Shipping is one of the biggest challenges businesses face today. Customers expect fast, affordable, and reliable delivery, but managing logistics in-house can be overwhelming—not to mention expensive. That’s where a third-party logistics (3PL) provider comes in. A good 3PL can help businesses streamline shipping, cut costs, and improve the overall customer experience.

Seasonal slowdowns are a natural part of doing business—especially for small companies with limited resources. After the holiday rush or a peak sales period, demand can taper off, but your operational costs don’t necessarily follow suit. Overhead, warehousing, staffing, and shipping expenses can quickly add up, making slow seasons feel more like survival mode than an opportunity to regroup.

Growing an e-commerce business is exciting, but it also comes with some serious challenges. What might have worked when you were just starting, packing orders in your garage or managing inventory on a spreadsheet, can quickly become overwhelming as orders pick up and your customer base expands. That’s where a 3PL (third-party logistics provider) can make a huge difference.

As mid-size businesses grow beyond their initial startup phase, they often reach a logistical tipping point: how to manage increasing inventory demands without overextending internal resources. While renting a warehouse may seem like a logical step toward operational maturity, partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider offers strategic advantages that go well beyond square footage and storage racks.

Rising tariffs aren’t just headlines—they’re real costs hitting businesses where it hurts. In today’s unpredictable trade environment, changing international policies and ongoing disputes have made tariffs a constant concern for companies that rely on cross-border shipping. When tariffs go up, it often triggers a chain reaction: higher costs, delays, and many logistical headaches.

Getting customers to place an order is one thing—getting them to return repeatedly is another. One of the best ways to build loyalty is through a seamless order fulfillment process. When customers receive their orders quickly, accurately, and with minimal hassle, they’re more likely to shop with you again. Here’s how smart order fulfillment strategies can turn first-time buyers into lifelong customers.

Managing logistics in-house might seem like the best way to maintain control, but as supply chains become more complex, many businesses find that third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer a more strategic approach. Beyond just saving money or streamlining operations, partnering with a 3PL can unlock unique advantages that go beyond what an internal team can offer.

In today’s fast-paced market, where consumer expectations are sky-high, and supply chains grow more intricate by the day, businesses are rethinking their strategies for growth. Partnering with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) has emerged as a powerful way to drive innovation, efficiency, and expansion. Here’s how collaborating with a 3PL can become a cornerstone of your business’s success story.

As the seasons change, so do the logistics challenges that businesses face. Spring brings a unique set of obstacles for supply chains, from unpredictable weather to increased demand for seasonal products. Understanding these unique seasonal challenges and preparing accordingly can help businesses maintain efficiency and customer satisfaction. Here are some of the most common logistics challenges in spring and strategies to overcome them.

The backbone of any successful e-commerce business is an efficient fulfillment process. Customers expect fast, accurate deliveries, and if a business can’t meet those expectations, it risks losing both sales and reputation. By implementing best fulfillment practices, businesses can streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and reduce costly inefficiencies. Stay on Top of Inventory Management Few things frustrate customers more than placing an order only to find out the item is out of stock.

The logistics industry faces ever-changing challenges, from rising customer expectations to global supply chain disruptions. In 2025, businesses will need to adopt innovative strategies and tools to address these common issues. Below, we outline practical solutions to help streamline logistics operations and common logistics issues. Challenge 1: Managing Rising Customer Expectations Speed and efficiency are on the minds of all consumers.

After the holidays have come and gone, there is often a rush for product returns. This common occurrence makes it essential for businesses across the nation to ensure their return logistics are smooth and efficient. Proper handling of returns not only helps reduce loss of revenue but also enhances customer satisfaction.

The holiday season brings a boost in sales, but it also comes with an inevitable challenge—returns. Once the gift-giving ends, many retailers see a surge in returned items. Especially with the rise of online shopping, where returns are just a click away. While managing this seasonal influx can feel overwhelming, it also presents an opportunity to fine-tune your post-holiday reverse logistics and deliver a positive customer experience.

In the intricate web of modern supply chains, businesses must navigate a labyrinth of challenges to ensure their products reach customers efficiently and on time. Central to this endeavor is the partnership with third-party logistics (3PL) providers, who serve as the logistical backbone of countless enterprises. While many factors come into play when choosing a 3PL partner, few are as critical as scalability.

The blistering months of winter can be a challenging season to navigate for businesses relying on timely deliveries. The season’s unpredictability—with its snowstorms, icy roads, and freezing temperatures—poses significant hurdles for supply chains to tackle. Yet, by understanding these hurdles and adopting proactive strategies, companies can keep their shipments on schedule.

Running a business in 2024 comes with a unique set of logistics challenges. As customer demands rise and the global supply chain shifts, many business owners struggle to keep pace. Whether it’s coping with unforeseen disruptions or balancing rising costs, the logistics landscape is proving to be more complicated than ever.

Scaling a business is a critical step for any growing company, and logistics often plays a pivotal role in this expansion. As demand increases, managing shipping, warehousing, and supply chains can become overwhelming, particularly for small and mid-sized businesses. But the truth is, it doesn’t have to be; partnering with a third-party logistics provider (3PL) can be an absolute game changer.

In today’s competitive business landscape, companies of all sizes are constantly looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve and outpace their competition. One tool that many large companies are turning to in order to boost their business is 3PLS. By leveraging the power of 3PLS, companies are finding innovative ways to streamline their operations, improve customer experiences, and ultimately drive revenue growth.

The world of modern business can be challenging to navigate. Small businesses are particularly susceptible to encountering numerous challenges when trying to efficiently manage their distribution processes. From inventory control to order fulfillment, the complexities of distribution can be overwhelming for small companies with limited resources. However, third-party logistics providers (3PLs) offer a valuable solution for small businesses looking to streamline their distribution operations and improve overall efficiency.

When a small business aims to scale to new heights, shipping into foreign countries is on the priority list. However, dealing with the regulations and customs can make attempting it daunting. But there’s no need to worry; a Third-party logistics provider can help navigate these challenges. Keep reading to learn about the advantages of using a 3PL to help with international shipping and logistics!

Navigating the logistics landscape can be daunting for small businesses, especially as they scale. Efficient logistics management is essential for maintaining operational flow and meeting customer expectations. However, the intricacies of warehousing, transportation, and supply chain coordination often stretch the resources of smaller companies. This is where Third-Party Logistics (3PL) providers come into play.

In the complex landscape of small business operations, efficient warehousing solutions often pose a significant challenge. With constraints in resources, technology, and expertise, small businesses frequently find themselves at a crossroads in managing their warehousing needs. Amidst this complexity, Third-Party Logistics (3PL) providers emerge as the coveted solution, offering a range of distinctive advantages that uniquely position them as the ultimate choice for small business warehousing solutions.

In an era where efficiency, speed, and cost-effectiveness are critical to staying competitive, you must continually evaluate your operations. For many companies, outsourcing logistics to a third-party logistics provider (3PL) has become an attractive option. But when is the right time for you to consider engaging the services of a 3PL?

In today’s fast-paced, customer-centric marketplace, a seamless fulfillment process is paramount for businesses aiming to stay competitive. A well-executed fulfillment process ensures that products are delivered to customers accurately, timely, and in optimal condition. Achieving this involves several critical components, including efficient inventory management, streamlined order processing, robust technology integration, effective communication, and responsive customer service.

Supply chain disruptions can have a profound impact on businesses, causing delays, increased costs, and customer dissatisfaction. However, with careful planning and the right partnerships, companies can successfully navigate these challenges. To help you avoid and tackle supply chain disruptions, let’s explore various strategies and highlight the role of third-party logistics providers (3PLs) as a powerful solution.

When you want a business to be successful, you must remember that no one thing can ensure that. Business success ultimately consists of an amalgamation of moving parts that all come together to form a cohesive whole. If you are passionate about operating the more creative side of your business, then you may forget about the logistics portion of business success, more specifically, shipping logistics.

In today’s highly competitive business landscape, effective logistics management is crucial for success. Whether you’re a small startup or an established company, optimizing your supply chain and streamlining operations can significantly enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. That is why we are here to discuss with you the importance of improving logistics.

When a small business aims to scale to new heights, shipping into foreign countries is on the priority list. However, dealing with the regulations and customs can make attempting it daunting. But there’s no need to worry; a Third-party logistics provider can help navigate these challenges. Keep reading to learn about the advantages of utilizing a 3PL to help with international shipping and logistics!

When you want a business to be successful, you must remember that there is no one thing that can ensure that. Business success ultimately consists of an amalgamation of moving parts that all come together to form a cohesive whole. If you are passionate about operating the more creative side of your business, then you may forget about the logistics portion of business success, more specifically, shipping logistics.

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, where competition is striking and customer demands are ever-evolving, the importance of effective logistics management cannot be overstated. From ensuring timely delivery of goods to optimizing supply chain processes, logistics management plays a crucial role in the success and sustainability of any business venture.

Do you want to streamline your supply chain operations and gain leverage in today’s business world? If so, partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider might be the right choice for you. However, while working with a 3PL can bring a host of benefits, it’s essential to proceed with caution to avoid potential pitfalls that can undermine the effectiveness of this relationship.

In today’s interconnected world, small businesses face both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges when expanding their operations into international markets. While the allure of reaching a broader customer base is undeniable, the complexities of international distribution can often be overwhelming, particularly for companies with limited resources and expertise in global logistics.

The logistics industry is constantly evolving. Supply chains have become more complicated, which has made demand forecasting a crucial aspect for companies. Thanks to predictive analytics, businesses can now use advanced data analytics to harness invaluable insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and other external factors. By doing so, they can make informed decisions that enhance their overall logistics strategies.

As businesses grow, their logistics and supply chain management needs also grow. However, managing these needs can take time and effort, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs. When you find yourself in a situation where logistics management is becoming a challenge, a third-party logistics provider (3PL) can come to your rescue.

In a time where online shopping titans such as Amazon reign supreme, small businesses face a unique set of challenges. However, with the strategic implementation of third-party logistics (3PL) solutions, these enterprises can not only survive but thrive in the competitive landscape. That’s why we are now exploring how small businesses can leverage 3PL services to navigate the challenges posed by Amazon and establish a strong foothold in the market.

Small e-commerce businesses face the challenge of managing logistics within tight budget constraints. Effective and cost-efficient logistics are crucial in ensuring customer satisfaction and staying competitive. That’s why we are providing a comprehensive guide in this article for small e-commerce businesses to navigate the complexities of logistics while adhering to budget limitations.

In today’s competitive business landscape, companies of all sizes are constantly looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve and outpace their competition. One tool that many large companies are turning to in order to boost their business is 3PLS. By leveraging the power of 3PLS, companies are finding innovative ways to streamline their operations, improve customer experiences, and ultimately drive revenue growth.

In the intricate dance of business operations, logistics holds a pivotal role, ensuring the seamless flow of goods from production to the end consumer. For larger corporations, establishing and maintaining an in-house logistics system may be a feasible option, but for smaller businesses, this path is fraught with pitfalls. In this article, we will discuss the challenges small businesses face when opting for in-house logistics and why alternative solutions might be more prudent.

Small businesses often face numerous challenges when it comes to shipping their products to customers. From managing inventory and coordinating shipments to ensuring timely delivery, these logistical hurdles can be overwhelming for small-scale operations. However, with the help of a third-party logistics provider (3PL), small businesses can streamline their shipping processes, focus on their core competencies, and scale their operations seamlessly.

Embarking on the e-commerce journey is an exhilarating endeavor for small businesses, yet the challenges in navigating the intricacies of shipping logistics can often overshadow the thrill. Picture this: a customer eagerly awaits a package, fingers drumming in anticipation. The delivery experience is not just a transaction; it’s the heartbeat of customer satisfaction, a moment that can define brand loyalty.

A transformative synergy is at play within the intricate landscape of modern logistics and supply chain management, orchestrating the union of human intellect and technological prowess. In this ever-evolving domain, businesses have increasingly sought refuge in the hands of third-party logistics (3PL) providers to revolutionize their warehousing operations. While the digital age champions automation and technological innovations, the indomitable human element weaves the threads of extraordinary 3PL warehousing partnerships.

In modern business, efficient and effective management of the movement of goods is crucial for success. Two terms that are often used interchangeably but have distinct roles and functions are “supply chain management” and “logistics management.” Understanding the differences between these two concepts is essential for businesses to optimize their operations and achieve competitive advantages.

In the quest for enduring business success, nurturing customer loyalty stands as a foundational goal. Within this realm of customer relationships, where product quality and service excellence are commonly acknowledged pillars, a less conspicuous yet profoundly influential factor emerges—order fulfillment efficiency. This article embarks on a journey through the nuanced psychology underpinning customer loyalty, highlighting the indispensable role of third-party logistics (3PL) warehousing providers in shaping and enhancing this critical aspect of modern business.

In today’s fast-paced and competitive industry landscape, businesses are constantly looking for ways to enhance productivity, drive innovation, and gain a competitive advantage. One strategic approach gaining popularity is outsourcing logistics and warehousing operations to third-party logistics (3PL) warehouses. By partnering with 3PL warehouses, businesses can offload their non-core activities and focus on their core competencies, ultimately leading to increased productivity, innovation, and market competitiveness.

The supply chain is a critical component of any business, and it can make or break a company’s success. It’s not just about getting products to customers but also about ensuring that the right products are delivered on time, at the right cost, and in good condition. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help companies achieve these goals by strengthening their supply chain.

In the ever-evolving landscape of business expansion, companies are continuously exploring avenues to broaden their market presence and connect with customers worldwide. One successful approach involves collaborating with third-party logistics (3PL) warehouses renowned for their global reach and profound expertise in international logistics. These warehouses assume a pivotal role in enabling businesses to forge a solid footing in foreign markets while capitalizing on growth opportunities.

Inflationary pressures can be daunting for small businesses, impacting their profitability and competitiveness in the market. However, there’s a strategic ally that can help them combat these challenges – Third-Party Logistics (3PL) providers. Let’s explore how a 3PL can assist small businesses in navigating the effects of inflation with unique talking points and section titles.

In the fast-paced world of logistics, efficiency and optimization are paramount to success. As the complexity of supply chains continues to grow, third-party logistics (3PL) providers are turning to data analytics and predictive modeling to gain a competitive edge. By harnessing the power of data, 3PL providers can optimize their operations, improve demand forecasting, enhance inventory management, and drive cost efficiencies.

In recent years, the rise of e-commerce has revolutionized the retail industry, providing consumers with the convenience of shopping from the comfort of their homes. As online retail continues to experience rapid growth, it has placed increasing demands on logistics operations. That’s why it is crucial that we dive into the fundamental role of third-party logistics (3PL) providers in supporting the expansion of e-commerce.

Supply chain disruptions can have a profound impact on businesses, causing delays, increased costs, and customer dissatisfaction. However, with careful planning and the right partnerships, companies can successfully navigate these challenges. To help you avoid and tackle supply chain disruptions, let’s explore various strategies and highlight the role of third-party logistics providers (3PLs) as a powerful solution.

In today’s competitive market, businesses need to stay efficient and cost-effective to succeed. Logistics is a crucial aspect of any business, and managing it efficiently is vital to keep costs low and customers satisfied. This is where third-party logistics (3PL) providers come in. By partnering with a reliable 3PL, businesses can streamline their logistics management processes and focus on their core operations.

As an e-commerce business owner, your ultimate goal is to provide a satisfying customer experience. A satisfied customer not only increases the likelihood of repeat business but also helps in spreading positive word of mouth. Here are some tips to improve customer satisfaction for your e-commerce business. Offer Excellent Customer Support One of the key components of customer satisfaction is customer support.

Logistics is a crucial process that ensures the smooth flow of operations within a supply chain. It involves the management of the movement and storage of goods, as well as the coordination of transportation, inventory, and information. Effective logistics management is essential for businesses to operate efficiently and maintain customer satisfaction.

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers are becoming increasingly popular for businesses seeking to streamline their supply chain operations and reduce costs. A 3PL provider is a company that offers logistics services to other businesses, including transportation, warehousing, and fulfillment. The answer to the question of whether a 3PL saves money is yes, and in this blog post, we’ll explore why.

Are you a business owner who is looking for the best and most cost-effective way to store, manage, and distribute your products? If so, then you’ve probably heard of 3PL warehouses, but may not know exactly what they are or how they can benefit your operations. 3PL (third-party logistics) warehouses have become increasingly popular over recent years as more businesses look for efficient ways to adapt their inventory management strategy.

Small business owners often face challenges in finding accommodations for their businesses, particularly due to their size and overall buying power. They often feel like they can’t compete with the big names in the industry. The same goes for warehousing options for small businesses. They often feel like there are no options available because warehousing inventory is for larger and currently growing companies.

Becoming versed in an industry’s terminology can feel intimidating. That is especially the case when certain words become intrinsically woven into every conversation regarding an industry matter. If you are entering e-commerce, you may come across the term “supply chain visibility.” This term may have been in the industry for decades, but in recent years, it has seen a resurgence thanks to modern tech solutions.

With recent threats of recession, it’s time to start thinking about ways you can cut down costs for your business. And what better place to start budgeting than looking for ways your e-commerce business can save on logistics? The thought of enacting changes that can reduce expenditures can be intimidating. What if it also reduces the quality of your brand and product?

Supply chain risks can produce catastrophic consequences if they come to fruition. It is a business owner’s worse nightmare to go through some of the all too real risks that supply chains can pose. Without the right strategies, avoiding these risks can feel impossible, especially when growth requires taking risks. But not all hope is lost when it comes to managing a smooth operating supply chain.

In a recent survey released by Capterra, reports show that small and mid-size U.S. businesses are increasingly considering moving their supply chain efforts closer to home. But why is this happening? Are companies looking to be more conscious of product quality? Is it in an effort to make smarter economical choices with the possibility of financial devastation looming over our nation?

Choosing the perfect logistics provider for your business is no small task. It takes hours of research and comparing offers to make a final decision. You should not have to make the process any harder than it needs to be. Let Overflo guide the way! We are here to share the top four things your logistics provider should offer.

We are in the final quarter of the year, which means it is time for you to make critical decisions for your company’s future in 2023. By beginning your yearly business planning now, you can create thoughtful approaches and strategies to achieving your objectives. If you own a company specializing in selling retail goods, consider implementing a 3PL warehouse’s services.

Thanksgiving in the U.S. is steadily approaching, and Black Friday will soon follow. The after-feast retail extravaganza, known as Black Friday, is a critical time for retailers and companies nationwide and beyond. In a company’s history, some of the most significant profits can emerge from this day alone. But despite Black Friday’s major profit making, it also comes with many setbacks that many new business owners may not anticipate.

The e-commerce world is booming and will only continue to grow in the years to come. If you are thinking about stepping into the current age of shopping as a business owner, there are a few things you will need to know. Having the answer to “what is e-commerce order fulfillment” is a piece of knowledge that will set you up for major success.

Familiarizing yourself with unique concepts and terms within your industry is vital for success. If you own a business, particularly in the e-commerce field, you need to understand the concept of supply chain risk management. In today’s article, Overflo is here to break down this concept into three categories to help give the most comprehensive view.

Venturing into the world of e-commerce is no small feat. The industry as we know it has only been around for the last three decades, which may seem like a lifetime for some. But in comparison to the centuries-long industry of brick-and-mortar retailers, it is still in its infancy. Despite their significant age difference, they both have something in common – trends.

If you are a large or small business owner, keep reading. Whether it be industry trends or customer demands, you need to know what is currently happening in the warehousing industry. The information you garner from staying up to date can provide you with the answers you need to further the success of your business.

One part of your supply chain helps ensure consumers receive your products more than any other part. If you answered anything other than order fulfillment, I think it’s time for a quick lesson in this critical component. We want our readers to feel empowered to make the best choices for their businesses.

Your supply chain is the backbone of your online retail business. It is the system in which your product comes into existence and eventually ends up in the hands of the final consumer. If you’re a retail business owner, you are most likely aware of the intricacies of your supply chain.

Are you hitting a brick wall every time you attempt to grow your business? Does it feel like your efforts are always unfruitful? It may be because you’re not addressing core company issues that inhibit growth. You might be scratching your head, wondering which core company issues we’re referring to. There’s so much more to consider than simply funding.

Proper inventory management can be the difference between a smooth operating supply chain and a disastrous mess of miscalculations. Most companies have some form of inventory management but still feel that their current systems lack critical features. They may still find themselves running into issues such as shrinkage, overstock, and loss of profits.

Scaling your business can seem intimidating. There are so many steps involved in the process that it can feel like an unattainable goal. One of the key components of scaling a retail business is expanding and increasing inventory. Although increasing and expanding your inventory is a simple fact of scaling a business, taking the steps to achieve this may not seem as simple.

Successfully running a small business comes with its fair share of bumps in the road. It can feel like there is no perfect how-to guide on keeping your pride and joy afloat. And for the most part, you would be correct. But there are other industry professionals willing to provide wisdom wherever they can.

Customer satisfaction ratings can make or break a business in our social-media-driven world. Yelp reviews, Facebook comments, and complimentary tweets are the fuel that keeps sales rising. Knowing how to keep your rating up and review glowing is the challenge. Have you considered how a 3PL may be able to help you ensure customer satisfaction?

There always comes a time when owning a business that you may need to seek the help of industry professionals. That can be for various reasons, including a lack of knowledge and equipment. In some instances, you may need to outsource aspects of the business for these reasons. When you choose to outsource any part of your business, it’s critical to educate yourself about the process.

Navigating the business world can feel overwhelming. There is a plethora of knowledge that goes into making decisions that will guarantee your success. The same goes for logistics when you are a company selling a tangible product. To get a full view of what logistics are and how they work within your business, you need to understand the different types of logistics.

Creating a seamless shopping experience is essential for running a successful e-commerce business. How your customers interact with your store, from browsing to order processing, has an impact on fulfillment. But the truth is that even the most successful businesses often run into issues when it pertains to order fulfillment. If you run a company that sells a tangible product, continue reading.

In today’s current climate, you must be innovative and fast to run a successful business. And that goes for every aspect of your company, including distribution. If you sell a tangible product and feel like your supply chain needs revamping, consider streamline distribution. These three tips are the beginning steps to ensuring your distribution methods are meeting today’s high standards.

Big corporations and chain retailers may be at the forefront of the retail industry, but the truth is small businesses are what help keep our country thriving. They ensure that communities maintain a healthy economy and are the basis of local improvement. And that is why we need to ensure that we share the vital information that will help America’s small businesses grow.

Running an online retailer requires a tremendous understanding of the shipping process. Whether you own a business that sells to individual customers or brick and mortar retailers, you need to have a strong sense of shipping management. Today we’ll be focusing on the latter. But what is shipping management? And what goes into making it effective and efficient?

Attention all of our local wineries and breweries! As the digital age continues to grow, as well as the booming culture of craft brew consumption, you may be considering expanding your business nationally or globally. It’s a great way to grow and make your company more lucrative. But you will need some help if this is a path you want to take.

In today’s time, with social media, abundant news coverage, and easy communication technology, image is everything for a company’s success. Part of that image is how your products arrive to your clients and customers. If you’re looking to improve the image of your business and avoid common shipping blunders, consider these fulfillment services!

With 2022 here, as a business owner, you must think about the goals you want to meet in the new year.In our previous article, we discussed ideas for new years resolutions, and today we want to dive further into that topic. We know that setting your resolutions can be the easy part but acting on them is another story.

The new year is fastly approaching, and there is no better way to ring it in than by setting goals for your company. Depending on the size and state of your business, goals can vary from company to company. But there are a few foundational goals that every company wants and should aim to meet every year.

Making decisions for your growing company can feel intimidating when you don’t have all the information regarding options. One choice every retail business has to make is how they want to distribute their products. And there are a lot of factors that come into play when making that decision. To help you make that choice, in today’s article, we are breaking down the benefits of truck and rail distribution.

The holiday season is here, folks! That means shopping is on the rise. It also means holiday shipping and distribution can slow down. Due to the mass number of shipments that happen during this crazy wonderful season, companies have a more troublesome time getting their products delivered in a timely manner.

Small business owners everywhere fear shoplifting and theft. It’s a threat against all of your hard work. Most company owners only think theft happens once their products hit the retailer shelves; unfortunately, this isn’t the only way product theft can occur. In the last two years, there has been an uptick in what is known as cargo theft.

There is always room for growth. Whether you are a small boutique-style business or an up-and-coming Fortune 500 company, growth is possible. For many companies, the lack of physical space and helping hands get in their way of reaching new levels of success. If that sounds like your company, we suggest you keep on reading.

Many business owners believe outsourcing of any kind is only for mega-corporations, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Outsourcing, including 3PLs, can benefit companies of all sizes. Anywhere from a small business to a Fortune 500 company can benefit from a 3PL. Want to know more? Keep reading to find out how a 3PL can benefit your company, no matter the scale!

Growing a small business can seem daunting in a world run by mega-corporations and chain retailers. But there’s a crucial piece of information that every company owner must acknowledge if they ever want to scale their business to new heights. Outsourcing is the way of the future! In today’s article, we’ll tell you exactly why that is.

Have you been looking up tips on how to improve your growing business? Maybe you are wondering how you can increase revenue, reduce costs, or streamline a process. Whichever it may be, you may have come across the term 3PL. The term can seem pretty elusive when you first encounter it – what does it mean?

When you have a retail business that is soaring to new heights, it’s crucial to have a grasp of your industry’s terms, concepts, and roles. Two of those include distribution and logistics. Both play crucial roles in a successful retail business but can often get confused. In today’s article, we’re going to break down the difference between distribution and logistics and the roles they play in a successful retail business.

There’s one thing that is abundantly clear in every e-commerce business model – achieving 100% customer satisfaction. Some would say that alone is the driving force behind any thriving business. Without happy customers, it’s safe to say there wouldn’t be any business at all. But the question will always be, “what is the best way to achieve 100% customer satisfaction?”

Small e-commerce business owners everywhere dream of the day they run all company operations at maximum efficiency. For many businesses, the ability to run efficiently can increase staff productivity and boost revenue. To some, this dream seems far out of reach, but with a little bit of critical thinking and assistance, it doesn’t have to be.

If you are a small business, you may have never heard the term distribution logistics until now. What does it mean? How does it benefit your company? Do you have to do it all on your own? In this article, you will find out the answers to some of the most common questions about distribution logistics.

When COVID-19 first came sweeping through our nation, many retail consumers turned to strictly online ordering. As the virus and its variants continue to rage on, online purchasing will continue to grow. Buying daily necessities and frivolous purchases online reduces the consumer’s risk of exposure. Although online shopping is safer, it is not a foolproof plan.

Drop shipping can be a lifesaver for store owners looking to expand their product line without taking on more debt to fund inventory. The Drop shipping model is becoming more popular as work-from-home sellers and large global chains, like Walmart, take advantage of this highly-efficient, low-risk e-commerce framework. However, like any thriving industry, there will be unscrupulous scam artists who try and take advantage of unsuspecting online sellers.

Deciding whether to move forward with a 3PL or a 4PL logistics provider can be a tough choice to make. But when you’re trying to optimize your supply chain, the wrong decision can end up costing you millions — that’s one mistake you can’t afford to make! So before you rush to a decision that you may end up regretting, it’s important to make sure that you have all of the information you need.

In-person retailers are experiencing a decrease in sales while their e-commerce counterparts continue to grow swiftly. According to Forbes, last year saw a staggering uptick in e-commerce sales due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With this growing number of online purchases, fulfilling orders is getting increasingly difficult. The logical answer to this problem is to use a fulfillment center.

What is cross-docking?  In a traditional product shipment, newly manufactured goods are loaded onto outgoing trucks and sent to a fulfillment center or distribution warehouse, where they remain until customers order them. The warehouse must have enough storage space to hold all these goods, potentially for an extended time. Often the manufacturer must pay for that storage space.

Stress is a daily part of a small business owner’s life. E-commerce entrepreneurs face a retail landscape that’s difficult enough without the added strain of shipping out every customer’s order. That’s why many small businesses outsource their product storage and shipments to order fulfillment centers or third-party logistics companies. They help business owners relieve major amounts of stress in several ways: They take care of the entire shipment cycle Many small business owners find themselves spending more than half their time on every-day business operations, including product delivery.

The difference between a warehouse and a distribution center isn’t always apparent to people working outside of the logistics industry. But the fact is, the two couldn’t be more different. The internal operations and responsibilities of each entity vary greatly. If you’re confused about whether your business needs support from a warehouse vs.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to increase the efficiency of your business, kitting and assembly services may be something you’d like to take advantage of. Enlisting outside help to provide a more organized product for your customers will not only reduce your workload but it can save you time, money, and space in your facility.

Every warehouse has a unique product focus, space usage, and level of business, but all warehouses rely on inventory control. Keeping an accurate count of materials and products is a foundation for providing excellent customer service and spurring business growth. Digital inventory tracking has become more than a convenience that’s nice for warehouses to have — it’s a necessity.

Running a business involves many moving parts, and shipping and logistics operations are just one piece of a larger puzzle. The role of shipping and logistics operations can remain relatively simple when a business is small in scope, but as it grows, these operations can become more and more complicated. Causing the in-house logistics personnel to feel overwhelmed with demand, and looking at third-party logistics.

What Is the Logistics Industry? Logistics is an expansive industry that serves several different areas of business management. The simplest way to describe the function of logistics would be the act of transporting products from their original location to the waiting consumer or retailer successfully. However, this process can be more complex than it seems.

In the world of shipping and warehousing, pick and pack errors come up fairly frequently. Pick and pack errors refer to any mistakes made in the fulfillment process between warehouse storage and shipment to the consumer. Errors in picking and packing can slow down the workflow of a warehouse and cost your company small amounts of money that add up over time, but luckily, they aren’t too difficult to prevent if certain precautions are taken.

In order to best meet the needs of their customers, warehouses will use a variety of different strategies to streamline the delivery of product. One of the primary strategies that warehouses use for this purpose is kitting. What is kitting? Kitting refers to the process of combining multiple product units into one package, creating a new unit that is sold as a single entity.

E-commerce is a business sector that quite literally spans thousands of international companies internationally. That heightens the importance of great business partnerships. For most e-tailers, working relationships with the fulfillment centers who pick, pack, and ship their products are the most central alliances they have. Cooperation between e-commerce companies and fulfillment centers needs to grow and develop in ways that benefit both businesses’ bottom line.

Owning and managing a business can be a great financial burden, especially if you have to outsource to a warehouse company for any storage, distribution, and fulfillment needs. Online businesses can be especially dependent on outside storage, as many are based out of the owner’s home and can quickly outgrow that space as the business expands.

The rise of the online marketplace has made improved models for customer fulfillment necessary. Orders come to warehouses at a much higher volume than ever before. Warehouse managers have needed to find ways to make the already complex step of product distributimove at a pace that keeps up with demands. That’s where pick-and-pack comes in.

A lot of variables determine the success of an e-commerce enterprise, and none are more important than customer fulfillment. Each order is the result of hours of marketing, planning, and development. But when an e-commerce company commits a lot of resources to oversee an in-house customer fulfillment process, they may inadvertently limit their chances for growth and profit.

E-commerce has broadened and matured dramatically over the last two decades. With more online options to choose from and the most successful sites establishing a high bar for service, e-commerce customers have come to expect more from the sites they purchase from. Online customers are also well-informed, much more than they had to be in the past.

The complete process of order fulfillment covers every step a retail company takes between receiving and inventory item and shipping it to customers. The most efficient online retailers follow all these steps in a similar order, even if they use different methods or equipment to carry out the specific duties. Even though the process is called “order fulfillment,” it begins when the retailer receives the inventory item from the product manufacturer or wholesaler—long before a paying customer places an order for it.

The world of logistics, supply chains, fulfillment and distributiare critical cogs in a complex maze of modern-day commerce. Some companies focus their expertise one of these components while others dive in to all four. Still others take ancillary tasks by the inherent design of the processes. A fulfillment provider, for example, might want or need to tackle distributiof product in their facility as a service to clients or in exploring possible avenues for business growth.

For nearly every business out there today, warehousing and distribution plays a role in its success, from a one-person show working from their garage to a colossal corporation with thousands of employees and products. In some instances, the traditional warehouse system works fine (for a while) and others require a more complex and targeted approach.

Businesses today, from the smallest startups to industry fixtures, all work to establish a leg up the competition. That might mean the latest and greatest new product, a unique niche in the market, an engaging marketing campaign, or it could be your dedicated fulfillment practices. While the world of warehousing and moving product might not seem like a competitive advantage the surface, it is in fact tremendously beneficial to the continued success of your business.

In today’s light-speed world of ecommerce, customers are used to and in fact expect nearly instantaneous communication when shopping. When they make a final decision a product and hit the buy button, they also expect that item to show up the doorstep in a big hurry. To that end, it is extremely important for businesses to include a reliable and thorough logistics component.

You channeled your inner entrepreneur and started your own company, scribbling initial ideas a piece of scratch paper, planning every detail, and now you’ve plunged headlong into one of the biggest chapters of your life. You’ve worked hard to build your business and it is incredibly rewarding to see it grow.

Partnering with a reputable 3PL provider to enhance logistics capabilities can bring tremendous advantages over doing it all in-house. At the same time, outsourcing critical logistics components comes with an element of risk, especially if you choose a provider that isn’t the best fit. While today’s 3PL providers offer a much higher level of supply chain efficiency for companies lacking those resources or expertise, challenges and risks are still possible.

There’s no denying that ecommerce is a big deal in today’s world and in fact, online shopping makes up a large majority of consumer purchasing habits and will only continue to rise. Big box retailers have the wherewithal to develop and implement creative solutions in the online space and while ecommerce companies sometimes struggle to keep up, all merchants must address the impact of online shopping and how strategic order fulfillment can play a key role in business success.

If you took the plunge and started an e-commerce business, you know it’s a tough road and a lot of work. Constantly finding ways to save money is nearly as much work as managing all of the day to day challenges. If you’re DIY-savvy, tackling everything yourself might seem like the way to go to save cash but beware; there are lots of hidden costs involved with that strategy.

Most every business today has at least one “busy season” throughout the year. Maybe your big moment is the Thanksgiving to Christmas rush, back-to-school madness, or pre-summer sales. Whatever the case, balancing rapid sales volume increase along with the rest of your business chores is often an overwhelming charge. To assuage the demands and help keep things running like a Swiss watch, many companies count the expertise of third-party logistics (3PL) providers.

In the challenging and rewarding journey of running a business heavily involved in product movement, choosing a reliable logistics strategy is often one of the most critical decisions you will make. The relationship with your customers depends significantly reliable and efficient transportation of products from your facilities to a customer’s doorstep.

Outsourcing fulfillment needs is common practice in today’s business world, especially for smaller companies. Partnering with a reputable fulfillment facility is an effective strategy to save time and money, and allows you to focus fully building your business. To that end, it is important to understand how fulfillment centers operate as well as their potential role in your company’s day-to-day operations.

Running a business demands a great deal of strategic thinking, tireless dedication, consistent learning, and commitment to your customers. This a tall order, especially in light of today’s increasing complexity and evolving consumer expectations. As a small company just getting started, it is entirely possible to meet those expectations your own, perhaps managing orders from your basement or garage.

Today’s consumers want and expect near-instantaneous delivery of their merchandise and to that end, retailers and affiliated fulfillment centers must be top of their warehousing and logistics games. Businesses are well aware of this trend in commerce and meeting the demand requires a highly organized, streamlined warehouse operatithat inspires team energy driven toward a commgoal.

Fulfillment centers are a critical cog in today’s commerce world, especially given the tremendous impact of online shopping all components including marketing, purchasing, warehousing, and delivery. If your company is already a powerful presence or you are a one-person show, at some point you need a place to store product. Piles of boxes coming in, more waiting to be shipped, and the rest needing attention for returns ties up a lot of time and takes you away from focusing running the business.

To get the most from your warehouse or distribution center, it is critical to establish and then implement applicable best practices to reduce costs and streamline workflow. Managing warehouse operations is a complex and evolving task to ensure efficient flow of products, fulfilling orders, keeping product sufficiently stocked but not overstocked, optimizing the facility’s physical layout, keeping labor and overhead costs in check, and of course ensuring profitability.

On-demand shipping and instant customer gratification is the name of the game these days. “Lightning fast” delivery speeds might have been all the rage just a few years ago but today’s customers want their goods even faster and in order to meet that demand, companies must step up their warehousing and fulfillment games.

As a business owner, one of your primary concerns is how to get products to customers and distributors, and without help, it could end up being a frustrating and expensive process. Between figuring out inventory storage, location pickups, and shipping partnerships, you’re juggling a lot of balls and paying the price.

With mega corporations now offering options like same-day delivery, it can be difficult for smaller companies to compete.  While you may not be able to offer the same level of convenience as certain organizations, you can definitely find ways to make your order fulfillment process more efficient in order to best serve your customers. 

It’s no surprise that working with a third-party fulfillment center will offer greater convenience and efficiency that managing warehousing, inventory, and order fulfillment your own. What you might not expect is that using a suitable fulfillment service can actually help you to increase sales and overall profitability. Here are just a few great reasons to partner with a fulfillment center so you can sell more products.

Each season brings about a new set of warehouse safety concerns. In the winter and spring, the focus is mostly keeping cold air and moisture out of the warehouse. In the summer, the focus turns to the heat. In this guide, we will go over five warehouse safety concerns for summer that owners and management must keep in mind.

The growth of a small business often comes about through the close attention and management of the the founder. You have your fingers in all the pies, you know everything that’s happening, and you do almost all of it yourself. But there comes a point when micromanagement becomes counterproductive. If you’re doing everything yourself, your business can never grow larger than your capacity to do it all.

As companies look for ways to work leaner, greener, and more agile, one of the first areas of focus is inventory control. The dominance of e-commerce and a focus customer experience are driving a push to serve customers more quickly while eliminating excess inventory languishing warehouse shelves. It’s more important than ever to know in real time exactly what goods are stored in your inventory, where they are, and how quickly you’re likely to need more.

The real estate mantra, “location, location, location” has become a truism, but the importance of location when choosing a warehouse is perhaps less well known. While the location of a home is crucial to our security, enjoyment, and peace of mind, the location of a warehouse can directly affect the well-being of your business.

In keeping with the times, most of the trends to watch in warehousing for 2019 are tech-based. Peering ahead into the next several years, most trend-watchers are seeing futuristic automation, plus the internet connections to make it all run. Automation of the future Giants such as Amazon make extensive use of robots and other automated processes in their warehouse, but it’s not just the big boys who might soon be benefiting from automation.

In the day to day operation of a warehouse, forklifts are incredibly important. They serve a variety of purposes within the warehouse, and they improve the overall efficiency of the team. Eventually, every warehouse has to replace its forklifts – either the old ones have stopped working, or the current models do not suit the current needs of the building.

Before a product hits the sales floor, it spends time in a warehouse. This is where items are stored before they officially come to market, and it’s also where items are kept before being shipped to a customer. Retail warehousing is an expansive industry that has grown tremendously over the years.

Opening a new store is about more than painting the walls and getting the registers ready. Logistics providers play a vital role in the process. Without proper inventory management solutions, a new store can turn into a total disaster right from the start. Thankfully, there are some simple preparatory steps you can take to ensure your store opening goes smoothly.

You’ve survived another holiday rush! What now? The slower, grayer days of mid-winter can be a great time to pick up the pieces from this year’s peak warehousing season, and look ahead at yearly maintenance or changes that you might want to make. Pick up the pieces The warehouse Hopefully you’ve kept your warehouse relatively clean and clutter free through the rush season, but it’s easy to let things slide a little bit in all of that busyness.

Let’s state the obvious: it’s a little late to be thinking about optimizing your warehouse for the seasonal rush. That said, whether you did an A+ job prepping for this rush, or find yourself a bit behind the curve going into December, here are a few best practices that you can focus to smooth things out a bit for this year.

No matter how automated some parts of your warehouse are, much of your success depends your warehouse workers. This is especially true during the Christmas rush. In this post, we’ll look at eight practices for treating employees well during the holiday rush. If you put these practices into play, employee morale can remain sky high even during the most crushing shipping frenzies.

Having an efficient, well-organized warehouse layout is crucial for smooth warehouse operations. The warehouse must be set up to accommodate the current inventory, as well as future inventory that may arrive. Flexibility and versatility are key, but even the most flexible warehouse layouts need to be adjusted from time to time.

Spring is finally here, and you know what that means. It’s time for some spring cleaning. This is a dreaded process, but it is the perfect way to refresh a home or business. Get rid of what’s not working and implement new strategies to keep the space clean in the future.

Want to get the most out of your warehousing space? We don’t blame you. This is an investment for your business, and like any investment, you want to get your money’s worth. At Overflo, we take time to make sure each of our clients is getting the right inventory space for their needs – not too much, and not too little.

You’ve decided to outsource your order fulfillment to save money, increase efficiency, reduce overhead, etc. That’s great! However, it doesn’t mean you should turn over all control for your customer service. You still need to make sure your customers are receiving what they ordered, when they ordered it, and in a condition you’re happy with.

Needing more space is not a bad sign. In fact, it’s an indicator that you are growing as a business and you have new demands to meet. With that in mind, you don’t want to grow so quickly that you end up paying for empty space. How can you find a balance between your current and future needs?

Warehouse Safety There are many factors that determine how safe and productive a warehouse is. They all have some level of importance, but one of the most significant factors is warehouse lighting. A well-lit warehouse is a well-functioning warehouse, and it’s amazing how much subtle changes can dramatically transform a space.

Every piece of warehouse equipment has its own maintenance requirements. From large conveyors to push carts for order packing, each device needs to move and function properly. Forklifts are some of the most popular machines used in warehouses because they are efficient and easy to operate. In this guide, we’ll explain how forklift maintenance improves warehouse operations and the type of maintenance required for forklifts.

Surprising Modern Innovations Warehouses can both reduce their carbon footprint, and their cost, through a number of innovations widely available today. Strategic development from multiple angles, including paradigms which surround construction as well as manufacturing, can be put to task as a means of reducing carbon footprints. Several will be explored here.

It’s no secret that Amazon dominates the ecommerce industry. In fact, recent studies show that Amazon accounts for 43% of online sales. Whether it’s their product variety or their free shipping programs, one thing is certain: they’re doing something right. A company cannot thrive that strongly without great customer service, and that’s the area we will focus today.

Crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo can turn a new idea into an international success. Selling a high volume of orders may seem great at first – until you have to actually fulfill them. This determines the continued success of the product and solidifies your first impression. Before you set yourself up for a logistical nightmare, check out these order fulfillment tips for crowdfunding orders.

Are you looking to expand your small business or streamline your ecommerce sales? If so, you may consider third-party order fulfillment. In this setup, your products are housed, packed and shipped through a different company that specializes in warehousing and distribution. You can keep track of orders with real-time inventory updates, but you do not have to handle the actual labor involved with order processing.

If you work in ecommerce sales, you understand the importance of free shipping. This is a service that customers have come to expect from online retailers. A staggering 80% of consumers say free shipping is a primary incentive for shopping online, and 48% of shoppers will add extra items to their cart to qualify for free shipping.

Did you know that some order fulfillment companies will not work with businesses that have a high SKU count? There are several reasons for this, but most of them come down to simplicity. Businesses with low SKU counts have fewer products to pick, making it easier to get orders out. As you start to compare fulfillment centers for your business, this is something you will need to keep in mind.

Many retailers are moving away from traditional storefronts in favor of online sales. With online retail, there is fewer overheads and a wider pool of potential customers. Buyers are moving their shopping habits to the Internet because they want fast, convenient ways to buy the things they need. In this guide, we will go over some warehousing tips for transitioning to online retail so your business can adjust successfully.

The winter presents several obstacles for warehouse workers: cold temperatures, limited natural daylight, increased order fulfillment demands, and fast-paced workdays. Most of these circumstances are beyond the warehouse’s control, but there are steps the owners can take to improve conditions and create a positive work environment during the winter. Here are some strategies we use to improve warehouse work conditions.

Order fulfillment delays are stressful at any time of year, but they can be particularly worrisome during the peak-shipping season. There are many more orders to complete at this time, which means a small delay can create major consequences. Even with every precaution in place, issues can happen. How you recover from them will determine the overall performance success.

Online sales started even earlier this year, with many stores releasing their Black Friday specials at the beginning of December. That hasn’t stopped consumers from continuing to shop all month long though. In fact, every day since November 1 has had over $1 billion in online sales. To maintain customer satisfaction and keep up with shipping demands, retailers have pushed back their order cutoff dates.

The holidays are busy for everyone, especially stores and warehouses. Customers expect to get their items quickly and correctly so they can wrap them in time for Christmas. A small delay can cause a slew of problems, so it’s best to avoid them at all costs. Here are some tips to stay track with holiday order fulfillment.

Winter is a costly time for warehouses because of the heat required to keep the building warm. Some warehouse operators will delay turning the heat as long as possible to avoid this hefty cost. This isn’t always the best idea though because workers cannot be productive in cold temperatures. Sometimes it is better to get the temp up so the building can operate efficiently.

Safety is crucial in warehouse operations. There is a lot of heavy merchandise and machinery in the building that can cause serious injury in the wrong hands. Here we will explore some warehouse safety practices that prevent common accidents in distribution centers. Be Careful When Stacking Objects Stacking is a great way to maximize space in a warehouse.

Black Friday is quickly approaching, and many stores have already released their ads. Like last year, these stores are extending their sale prices online to prevent chaos in stores. This is great for consumers, but it can create panic for warehouses that aren’t prepared for the hype. Here are some Black Friday Warehousing Tips.

Winter is an interesting time for the warehouse industry. Temperatures are plummeting, but the demand for warehouse operations is at its peak. Warehouse managers have to be smart about staffing, scheduling, and organizing to meet the chaotic needs for this time of year. Listed below are some warehouse management tips for winter to ensure your distribution center operates efficiently.

Stores are transforming the way that they process returns for online orders, and it’s having a major impact the warehousing and shipping industries. Th new services make returns convenient for shoppers, but they require a great deal of extra work for everyone else. Retailers, logistics providers and warehouses alike are now switching gears to accommodate new expectations.

A warehouse should operate like a well-oiled machine.. Even in times of high product demands, such as the upcoming holiday season, a warehouse should still function with maximum efficiency. Source of inefficiency in a warehouse aren’t always easy to detect, but their side effects are. Let’s take a look at some indicators to look for in warehouse operations.

There are several factors that influence warehouse productivity levels, from employee morale to picking methods to product organization and beyond. Something as simple as clutter can create a major obstacle in a warehouse that delays every area in the facility. If your warehouse productivity has been low, you may see if clutter is to blame.

Each step in order fulfillment relies the one before it. Shippers cannot transport items until forklift operators bring pallets to the dock. Pallets can’t be filled with items until packers put them in boxes. At the start of this whole process is the pickers – the people who pull items from the warehouse to complete orders.

Minimizing expenses is a crucial part of running a business. The less you spend, the more you make. It’s as simple as that. One of the biggest ways retailers can lower their overhead is to cut back their warehousing costs. These tips will provide some smart ways for you to save money and get the most out of your warehousing budget.

In many businesses, success is hard to quantify. The only way a counseling center knows how effective its efforts are is through referrals and the overall happiness of the patients. In warehousing though, there are a number of indicators that show how well the business is functioning. Here are some ways to measure the success of warehousing operations.

The speed and fluidity of the order fulfillment process directly dictates the overall productivity of a warehouse. Without a proper transition between steps and transactions, there may be a massive delay down the line. Modern technology allows for truly seamless order fulfillment services, like the ones we offer here at Overflo.

Warehouses focus a great deal of effort in improving inventory management systems, order fulfillment procedures, communication methods, and more. While all of those factors are important, they are meaningless if there is not a good staff to do the work. Unfortunately, many warehouses undervalue their workers because they forget just how crucial they are to the overall success of the facility.

A warehouse must run like a well-oiled machine from the moment a shipment arrives to the moment a product is sent to the customer. Each order goes through a series of steps before it leaves the warehouse, and those steps must occur in an efficient manner. If one of those steps takes longer than it’s supposed to, the entire operation can get thrown off.

The holiday season may be a few months away, but the prep work for it starts right now. Warehouses, third party logistics providers, ecommerce merchants and retail stores alike must use the next few months to make sure they’re ready for the holiday rush. Here is a look at some of the ways we prepare for the holidays here at Overflo.

Order picking is a key step in a warehouse’s fulfillment system. The efficiency of the pick determines how quickly packages get the truck to be sent to the consumer. If the pickers are slow, the entire shipment could be delayed. This causes a ripple effect that is nothing short of a nightmare.

Lean third party logistics has become increasingly popular over the last few years, but most people don’t actually know what that entails. There are several elements involved with lean operations, and they do not happen overnight. In this guide, we will explain what lean 3PL warehousing is and how it affects all parties involved.

The loading dock is where it all begins. This is the hub of the distribution center, and it sets the pace for the rest of the warehouse. If your loading dock isn’t running efficiently, nothing else will. Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can take to enhance warehouse loading dock efficiency and keep your operations running smooth.

Forklift drivers make up a large portion of a warehouse’s labor force. Their safety and efficiency determine how productive the distribution center is as a whole. At Overflo, we take extra precautions to ensure that our forklift drivers are safe and that they have the safety of others in mind. Here is a look at some driver safety tips for warehouse forklift operators that we use in our distribution center.

Have more inventory than your store can handle? Need somewhere for all that excess inventory to go? This is the moment when most business owners start exploring third-party logistics. With 3PL, you can store your inventory and complete orders without having to physically house the merchandise at your location. Let’s take a look at how this process works and how you can benefit from outsourcing your surplus inventory.

Your business is growing and you need somewhere to store all your inventory. You could purchase a warehouse to run your own, or you could contract your warehousing needs to a third party logistics provider. Having your own warehouse may sound like a great plan at first, but it may ultimately be a waste of money.

Many businesses deal with seasonal demand fluctuations. Inventory levels will shift drastically from season to season. If you are not prepared for this big shift, you may feel overwhelmed during the transition. The tips below will help you prepare for inventory adjustments so you can get through every obstacle with confidence.

Product displays are just as important as the products themselves. They create a platform to show off your items, and they set the tone for your store as a whole. Whether you are opening a new store or updating your existing one, you need to make sure your new product displays arrive intact.

Every industry has its hiccups, from retail to dining to entertainment and beyond. You may not be able to bypass all of these potential problems, but you can try to prepare for them ahead of time. If something goes wrong, the results will be minimal. Here are the top retail warehousing issues and some tips to help you avoid them.

Transitioning to a new warehouse is no easy task, but sometimes, it’s the only option. Maybe your old warehouse is no longer in operation, or your business needs outgrew your current location. Whatever the case may be, proper planning will ensure your move goes smoothly. Here are some warehouse transition tips.

Are you worried that warehousing and distribution is just too much for your business to handle right now? It’s not! Here at Overflo, we offer storage and shipping solutions for businesses of all sizes, so you can get the exact services you need to fit your needs, your budget, and your goals.

Having a centralized inventory management system is crucial for warehouses, retailers, and customers alike. This program ensures that every package, every shipment, and every pallet is tracked and monitored in real time. Here at Overflo, we work with the latest inventory management solutions the market to streamline our services and ensure constant communication with our clients.

The e-commerce industry has grown tremendously over the last few years. Many stores are shutting down physical locations to invest more resources in their online sales department. Transitioning from brick-and-mortar retail to e-commerce is not something that happens overnight. In order to have the highest success rate and little to no losses, the change should be gradual.

Humans have no control over Mother Nature. If she wants it to rain, it’s going to rain. If she wants it to snow, it’s going to snow. The environment has a huge impact the warehousing industry, more so than most people realize. In this discussion, we will explore some of the ways nature influences distribution centers across America.

For most warehouses, the peak season isn’t until the last quarter of the year. That’s when retailers start filling their inventory levels for the holidays and when people start actively shopping online. That doesn’t mean that distribution centers can wait until that time to start their’ prep work. Here at Overflo, we are already getting ready for the demand to come.

Order fulfillment plays a direct role in customer satisfaction. If the picking, packing, and shipping are not done to a certain standard, the customer could lose faith in your company. In order to keep your success going strong, check out these four ways to improve customer satisfactiwith order fulfillment. Work with a Trustworthy 3PL Company The quality of your 3PL services will determine how satisfied your customers are.

Millennials are the latest generation of adults. They’re young, they’re tech savvy, and they’re ready to take the world. What do these smartphone-based shoppers have to do with the retail industry? Absolutely everything. Millennials have a major impact every element of retail, from the way items are displayed in stores to the way warehouses adapt to their shopping habits.

Kickstarter campaigns are becoming increasingly popular as Americans seek out new innovations to enhance and enrich their lives. Everything from a smartphone compatible wallet to a funny board game has been sold Kickstarter and similar startup ecommerce sites. If you are planning to launch a product there in the near future, you need to plan for the aftermath of the campaign.

One of the biggest reasons people hesitate about getting order fulfillment services is because they do not want to lose control of their business. They fear that allowing someone else to take over their’ picking, packing and shipping will keep them out of the loop. In all reality, you still maintain control of your business even if you outsource order fulfillment to a third party provider.

In the world of warehousing and distribution, efficiency and productivity are crucial to the overall success of a business. Not only does this impact the success of the actual warehouse, but it also influences the success of the clients relying the warehouse for storage and order fulfillment. One of the keys to maximizing productivity levels is to have the proper training strategies in place.

“How much money does order fulfillment cost?” This is one of the most common questions we get when people contact our warehouse about storage and shipping services. As much as we would love to provide a generic answer about order fulfillment pricing, the fact is that every client has completely different needs.

For the second year in a row, there were more online shoppers over Thanksgiving weekend than there were retail store shoppers in America. Translation: Americans are relying more and more the internet to get the best deals for their holiday purchases. Not only does this affect the way that stores manage their inventory, but it also impacts how third party logistics providers like Overflo manage their shipping, order fulfillment, and other warehousing services.

The holidays are a stressful time for warehouses and order fulfillment companies. This is the busiest shopping season of the year, causing distribution centers to hire extra laborers to pick, pack, and ship orders out to customers. What makes a good seasonal order picker? What should a warehouse look for when hiring this type of person to join their team?