Given the vast amount of data streaming into its ubiquitous search engine every day, its various technology platforms and the ecommerce explosion, it’s only logical that Google is offering what it sees as a better mousetrap to solve the thorny problem of route optimization in last-mile deliveries.
FedEx delivered strong revenue and profit for the third quarter, but the latter was below analyst expectations, and volume was negatively impacted by the Omicron variant to the tune of $350 million between Express and Ground, a falloff the company said began rebounding in February.
There are several basic principles that apply to ecommerce fulfillment center layout and design that tie into operating an efficient facility. Without them, you’ll face capacity issues, decreased productivity and storage inadequacies. Here are 11 key principles to consider when looking at FC layout, design and productivity.
Belgium-based Dronamics, maker of a long-range cargo drone that can carry up to 770 lbs. of payload, is expanding its network by adding two new “droneport” locations at airports in Germany and Denmark, creating a total of 42 locations in 14 European cities. A partnership with DHL in APAC calls for deployment of 4,000 drones.
Whether launching new supply chain software or migrating from an existing system, having a precise evaluation and selection process drives operational effectiveness. It also reinforces transparency and fluidity throughout the organization. A thorough evaluation mapping process is one of the most powerful tools you have.
A disgruntled group of FedEx Ground contractors are blaming the company for losses this past peak season due to investments in leased vehicles and temporary staff for a massive holiday deluge that never materialized, the Wall Street Journal is reporting. More than 800 of FedEx Ground’s 5,000+ contractor firms signed onto the letter.
Shippo, a provider of shipping software, has created an API integration with major ecommerce platform company Shopify, making its tools natively available to millions of Shopify merchants, a process that is being accelerated by a major investment from Shopify. Much of the initial focus is on expanding in European markets.
Sephora continues to expand same-day delivery to customers’ doors, providing service in as little as an hour thanks to a new partnership with delivery service Shipt, which is owned by Target. The major beauty retailer already has a same-day delivery partnership with Instacart, on top of its own Beauty on Demand service.
Narvar is letting retailers offer customers the convenience of home pickup of returns within one to 10 days for a convenience fee, a service that was piloted at 70 companies in Q4. The home pickup service is currently offered in San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston, with plans to expand to about 100 more markets.
Peel-off stacks, dedicated piles of 50 containers or more, are a great port congestion solution if you’re a mega shipper like Walmart, but less so if you’re an SMB. But now smaller players can have freight consolidated to create peel-off stacks. Bryn Heimbeck of Trade Tech talks about a pilot project at the port of Los Angeles/Long Beach.