Articles
The Numbers Game
Logistics Industry November 9, 2009
A key question in picking or staying with a current logistics provider is whether or not they can provide you with the same data that you are accustomed to having if you are running your own internal warehouse operation. It seems like a simple question but it is usually not asked until the decision on the 3PL has already been made. When adding a third party distribution centre (DC) to your business environment, understand the numbers you need to know and make sure that the 3PL you are looking at can provide them.
Calgary versus Vancouver
Transportation Industry November 9, 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.
Sporting Goods Logistics
Sporting Goods November 9, 2009
As a logistics company that handles thousands of units of athletic products ranging from bikes to snowboards to hockey and baseball equipment, McKenna Logistics has tons of "games played" when dealing with sporting goods logistics. Not only do we have the experience that comes from handling the tough ground balls, we also know how to "squeeze" the most out of our customer's products.
Logistics Consulting
Logistics Industry November 9, 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.
Challenges of Electronics Logistics
Technology November 9, 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.
Reverse Logistics
Logistics Industry November 9, 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."
