How 3PLs Empower Small Businesses in International Distribution

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 Role of Predictive Analytics in Demand Forecasting for 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.

How a 3PL can Improve a Growing Business’s Infrastructure

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.

How Small Businesses Can Thrive with 3PL in The Age of Amazon

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.

E-Commerce Logistics on a Budget A Guide for Small Businesses

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.

Using 3PLS to Boost Business Insights from Large Companies

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 Pitfalls of In-House Logistics for Small Businesses

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.

Streamlining Processes with 3PL Expertise

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.

Transforming Customer Experience with 3PL

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.

Navigating the Holiday Season Managing Supply Chain Risks

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but for supply chain professionals, it can be a time of heightened stress and challenges. With increased demand, tight deadlines, and unpredictable weather, ensuring a smooth and efficient supply chain during the holidays becomes a complex task. In this article, we will explore the various supply chain risks that can occur during the holiday season and discuss strategies to mitigate these risks.

The Human Element in 3PL Warehousing Building Strong Partnerships

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.

Supply Chain Management vs Logistics Management

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.

Unpacking Customer Loyalty Psychology Amplifying It through 3PL Warehousing

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.

The Strategic Advantage of Outsourcing to 3PL Warehouses

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.

How Logistics Can Strengthen Your Supply Chain

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.

Global Reach and Expansion Expanding Market Presence through 3PL Warehouses

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.

How 3PLs can Help Small Businesses Battle Inflation

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.

The Role of Data Analytics in Optimizing Third-Party Logistics Operations

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.

The Impact of E-Commerce on Third-Party Logistics Meeting the Demands of Online Retail

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.

Navigating Supply Chain Disruptions Harnessing the Power of 3PLs

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.

How to Build Stronger Logistics Management Processes Using a 3PL

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.

How to Improve E-commerce Customer Satisfaction

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.

Signs of Ineffective Logistics Management

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.

Does a 3PL Save Money

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.

What is a 3PL Warehouse

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 Warehousing Options

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.

What is Supply Chain Visibility an Overview

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.

Ways to Save on Logistics

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?

Top Ways to Reduce Supply Chain Risks

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.

Moving The Supply Chain Closer

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?

What Your Logistics Provider Should Offer

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.

Why Hiring a 3PL Before The New Year is Best

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.

Black Friday Warehousing Mistakes to Avoid

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.

What is E-commerce Fulfillment

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.

What is Supply Chain Risk Management

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.

What Are The Most Profitable E-commerce Businesses

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.

Warehousing 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.

Order Fulfillment in Simple Terms

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.

Three Mistakes That are Killing Your Supply Chain

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.

Why Your Small E-commerce Business Isn’t Growing

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.

How to Improve Inventory Management

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.

How to Expand Inventory Step by Step

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.

Small Business Shipping and Distribution Mistakes

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.

How to Ensure Customer Satisfaction with a 3PL

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?

3PL Outsourcing Mistakes

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.

What are The Three Types of Logistics

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.

Order Fulfillment Mishaps and How to Avoid Them

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.

How to Streamline Distribution

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.

SMALL BUSINESS WAREHOUSING – What to Expect

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.

What is Shipping Management – Everything You Need to Know

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?

Have a Winery or Brewery? Expand With a 3PL

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.

Fulfillment Services and What They can do for Your Company Image

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!

How to Achieve Your New Year’s Business Resolutions

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.

New Year’s Company Resolutions

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.

Truck or Rail Transport | Which is Better for Distribution

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.

Managing Holiday Shipping and Distribution Delays

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.

Cargo Theft Statistics

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.

How Outsourced Warehousing Can Grow Your Business

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.

Small Business to Fortune 500 Companies | What a 3PL can do for You

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!

Outsourcing is The Way of The Future

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.

3PL | What is it and Who Uses It

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?

How are Distribution and Logistics Different?

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.

How Outsourcing Fulfillment Strategies can Improve Customer Satisfaction

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?”

How Fulfillment Centers Can Improve Small Business Efficiency

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.

What are Distribution Logistics and How Do They Benefit?

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.

How Distribution Centers Can Protect Workers From Covid

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.

How to spot a drop shipping scam

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.

How 4PL logistics differs from 3PL, and is that additional service necessary?

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.

How to Choose a Fulfillment Center

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 and is it a good logistics solution for your business?

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.

5 ways that fulfillment centers reduce small business owners’ stress

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.

Warehouse vs. distribution center: what’s the difference?

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.

Kitting and Assembly Can Help Boost Your Business

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.

How to best keep track of inventory in a warehouse

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.

The Pros and Cons of Third-Party Logistics

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.

How Does the Logistics Industry Work?

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.

Warehousing: How to Reduce Picking and Packing Errors

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.

What You Should Know About Kitting in Warehousing

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.

Common signs it’s time to change your fulfillment center

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.

How to Effectively Reduce Warehouse Costs

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.

What is pick-and-pack distribution and how is it beneficial?

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.

When to consider outsourcing your fulfillment process

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.

Meeting customer expectations for e-commerce order fulfillment

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 5 Steps of the Order Fulfillment Process

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 importance of finding the right fulfillment partner

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.

Why integration is better when it comes to warehousing and distribution

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.

The importance of perfecting your fulfillment

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.

Why precision is the ultimate key to logistics

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.

Have you outgrown your fulfillment provider?

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.

Selecting a 3PL provider: 5 factors to consider

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.

The most common reasons why people shop online and how order fulfillment can impact them

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.

Why self-fulfillment for online merchants is a bad idea

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.

How a 3PL can support your business’s seasonal sales cycle

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.

Use a logistics company to cut costs and eliminate headaches

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.

Factors to consider when choosing a fulfillment service

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.

What does it mean to outsource fulfillment?

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.

3 important parts of warehousing logistics

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.

How can a fulfillment center help you sell more products?

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.

Warehouse operations best practices

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.

How to Choose the Right Fulfillment Center for Your Business

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.

5 Ways a Fulfillment Center Can Help You Sell More Products

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.

5 Warehouse Safety Concerns in the Summer

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.

Let Go to Grow with 3PL

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.

The Importance of Inventory Management Systems

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.

Why Warehouse Location is Crucial

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.

Warehousing Trends to Watch in 2019

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.

Why Workers Should Help Choose Warehouse Forklifts

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.

How to Solve These Common Retail Warehousing Issues

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.

Inventory Management Tips for New Store Openings

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.

Warehousing in Winter: Use Your Slow Season Productively

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.

Last Minute Tweaks for Your Christmas Rush

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.

Treating Your Employees Well During the Holiday Rush

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.

How Often Should the Warehouse Layout Be Adjusted?

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.

7 Simple Warehouse Spring Cleaning Tips

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.

5 Tips to Maximize Your Warehousing Space

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.

How to Maintain Customer Satisfaction with Outsourced Order Fulfillment

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.

Should I Get More Warehouse Space?

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?

How Good Lighting Improves Warehouse Safety and Productivity

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.

How Forklift Maintenance Improves Warehouse Operations

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.

How Warehouses Are Going Green To Cut Costs

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.

What Online Retailers Can Learn from Amazon’s Customer Service

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.

Order Fulfillment Tips for Crowdfunding Orders

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.

Tips for Small Businesses Looking for Third-Party Order Fulfillment

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.

How SKU Counts Impact Order Fulfillment

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.

Warehousing Tips for Transitioning to Online Retail

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.

Improving Warehouse Work Conditions in the Winter

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.

How to Handle Order Fulfillment Delays during Peak Season

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.

Retailers Push Back Order Cutoff for Guaranteed Christmas Shipping

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.

How to Stay on Track with Holiday Order Fulfillment

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 Energy Saving Ideas for DistributiCenters

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.

Warehouse Safety Practices to Prevent CommAccidents

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 Warehousing Tips

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.

Warehouse Management Tips for Winter

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.

How In-Store Returns for Online Orders Impact the Warehousing Industry

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.

Signs of Inefficiency in Warehouse Operations

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.

Proven Ways to Reduce Order Picking Times

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.

How Retailers Can Save Money Warehousing Costs

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.

Ways to Measure the Success of Warehousing Operations

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.

Ensuring Seamless Order Fulfillment in Warehouses

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.

Why It’s Beneficial To Have Great Warehouse Workers

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.

Top 5 Causes of Warehousing Delays (And How to Prevent Them)

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.

Preparing the Warehouse for the Holiday Retail Rush

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.

5 Ways to Improve Order Picking Efficiency

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.

What Is Lean 3PL Warehousing?

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.

Enhancing Warehouse Loading Dock Efficiency

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 Driver Safety Tips for Warehousing and Distribution

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.

Outsourcing Your Surplus Inventory to Another Warehouse

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.

Why Buying Your Own Warehouse Is a Bad Idea

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.

How to Handle Large Inventory Fluctuations

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.

Top Retail Warehousing Issues (And How to Avoid Them)

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.

The Right Way to Transition to a New Warehouse

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.

Scaling Your Logistics to Match Your Business Growth

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.

Why Centralized Inventory Management Is So Important

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.

Transitioning from Brick and Mortar Retail to eCommerce

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.

How Mother Nature Impacts the Warehousing Industry

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.

Warehouses Should Prep for Peak Season NOW

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.

4 Ways to Improve Customer Satisfactiwith Order Fulfillment

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.

Millennial Shoppers and Their Impact the Retail Industry

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.

Distribution and Order Fulfillment Tips for Kickstarter Campaigns

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.

You’re Still in Control with Order Fulfillment Services

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.

Warehouse Training Strategies That Set Workers up for Success

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.

Understanding Order Fulfillment Pricing

“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.

Black Friday Sales Continue to Move Online in America

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.

What Makes a Good Seasonal Order Picker?

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?

What Is a Freight Broker?

The logistics industry requires the work of countless transporters, pickers, order fulfillers, managers, drivers, and more. Freight brokers are among the employees who help items get from a seller to a customer. What is a freight broker, and how can you choose the right broker for your business? This guide will provide an overview of what a freight broker does so you can have a better understanding of this position.

Order Fulfillment from Start to Finish

The term “order fulfillment” covers a wide range of services your business could benefit from. Every step involved with receiving, processing, or delivering an order can be called order fulfillment. Some steps must be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the client or customer receiving the order, but most of them remain the same across the board.

Why Maryland Is the Best Warehousing Location

If you are searching for a third party logistics provider, you may be looking at warehouses across multiple states. Some of these may be better suited for you than others based their proximity to your customers and their overall efficiency. Overflo is located in Baltimore, Maryland, a premium place for shipping, receiving, transporting, and more.

Third Party Logistics Can Save Your Business Money

Reducing your overhead is an essential step in running a successful business. The more money you can save in expenses, the more you have to invest in other areas of corporate development. Whether you run a small ecommerce business or a large retail store, you can save money with third party logistics.

What Does Warehousing Inventory Management Cover?

When you start exploring the world of warehousing, you will hear the term “inventory management” a lot. While the basic definition of this term is fairly explanatory (it involves the management of the inventory for your business), there are a variety of services that may fall under the umbrella of inventory management.

Types Of Logistics Services

The logistics industry is vast. It covers a wide range of services that all have an impact how a product gets from the maker to the recipient. No matter where your business fits in the production and shipment line, it’s always a good idea to get a feel for how a product gets from Point A to Point B.

Planning Flexible Storage for the Holiday Season

The holidays are quickly approaching, which means that retailers need to start stocking up for the big shopping days. If you have not already talked to your warehouse about your storage options, now is the time to see what extra space will be available for you and how you can make the transition before the end of the year.

Common Freight Hauling Terms and Definitions

Logistics has its own special jargon, just like any other industry. Whether you want to work in transportation or you just want to know a little more about the shipping process, it would be wise to learn about common freight hauling terms and definitions. The short dictionary below will give you the introduction you need to be better versed in freight hauling.

Early Warehouse Preparations for Black Friday

It’s never too early to prepare for Black Friday. With more Americans shopping online for Thanksgiving weekend every year, it’s important to be ready for the mad rush of orders that may be coming in the near future. Don’t wait until the last minute to get your facility ready. Check out these early warehouse preparations for Black Friday.

Types of Shipping Containers and Their Uses

There are a number of containers used in the shipping industry for the transportation of goods and products. As part of the logistics process, it’s important to figure out which container is best suited for each shipment’s specific needs. Let’s take a look at the most common types of shipping containers and their uses.

Types of Trucking Jobs in the Shipping Industry

Truck drivers play a pivotal role in the shipping industry. They are the ones responsible for getting products from one place to another in a safe, secure and timely manner. The term “trucker” covers a wide span of jobs in warehousing and distribution, more so than most people realize. In the discussion below, we will go over each of these trucking jobs in greater detail so you can determine if one of them is right for you.

Why You Need to Outsource Your eCommerce Order Fulfillment

Online shopping has revolutionized the way people spend money in the modern world. Last year, consumers spent a whopping $4.45 billion for online purchases Black Friday and Thanksgiving Day alone. Whether you run a small store online or a large chain or retail websites, you could benefit from outsourcing your eCommerce order fulfillment.

Common Warehouse Management System Terms and Definitions

Every industry comes with its own jargon – words and abbreviations that have a special meaning when used in a specific context. These terms change and expand with new technology and other industry developments, so it’s important to freshen up your knowledge every once and a while. In this guide, we will go over some common warehouse management system terms and definitions so you can be up to date with the current lingo.

How to Find an Efficient Order Fulfillment Company

Efficiency is a crucial part of the order fulfillment process. It ensures that products get to their destinations time without sacrificing the quality of the packing, shipping, and arrival of the order. Before you select a company to complete your order fulfillment, you need to make sure they’re going to get the job done quickly and effectively.

5 Reasons to Switch to 3PL

Have you been debating whether or not to entrust your warehousing to a third party logistics company like Overflo? If so, there are some surprising benefits to take into consideration that may help you make your decision. Listed below are the top five reasons to switch to 3PL to give you a better idea of the opportunities available for you.

The Importance of Cybersecurity in Warehouse Management

In the modern world, cybersecurity and warehouse management have to work hand in hand. The internet is used in nearly every area of the supply chain industry, from basic client communication to real-time inventory management and beyond. Third party logistics providers like Overflo not only have to focus the exterior security features of their facilities, but they also have to ensure that the data infrastructure is well maintained from top to bottom.

Healthy Driving Tips for Truckers

Truck drivers and shippers spend nearly half their day the road, sometimes for weeks at a time. This process is stressful and mentally taxing, even for the most experienced of drivers. In the guide below, we offer some healthy driving tips for truckers to make sure they stay safe the road.

How the Produce Season Affects the Shipping Industry

Spring and summer are the peak shipping periods for fresh produce. This creates a high demand for shippers throughout the country, which has a ripple-effect companies throughout the shipping industry. You don’t have to be a grocer or restaurant to get impacted by the produce season. In fact, some of the most affected sectors of the market are ones that have nothing to do with food.

How Drones Are Changing the Face of Warehousing

Delivery by drones was once considered a concept of the future, but recent developments from Amazon and Google have made these much closer to reality. Certain legal developments have put actual “drone delivery” at a standstill for the moment, but drones are still making big strides in the warehousing industry. In the discussion below, we will explore some of the many ways drones impact distribution centers, and what they could be doing in the future.

How Buying Made in America Products Could Transform the Country

American warehouses have been storing imported products for decades now, as companies seek to reduce their labor expenses by sending their work overseas. This may seem like it helps Americans by keeping the cost of products low, but the fact is that the economy could see a drastic boost if people bought “Made in the USA” merchandise more often.

Using Positivity to Boost Productivity Levels

Positivity plays a large role in worker productivity. Positive work environments encourage team members and team leaders to do their jobs at optimum efficiency. When warehouses and products lines are not operating to their fullest potential, it is often the result of negative reinforcements used by management in an effort to punish workers.

Driver Shortages in America’s Shipping Industry

Drivers are the heart of the shipping industry. They are the ones that are in charge of getting products between destinations in a timely manner. Recently, America has seen a steady increase in driver shortages, with an annual shortage of nearly 48,000 drivers. What is causing this void in driver availability, and what can be done to change it?

The Benefits of Outsourcing Order Fulfillment

Order fulfillment is the driving force behind customer satisfaction. It determines how and when people receive their products. Traditionally, order fulfillment has been left up to the company sending out the products, whether it’s business-to-business or merchant-to-consumer. Recently though, many companies have begun outsourcing their fulfillment services to the warehouses storing their products, thereby streamlining the flow from warehouse to recipient.

Warehouse Spring Cleaning Tips

It’s spring cleaning time, which means it’s out with the old and in with the new for your warehouse. Spring cleaning doesn’t just apply to actual “cleaning” processes though. It involves decluttering, reorganizing, and reassessing the way your warehouse rungs as a whole. Check out these warehouse spring cleaning tips to make the most of this time of year.

Could Uber Work for the Freight Industry?

Uber has revolutionized the way people “hail a taxi” in today’s society, giving everyday drivers a chance to earn money by picking people up and taking them to their desired destinations. Riders no longer have to wait for a cab company to get where they need to go. They can simply summon the closest Uber driver, and away they go!

How Freight Consolidation Works

Freight consolidation has become a “norm” in today’s warehouses and distribution centers because of the increased demand for consumer-level products. Major retailers throughout the country are putting pressure warehouses to provide storage and shipping solutions at the fastest times and the lowest costs, forcing logistics experts to find creative ways to meet their demands.

Creating Supply Chain Visibility

The concept of “supply chain visibility” has become increasingly important in warehouses and distribution centers in America. This term refers to the ability for different sectors of a supply chain to keep track of one another’s progress in real-time. Doing this not only increases the efficiency of the production line, but it also decreases the chances of errors resulting from miscommunication.

Getting the Most out of Your Small Warehouse Space

If you only have a small warehouse space to work with, you may feel limited in your storage and money-making capabilities. The key here is to make the most of the space you have so you can turn your small warehouse seems much larger than it actually is. In the guide below, we will explain how to get the most out of your small warehouse space so you can take advantage of the opportunities available to you.

Clear out Old Inventory with These Marketing Tricks

Do you have old inventory in your warehouse that you don’t know what to do with? This is a common problem, especially for warehouses storing seasonal or trendy items. Given that this is the time of year to complete spring cleaning, it may be a good idea to try some new marketing tactics to get rid of those products collecting dust.

The Importance of Hiring a Good Warehouse Manager

A warehouse should run like a well-oiled machine, with every part in perfect working order. One of those “parts” involves the work of a warehouse manager – the person in charge of assigning tasks, delegating responsibilities, monitoring productivity levels, and making sure all operations are running smoothly. The warehouse manager is a huge influence the overall efficiency and productivity of a distribution center.