“Packaging Logistics” is an interesting book on the subject of how to get the most out of your product and your company by keeping a handle on your supply chain. Authors Christina Freund and Yana Lipetsk describe 10 critical areas that impact how well your products are packaged and shipped. They also offer some practical suggestions for improving your packaging methodology, including ideas on how to avoid common pitfalls and how to ensure top-quality products arrive on time. In this concise guide, I’ll summarize the key points of the book and help you evaluate its recommendations in Packaging Logistics.
The authors rightly point out that many companies mistakenly think of shipping as a part of their product distribution rather than a strategic part of a good packaging system. The packaging system must be a seamless one that allows your clients’ items to arrive in perfect condition and on time. That includes handling of international cargo as well. The authors rightly point out that there are three major aspects of a good shipping and packaging logistics system:
First, the logistics producer must be involve in the whole supply chain
First, the logistics producer must be involve in the whole supply chain. He must be intimately involved in planning the production, transportation, and storage of raw materials and finish goods. This can involve the whole staff of packaging producers as well as people who specialize in particular tasks such as packing or loading. There are advantages and disadvantages to each approach, but in general, logistics producers who are more involved in the whole production process will reap greater cost savings and improved efficiency through better logistics strategies.
Second, the logistics producer must work with his shipping and packaging suppliers
Second, the logistics producer must work with his shipping and packaging suppliers. These suppliers may have their own packaging systems, but they often operate as part of a larger logistics company with shared logistical processes and data. The disadvantage here is that when the company adds a third party into its existing supply chain, it usually increases costs and decreases flexibility. Overall, adding another player to the supply chain will only slightly improve logistics performance and will not result in significant gains in profit.
Third, in the long term, it may be in the best interest of a packaging industry
Third, in the long term, it may be in the best interest of a packaging industry to outsource some of its activities to a specialized provider. This will allow the logistics producer to focus on core activities such as production rather than spend time coordinating with a different vendor or tracking the sales and returns of one activity. Outsourcing allows the manufacturing unit to focus on making quality products while allowing the service provider to focus on its core services. While this can result in increase costs for packaging producers. These costs are offset by the increase efficiency of the outsource provider’s operation. Thereby providing the add benefit of better quality at a reduce cost.
In addition to these common examples
In addition to these common examples, there are also less common options. One such option is to contract with an outside vendor who is responsible for the overall management. And oversight of the whole chain of warehousing and packaging operations. An example of this is an international distribution company who will oversee the movement and storage of all goods. Originating in multiple countries and then deliver them to the customer.
As you can see, there are several advantages to outsourcing some or all of your packaging logistics functions. However, the scope of this article has only attempted to cover the most critical aspects of the supply chain. And warehouse management. There are numerous other topics that are cover in depth in more depth in online and offline resources. Therefore, it is recommend that you consult with an experience consultant or logistics expert. To discuss your options and determine the best solution for your business.
How to deal with Complex projects in Project logistics
Project logistics services deal with complex projects that require specialized equipment, facilities, people, and containers. It can organize and streamlines the delivery of goods and services worldwide. Complex projects have varying stages of development and therefore demand customized solutions from the beginning. These require sophisticated software, machinery, and people resources which can only be provided by experienced project logistics providers. They are the first line of defense against complex projects that have timelines and budgets stretching into the future.
Project managers rely on project logistics management services to determine how much capital is required to run the logistics operation and manage the resources effectively. Project managers will need to consider factors such as container capacity. Load factors, transit times, fuel consumption, and truck loading and unloading times. They need to allocate suitable amounts of funding for each activity such as purchasing truck-load trucks. Procuring containers, hiring drivers, maintaining an inventory, etc.
Projects have to break down into one-off and complex projects. One-off projects relate to products that don’t purchase again and can only sell or exchanged. Complex projects involve products that have to be manufactured, supplied, shipped, and serviced regularly. These can be anything from aircraft and automobiles to financial products and electronic goods.
How to ensure that you are sending your cargo in the right place
To ensure that you are getting the right place to send your cargo. You must know where to send it. For example, if your product has a short shelf-life, it is better to send it to the manufacturer directly. It is equally important that you use the right shipper. If you want your shippers to distribute your products responsibly. They should have good contacts with the manufacturers and suppliers of your chosen products.
Managing your project logistics requires the integration of all aspects of the supply chain, including customer, supplier, shipper, and manufacturer. This includes planning and design, procurement, pricing, shipment and delivery, inventory control, and real-time control tower access. The real-time control tower access allows you to view all data related to your project cargo at a glance. The real-time control tower helps in controlling the whole supply chain, including the speed of the vehicles, number of air freight, number of trucks, and other resources. Also, the real-time control tower helps in making decisions about re-supply and replenishment of the raw materials. Therefore, all aspects of your project cargo have to manage effectively using the right resources.