To improve operations, you first need to measure key fulfillment metrics. Understanding them lets you develop options for processes that reduce steps and cost, or improve service levels such as order turnaround time. Here are 16 metrics we recommend you use as a starting point.
Vacancy rates for industrial and logistics space, including ecommerce fulfillment, is now at a historic low of 4.3% and new construction is constrained, leading to limited expansion options for warehouse occupants and higher rents, according to a Q3 report from brokerage CBRE. This has led to an increase in multistory developments.
Multichannel Merchant has published its fourth annual MCM Top 3PL listing for 2019, a searchable directory of leading third-party logistics (3PL) providers in ecommerce and direct-to-customer operations. This key resource lists the capabilities and experience of over 50 top 3PL providers, helping you select the right one for your needs.
Warehouse workers made their voices heard twice recently, both times involving Amazon and unionization, while in New Jersey labor groups are seeking safer conditions and better pay in ecommerce facilities statewide. Expect the unionization push to pick up momentum in 2019 as reports of poor working conditions continue to grow.
FedEx is testing the use of autonomous tugs to transport items within its sortation and distribution facilities in an effort to handle the growing volume of bulky ecommerce orders more efficiently. See what other types of automation the carrier is using to optimize the massive flow of packages through its network at peak.
If you haven’t formally evaluated your peak season fulfillment, make this the year you do so. From your analysis of ecommerce operations successes and failures, you can develop a plan to make improvements using a multi-faceted approach. Here are 10 ways to analyze your performance and develop a plan for improvement.
Simply installing a new WMS by layering it on top of existing processes is a waste of time and money unless processes are streamlined to work in concert. When you add new automation or technology to the mix, the project becomes more complex. Here are 11 points to consider to help you achieve synergy and ROI.
Deutsche Post unit DHL Supply Chain North America is investing $300 million to increase the level of automation and robotics at 350 of its 430 facilities, to better handle the crush of ecommerce orders. DHL also plans to open a 24,000-square-foot innovation center near Chicago in September 2019.
Many companies implement ERP, order management and warehouse management systems without programming major modifications. However, there are certain circumstances where modifications will give you higher usage, increasing sales and savings.
While you have little control over an order once it’s out for delivery, your operations team is still a crucial cog in the last mile experience. You need the right processes and technology to get products to the customer as efficiently and accurately as possible for a smoother delivery and a better experience.