- Boost visibility
The first step in attaining efficiency in operations is to boost visibility. This can be achieved with the help of technology. For example, during the pandemic, companies implemented radio frequency (RF) scanning to help in the packaging of orders when online sales were skyrocketing. RF scanning in allowing easy accurate and fast-tracking of products. Scanning and capturing the data faster help employees boost efficiency.
Real-time solutions, as indicated by the name, helps track the location of employees, products and equipment. By linking data with ordering and transportation systems, workers can be directed to pick items that are closer to them. Product visibility increases worker and order fulfillment and builds trust between customers and the company.
- Automation
Automation is proving to be a critical component in supply chain and logistics. With the advancement of this component, you need to ensure that you adopt the right automation techniques. Automation using data-driven software to improve operational efficiency in machines offers various solutions to logistics firms. Full automation of areas such as container terminals using computers and programmed cranes to unload cargo will enhance efficiency and increase production. Furthermore, it will improve cargo-handling performance while minimizing labour costs.
- Partner with a provider
Labour costs have been on the rise lately. As such, you need to find a way of combating these costs. The first step you should consider is to invest in partnerships with providers and invest in technology to allow you to spread the costs and possibly share the burden. Logistics firms can capitalize on third-party logistics (3PL) providers and their technology that could have been out of reach due to costs. With the rise of e-commerce, businesses are now looking for partnerships and integration of 3PLs that can integrate with e-commerce platforms like Shopify.
- Omnichannel shipping
Omni-channel fulfillment is becoming a reality in the logistics sector. It is being spurred by the shifting approach and the necessity to meet the expectations of the customer. According to Harvard Business Review, e-commerce is driving traditional retailers to offer more omnichannel touchpoints to increase the loyalty of the customers. Furthermore, they help provide a seamless and easy way to shop regardless of whether it is done digitally or in-store. For modern logistics firms to experience success, they have to navigate the omnichannel complexities within their supply chains.
- Think about robotics
Unlike automated machinery, robots are designed to carry out many jobs at once. This makes their applications in the logistics realm endless considering the increasing demand for the speedy delivery of goods and hastened operations. With many orders, most of them in the e-commerce sector, it is about time you start thinking about robotics to enhance operational efficiency and speed. This enables you to meet growing online sales.
Companies like Amazon have set the bar with the adoption of robots from as early as 2012 when it purchased Kiva robots. The adoption of robots by Amazon opened a robot arms race with more companies now venturing into robotics to boost their performance and efficiency. To stay competitive in the supply chain and logistics, you have to adapt speed and efficiency, which are some of the things offered by robots.