy retailers turn to 3PL providers to make sure their logistics needs are managed properly. Here’s why:
3PL Providers Meet Deadlines
In retail planning, it’s critical to have freight shipments arrive on time. 3PL providers like STC Logistics utilize an infrastructure based on state-of-the-art technology which recognizes an impeccable route for each specific shipment. The needs of freight shipments are handled and processed by high speed machines, ensuring superlative delivery times. Experienced 3PL providers communicate with affiliates from all over the world in order to consider each possible mode of transportation before deciding on the quickest freight shipment route. Utilizing a retail-specialized provider during holiday freight campaigns begins with computerized recognition of efficient routes with economical rates and ends with precise timing for delivery arrival before the holidays.
3PL Providers Save Time and Money
Distance, equipment, handlers, consolidation and deadlines factor into freight shipment prices. Retail-specialized 3PL providers analyze each freight shipment with a customized rate program to ensure that the most amicable and economical rates available are offered. Optimal logistical efficiency means money is saved in every possible way while the fastest freight shipment routes are taken. Freight may be combined in order to provide additional saving opportunities during the process of transportation for retail planning. Individualized electronic rate quote numbers are created when a freight shipment is rated and this number is used to reference pricing when freight is booked and tracking numbers are generated. This enables the rates and routing to be exact.
The Benefits of Electronic Logistics Format
Multiple rollouts, destinations or assembly services are no issue with STC’s Electronic Logistics Format (ELF). It is a proprietary service which STC Logistics utilizes in order to give clients the advantage. It has been specifically designed to provide an awareness of information between all involved parties during the distribution process. Customized rollouts are drafted, many containing multiple destinations for distribution, along with pieces, sizes and weights and then the spreadsheet for a freight shipment will be received by means of EDI transfer. Updates and changes are simply made and reviewing an entire program now becomes straightforward.
Before the very first pickup is made, outlined instructions that detail requirements for pickup and delivery will already have been prepared and awaiting client approval. Once approved, the ELF will be published to a custom mini-website accessible to clients through the STC Logistics client portal. Status updates are easily viewed, tracking is in real time and reports are easily manufactured. Receiving holiday freight shipments this season in a timely and cost-efficient manner by utilizing STC Logistics enables distribution that is stress-free.
3PL Providers Use Efficient Freight Shipment Methods
Retail planning requires research when partnering with a logistics provider in order to grant an overall flawless process in retail planning. Having a 3PL provider facilitate freight shipments guarantees an enhanced and well-researched process for finding available logistics. Placing an emphasis on the process of retail planning before the transportation plan occurs enables retailers to confidently be assured of the quality they are receiving during a freight shipment. Providing easily accessible status updates and paying sufficient attention to concerns with detailed instructions ensures optimal efficiency during the shipping process.
STC Logistics has established an impeccable reputation throughout its 45 years of experience as a 3PL provider. We offer unbeatable freight shipment delivery times on land, air, and sea—all while enhancing a client’s retail planning process. Our unrivaled technology and catered retail planning programs ensure time and money are saved during the transportation process. Additionally, with a damage rate of less than 1%, our customers can feel confident their shipments will arrive in pristine condition ready to be stocked for the holiday season.
Logistics Technology and the Role in Pharmaceutical Shipping
Transporting a product to market is important in business, but in the pharmaceuticals industry, extra precautions are necessary. Logistics technology and the role in pharmaceutical shipping provide methods of getting products to destinations with proper temperature management and correct coding. Pricing may also allow a client to extend their share of the market with efficient delivery. The transportation of drugs requires constant monitoring and special handling. STC Logistics and ShipPharma work to provide an on-time delivery service with minimal product handling.
Latest Software and Technology
Efficient 3PL providers use the latest software and technology to control the movement of pharmaceutical merchandise between destinations. With such technology, special arrangements can be made, allowing clients to track their merchandise with complete visibility. Software acts as a window for customers to monitor products while in transport in real time. The need to constantly reenter data is removed with software use. Compliance requirements are automatically updated and contact with clients is more efficient. The process lets customers read all discussed information during shipping, avoiding anxieties concerning product quality on arrival. At least 36 points are registered for monitoring while products are in transit.
Most pharmaceutical companies are not in the business of shipping and logistics. They provide the development of drugs and need to get the product to medical facilities efficiently and safely. It is important that shipping facilities meet regulatory statues and security needs. STC Logistics and ShipPharma’s partner facilities are designed to accommodate large and secure pharmaceutical transport needs.
Care in Handling Pharmaceutical Cargo
STC Logistics and ShipPharma transport medical samples sent throughout the U.S. This delicate cargo is carefully handled by 3PL with a large connection network that guarantees delivery within a two-hour radius. The movement of merchandise is managed and transferred across the country at a cost-effective rate with the help of sound software management. Once information is placed into the system, it is automatically sent out to those in need of the information. This creates a more efficient shipping arrangement for customers and better internal operations for any business housing and shipping pharmaceutical products.
Advanced pharmaceutical logistics involve material handling, the management of packages, maintaining records throughout transport and using temperature-controlled environments to keep products in optimal conditions. The information flow between shipping points assures cargo safety. Our distribution management system uses airfreight and trucks to ship products. Once arrived, this sensitive freight is installed and assembled at delivery point, completing the delivery process.
Contact a 3PL Provider that Specializes in Pharmaceutical Logistics
The wide reach of logistics technology and the role in pharmaceutical shipping extends to intermodal, ocean transport and truckload shipping. Delicate management may require the 3PL to use floor delivery assuring the merchandise is placed in the hands of the designated recipient through product placement. High-quality product shipping requires a quality logistic distribution system to get the product to a delivery point. Top-notch logistics technology is necessary at every level of delivery.
STC Logistics and ShipPharma offer logistics solutions that boast the highest technology for clients for all pharmaceutical shipping needs. Click below to visit the ShipPharma website to learn more or call 1-800-547-4324 today!
Shipping Cosmetic Displays: Planning and Execution
Cosmetics hold a vital percentage of business in today’s retail environment. Cosmetic displays are just as important as the cosmetics themselves, as they are the ones that attract and influence customers to make a purchase. It is crucial for the process of shipping cosmetic displays to be very well planned out and executed. Logistics providers must ensure that displays are shipped on time and in mint condition.
Planning Process
Partnering with an efficient third party logistics provider can facilitate the process of shipping cosmetic displays to a great extent. However, it is essential that a retail company first researches various available logistic providers and their methods of packaging and shipping before a decision is made. Research is necessary to make a partnership decision based on the 3pl expertise in the industry.
A reliable logistics service provider always places an emphasis on the planning process before shipping cosmetic displays and all other similar delicate products. Therefore, the selected 3pl company that ships their cosmetic displays must follow quality organizational practices before and during the transportation process.
Detailed conversations regarding the organizational practices will a give a retailer better insight of the technologies and regulations adopted by the logistics provider. Retailers should consider the following when choosing a business partner to ship their cosmetic displays:
- Adopted packaging methods and handling instructions
- Adopted track-keeping practices – keeping track of the shipment is of paramount importance for timely deliveries
- Stocking locations
- Delivery notification practices
- Financial benefits of specific partnership
Execution
A sufficient retail industry logistic provider must have a well-built organizational pattern for performing effective and efficient shipping for new store openings and marketing/advertising campaigns. A reliable 3pl provider will guarantee smooth flow of activities on the promised schedule with no harm to the products.
Planning a successful shipment of cosmetic displays is more than flawless organization. One of the thumb rules a 3pl provider must always follow is that the shipment is delivered on time. Either for a new store launch or re-launch of an old store, timely delivery of the products is a first demand any reliable logistic company must fulfill. With all the extra time calculated in advance, the shipment must be at required destination on or before the time.
Usually, the materials used for cosmetic displays are glass or plastic appearing like glass. Not only are these products prone to cracks during the process of packing, unpacking, loading and unloading due to jolts, but are also prone to scratches, which tend to drastically deteriorate their aesthetics. Retailers or wholesalers should consider the following points to avoid entrusting the responsibility of shipping cosmetic displays to an amateur company:
- Whether the logistic company will give due care to the products during any kind of jolts, vibrations and shocks during transit.
- Whether the packaging and stocking will be done in a manner to prevent the products from dirt and dust.
- Whether the packaging will be proper to give sufficient cushions (with the help of foam packaging) to the delicate products like cosmetic displays.
For a logistic company to be a reliable service provider, paying due attention to all these concerns, its organizational practices must include different handling instructions for a variety of specific goods, in this case for shipping cosmetic displays.
STC logistics is a renowned name in the field of shipping products, with all means of transportation, including air, ocean, rail and ground. The company has gained trust of the big retail stores for the diligence, punctuality and transparency it has to offer to its clientele. If you are looking for a logistic company that meets all its promises, just make a call at 1-800-547-4324 for more details.
To learn more about our retail procurement logistics solutions, cilck below!
White Glove Services for Retail and Pharmaceutical Logistics
Sensitive freight requires top-notch logistics solutions—especially in the retail procurement and pharmaceutical industries. One way to make sure delicate freight makes its journeys end, intact, is by utilizing white glove services. These specialized logistics services ensure utmost precision and include real-time freight tracking, lift-gate services, special handling care, and additional staff/drivers on hand for last-minute, unforeseen events.
For example, planning a national, time-sensitive retail product campaign requires high-quality logistics services to make sure displays and merchandise arrive to all locations undamaged and on time. White glove solutions offer helpful services like inside and floor delivery, as well as product placement. Installation and assembly services are also available with detailed instruction to get a campaign up and running.
In the pharmaceutical industry, white glove services are necessary for many clients because temperature-controlled environments are needed for most medical freight. Specialized handling and satellite shipment tracking are also available to clients to have complete transparency during the shipment process.
STC logistics specializes in white glove services for the retail and pharmaceutical industry, but serves clients in industries across the board. While customer retention remains a top priority, our services are driven by maintaining the highest-quality logistics solutions. Our pride is derived from the ability to safely deliver your freight, whether it’s to one location or hundreds.
White Glove Services at STC Logistics
There are different options for white glove services, depending on the size of your freight. For relatively small freight, or less than truckload (LTL), we provide the following logistics solutions:
- Inside delivery / On the floor / Product placement
- Pin point or window appointment delivery 24/7/365
- Removal of debris off site
- Uncreate and unpack
- Meet point of contact/installer/representative on site
- Driver assist – 2 man
- Blanket wrap and straps
- Palletize and package
- Air ride service
- Reverse logistics
- Liftgate service
- Before and after pictures
- Call prior
- Cross dock and storage
- Small truck delivery for dock restrictions
- Installation and assembly services available (detailed instructions must be provided to determine STC capabilities)
If your business anticipates moving a large amount of freight, you will most benefit from full truckload (FTL) white glove services. This is the best option for when your freight must go direct and dedicated. This includes no handling, complete security and satellite tracking that can pinpoint the location of your freight while in transit. For FTL shipments, we provide the following white glove services:
- Padded logistic vans with blankets straps and vertical e-trak system
- 22-53FT dedicated trucks with lift gate service
- Milk runs (multiple stop deliveries)
- Driver assists
- 2 man team
- Labor ready services (extra men)
- Blanket loaded and secured on site
- Pin point delivery
- Call prior
To learn more about our specialized white glove services, call STC Logistics at 1-800-547-4324 or visit our website today.
Retail Logistics: Planning Rollouts and Distributions
There are thousands of 3pl companies that can offer logistics services for retailers to accommodate new store openings, remodels and product launches. However, few are capable of meeting the necessary requirements for a seamless process from start to finish. Retail industry logistics requests are not limited to just loading and unloading goods; they involve well-planned and well-executed supply chain management. STC Logistics is versed in the specific necessities for rollouts and distributions.
Planning new store openings and store remodel rollouts and distributions may not be as easy as it sounds for many logistics providers; there are challenges such as time constraints and unforeseen events that must be dealt with properly and anticipated in advance. STC will work as an extension of your team to help get the job done.
The Essentials of Planning Rollouts and Distributions
When retailers accept to work with a specific 3pl provider that specializes in the retail industry, there are certain standards that the 3pl provider must uphold:
- Timeliness is key
- Minimal handling of goods (link to Express truck)
- Cost consciousness
- Well managed warehouses
- Transparency throughout the process (link to ELF)
- White glove services available
To meet these standards for rollouts and distributions, top-notch 3pl providers engage in a detailed planning process. Top-level logistics providers also utilize logistics management software solutions, as they make adopting the best industrial practices that are in line with the international regulations possible within short time spans. Advanced notice of locations and products allow STC to employ consolidation efforts to save time and cut costs.
Different rollouts and distribution needs require different packaging processes and handling instructions and delivery requirements. Logistics provider must be well prepared to handle shipments of various products, such as cosmetic displays, store fixtures, mannequins, POP displays, and kiosks all while knowing how to move the products efficiently and as quickly as possible.
Timely Delivery is Vital for Successful Rollouts and Distributions
While planning rollouts and distributions, 3pl providers must consider the crucial need for timely and professional delivery of retail procurement items. Most deliveries are made to installation teams or corporate executives, there has to be an understanding of the product and carriers must be professional. Therefore, experienced leaders in retail logistics industry begin with the planning of shipment and other activities with the help of software systems and by selecting the most qualified carriers. This lays out a perfect road map for the efficient and timely execution. The plans laid out are often aimed at cutting unnecessary cost and benefitting both parties involved. This kind of organizational practice used by STC Logistics cuts the risk of delay in deliveries and reduces the likelihood of any harm to products shipped by ensuring the ability to adjust to unforeseen issues, creating websites for client visibility and offering stress-free adjustments through planning.
Use of Modern Day Technologies
Modern day logistics providers use advanced logistics software programs to prevent any kind of process gaps that may result in late delivery. These software solutions enable the logistics providers to have enhanced data related to the supply chain, which is usually vital during rollout and distribution. Advanced technology systems ensure flawless and timely delivery of products by modern logistics providers. It also makes them the 3pl of choice when retailers are faced with new developments in their business, such as new product launch or opening of a new store. STC provides custom “mini-websites” to our clients providing visibility and flexibility, seamless transfers of data and custom reporting tools.
STC Logistics’ advanced methodologies for managing inventory and warehouses give us an edge over our competition that do not use similar solutions, and assist out logistics team tremendously in dealing with the most complex situations of rollouts and distribution.
There are numerous companies that specialize in planning rollouts and distributions, but the best are 3pl providers that use modern software solutions, better practices for managing inventories and warehouses, and deliveries without delay, irrespective of the quantity or category of the product. While looking for a 3pl provider for retail needs, it is imperative that the 3pl provider has a knack of dealing with different kind of requirements and specifications:
- Flexibility to accommodate any size/type of shipment
- Suitable warehouse management
- Packaging assessments
- Value added services
STC Logistics specializes in logistics solutions for rollouts and distributions. With extensive experience in retail procurement and marketing/advertising industries, we have the tools and knowledge to ensure all details are well-planned out for a timely rollout or launch. To learn more about our logistics specialties, click the button below!
Advanced Logistics Technology: The Benefits of Proprietary Logistics Services
Whether you run a new or established business, you know how important it is to have your goods carefully prepared, shipped and arrive at their destination on time. Failure to do so can have a negative impact on your customers—and even more so on your business—when issues like delivery delays, damaged items and cost overruns. Your reputation suffers and you can lose out on revenue, resulting in a black eye to your bottom line.
A New Advanced Logistics Technology
How do you choose the right 3PL provider for you? You can shop around for a logistics solution and review all of your options or quickly choose a 3PL provider and simply live with your choice, hoping your goods don’t get damaged by trial and error.
Rather than take a chance with just any 3PL provider, STC makes available a new technology for all of our clients. Electronic Logistics Format, also known as E.L.F., manages the logistics, shipping, and tracking of your freight, alongside our logistics team and allows for visibility and flexibility. This tool is a proprietary services logistics technology that supports traffic managers or anyone who handles major regional or nationwide distributions, pickup assembly services, and multi-location rollouts.
What the E.L.F. Logistics Technology Does
E.L.F. logistics technology helps you accomplish a number of tasks. First of all, this service coordinates every stage of your shipping order. You would send our logistics experts at STC a spreadsheet that contains your shipment’s information; we can receive information by EDI, Excel or any format you prefer to use. STC will then develop a customized rollout or a multi-destination distribution blueprint.
From there, STC Logistics uses the E.L.F. logistics technology to plan, organize, and arrange for the final delivery of your cargo. The shipment’s progress is also tracked and traced through its numerous steps, in conjunction with our expert customer service team; we will never lose sight of your goods.
Before your freight goes into transit, you will review and approve the logistics plan, pickup and delivery specifications, your pricing estimates, and the shipment’s delivery date. Everything is sorted out well before your shipment’s pickup is made. Preplanning is a key factor for a successful logistics design.
Your Own Mini-Website
After your shipment’s order is approved, STC’s IT department publishes your E.L.F. logistics technology design to a web-based viewing area. This is your very own “mini-website” for the distribution project. Your web portal is linked directly to STC’s internal operating system and is updated in real-time. You’ll be able to see the status of any of your shipments as they happen and delivery POD’s as they arrive.
Any relevant parties you choose will be granted access to the “mini-website” and allow them to follow the status of your shipment. This way, everyone who you’ve appointed will see that the shipment is picked up, shipped, and arrived on time to the correct recipient.
The Benefits of Proprietary Logistics
When you partner with a 3PL provider like STC Logistics, you can enjoy the logistics technology benefits that you wouldn’t necessarily see from other logistics technology products. Consider these perks:
- Eliminates the confusion experienced when random shippers pick up and deliver your items. Using STC Logistics as an extension of your team keeps everything under one roof.
- Improves pick up times, length time in transit, and the actual delivery date and time by providing a schedule in advance.
- Reliable nationwide affiliates allow for consolidation of goods, TSA certified access to all airports and strong networks to meet your deadlines. We are all linked together through the system.
- You receive an entirely coordinated effort from the team to ensure that your shipment arrives safely, undamaged, and on time. Adjustments are easily made and updates are in real-time.
STC Logistics uses the very latest in advanced technology with its specialized Electronic Logistics Format logistics technology. For more information or to obtain a quote for your next shipment, contact us 24/7 at 800-547-4324. To learn more about the industries we specialize in, click the button below.
Rollout Management and New Store Openings: Mall Deliveries
A successful new store launch requires a meticulous rollout management plan. Everything from advertising and deadlines to budget and risk management has to be planned in great detail for a seamless process from start to finish. However, the first step towards success is recognizing logistics and supply-chain management as a crucial part of the strategy for the entire process.
Why Opt for 3PL (Third Party Logistics) Providers for Retail Logistic Best Practices and Good Rollout Management?
1) Speed and Responsiveness
Supply chain speed and responsiveness are usually considered more often than the price of a logistics service, but too often, many supply chain tiers are skipped by working with companies that are not experienced in all aspects of logistics. This is why logistics services should not be bundled blindly; for example, ordering transportation directly from a POP display manufacturer is far from optimal in terms of responsiveness, speed, and cost (they specialize in POP displays, not transportation, after all).
By opting to work with a 3PL provider, store owners don’t have to order various products through multiple supply chains. 3PL providers can handle all moving parts of the supply chain, so they serve almost as a one-stop shop for retailers. On top of time-efficiency, reliable and trusted 3PLs eliminate supply chain risks that come with bundled services and facilitate communications during the rollout management process.
2) Dynamic and Resilient Logistics Strategy
During rollout distribution management, it is crucial to adopt logistic practices that focus on execution-based processes and technologies that will not be interrupted by internal and external changes. For example, if a store owner is forced to swap electronic equipment due to legislation change, postponing the opening of the store should absolutely not be the result.
Trusted 3PL providers can identify and adapt to these changes as they happen because of the logistics management software programs they use. These software programs can identify bottlenecks and problems before they can impact a store owner. This helps the store owner in responding to changes in competitive and regulatory retail environments.
3) Fast Mall Deliveries
It’s obvious that supply chain speed is crucial for a timely launch of a new store opening, but there is no need to force a rush delivery for store merchandise when display shelves are arriving at least a week after. It is especially important that POP displays and other display shelves are delivered to the appropriate location before merchandise arrives and well in advance of the new store opening to ensure store layout and placement details are correct. Store managers should be able to count on reliable 3PL providers to meet the tightest deadlines and simplify the process for new store owners so they can focus all energy on opening up the store.
With leading transportation and logistics technology, STC Logistics not only provides a full, well-rounded solution for new store openings and mall deliveries, but also takes pride in providing clients with effective rollout management and distribution plans, regardless of the industry sector. To learn more about our specialized logistics specialties, including retail, marketing and advertising, click below!
