McKenna Glossary of Terms
Click on the highlighted terms for more information relating to that topic.
3pl
This is an abbreviation for third-party logistics providers (see definition below).
Cross Docking
This is the process of unloading products from incoming trucks or containers and then immediately labeling and packaging those products for outbound shipping and order fulfillment. The need for warehousing and storage is minimized and delivery times reduced for faster delivery to the end client.
Eaches
Individual products packaged within a carton or within an “inner”. Eaches are generally pulled from an inner for customized pick and pack or kitting orders.
E.D.I. (Electronic Data Interchange)
This is the use of electronic methods to structure data for transmission between companies or organizations. In the logistics industry, this includes the seamless transfer of information between manufacturers (production) and logistics providers (warehousing and distribution) to ensure information regarding a product is always available to both sides of the partnership.
ERP (Efficient Returns Process)
The process utilized by a third party logistics provider to manage products returned from the retail market. This is also known as Reverse Logistics (see definition below).
Inners
Smaller cartons packed onto a pallet to create shipments. Inners may be pulled from a pallet to create kits or for pick and pack services.
Kitting
This involves selecting a series of products from various pallets or boxes to create a “kit” of products. Each box in kitting contains exactly the same products in the same quantity.
KPI (Key Performance Indicator)
Indicators used to determine goals and evaluate progress towards those goals. For a logistics provider, methods of measurement would include compliance scorecards, technology conveniences, customer retention etc. Please visit our KPI pages to learn more about the competitive advantages that McKenna Logistics can offer your business.
Logistics
Managing the movement and storage of goods between production and end users. This can include warehousing, product management and packaging, and distribution.
LTL Shipping (Less-than-truckload)
Less-than-truckload shipping involves the movement of small to mid-sized freight in an efficient manner by combining multiple shipments into one delivery. This commonly includes the use of courier shipping services.
Pick and Pack
This process involves selecting a variety of products and consolidating them into one box or pallet for shipping. This is utilized when multiple customers require different combinations of products in varying quantities.
POD Program
A customized service offered by McKenna Logistics to their clients to personalize the management of the client’s products and ensure the team working with their freight is familiar with both the company and the products.
Reverse Logistics
This is the reverse flow of goods from end customer back to the supplier. This is necessary in cases where items must be returned due to damage, defect or seasonal overflow.
RFID Logistics (Radio Frequency Identification)
This technology involves using radio frequencies to track and trace products and shipments. It allows logistics providers and their clients to have real-time information on the status of inventory and shipments.
Third-Party Logistics
Third-Party Logistics refers to a company, manufacturer or organization outsourcing their supply chain needs to an external company that specializes in warehousing, shipping and other elements in the logistics industry.
