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!
Using Technology for Product Launch and Rollout Distribution
Since logistics service provider environment has become highly competitive over the last few years, offering customers the services they expect while adding value to their organizations, is something that a Third Party Logistics (3PL) provider must do to increase market share. Although it seems easy, changing demands, raised expectations and unforeseeable events can prevent 3PL providers from achieving their goals. Yet, most of these providers successfully manage different tasks, including product launch distributions for new store openings and large scale rollout distributions of procurement fixtures. How do they do it?
Using Technology to Deliver What Customers Expect
Product launch distribution defines a real challenge for all logistics providers. This is simply because product launches and rollout distribution imply fixed delivery dates that cannot be postponed. To help these providers manage such tasks, a series of logistics management software solutions have been developed. However, the real value of these solutions for 3PL providers can only be established by analyzing evaluating software products against logistics best practices, which have the obligation of helping companies in the industry meet customer requirements in addition to meeting the terms of international regulations.
- Avoiding Delays: Since ‘on-the–dot’ delivery is critical for product and procurement rollout distribution, most logistics management software systems provide an end-to-end infrastructure that allows users to plan shipping executions within a single interface. From simple domestic transportation tasks, to complex multimodal moves over different geographies, logistics software gives 3PL providers the ability to schedule, optimize and complete the movement of goods anywhere in the world. Further, it boosts operational efficiency while increasing the profitability of all those involved in the process.
- Gaining Visibility: Logistics software also provides in-depth visibility in supply chains, allowing logistics providers to identify process gaps that may cause supply chain disruptions. In addition, 3PL providers can use a logistics software solution to collect and process relevant, real-time data for advance planning. Cutting-edge transportation and logistics technologies also help users boost their supply chain operations and gain a competitive advantage by successfully meeting product launch distribution dates for new store openings.
- Managing Warehouses: Unlike manual inventory systems, logistics technologies propose flexible, advanced, feature-rich applications that assist logistics providers in managing warehouses and monitoring inventory precisely, even in the most complex distribution and storage schemes. As a result, the entire supply chain can be designed more efficiently, which will turn even the most difficult rollout and distribution tasks into simple endeavors.
- Forecasting Demand: Developing a functional logistics strategy is impossible without forecasting demand. Knowing exactly what is needed, when it is needed is critical for a 3PL provider to succeed in logistics and supply chain industry. Logistics software products include a series of demand forecasting functions, which permit users to anticipate future needs. This is especially useful when dealing with product launches and rollout distribution, which typically requires strategic Distribution Requirements Planning (DRP).
- Cutting Costs: Logistics management software solutions not only deliver appropriate tools for effective product launch distribution and large scale procurement rollouts, but also include features that monitor the performance and profitability of logistics providers along with trends and seasonality within this industry. These features are very important since cutting costs represents one of the most important goals of an organization.
In conclusion, logistics software helps 3PL providers centralize control, cut costs, accomplish timelines, eliminate inefficiencies, increase productivity and streamline shipping processes for successful product rollout distribution.
Having a market-leading transportation and logistics software management solution on its side, STC Logistics specializes in logistics solutions for new store openings, small or large rollout distribution programs, pharmaceuticals, marketing/advertising campaigns, critical product launch introductions and much more. We are able to propose a comprehensive list of technologies and services for new store openings and rollout distribution management for all industries. Unlike other 3PL providers, we take the extra step and quickly provide a pre-scheduled rollout distribution plan to efficiently provide client solutions. Our efficient practices help clients take advantage of reduced costs, increased profits and excellent service.
Click here to learn more about our logistics specialties.
Open Your New Store with a Third Party Logistics (3PL) Provider
Third Party Logistics (3PL) providers offer a wealth of benefits to the retail procurement industry. Given their extensive knowledge of supply chain management, these providers deliver a comprehensive solution for assembly, distribution, packaging and warehousing. When opening a new store, employing a 3PL gives companies reliable competitive advantages through advanced logistics solutions, in turn, amplifying profitability.
There are several reasons why a retail company could benefit from a partnership with a 3PL provider, including:
- Cost savings
- Extensive knowledge
- Flexibility
- Optimization
- Resource network
Cost Savings
When opening a new store, one of the greatest concerns is capital. However, by utilizing a 3PL provider, companies will save on time and money. A logistics provider will eliminate the need for staffing, technological tracking and upgrades, transportation and warehousing.
Instead, the store will systematically request new inventory by a specific date and the 3PL will deliver. This will eliminate costly mistakes, thus lowering risks and allowing the business to grow. Billing, distribution audits, optimization, paperwork, staffing and training to ensure the store’s products are shipped accordingly are all the responsibility of the logistics provider.
Extensive Knowledge
One of the primary reasons a company should work with a 3PL provider to open a new store is their extensive expertise with all aspects of the supply chain. 3PL’s are aware of all logistics best practices and remain up-to-date on the most recent technological developments. Their software can provide advanced reporting, automated inventory management and procedural visibility to ensure the store can track and report upon the movement of goods.
Flexibility
With the ability to scale labor, space and transportation based on inventory requirements, companies that function during seasonal time periods will enjoy minimal strain during this transition. This allows stores to consume more warehouse space and resources during the busy season and less during the off-season.
Moreover, a 3PL provider gives companies the opportunity to expand into different regions without any logistical barriers. Most logistics companies have strategically-located distribution centers to guarantee the quick shipping of goods. This decentralization strategy allows for lower costs and improved delivery times.
Optimization
With the resources to adjust and improve all aspects of the supply chain, 3PL providers will utilize the quickest and most cost effective method to ensure their client’s needs are met. By implementing the resources to restructure the supply chain at any time, logistics providers can analyze and monitor practices which will eliminate inefficiencies thus streamlining the process. Although the store will only see the fruit of these labors through on-time, accurate deliveries, it is important to know that 3PL providers are working to deliver the best costs while keeping efficiency and optimization in mind.
Resource Network
Finally, with a vast network of resources at their fingertips (which provides a competitive advantage over internal supply chains) 3PL’s utilize a resource network ensuring every step along the supply chain is efficient and cost-effective. For instance, logistics providers can utilize relationships to acquire volume discounts which will lower overhead while maintaining fast service. Stores will benefit from the relationships their 3PL have built through an improvement in the bottom line.
About STC Logistics
Founded in 1992, STC Logistics specializes in retail procurement and new store opening logistics with a pledge to deliver superior and flexible solutions. We maintain a resolute commitment to offer the most valuable and resourceful technological solutions to its clients regardless of destination, size or weight. As a result, our company has become a trusted provider of logistics solutions for many industry partners, especially in the retail procurement industry.
To learn more about how our logistics specialists can help you open your new store, contact us by clicking here or call us at 800-547-4324.
For more information about selecting a Third Party Logistics (3PL) partner, download our free checklist by clicking below!
Choosing a Logistics Provider for Your Pop-Up Store
Pop-up stores are a fairly new concept used by retailers.These trendy stores pop-up for a short period of time and close once their stock is sold out. For example, they can open their doors over a seasonal period of time, like Halloween costume stores or other holiday shops. They stock their stores with a large selection of goods and use effective brand marketing to sell out their stock over the course of the season. Then, the store can close and open elsewhere with new and different stock.
Pop-up shops serve a niche market, so they are typically open for about 3-6 months; sometimes for a shorter or longer period of time. Hiring managers must plan carefully to successfully set up the store, hire adequate staff, sell out the stock and close down the store in a timely fashion while still making a profit.
So what makes these specialty shops profitable? The key to pop-up store success is making sure store fixtures, displays and stock are all set up properly in time for opening. For this to happen, retailers must work with a reliable logistics company. A store owner that is let down with late or missing stock delivery can end up seeing his or her pop-up store open without sufficient stock to sell.
Late stock arrival means that stock is left over at the end of the season, defeating the objective of such a store. While considering many other details, the owner and supporting staff cannot spend countless hours tracking stock and worrying about lost shipments. When launching a pop-up store and choosing a reliable logistics company, retailers need to consider the following:
• Does the logistics company specialize in retail procurement?
• Does the company possess the infrastructure to deliver shipments of all sizes?
• If needed, can the company offer same-day or white glove service?
• Can the company offer free nationwide warehousing and storage facilities?
• Has the company received positive feedback from present or former customers?
• Do they offer high technology cargo tracking capabilities for complete visibility of freight?
• Do they care about the customer enough to ensure their success?
• Are their trucks equipped with lift gates?
• Does the company offer cross-docking services?
Imagine that you have invested money in opening a pop-up store, only to discover your POP advertising materials have been damaged or delayed. Retail procurement professionals must work with a trusted logistics company to ensure that all materials are delivered to one store or hundreds, on time—every time.
STC Logistics specializes in logistics solutions for new retail store openings. We have incorporated numerous checkpoints into our freight monitoring services to ensure flawless and timely delivery of goods. With our 3PL technology, we are able to efficiently track, trace and control each shipment and can serve as a one-stop solution for retailers.
Choosing a reliable retail procurement logistics professional will ensure a smooth new-store opening. To learn more about our services, click here or contact us today.
Photo credit: Wikipedia
The Logistics Behind New Retail Store Openings
In our day and age, there are countless supply chain management firms in the logistics industry, and it can become very difficult for retailers to choose a perfect logistics provider. There are numerous things to be considered—especially when new store openings are on the line—and retailers are not in a position to take any risks.
Choosing a Reliable Logistics Service is the Key to a Successful Launch
There is a large list of things that need to get done when a new store is opened. It is almost impossible for one person to take care of everything, from planning to purchase and transport of the goods. Logistics providers can greatly reduce the work burden of store staff at such a crucial time and can drastically speed up the opening of a new store if their company practices the right policies and procedures for success.
The ideal way to manage retail logistics for success is to find an efficient retail procurement expert. Here are a few key factors that need to be considered before a retailer makes the final decision of what logistics provider they will work with:
- The logistics provider needs to understand the task and has to have the proper expertise and tools to complete the task in a timely manner. Are they experienced in high-volume new store openings? Are they capable of fulfilling both small and very demanding retail logistics needs? Look into the experience that each logistics provider has and see if they specialize in retail.
- How strong is the infrastructure of a specific logistics provider? Among others, it must include proper warehouse facilities and shipping services, on top of permissions of shipment, in case of transporting the goods for a new store from a far-off location?
- Will there be consensus on the ethics and other crucial principles between both the parties? The provider needs to respect all the environment policies and abide by them as well as have good risk management policies in place.
- Were the previous customers satisfied with the service offered? The logistics provider must be offering the best services at the best price.
Logistics Providers Make or Break New Store Openings
A new store is just like a new inning in a retailer’s life; thus, no negligence should be made.
A good logistics provider must have its expertise in shipping through air, sea, rail, and ground. The logistics provider must also empathize with the work and needs of the retailers, therefore, should be accountable to deliver the retail procurement items on time. It is essential for all the items like POP, display shelves and other furniture and fixtures to be delivered on time with no damage. Also, all diligent logistics providers make sure that the material required for a new store not only arrives on time, but also schedule it with the purpose of cost-efficiency.
In the complex operation of supply chain management, an effective logistics provider can efficiently make the work of a retail chain or its staff much easier. If a shipment is late or the items are damaged, new store openings can be delayed or even, in worst case, canceled.
Due Care to POP Displays
POP advertising is the most sought after mode of advertising for the immediate purchasing action and is even more vital for new store openings. Professional logistics providers make a commitment to deliver all the POP material on time with all safety measures taken. After all, advertising on time does pay in the long run. It is advised that POP material should be delivered on the venue at least a few days before the opening, to avoid any delays due to assembly and to allow time to repair any potentially damaged items.
STC Logistics specializes in retail new store openings across the country. Whether you are opening one new store or 100, we make sure that all retail cargo items are packed while considering all the factors, including temperature-sensitivity, transit bumps/jolts and the best shipping routes available. We also take full responsibility of transporting retail products with all safety measures in place. Our retail logistics solutions ensure that we make new store opening deliveries on time, every time. Click here to get your quote today!
Reliable Logistics Solutions for Retail Fixtures and Displays
Having the right fixtures in the right place at the right time can make or break a retail operation. Timing is especially important when considering the fact that most retail stores make their annual profits in small, high-traffic windows throughout the year. The logistics of retail procurement, fixtures and displays plays a pivotal role in determining the success of your business or retail campaign. This blog explains what to consider when approaching retail procurement logistics and choosing a third party logistics provider to ship your procurement cargo.
Timing
Nothing matters more in retail than timing. Timing must be positioned properly to take advantage of holidays, tax-free weekends, new product releases and other narrow timeframes. Effective logistics make sure you receive the products, fixtures and other materials you need, right when you need them… not early, when they might waste valuable warehouse or floor space, or late, when the window of opportunity has already shut. Such strict timing requirements may not matter as much when you’re upgrading your standard displays, but seasonal or event-specific displays need to be ready on time, all the time.
Care
The only thing worse than receiving materials too late or too soon in retail procurement logistics is receiving materials that are damaged or not receiving them at all. Even minor damages can ruin a fixture. Scuffed or scratched displays do not impress customers and less obvious structural damage might result in a display piece breaking while in use. This could cause a safety hazard for shopping customers in busy shopping malls. There is little to be done once you’ve received damaged goods, as even a claim against the shipping firm for the value of the fixture won’t recoup lost potential retail sales in the window of opportunity or time wasted trying to cover for the problem.
Third Party Logistics
With so many factors to consider, in-house logistics personnel can be ineffective or impossible to maintain without compromising profit margins. Specialized retail procurement agencies have specialized knowledge and connections which are invaluable when moving materials around the world or across the nation. Leaving the management of logistic details to individuals whose job it is to know when local shipping laws have changed or what ports will be unusually slow or have a tendency to lose shipments will, in most cases, be superior to training an individual or team in-house to handle the same duties.
Providing the Best Solutions for Retail Procurement Logistics
If you have questions about retail procurement logistics or would like to know how a full-service logistics firm can help your business operate more efficiently and effectively, contact us at STC Logistics by clicking here. We are a trusted provider of retail procurement logistics solutions including new store openings and remodels and marketing campaigns. Thanks to our expert team and our state-of-the-art technology systems and nationwide network of ground, air, rail and ocean transportation, we maintain a 99% on-time delivery rate for businesses across the United States. Learn more about our specialty logistics solutions by clicking here.
Selecting a Logistics Provider with Quality Shipping Tracking Software
Information is key in maintaining a smooth logistics chain. The more information every individual supplier and manufacturer in a given supply chain has access to regarding the status of materials, the more effectively and efficiently those individual companies can manage their own part of that chain. In our modern era, quality logistics and shipment tracking software is a key part of any track and trace logistics solution, and utilization of the superior software to superior effect often marks key differences between two logistics companies.
There are many factors to consider when evaluating shipment tracking software. A software suite that excels in pinpointing shipments en route and stays up-to-date on changes in local shipping conditions may lack equally robust inventory tracking tools, may not output adequate analytics, or may fail and numerous other ways. Here are just a few factors logistics companies should consider when selecting software:
Identification of Points
Before a piece of shipment tracking software can offer anything else, it must be able to accurately map the key points of your supply chain:
- Data Collection: How much information does the shipment tracking software collect at each data point? How accurately and easily does it do so? Using software that allows you to quickly access requested information tremendously speeds up the logistics process.
- Data Assessment: While raw data has its value, smarter shipment tracking software offers more in the way of analytics. Can the software give you full analytics on any possible damage rate or accurate delivery times and updates?
- Integration: Good software ‘plays well with others’. The information produced should be readily available to share across programs or between suppliers, manufacturers, and transporters on the supply chain.
Identification of Goals
A good logistics firm also keeps in mind three end goals in all its evaluations of shipment tracking software:
- Will the software improve supply chain speed?
- Will it improve supply chain reliability?
- Will it create a leaner supply chain?
With those goals and the above factors in mind, it becomes simple to decide which software program to use on a regular basis.
STC Logistics uses the most advanced track and trace shipment tracking software on the market to support its clientele. Under the guidance of logistics experts across the nation and using a massive network of transportation affiliates in hubs across the nation, STC Logistics maintains a 99% on-time delivery rate—better than any of the major shipping companies. Whether your chain needs air, rail, sea, or road travel with large shipments to distributed locations or small shipments to a single location, STC Logistics can provide unmatched precision and reliability. Contact us today for a service quote!
