Supply chain trade & visibility

End-to-end digitization is a top priority for supply chain professionals, according to the Körber Supply Chain Benchmarking Report 2022 to examine industry best practices to advance operational performance. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/study_reveals_gaps_in_knowledge_attitude_conquer_supply_chain_complexities

Get the latest research and insights to help you better understand the key factors that shape this complexity, how your supply chain progresses against them, and how you can increase its performance. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/2022_supply_chain_benchmarking_report

When choosing a transportation management system having a technology strategy in place will ensure you ask the right questions, avoid costly mistakes, and select the best option for your business. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/5_costly_mistakes_logistics_executives_make_when_choosing_a_tms

This whitepaper shares the key metrics that bring supply chain, sales, finance, customer service, and operations executives together in their assessment of risk and reward. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/sop_calibrating_risk_reward_for_the_c_suite

A common misperception is that S&OP is a Supply Chain process when it is truly a comprehensive business planning process. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/how_executives_can_mitigate_risks_and_capture_rewards_with_sop

If you are clamoring for supply chain transformation and cannot wait years to capture ROI, check out these highlights from a recent conversation with GAINS co-founder Bill Benton. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/why_time_to_value_matters_in_supply_chain_transformation

Nucleus interviewed several GAINS customers to identify the key benefits and how users benefitted from increased productivity, reduced operational costs, better service levels, and new business insights. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/gains_users_increase_service_levels_with_less_inventory

In this podcast, Jeff Berman, Group News Editor for Logistics Management and the Peerless Media Supply Chain Group, interviews Ken Adamo, Chief of Analytics for DAT Freight & Analytics. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/dats_adamo_discusses_current_state_of_truckload_spot_and_contract_rates

Customer requirements are evolving. So are distribution centers and the technologies that support them. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/looking_at_a_new_day_for_warehouse_distribution

Earlier this month, Frisco, Texas-based Transplace, a non-asset-based third-party logistics services provider and subsidiary of Uber Freight, rolled out a new addition to its Transplace Network Services offerings, with a new tech-enabled service—entitled OptiPro—that identifies cross-customer opportunities for both LTL (Less-than-Truckload) and partial truckload freight. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/transplaces_optipro_focuses_on_shipment_collaboration_and_ltl_pooling

The Port of Oakland recently announced that its new temporary container yard is receiving federal help through financial relief for customers, with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) providing agricultural and other exporters assistance in covering expenses for using the pop-up yard. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/federal_incentives_are_now_available_for_port_of_oakland_exporters_to_use_p

While there are many reasons why a carrier might set a freight embargo, they’re often necessary for carriers to comply with legal restrictions, overcome logistical challenges, and balance capacity during times of peak demand. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/what_are_freight_embargoes_and_why_do_carriers_set_them

More than ever, access to high-quality information on freight transportation sourcing, pricing, and visibility is the factor separating leading shippers and carriers from the rest of the competition. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/how_third_party_logistics_providers_utilize_technology

When integrated with the leading transportation management systems, CarrierConnect XL adds unparalleled transit and service information for greater transportation efficiency. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/comprehensive_transit_time_intelligence_smc3s_carrierconnect_xl_platform

Chill Brands, a lifestyle brand providing first-class functional products and tobacco alternatives, joins as first customer in Dallas micro-fulfillment center source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/fabric_opens_dallas_micro_fulfillment_center_as_its_on_demand_retail_networ

In today’s extremely volatile electronic components marketplace, OEMs need a dynamic obsolescence case management solution to avoid the costs of using high-risk parts. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/every_oem_needs_an_obsolescence_case_management_solution

With a $0.059-cent increase, this week’s national average came in at $5.160 per gallon, following a $0.0280-cent increase to $5.101, for the week of April 18. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/national_diesel_average_shows_solid_growth_for_the_week_of_april_25_reports

Funding enables KINEXON to accelerate international expansion and scale its operating system for connected and automated operations source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/iot_automation_company_kinexon_raises_130_million_in_funding_led_by_thomas

Quarterly revenue—at $24.4 billion—saw a 6.4% annual gain, and adjusted earnings per share—at $3.05—marked a 10.1% annual gain, topping Wall Street expectations of $2.88 per share. Quarterly operating profit was up 17.6% to $3.3 billion. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/ups_sees_solid_q1_results_driven_by_revenue_quality_initiatives

This follows previous joint announcements by POLA and POLB, whom collectively account for roughly 40% of United States-bound import volumes, indicating that consideration of the fee would be pushed back each week going back to the week of November 22, 2021. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/pola_polb_again_push_back_consideration_of_container_dwell_fee_to_apri

Following an announcement it made earlier this month, when it said it would hold a hearing on April 26-27, regarding recent rail service problems and recovery efforts relating to various Class I railroad carriers, entitled "Urgent Issues in Freight Rail Service," the Surface Transportation Board (STB), an independent adjudicatory and economic-regulatory agency charged by Congress with resolving railroad rate and service disputes and reviewing proposed railroad mergers said late last week that it has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that “amend emergency service rules to provide relief for shippers in situations that require immediate relief.” source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/stb_issues_railroad_service_related_nprm_in_advance_of_hearing

Automation industry’s most prestigious honor to be presented to three at Automate 2022 in Detroit on June 8 and three at Automatica in Munich June 20 source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/six_robotics_pioneers_win_2022_engelberger_awards

LiuGong Finance will provide dealers with finance support for both LiuGong North America and non-competing products. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/liugong_north_america_introduces_liugong_finance

As this situation moves on, there continue to be more questions than answers, to be sure. There is never a really opportune time for a crisis to emerge. That has never wrung more truly in logistics and supply chain than it has going back to March 2020, to be sure. Here is to hoping China’s operations get back to full-strength sooner than later. While we all hope it happens quickly, it is really hard to say if that will be the case. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/chinese_shutdown_continues_to_leave_a_difficult_situation_hard_to_navigate

Foxtrot’s book of business includes well-known companies like Coca-Cola, Nestle, and P&G. And Descartes said that Foxtrot’s advanced ML algorithms leverage millions of data points collected from vehicles in the field, helping customers reduce Last-Mile costs, improve customer service, and learn service factors that improve route efficiency and on-time performance. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/descartes_announces_acquisition_of_foxtrot

A recent survey from Accenture argues that the most supply chain executives expect a profound impact on their operations. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/are_we_ready_for_the_metaverse

Company prepares to introduce flagship robot to logistics and warehouse environments source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/agility_robotics_raises_150_million_seeks_to_accelerate_blended_human_robot

The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association’s (ELFA) Monthly Leasing and Finance Index (MLFI-25) for March saw business volume up 14% year-over-year, 49% month-to-month source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/equipment_leasing_index_for_march_shows_gains_in_volumes

A recent survey from Accenture argues that the most supply chain executives expect a profound impact on their operations. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/are_you_ready_for_the_metaverse

Today is Earth Day, and looking ahead to 2022, companies need to strive to take bigger action, make a more meaningful impact, continue to invest in resources and engage customers, partners, suppliers, employees, and nonprofits - so that collectively we are smarter together, sustainable together to tackle climate change. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/this_earth_day_and_every_day_taking_action_on_climate_change

Compagnie de Saint-Gobain S.A. is a French multinational manufacturing corporation that produces a variety of construction, high-performance, and other materials and has an aim of reaching carbon neutrality in 2050. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/saint_gobain_optimizes_supply_chain_transport

Contest which celebrates exceptional pickers at U.S. DCs and fulfillment sites, now in its second year, is open for nominees through July 1 source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/sdi_launches_its_picking_superstars_contest

The February SCI came in at -17.9, down from January’s -10.1, topping March 2021 as the “toughest month to date for shippers,” noted FTR. But that comes with the caveat that February’s record is not likely to be lasting, with March expected to record an even lower reading, it said, stating that some rate relief will not nearly offset a surge in diesel prices. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/ftrs_shippers_conditions_index_falls_to_a_new_record_low_reading

Total March volume—at 1,580,155 units—saw a 5.5% annual decline. Trailers—at 93,981—fell 15.7% annually. All domestic equipment, which is comprised of trailers and domestic containers, was up 3.0%, to 846,405 units. ISO, or international, containers—at 733,750—dropped 13.7%. Through the first three months of 2022, total intermodal volume—at 4,312,905—is down 6.6% annually. Domestic containers—at 2,046,210—are up 5.2%, and trailers—at 269,649—are down 12.8%. All domestic equipment—at 2,315,859—is up 2.8%. ISO containers are down 15.5%, to 1,997,046. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/march_intermodal_volumes_see_annual_and_year_to_date_declines_reports_iana

Rail carloads—at 221,228—were down 6.8% annually, and intermodal units—at 268,573—fell 9.2%. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/u.s._rail_carload_and_intermodal_volumes_see_annual_gains_for_the_week_endi

Supply chain operator adopts WeMake model to implement structured program with support resources to create long-term, meaningful jobs for adults on the autism spectrum source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/bettaway_partners_with_wemake_to_expand_jobs_program_for_autistic_adults

March’s TVI dry van freight reading—at 305—was up 23% compared to February, while the refrigerated TVI—at 206—and the flatbed TVI—at 247—were up 13% and 24%, respectively, for the same period. DAT said that these readings indicate that more loads moved in March, a month which also had more shipping days than February. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/dat_truckload_volume_index_highlights_impact_of_lower_spot_rates_and_high_f

Sustainability has re-entered the supply chain conversation—and it’s a concept that will continue to have an impact on organizations far into the future as the transportation sector continues to be the largest U.S. contributor to greenhouse gasses. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/why_sustainability_matters

Alexis joins Fortna from Tegra Global, a major apparel manufacturer. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/john_alexis_joins_fortna_as_chief_information_officer

The new funding includes: a $160 million Series E preferred equity round led by Baillie Gifford and funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc.; a $100 million venture-debt investment from Hercules Capital, Inc.; and a new $150 million line of credit. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/convoy_heralds_260_million_capital_funding_raise_bringing_total_value_to_3

Here’s how Flock Freight® drove positive change for people and the planet in 2021. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/flock_freight_2021_annual_impact_report

The report’s first quarter shipment index value—at 118.9—was down 2.2% compared to the fourth quarter and headed up 1.1% annually. As previously reported, for calendar year 2021, shipments fell 0.5% annually and were down 4.5% when compared to 2019. On the freight spend side, the index—at 270.7—was up 1.2% compared to the fourth quarter and 27.5% annually. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/q1_u.s._bank_freight_payment_index_sees_mixed_results

The revision of these standards aligns with SMA’s continued commitment to develop, maintain and publish standards for design, performance and safe operation of industrial steel work platforms and shelving products. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/storage_manufacturers_association_of_mhi_announces_standards_revisions

The new edition of the Cowen/AFS Freight Index, which was recently released by New York-based investment firm Cowen Inc. and Shreveport, La.-based 3PL and freight audit and payment company AFS Logistics LLC, highlighted how rising fuel prices are having a significant impact on both parcel and LTL (Less-than-Truckload) rates, whereas things are somewhat lessening on the truckload side. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/cowen_afs_freight_index_points_to_fuel_driven_rate_gains_for_ltl_and_parcel

Power transmission component maker selects Seegrid’s Palion AMR fleet and Fleet Central enterprise software to support autonomous hauling of parts and equipment. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/sumitomo_drive_technologies_taps_seegrid_for_amrs

On this episode, Larry Lapide discusses why we need a new approach to planning and forecasting given these uncertain times. SCMR’s Editorial Director Bob Trebilcock hosts. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/talking_supply_chain_podcast_planning_under_uncertainty._its_a_new_world_fo

Liquid green hydrogen to fuel up to 9,500 lift trucks across Walmart distribution and fulfillment centers, supporting the retailer’s goal of a zero emissions future by 2040. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/plug_supplies_walmart_with_green_hydrogen_for_lift_truck_fleet

New Parcel shipping software helps you manage the entire process for shipping. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/optimize_your_parcel_shipping_strategy

Davinci will use Addverb's autonomous robots and software in its micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs), which Davinci touts as offering retailers and brands superior reach and efficiencies in what amounts to 'Micro-fulfillment as a Solution,' or MaaS. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/addverb_technologies_and_davinci_micro_fulfillment_partner_on_robotics

When you’re ready to up your organization’s sustainability efforts, start by challenging the common assumption that industry and sustainability don’t mix - here are 5 ways to build sustainability into your corporate value system. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/5_best_ways_for_driving_sustainability_within_your_organization

Micro-fulfillment is moving forward, but at a slower pace than previously forecast. Slowing e-commerce sales and achieving an ROI are two factors. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/whats_holding_back_micro_fulfillment

The Thomas H. Lee Partners (TPL)-backed warehouse automation and integration companies, going forward as a combined entity, foresee strength based on complementary automation technology, software and engineering expertise. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/mhs_and_fortna_to_combine_to_form_global_ecommerce_and_logistics_automation

Founded by Lester Speyer 60 years ago, Tennsco has grown from the single facility to nine manufacturing plants and distribution facilities spanning over 1.8 million square feet. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/tennsco_celebrates_60_years_of_manufacturing_storage_products_in_tennessee

Greenwich, Conn.-based freight transportation services provider XPO Logistics said today it is opening up two new less-than-truckload (LTL) terminals in the second quarter, which are located in Adelanto, Calif. and Conley Ga. A company spokesperson told LM that with these new terminals, XPO is adding capacity in two strategically important areas, as well as moving XPO closer to one of its stated five-point LTL action plans: to open 900 doors by the end of 2023. With the two new openings, XPO said it will have added 345 cumulative net new doors under the plan. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/xpo_logistics_announces_plan_to_add_more_ltl_dock_doors

An Illinois-based non-profit helps firms reduce their excess inventory while advancing their ESG initiatives by contributing to the next generation of students. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/looking_at_the_intersection_of_reverse_logistics_and_esg_goals

The Hong Kong-flagged Ever Forward, a 1,095-foot cargo ship that’s been stuck on the edge of Baltimore Harbor since March 13 when it ran aground en route from Baltimore to Norfolk, Va., is sailing again following an Easter miracle. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/free_at_last_an_easter_miracle_largest_ship_ever_grounded_in_chesapeake_bay

Businesses worldwide seek more transparency in ESG data, according to a new Coupa study. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/how_to_mitigate_esg_risk_in_your_supply_chain

The industry’s only collection of benchmarks is based entirely on hard data from real business spend transactions, with 20 community-powered KPIs for best-in-class performance across procurement, risk, invoicing, expenses, and payments. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/the_2022_business_spend_management_benchmark_report

The original end-to-end risk management and workforce optimization solution. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/strongarm_technologies_safework_system

This paper analyzes how companies can get ahead of workplace injuries and take their risk management to the “next level” in protecting valuable employees’ health while improving productivity and profitability. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/the_industrial_athlete_and_nextleveling_safety_in_the_workplace

While ESG has been a board-level topic for many years, leaders have only recently woken up to the need to act. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/environmental_social_governance_and_procurement_its_time_to_take_charge

Earlier this week, the Surface Transportation Board (STB), an independent adjudicatory and economic-regulatory agency charged by Congress with resolving railroad rate and service disputes and reviewing proposed railroad mergers, signed off on the revised merger application filed by Jacksonville-based Class I railroad carrier CSX Transportation Inc. to acquire control of North Billerica, Mass.-based short-line railroad carrier Pan Am Systems Inc. and its short-line railroad subsidiaries. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/stb_signs_off_on_csxs_acquisition_of_pan_am

March’s shipment reading—at 1.203—eked out a 0.6% annual increase, down 3.0% from February’s 3.6% annual increase and ahead of January’s 2.9% annual decline. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/march_cass_freight_index_shows_signs_of_freight_slowness

Rail carloads—at 236,459—saw a 1.4% annual increase, and intermodal containers and trailers—at 271,884—were off 3.1%. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/u.s._rail_carload_and_intermodal_volumes_are_mixed_for_the_week_ending_apri

Understanding drivers’ biggest apprehensions about food freight can help spur optimizations that keep drivers behind the wheel and food on shelves. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/solutions_for_hauling_food_freight

While the negotiations on a new contract between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are set to begin in May, prior to the expiration of the existing deal on June 30, the ILWU’s top executive expressed optimism that a new deal will come to fruition. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/ilwu_leadership_is_confident_a_new_labor_deal_with_the_pma_will_be_reached

Commerce reported that March retail sales—at $665.7 billion—rose 0.5% compared to February and were up 6.9% annually. NRF said that in its calculation of retail sales, which excludes automobile dealers, gasoline stations, and restaurants, to focus on core retail, pointed to sales being flat on a seasonally adjusted basis from February, while rising 4% on an unadjusted basis annually, with sales off 0.7% sequentially and up 13.2% annually. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/march_retail_sales_post_gains_despite_inflation_according_to_commerce_and_n

Commerce reported that March retail sales—at $665.7 billion—rose 0.5% compared to February and were up 6.9% annually. NRF said that in its calculation of retail sales, which excludes automobile dealers, gasoline stations, and restaurants, to focus on core retail, pointed to sales being flat on a seasonally adjusted basis from February, while rising 4% on an unadjusted basis annually, with sales off 0.7% sequentially and up 13.2% annually. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/march_retail_see_gains_despite_inflation_according_to_commerce_and_nrf_dat

Logistics Management Group News Editor Jeff Berman recently spoke with Ken Adamo, Chief of Analytics at DAT Freight & Analytics, the operator of the largest truckload freight marketplace in North America, and Chris Caplice, executive director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL), and also DAT Chief Scientist, about various topics, including: the possibilty of a freight recession, contract and spot rates, fuel, and inflation, among other subjects. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/dat_executives_provide_insights_on_myriad_market_trends

Automated Marking Inc. (AMI) partners with software vendor Apis Wise, which offers solutions for pallet labeling, track & trace, centralized printing & coding, and inventory control source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/ami_partners_with_apis_wise_to_offer_software_capabilities

This paper outlines strategies for supply chain professionals looking to strengthen their supplier relationships to better manage disruption. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/why_supplier_collaboration_is_chaotic_and_messy_and_how_you_can_fix_it

This study from Harvard Business Review Analytic Services commissioned by GEP explores the digital status quo of supply chains today, and how enterprises can and must revamp their supply chains to thrive in a never-normal world. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/transforming_supply_chains_for_higher_performance_and_resiliency

In this podcast, Jeff Berman, Group News Editor for Logistics Management and the Peerless Media Supply Chain Group, interviews Glenn Koepke, GM, Network Collaboration, for Chicago-based FourKites, a provider of real-time tracking and visibility solutions across transportation modes and digital platforms. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/fourkites_koepke_looks_at_impact_of_russia_ukraine_conflict_on_north_americ

Total POLA March volume came in at 958,674 TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units), for a 0.1% annual increase, setting its third consecutive monthly volume record in the process, trailing May 2021’s 1,012,048 and October 2020’s 980,729 TEU. total first quarter volume—at 2,682,034 TEU—posted a 3.5% annual gain, for its best first quarter on record. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/polas_seroka_addresses_volumes_and_the_need_to_move_containers_out_of_the_p

A cloud-based WMS means experts automatically maintain your digital infrastructure so you can focus entirely on keeping operations, and revenue, moving. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/wms_safety_in_house_vs_cloud_security

WiM accepting speaker and plant tour host applications for the conference source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/12th_annual_women_in_manufacturing_summit_to_bring_leaders_together_in_atla

Mexican truck drivers, irked by new border regulations imposed by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R), have blocked two major border crossings in and out of Mexico. First affected was the Pharr International Bridge leading to and from Reynosa, Mexico. Mexican truckers blocked access to the bridge on Monday to protest increased truck inspections imposed by Abbott. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/mexican_truckers_block_border_protesting_texas_gov._abbotts_new_rules

5G seen as useful for testing autonomous robotic inventory management, machine learning for inventory tracking, and augmented and virtual reality applications for workforce efficiency. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/dod_picks_kpmg_to_assist_on_5g_application_for_marine_corps_smart_warehouse

During this podcast, principal of ABH Consulting, offered up his views on various aspects of the freight railroad and intermodal sectors, including: market conditions, service levels, capital expenditures, the impact of inflation on railroads, and policy matters, among other topics. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/lm_podcast_series_looking_at_the_freight_railroad_market_with_tony_hatch_ab

Earlier this week, two regional final mile delivery service providers—Capital Express, an Omaha-based final mile delivery company, and ADL Delivery, a Tampa-based final mile delivery company—announced they have partnered up to form a holding company, or platform, focused on building a national provider of customized and final mile logistics services. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/capital_express_and_adl_delivery_partner_up_for_final_mile_delivery_platfor

Falling $0.071 cents, this week’s national average came in at $5.073 per gallon, following a $0.041-cent decline, to $5.144 per gallon, for the week of April 4. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/national_diesel_average_falls_but_remains_above_5_per_gallon_mark_reports_e

Late last week, the Surface Transportation Board (STB), an independent adjudicatory and economic-regulatory agency charged by Congress with resolving railroad rate and service disputes and reviewing proposed railroad mergers said it plans to hold public hearings later this month—on April 26-27—regarding recent rail service problems and recovery efforts relating to various Class I railroad carriers. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/stb_sets_dates_for_late_april_hearing_on_railroad_service

Viewing safety as an investment rather than an expense encourages you to find new ways to help keep your employees safe. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/workplace_safety_the_cost_of_doing_business_or_a_worthy_continuous_investme

Provider of real-time supply chain visibility solution that leverages tracker and sensor technology adds six new investors in its latest round source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/tive_raises_54_million_in_series_b_funding

Following a late February announcement in which it stated it inked an agreement to acquire 100% of Scranton, Pa.-based Kane Logistics, a provider of value-added warehousing and contract logistics services, from Kane’s ownership group, Harkness Capital Partners, Ogron, France-based ID Logistics, a provider of international contract logistics services, recently announced that the deal is now completed. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/id_logistics_says_acquisition_of_kane_logistics_is_complete

Going back to when the fee was initially rolled out on October 25, POLA and POLB said that the ports have seen a cumulative 49% decline in the amount of aging cargo on their docks, a tally which has trended up going back to the initial announcement of this fee. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/pola_polb_again_push_back_consideration_of_container_dwell_fee_to_april_15

source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/id_logistics_state_acquisition_of_kane_logistics_is_complete

The GEP Outlook 2022: Supply Chain and Procurement report, provides insights and strategies to help leaders navigate an environment of constraints and opportunities, of inflation and growth, disruptions, and digitalization. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/supply_chain_procurement_outlook_2022

In this article, we discuss key strategies that supply chain leaders can use to bolster and protect their business and operation with a keen focus on collaborative internal and external efforts. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/4_ways_to_effective_supply_chain_collaboration_in_a_crisis

Collaboration is critical in getting goods speedily to market, but also in achieving rapid response and effective problem-solving when the inevitable humps and bumps in global trade occur. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/top_5_supply_chain_processes_that_need_better_collaboration

Get actionable insights to effectively deal with disruption and uncertainty and learn supply chain and procurement strategies that can help your business thrive in the new normal. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/gep_outlook_2022_supply_chain_procurement_trends_challenges_opportunities

Download this 2022 state of employee safety report to learn what your employees actually want when it comes to their safety at work and what that means for your business. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/the_2022_state_of_employee_safety_report

These automated fulfillment systems are part of the latest wave of technology, and they are already scoring huge improvements in distribution efficiencies. Here are some best practices to make your own army of piece picking robots successful. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/piece_picking_robots_make_their_mark

As we heard across the board, fulfillment pressures will continue in 2022, and flexibility and scalability will be more important than ever—putting a premium on the adoption of software, automated systems, robotics, mobile solutions and emerging next-generation technologies to build in new levels of resilience. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/stepping_up_to_handle_massive_e_commerce_requirements

Warehouse and DC managers are feeling the pressure of e-commerce growth, high order volumes, as well as deep concerns around labor availability and international supply chain snarls. In response, our survey found that they’re ramping up spending for automation—but also spending more on their labor force to ensure an adequate pool of workers to keep goods flowing. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/2022_warehouse_distribution_center_equipment_survey_go_time_for_investm

The auto industry is learning to bob and weave as one disruption after another takes hold. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/automotive_staring_down_disruptions

Drivers working at Walmart will enjoy better benefits as a result of a new Private Fleet Development program. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/walmart_raises_pay_for_truck_drivers_to_as_much_as_110000_year

United States-bound retail container imports are starting to get caught up to the months-long run stretch of backlogs, while the possibility of a summer surge looms, according to the most recent edition of the Port Tracker report, which was issued today by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and maritime consultancy Hackett Associates. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/u.s._bound_import_volumes_are_expected_to_remain_strong_says_port_tracker_r

Rail carloads—at 1,169,546—increased 1.2%, or 13,456 carloads—annually, and intermodal containers and trailers—at 1,338,138 units—saw a 6.4%, or 92,170 units—annual decrease. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/u.s._rail_carload_and_intermodal_volumes_are_mixed_in_march_reports_aar

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is adding new troubles to the world's already stressed supply chains, and this crisis has resulted in rising oil costs increasing transportation and manufacturing costs, exports, including natural gas, precious metals, and wheat, will negatively impact enterprises across a variety of sectors. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/how_to_mitigate_the_impact_of_the_russia_ukraine_war_on_your_supply_chain

This white paper highlights the challenges and pressures that have forced enterprises to rethink their traditional approaches to cost optimization. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/paper/the_digital_levers_you_need_to_achieve_sustainable_cost_reduction

Whether it’s trying to efficiently load or unload full pallets, or deal with the burdens of manual case loading and unloading, inbound and outbound docks are places where operations can make significant gains with automation, as well as safety and reducing product damage. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/want_big_gains_automate_the_ins_and_outs_with_automated_trailer_loading_sys

Most standalone transportation management systems are too limited to encapsulate the tiered complexity of an international, multi-segment supply chain, but technology that can integrate and converge transportation with other supply chain functions, such as order management, set the new industry standard. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/what_to_look_for_in_a_transportation_management_system

source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/fedex_logistics_heralds_opening_of_new_memphis_based_global_headquarters

Robotic Product Sortation autonomously picks, sorts and packs millions of items per month with higher speed and throughput while increasing fulfillment by up to 2X – without adding labor. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/seven_ways_to_fulfill_more_product_from_fixed_facilities_and_labor

Companies combined technologies target efficient ecommerce fulfillment with robotic sortation for parcel and unit-sorting, scaling automation in warehouses across the country source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/plus_one_robotics_and_tompkins_robotics_partner_on_auatomated_solution_for

Modex, held March 28-31 in Georgia's World Congress Center, was by all accounts a success. Here's a look back at Modern Materials Handling's Show Daily coverage of the event. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/taking_a_look_back_at_modex_2022

Interact Analysis study finds for near future, much of the growth in the automated MFC market will come from the large incumbent grocery retailers, but rapid delivery companies may invest also invest in automated MFCs longer term. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/analyst_study_7300_automated_micro_fulfillment_centers_to_be_installed_by_2

Rack manufacturer Hannibal expands on its capacity and capabilities as a rack and storage solution provider via Nucor's acquisition of Elite, which becomes a division of Hannibal source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/hannibal_announces_acquisition_of_elite_storage_solutions

The reading for the report’s key indicator—the Services PMI (formerly the Non-Manufacturing PMI)—at 58.3 (a reading of 50 or higher signals growth)—headed up 1.8%, growing, at a faster rate, for the 22nd consecutive month, snapping a three-month stretch of sequential declines. Services sector growth has remained intact for 144 of the last 146 months through March, said ISM. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/services_sector_growth_eases_in_march_but_is_still_solid_notes_ism

Based on various discussions with supply chain leaders, we examined the three things keeping supply chain leaders up at night, along with some quick tips and relevant links that provide more details and solutions. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/3_things_keeping_supply_chain_leaders_up_at_night

Creating more holistic supply chain models and seamlessly executing sourcing events allows organizations to improve speed to market, asset utilization, and business value. source https://www.supplychain247.comhttps://www.supplychain247.com/article/optimizing_supply_chain_sourcing_in_times_of_disruption

For the 38th year running, Logistics Management (LM) is using its April issue to share the findings of our Annual Salary Survey, the clearest, most comprehensive snapshot available of logistics management salaries and employee development needs available in the market. As in years past, source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/lm_viewpoints_38th_annual_salary_survey_show_numbers_on_the_rebound

The reading for the report’s key indicator—the Services PMI (formerly the Non-Manufacturing PMI)—at 58.3 (a reading of 50 or higher signals growth)—headed up 1.8%, growing, at a faster rate, for the 22nd consecutive month, snapping a three-month stretch of sequential declines. Services sector growth has remained intact for 144 of the last 146 months through March, said ISM. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/services_sector_growth_eases_in_march_but_is_still_solid_reports_ism

Automatic data capture just got a new ally: the edge. The technology allows everything from scanners to voice systems to process data on the edge of where it is collected. The result is real-time decisions that deal with reality, not a plan that no longer applies. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/automatic_data_capture_adc_at_the_edge

Leads company which offers a robotics and automation-based product movement technology platform to fulfillment centers. Rick Cohen will remain Chairman of the Board and President, and will focus on product development and customer engagement as Chief Product Officer. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/symbotic_names_michael_j._loparco_as_ceo

The White House went into overdrive at an April 4 event to showcase President Joe Biden’s working-class roots as well as his administration’s progress in easing the truck driver shortage and unclogging supply chains. Biden hosted the event at the White House along with Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Nine professional truck drivers and nearly two dozen CEOs from companies aligned with the American Trucking Associations were in attendance. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/biden_pushes_progress_on_driver_shortage_supply_chains_in_white_house_event

For the week of April 4, the national diesel average came in at $5.144 per gallon, down $0.041 compared to the week of March 28, which was at $5.185 per gallon. This marks the second decline in the last three weeks, with a $0.051-cent gain, for the week of March 28 preceded by and $0.116-cent decline, to $5.134, for the week of March 21. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/national_diesel_average_heads_down_but_remains_above_5_per_gallon_mark_repo

President's Award recognizes the dealers who perform at the highest level in parts, service, equipment sales, finance, customer satisfaction and overall operations. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/toyota_material_handling_honors_top_forklift_dealers

What if you could get away from that large, centralized palletizer fed by a maze of fixed conveyor that too often seems in the way? Not a bad idea. Here’s an option that doesn’t require more people to make up for newfound flexibility. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/flexible_palletizing_system_for_a_labor_constrained_world

Even with a strong recovery in revenue, the IATA maintains that air cargo did not meet its full growth potential last year. In the meantime, tight capacity, labor shortages, infrastructure shortfalls—and now the Russian invasion of Ukraine—continue to cloud the forecast in this vital sector. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/air_cargo_volatility_lingers

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act (OSRA) took another step on its course to being signed into law, with the United States Senate late last week unanimously voted to sign off on it on a voice vote. The bill will head back to the House of Representatives, with the expectation it will head to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law, following conferencing between the House and Senate on differences that need to be hammered out between the chambers. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/u.s._senate_approves_ocean_shipping_reform_act_bill_to_head_to_conference

As usual, California is leading the way to cleaner air around ports with a new program expected to generate $90 million in new fees from trucks entering and leaving California’s two largest ports. Effective April 8, the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles will start collecting a $10 per TEU ($20 for containers longer than 20 feet) fee on loaded import and export containers as they enter or leave container terminals. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/new_90_million_air_pollution_rules_in_effect_at_polb_and_pola_with_10_per_t

Warehouse robotics today involves more than automating a single, discrete task that would otherwise have to be carried out by a human. At MODEX, exhibitors with robotics solutions were talking up the criticality of software for inventory optimization and order release, as well as partnerships that combine robotics systems to achieve a fully automated workflow. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/modex_musing_robotics_solutions_take_on_inventory_flows

After a two-year absence and a pandemic, Modex came roaring back. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/modex_2022._that_is_a_wrap

After a two-year absence and a pandemic, Modex came roaring back. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/modex_2022._thats_a_wrap

Modex, held March 28-31 in Georgia's World Congress Center, was by all accounts a success. Here's a look back at Modern's Show Daily coverage of the event. source https://www.supplychain247.com/article/looking_back_at_modex