Logistics solutions may seem like a term that is difficult to understand, but the basic meaning of these words is actually something that each and every one of us is involved in on a regular basis. Every parent and every worker is involved in logistics when they figure out how to get to and from each and every place that need to be on a daily basis. These same adults must also figure out how to get their children to and from school, practices and sometimes even work, as well as having the food and every other supply that is needed by a family. Logistics solutions is the more complex term for what companies all across the country must do every day.
Companies that specialize in ecommerce, fulfillment, and distribution, for example, must support business to business (B2B) and business to consumer (B2C) outsourcing models for both product and literature from a variety of companies. Whether the company is an internet start-up, an established eTailer, or a Fortune 1000 giant, it will need the careful and thoughtful plan for marketing logistics and supply chain management.
Logistics solutions includes everything from chain software and ecommerce order sites to ecommerce order fulfillment and marketing and print management. Economic research indicates that commerce sales will reach nearly $500 billion by 2018. Whether it is a company that is small enough to rely on the pick and pack process or a company that requires far more extensive inventory management, every one of these sales and transactions will contribute to this expected $500 billion.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the transfer of data from one computer system to another by some type of standardized message format, allowing for the elimination of human intervention. EDI also permits multiple companies, sometimes in different countries, to exchange documents electronically. The EDI process is extensively used by big box retail distributors who must rely on bar code labeling, assembly and kitting, custom packaging and messaging, and returns processing.
The best logistics solutions provider will help their clients get implemented quickly, thereby reducing overall landed costs. The best solutions also get orders into the hands of customers swiftly and accurately. Ultimately, the best logistics plan frees up resources to grow and market the business. By working with an independent third party business, your logistics provider will not be tied to conflicting interests, platforms, or ownership, creating an objective vision.
When companies realize that for 40% of online retail transactions, consumers are willing to pay for shipping, these companies will also realize that they can afford to spend the money to develop the best logistics solutions. As a result, 38% of warehouse managers planned to implement or invest in a new warehouse management system in the year 2015. This number was an increase from the 21% who anticipated such expansion in 2014.
