November 09, 2009

When choosing a center for regional distribution logistics in Western Canada, Calgary has enjoyed advantages in recent years, particularly very low transportation rates into Vancouver, and a central location that minimized transit times. With these obvious advantages, coupled with the rapid growth in Western Canada, it might seem safe to assume that the future looks rosy for logistics in Calgary. There are several key factors that weigh in against this, though, and the recent economic downturn has highlighted them. It is important to have a full understanding of the pros and cons of both marketplaces before committing to logistics location.

July 05, 2010

When selecting an Internet Order Fulfillment Partner, potential clients should consider eight critical factors before a final decision is made. Volume, location, TAT (turn-around time), communication methods, rates, order entry method, percentage of error, history and credibility. Evaluating these factors when selecting an Internet Order Fulfillment provider will increase your chances of operating a streamlined and successful internet order fulfillment business model.

November 09, 2009

Whether your business involves consumer electronics or industrial electronics, both present unique challenges with respect to choosing a logistics provider. Challenges in electronics logistics stem from the fact that anything with memory or a processor has the shelf life of food, requires the same security as a pile of cash and needs the same protection as your dishware during a move. These are all realities of your business, and your third party logistics provider (3PL) should already have them covered. If they don't then it is likely in your best interest to move on.

July 07, 2010

As the economy gradually recovers, the impact on shippers is predictable, and some different strategies offered in a partnership with a third party logistics providers are worth considering. The first reaction will be price increases, directly through lane rates, or by using tools such as fuel surcharges. In the first case, as a customer, you will need to sign off on any rate adjustments, but depending on the lane, you may not really have any better options. Even worse, if you have an irregular shipping pattern, and rely on spot quotes, you may be in for a real shock. As for the fuel surcharge, can we honestly claim to keep abreast of all our carriers, some of whom even change their rates weekly, or even more often?

November 09, 2009

Business owners and managers all seek to hire efficient and productive warehousing and distribution service providers. The quality of that service, however, varies greatly within the fragmented industry of third party logistics. Let's face it, logistics and warehousing covers a lot of ground. Some studies suggest that less than 4% of the entire industry is controlled by the 'Big and Moderate Players'. That leaves a lot of opportunity for individuals, in the spirit of the Old Wild West, to hang out a shingle and declare themselves 'open and ready for business'. So what should you look for when you seek to identify a superior warehousing and distribution operation?

April 09, 2010

Demand for E-tail Internet Order Fulfillment in the Logistics Industry In an increasingly competitive global marketplace, it is extremely important for businesses to embrace the latest methods and trends to conduct their business. With the advancement of technology, specifically the Internet, businesses have discovered new avenues of opportunity by improving the transactions of traditional business models in terms of efficiency, productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. The impact of E-commerce, and subsequent growth of B2C transactions (business to consumer) means that an efficient and cost effective order fulfillment model is more necessary than ever.

November 09, 2009

The easiest question to ask when trying to find a third party logistics company (3pl) is "What are your rates?" but there are better ways to start a business relationship. A company that can answer that question without finding out the details about your product is, in most cases, the wrong company to choose. The correct 3pl is the one that asks you all the right questions to understand your business before throwing out numbers. Where is the product going? What does it look like when it comes in? Are there any special handling instructions? A logistics company that bases its rates specifically on the actions it will be taking with your product understands its own business and can help you with yours. They go beyond offering services to become your logistics consultant, helping you map out the best short and long-term plans for your business.

April 21, 2010

McKenna Logistics Centres, a leading Canadian provider of logistics services, are happy to announce that we will be making the switch from printed invoices to electronic invoices for our customers around the world. With a simple conversion process, customers will easily be switched over from paper invoicing to eInvoicing and reap the following benefits:

July 19, 2010

Currently there is no commercial activity for the port in Montreal as the Maritime Employers Association has locked out the union representing 850 longshoreman. There is no activity coming in or out of the port including the rail ways. Obviously this will effect if you have product moving out of Montreal, no time lines associated with ending this lockout.

November 09, 2009

The "Reverse Logistics Association" defines reverse logistics as, "all activity associated with a product/service after the point of sale (POS). The ultimate goal is to optimize or make more efficient aftermarket activity, thus saving money and environmental resources."